Summer Jobs for Kids of All Ages

From mowing lawns to lifeguarding, great jobs exist for kids of all ages in the warm months, helping them learn while they earn. Not only might they acquire profession-specific skills, but they also develop a sense of responsibility and conscientiousness. Making and handling their own money gives their financial literacy a boost too.

01
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Lawn Mowing

Girl mowing lawn with dad overlooking
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Lawn mowing is a fine, athletic job for children who like to be outdoors. It can range from a one-time gig to an ongoing one. Parents should weigh in on whether the child will use the family's own mower or equipment belonging to the client-homeowners.

02
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Yard Work

Hispanic father and daughter gardening together
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If your child is too young to mow lawns, she may be able to help out with other yard work that homeowners need this time of year​ when the foliage grows fast: spreading mulch, planting flowers or seeds, and pulling up weeds. 

03
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Lifeguarding

Teenage female lifeguard (14-16) blowing whistle, side view
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Lifeguarding can be a great summer job if your teen likes to swim and wants to spend the summer outdoors. Get information several months ahead of time if your child is interested: Not only are these positions popular, but anyone seeking a lifeguarding job will need to be trained and to pass a lifeguarding course that teaches cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

04
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Lemonade Stand

Boy with lemonade stand
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The proverbial lemonade stand is always a fun business adventure for kids. Your little entrepreneur can also branch out into selling other beverages and even snacks at his post.

05
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Babysitter

Woman paying teenage nanny (14-15) for taking care of her son
Getty Images/Jamie Grill

Babysitting jobs are available year-round but may be more prevalent during the summer months, when families' older siblings or regular sitters are on vacation. The Red Cross is one of several organizations that offers babysitter classes to prepare 11- to 15-year-olds, training them in first aid. 

Before taking a babysitting job, your child needs to be mature enough to deal with small children. Often, parents can be the best judges.

06
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Dog Walker

Girl Running with Leashed Wire Fox Terrier
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Dogs need to get out for exercise all year long, but in the summertime, kids have the extra time to walk or play with them. Children who have their own pets at home are more likely to cotton to canine care, but any child old enough can do this job.

07
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Car Wash

Father and daughter washing car
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Encouraging your child to run a kid's car wash can be an excellent choice of summer job. Of course, he should enjoy being outside in the sun, getting wet, and playing with the hose—and be unafraid of hard work.

08
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Summer Nanny

Preschool Teacher or Daycare Worker Helping Children with Finger Paint
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Many parents engage temporary nannies in summer, preferring their offspring have more personal attention than a day camp or daycare center might provide. They might need a nanny to travel with them, or for a stay at a summer house. Obviously, this job is for a highly responsible teenager, and as a responsible parent, you'd probably want to meet the family, too—especially if your child is going away with them.

09
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Online Jobs

Mother watching son using laptop in kitchen
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From conducting surveys to selling crafts, online jobs for kids abound these days. They can be a fun way to fill some time during summer break, especially if your kids often find themselves indoors with nothing to do. Parents should investigate the site first, of course, and make sure there are no age requirements or permissions required.