Are you a 12-year-old looking to earn some extra cash? Maybe you want to save up for a new video game or a special trip. Or perhaps you want to learn about responsibility and accountability by doing some work. Whatever your reason, there are plenty of jobs out there for 12-year-olds that can help you achieve your goals.
From babysitting to pet-sitting, lawn care to house cleaning, there are a variety of jobs that you can do at your age. Some jobs may require more responsibility and maturity than others, but there is something for everyone. And the best part is that you don’t need any special skills or qualifications to get started. All you need is a willingness to work hard and a positive attitude.
In this article, we will explore 15 jobs that are perfect for 12-year-olds. We will provide you with information on what each job entails, how much you can expect to get paid, and any special requirements or skills you may need. Whether you want to work for a few hours a week or a few hours a day, there is a job out there that is right for you.
1. Babysitting
Babysitting is a classic job for 12-year-olds. It’s a great way to earn some extra cash while also gaining valuable experience in responsibility and child care. Many parents are looking for responsible and trustworthy babysitters to take care of their children while they’re away.
To start babysitting, you can ask your parents, friends, or neighbors if they know anyone who needs a babysitter. You can also create flyers or post on social media to advertise your services. Make sure to include your contact information, rates, and any relevant experience or qualifications you may have.
When babysitting, it’s important to be punctual, reliable, and attentive to the children’s needs. You should also be prepared with activities and snacks to keep the children entertained and fed. Make sure to follow any instructions or rules given by the parents, and always prioritize the safety and well-being of the children.
Here are some tips for successful babysitting:
- Arrive on time and be prepared with any necessary supplies or equipment.
- Get to know the children and engage them in age-appropriate activities.
- Follow any instructions or rules given by the parents, such as bedtimes, dietary restrictions, or emergency procedures.
- Stay alert and attentive to the children’s needs and safety.
- Communicate clearly and respectfully with the parents, including any updates or concerns.
- Leave the house clean and tidy, and thank the parents for the opportunity to babysit.
Babysitting can be a rewarding and fun job for 12-year-olds, as long as you are responsible, reliable, and committed to providing quality care for the children. With some experience and a good reputation, you can build a loyal client base and continue to earn money through babysitting.
2. Dog Walking
Dog walking is a great job for 12-year-olds who love animals and enjoy being outdoors. It’s a fun and easy way to earn some extra money while getting exercise and fresh air. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in becoming a dog walker:
Requirements
Most dog walking companies require their walkers to be at least 18 years old, but some may allow 12-year-olds to walk dogs if they are accompanied by an adult. It’s important to check with the company you’re interested in working for to see what their age requirements are.
Responsibilities
As a dog walker, your main responsibility is to walk dogs and ensure their safety. You may also be responsible for feeding and giving water to the dogs, cleaning up after them, and providing basic care. It’s important to be reliable and punctual, as dog owners are counting on you to take care of their pets.
Pay
The pay for dog walking varies depending on the company you work for and the number of dogs you walk at a time. Some companies pay by the hour, while others pay per walk. On average, dog walkers can earn between $10 and $20 per hour.
Tips
If you’re interested in becoming a dog walker, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start by walking dogs for friends and family members to gain experience.
- Create flyers or business cards to advertise your services.
- Join a dog walking company to gain experience and build your resume.
- Be reliable and punctual to build a good reputation.
- Always put the safety of the dogs first.
3. Lawn Mowing
If you enjoy working outside and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, lawn mowing may be the perfect job for you. Many people are willing to pay for someone to mow their lawn, especially during the summer months when grass grows quickly. As a 12-year-old, you can offer your services to neighbors, family members, and friends.
Before you start mowing lawns, you will need to make sure you have the right equipment. You will need a lawn mower, gas, and possibly a weed trimmer. If you don’t have access to a lawn mower, you can often rent one from a home improvement store.
When you’re ready to start mowing lawns, you should consider setting a fair price for your services. You can charge by the hour or by the job. It’s important to make sure you’re getting paid fairly for your work, but you also want to make sure you’re not charging too much and scaring away potential customers.
If you’re not sure how to get started with lawn mowing, there are many resources available online. You can find tips and tricks for mowing lawns, as well as advice on how to market your services and find customers. With a little bit of hard work and determination, you can turn lawn mowing into a profitable job that you can enjoy for years to come.
4. Car Washing
Car washing is a great job for 12-year-olds who want to make some extra money. It is also a good way to learn about responsibility, hard work, and customer service. Here are some tips on how to start a car washing business for kids:
Gather Supplies
You will need some basic supplies to start your car washing business. These include a bucket, sponge, soap, and towels. You can also consider investing in a hose and nozzle, as well as a car washing mitt or brush.
Find a Location
The next step is to find a good location for your car washing business. You can set up a car washing station in your driveway or front yard, or you can go door-to-door in your neighborhood and offer your services to your neighbors.
Advertise Your Services
To attract customers, you will need to advertise your car washing services. You can create flyers and distribute them in your neighborhood, or you can post an ad on social media. You can also offer discounts or promotions to attract new customers.
Provide Excellent Customer Service
When you are washing cars, it is important to provide excellent customer service. Be polite and friendly to your customers, and make sure to do a thorough job. If your customers are happy with your service, they are more likely to recommend you to their friends and family.
Charge Reasonable Prices
Finally, it is important to charge reasonable prices for your car washing services. You can research what other car wash businesses in your area charge and set your prices accordingly. Remember, you are still a kid, so you don’t want to charge too much and scare away potential customers.
Overall, car washing is a great job for 12-year-olds who want to make some extra money. With a little hard work and dedication, you can start your own car washing business and learn valuable skills along the way.
5. Paper Route
A paper route is a classic job for 12-year-olds. It involves delivering newspapers to subscribers in your local area. It’s a great way to earn some extra cash and develop responsibility and time management skills. Here are some things to consider if you’re interested in a paper route:
- Time commitment: Delivering newspapers usually takes around an hour or two each day, depending on the size of your route. You’ll need to wake up early to get the papers delivered before people leave for work or school.
- Pay: The pay for a paper route varies depending on the number of subscribers and the frequency of delivery. You can expect to earn anywhere from $20 to $100 per week.
- Requirements: To become a newspaper carrier, you’ll need to be reliable, responsible, and have a good work ethic. You’ll also need to have a bicycle or be able to walk to deliver the papers. Some newspapers may require you to have a work permit or parental permission to work.
If you’re interested in getting a paper route, start by contacting your local newspaper to see if they have any openings. You can also check online job boards or classified ads to find paper delivery jobs in your area. Once you’ve secured a route, make sure to deliver the papers on time and to the correct addresses. With a little hard work and dedication, you can turn your paper route into a successful and rewarding job.
6. Tutoring
If you have a particular skill or talent, tutoring can be a great way to earn money as a 12-year-old. Many parents are willing to pay for extra academic help or to have their child learn a new skill. Here are some tutoring options to consider:
Academic Tutoring
Offering academic tutoring can be a great way to help students who are struggling in a particular subject. You can offer your services for subjects like math, science, English, or history. You can also offer homework help or test prep services.
Music Tutoring
If you have a talent for playing an instrument or singing, you can offer music tutoring services. You can teach the basics of playing an instrument or provide vocal coaching to aspiring singers.
Sports Tutoring
If you are skilled in a particular sport, you can offer sports tutoring services. You can teach the basics of the sport or provide coaching to help improve a child’s skills.
Art Tutoring
If you are talented in art, you can offer art tutoring services. You can teach drawing, painting, or other art techniques to children who are interested in learning.
Foreign Language Tutoring
If you are fluent in a foreign language, you can offer foreign language tutoring services. You can teach the basics of the language or provide conversational practice for children who are interested in learning a new language.
When offering tutoring services, it’s important to set clear expectations with parents and students. Make sure you have a plan in place for what you will cover during each session and how much you will charge for your services. With hard work and dedication, tutoring can be a great way to earn money as a 12-year-old.
7. Lemonade Stand
If you’re looking for a classic way to earn some extra cash during the summer months, starting a lemonade stand is a great option. As a 12-year-old, you can easily set up a stand in your front yard or at a local park. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Location
The location of your lemonade stand is crucial to its success. You want to choose a spot that gets a lot of foot traffic, such as a busy street corner or a popular park. Make sure to check with your local government to see if you need any permits or licenses to set up your stand.
Supplies
To start your lemonade stand, you’ll need a few basic supplies, including:
- A table
- A sign
- Cups
- Ice
- Lemonade mix
- Water
- A pitcher
- A cooler
Consider investing in a few extras to make your stand more appealing, such as colorful straws or a small umbrella to provide shade.
Pricing
You’ll need to decide on a price for your lemonade. Consider the cost of your supplies and the amount of profit you want to make. Keep in mind that customers are more likely to buy from you if your prices are reasonable.
Marketing
To attract customers to your lemonade stand, you’ll need to market it effectively. Make sure your sign is clear and easy to read, and consider advertising on social media or in your local community newsletter.
Safety
When running a lemonade stand, safety should be your top priority. Make sure your stand is set up in a safe location, and always have an adult nearby to supervise. Additionally, make sure to follow proper food handling procedures to prevent any illnesses.
Starting a lemonade stand is a fun and easy way to earn some extra money as a 12-year-old. With a little planning and preparation, you can create a successful business that will help you learn valuable skills and earn some extra cash.
8. House Cleaning
House cleaning is a great job for 12-year-olds. Many families need help keeping their house clean, and they often hire neighborhood boys and girls to help them out. Cleaning a house is something you can take pride in when it’s done right!
Here are some tips to help you get started with your house cleaning job:
- Start small: Begin by offering to clean a single room or a small area of the house. This will help you build your skills and confidence before taking on larger jobs.
- Create a checklist: Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete in each room. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss anything.
- Ask for feedback: After you’ve finished cleaning, ask the homeowner if they’re happy with the job you’ve done. If they have any feedback or suggestions, take them on board and use them to improve your skills.
When it comes to house cleaning, there are a few different tasks you might be asked to do. Here are some of the most common:
- Dusting: Use a microfiber cloth or duster to remove dust from surfaces like shelves, tables, and picture frames.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner to clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Be sure to move furniture out of the way so you can clean underneath it.
- Mopping: Use a mop or a Swiffer to clean hard floors like tile, hardwood, or laminate.
- Bathroom cleaning: Clean the toilet, sink, and bathtub or shower. Use a disinfectant cleaner to kill germs and bacteria.
- Kitchen cleaning: Clean the countertops, sink, and stovetop. Wipe down the outside of appliances like the fridge and oven.
Remember, house cleaning is hard work, but it can also be rewarding. Not only will you earn some extra money, but you’ll also be helping families keep their homes clean and tidy. With a little practice and some hard work, you can become a great house cleaner!
9. Gardening Services
If you enjoy spending time outdoors and have a green thumb, then offering gardening services may be the perfect job for you. Many homeowners are too busy to maintain their gardens and would be willing to pay for help with tasks such as weeding, planting, and watering.
To get started, create flyers and distribute them in your neighborhood or post them on community bulletin boards. You can also offer your services on websites such as Craigslist or TaskRabbit.
When offering gardening services, it’s important to have the right tools. You will need gloves, a trowel, a rake, pruning shears, and a watering can or hose. You may also want to invest in a wheelbarrow or garden cart to make transporting materials easier.
Be sure to set clear expectations with your clients regarding the scope of your services and the fees you will charge. You may want to offer different packages based on the size of the garden or the specific tasks requested.
10. Pet Sitting
Pet sitting is a great job for 12-year-olds who love animals. As a pet sitter, you will be responsible for taking care of pets while their owners are away. This could include feeding them, walking them, and giving them attention and affection.
One of the benefits of pet sitting is that it can be a flexible job. You can work around your school schedule and other activities. You can also choose which jobs to take on and which to decline.
To get started as a pet sitter, you can advertise your services to friends, family, and neighbors. You can also create flyers and post them in local pet stores and veterinary clinics. Another option is to sign up for a pet-sitting service like Rover or Wag, which can help connect you with potential clients.
As a pet sitter, it’s important to be responsible and reliable. You will be entrusted with someone’s beloved pet, and it’s important to take that responsibility seriously. You should also have some experience with animals and be comfortable handling different types of pets.
Pet sitting can be a rewarding job for 12-year-olds who love animals. It can also be a great way to earn some extra money while gaining valuable experience and skills.
11. Craft Sales
If you have a creative side, selling handmade crafts can be a great way to earn money. You can make jewelry, paintings, pottery, or knitted items, and sell them at local craft fairs or online. This job will not only help you earn some extra cash, but also develop your creativity and entrepreneurial skills.
To get started, you can research local craft fairs in your area and apply to be a vendor. You can also set up an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify to sell your crafts. Make sure to price your items competitively and take high-quality photos to showcase your work.
Some tips for selling crafts include:
- Create a brand for your business and use it consistently across all platforms.
- Offer custom orders and personalized items to attract more customers.
- Use social media to promote your crafts and engage with potential customers.
- Attend local events and markets to network with other vendors and customers.
Craft sales can be a fun and rewarding job for 12 year olds who enjoy creating and selling handmade items. With a little creativity and effort, you can turn your hobby into a profitable business.
12. Yard Sale Assistant
If you are looking for an outdoor job that involves organizing and selling items, then being a yard sale assistant might be the perfect job for you. This job is ideal for 12-year-olds who can help their neighbors or friends with organizing and selling their items.
As a yard sale assistant, you will help with setting up the sale, organizing the items, pricing them, and helping customers. You will also assist with packing up the unsold items and cleaning up the area after the sale is over.
This job is perfect for those who enjoy being outdoors and interacting with people. It is also a great opportunity to learn about money management and basic business skills.
To find yard sale assistant jobs, you can ask your neighbors, friends, or family members if they need help with their yard sale. You can also advertise your services by posting flyers in your neighborhood or on social media.
Overall, being a yard sale assistant is a great way to earn some extra money while learning valuable skills. So, if you enjoy being outdoors and working with people, this might be the perfect job for you.
13. Social Media Assistant
As a 12-year-old, you can work as a social media assistant for small businesses or entrepreneurs who need help managing their social media accounts. This job is perfect if you enjoy spending time on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
As a social media assistant, your responsibilities may include creating and scheduling posts, responding to comments and messages, researching and implementing social media strategies, and analyzing social media metrics.
To be successful in this role, you should have excellent communication skills, be familiar with various social media platforms, and have a good eye for design. You can also use this opportunity to learn more about digital marketing and gain valuable experience for future job opportunities.
Here are some tips to help you get started as a social media assistant:
- Create a portfolio of your social media work to showcase your skills and experience to potential clients.
- Use social media management tools like Hootsuite or Buffer to help you schedule and manage your posts.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest social media trends and best practices by reading blogs and attending webinars.
- Network with other social media professionals and attend local events to expand your knowledge and connect with potential clients.
Overall, working as a social media assistant can be a fun and rewarding job for a 12-year-old who is interested in social media and digital marketing.
14. Personal Assistant
If you’re a responsible and organized 12-year-old, you might consider becoming a personal assistant. You could help busy professionals or families with tasks such as running errands, organizing schedules, or doing light housekeeping.
To become a personal assistant, you’ll need to have excellent communication skills, be reliable, and have a strong work ethic. You’ll also need to be comfortable with using technology and have access to a smartphone or computer to manage schedules and communicate with clients.
Here are some of the tasks you might be asked to do as a personal assistant:
- Running errands (e.g., picking up groceries, dropping off dry cleaning)
- Organizing schedules and appointments
- Doing light housekeeping (e.g., tidying up, doing laundry)
- Answering phone calls and emails
- Researching products or services
- Making travel arrangements
Keep in mind that as a 12-year-old, there may be some restrictions on the types of tasks you can do as a personal assistant. Be sure to check with your parents or guardians and potential clients to ensure that you’re not taking on any tasks that are illegal or unsafe.
Overall, becoming a personal assistant can be a great way to earn some extra money while developing valuable skills. Just be sure to approach the job with professionalism and a strong work ethic.
15. Community Volunteer
Volunteering in your community is a great way to gain new skills, make new friends, and make a positive impact on those around you. As a 12-year-old, there are many volunteer opportunities available to you, and getting involved in your community can be a rewarding experience.
Here are some community volunteer opportunities that may be available to you:
- Local Food Banks: Many food banks rely on volunteers to sort and distribute food to those in need. You can contact your local food bank to see if they have any volunteer opportunities available.
- Community Gardens: If you enjoy gardening, you may be able to volunteer at a community garden. You can help with planting, weeding, and harvesting, and you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
- Animal Shelters: If you love animals, you may be able to volunteer at an animal shelter. You can help with feeding, walking, and playing with the animals, and you’ll get to make a difference in their lives.
- Community Centers: Many community centers offer volunteer opportunities for young people. You can help with after-school programs, sports teams, and other activities.
- Senior Centers: If you enjoy spending time with older adults, you may be able to volunteer at a senior center. You can help with activities, serve meals, and provide companionship.
- Environmental Organizations: If you’re passionate about the environment, you may be able to volunteer with an environmental organization. You can help with clean-up efforts, tree planting, and other projects.
- Hospitals: Some hospitals have volunteer programs for young people. You may be able to help with activities for children, deliver flowers and cards to patients, or assist with administrative tasks.
- Libraries: Libraries often have volunteer opportunities for young people. You can help with shelving books, organizing materials, and assisting with programs.
- Museums: If you’re interested in history or art, you may be able to volunteer at a museum. You can help with tours, exhibits, and other activities.
- Community Events: Many community events, such as festivals and parades, rely on volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up, and other tasks.
- Homeless Shelters: If you’re interested in helping those in need, you may be able to volunteer at a homeless shelter. You can help with serving meals, organizing donations, and providing companionship.
Volunteering in your community is a great way to make a difference and gain valuable experience. Contact local organizations to see what volunteer opportunities are available to you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of job opportunities available for 12-year-olds to earn some extra cash. From delivering newspapers to babysitting, lawn mowing to dog walking, there are many options to choose from.
It is important to remember that some jobs may require more responsibility and maturity than others. As a 12-year-old, you should always make sure to get permission from your parents before taking on any job and ensure that it is safe and legal.
Additionally, it is important to consider your own interests and skills when choosing a job. If you enjoy working with animals, pet-sitting or dog walking may be a great option for you. If you have a knack for crafts or baking, selling your creations may be a good way to make some money.
Overall, finding a job at the age of 12 can be a great way to gain valuable work experience and learn important life skills such as responsibility, time management, and communication. With the right mindset and work ethic, you can turn your job into a fun and rewarding experience while making some extra cash on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy jobs for 12 year olds?
As a 12 year old, there are a few simple jobs you can do to earn some extra cash. You could offer to help your neighbors with their yard work, such as mowing lawns or raking leaves. You could also offer to walk dogs or pet sit for people who are going out of town. Another option is to help with basic household chores, like cleaning or organizing.
What are some summer jobs for 12 year olds that pay well?
If you’re looking for a summer job that pays well, there are a few options available. You could consider working as a camp counselor or lifeguard at a local pool or beach. Some businesses also hire young people to work as assistants or interns during the summer months. You could also offer to do odd jobs for people in your community, such as washing cars or running errands.
How can a 12 year old make money online?
There are a few ways that a 12 year old can make money online. One option is to participate in online surveys or sign up for paid focus groups. Another option is to sell items online, such as handmade crafts or items that you no longer need. You could also consider starting a blog or YouTube channel and earning money through advertising revenue or sponsorships.
