10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a profession coach for over twenty years, and if there’s one thing I have actually discovered it’s that a one-size-fits-all approach to job searching doesn’t work. Whether you are a student, an early professional, a seasoned task seeker, or a working parent, The Career Counter has personalized, tailored resources and templates to assist you land the task of your dreams!

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the current profession and home company short articles, news, and suggestions

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You might likewise like

Career Products Hand Crafted by a Qualified Professional Resume Writer

Professional Career Coaches with Decades of Experience

My energetic tween recently asked me, “Mom, can I work?” Given my 20+ years as a career coach, I felt compelled to provide an intelligent, educated reaction. But in reality, I didn’t have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides home tasks? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research study and get back to you on that,” I stated while quickly googling the best tasks for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you’ve got a teen, take a look at the very best tasks for teenagers.

While I know my daughter is not quite ready to deal with a babysitting or family pet sitting task, she absolutely will remain in a couple years. Considered that truth, I chose to take a seat and research everything about task chances for tweens. Are you in a comparable boat with your kids? If so, keep checking out to learn more about the best jobs for 12- year-olds, as well as general info concerning labor laws and job making sure the security and protection of your kids as they launch their very first job experience.

Before I dive into the very best gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws relating to kid labor. If you’re not familiar, I’ll give you the general gist: On the federal level, child labor laws are set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for child work, consisting of restricting the variety of hours kids can work, along with designating the types of tasks children can have. Generally, the minimum age for work is 14, however exceptions exist for jobs like newspaper shipment, babysitting, and farming work, where children can work from a more youthful age under particular conditions.

Each state may also have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for instance, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can lawfully work without an authorization doing things like lawn mowing, selling arts and crafts, and babysitting, to call simply a few. Minors can likewise work certain farming jobs, if the kid is utilized by a moms and dad or legal guardian who controls, runs, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while lawfully allowed to work many jobs, face a lot of restrictions. However, that’s a whole other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s enter into the fun stuff. Specifically, here are the finest tasks for 12-year-olds that use kids a possibility to have enjoyable, develop a great principles, discover themselves, and most notably, stay safe:(need suggestions on writing a resume for teenagers? Check out How to Write a Trainee Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me begin by highlighting that this list is not suggested to be in any specific order. With that said, I’m going to start by writing about childcare. My really own very first task as a 12 years of age was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And thankfully for me, he was a simple kid to watch. Even much better, my mama was home while I babysat which offered me assurance. It was the perfect task for my first job!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even pet strolling can be terrific very first tasks for tweens. Besides the obvious benefits of making their own money, these jobs permit kids to sharpen interaction abilities and discover obligation. Also, I need to include that it will definitely help if your kid likes kids and animals. If they are not actually into having fun with kids and they do not like dogs, job they most likely won’t last extremely long.

My finest suggestions as both a mother and job a profession coach: motivate your kid to do something they like. My daughter, for instance, absolutely enjoys having fun with more youthful kids and she loves pets. Like, seriously LOVES them. Perhaps even more than she enjoys me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will really enjoy babysitting and animal sitting. This is not to say that your child can’t do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Caring for kids and animals is definitely a skill that can be found out. They just may not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her first childcare task, I’m going to ensure a couple of things remain in place. Top, I want her to take a child CPR and emergency treatment course. The last thing I want is for her to be in an emergency situation while she is babysitting and not know what to do. Another factor (and the most important element) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will vet the household and guarantee my child will remain in a safe environment. In truth, her very first tasks will likely be with families we already understand and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your child has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can assist them look into methods to earn money doing what I call “innovative tasks for tweens!”

I recently chatted with a mama pal of mine who stated her child was making money making hand-written thank you notes. She explained that her child is working for a friend of theirs who owns her own online store selling handmade items. The store owner couldn’t keep up with the tailored thank you cards for her customers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I simply like this task idea for so numerous factors. First off, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I know well because she likewise occurs to be my child’s buddy). She has naturally beautiful handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My buddy informed me the very best part is her daughter can write thank you notes from anywhere and compose them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for job tasks like this one: If your child is artistic and loves creating, they could make and sell handmade art or items on Etsy or a similar site (a grownup will require to create the account). Does your kid love to write? What about submitting pitches or posts to children’s magazines? I can not believe of a better method for a kid to hone writing skills and get confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (do not worry, your trick is safe with me)? What about investigating ways to develop these abilities like establishing an app or video game?

Is your kid a natural-born performer? What about checking out theatre or television performing and even voice-overs? These types of jobs do not have age limitations and can be a wonderful method to permit your child to hone their performing and singing skills while also making some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s helper” is another popular job for tweens. This can involve assisting with laundry, making snacks, childcare, pet walking, and other home jobs. The good feature of this kind of job is that if your child is on the more youthful side (like ten or more youthful), they can do the job while being monitored by an adult.

Another perk of this task is that you can easily discover a mommy or caregiver you currently know who needs help. Start by sending a message to your immediate circle of mommy good friends and/or family to see if anyone needs additional aid. You can likewise publish in a local mother’s group depending upon your comfort level with enabling your child to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this path, I would first interview the family and make certain the environment is safe and safe and secure. I would also likely accompany my kid the first couple visits.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking photos? If so, you might either invest in a digital cam or better yet just start with your phone cam. Your kid might begin by helping with taking photos for family and friends totally free to establish their skills in addition to a photography portfolio. There is constantly a substantial need for images of unique occasions like birthdays, graduations, and household pictures, to name just a couple of.

Once your kid ends up being more experienced and experienced, they can begin charging a very little rate for their photography while they continue to sharpen their skills. Your child can even establish a fundamental website eventually to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I desire to begin by specifying that if you kid wants to make some quick cash, this is absolutely not the route to go! As a professional blog writer, I know from individual experience it takes some time and devotion to develop your blog site or vlog and ultimately develop an income stream.

That stated, I honestly don’t see a significant drawback to beginning a vlog or blog site. Kids can develop their writing, oral interaction, video modifying, and marketing skills, along with find out the essentials of becoming a business owner!

If your kid hasn’t already, I have to caution you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the inevitable question that every tween seems to be asking nowadays: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does need that your child be 13 or have adult grant produce a channel. It will likewise be up to you as a parent to identify the specific criteria of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my other half, for example, decided that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not allow them to utilize their real name or identity. A minimum of while they are under 13 years old. We’ll see what our comfort level will be when they get older. Every parent obviously has different comfort levels relating to online security for their children.

Your Future Starts Here

In regards to how to begin a blog, all your kid actually needs is select a blog subject they are passionate about. That, and preferably something that they wish to show the world and/or something they can teach individuals about. There are some fantastic totally free platforms that enable you to easily produce a blog like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be at least 13 years of ages to produce a website.

Once your child has a recognized blog or vlog, they can also market it in the future their high school or college resume or even in the college application process. Employers are constantly looking for abilities like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and aspiration!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping assistant. This can involve things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other chores. If your kiddo is active and loves being outside, this might well be the job for them! My recommendation is to make a flyer and go around to your next-door neighbors with your child, to see if anybody may need some landscaping aid. As they age and become more accountable, your kid can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Naturally, I have to discuss the lemonade stand! I do not know that I would consider this as an actual “task” as much as a method to make occasional cash throughout the summer. But this is a great very first task for a more youthful kiddo who is feeling encouraged to make a little cash and test out their sales and entrepreneurial abilities!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family business. If you are the sole owner of a restaurant or other type of household organization, your 12-year-old child can work in lots of capabilities as long as they aren’t considered unsafe or dangerous. You likewise need to ensure to adhere to your state’s child labor laws relating to the variety of hours and times of days that you kid can legally work.

That stated, this can be a fantastic first work experience for a kid. Discovering the household company first-hand will develop self-confidence, work ethic, and will likewise allow your child to find out about themselves and their strengths and interests regarding the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This job is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who enjoy to discover gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on holiday is likewise an excellent method to make earnings while discovering the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Completing my top 10 jobs for 12-year-olds are seasonal tasks. These jobs can include wrapping presents throughout the holidays or perhaps assisting out with party preparation. If there’s something that I know most mothers would like is a vacation helper or perhaps a birthday celebration helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while certainly wonderful, can also be exhausting for parents. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, embellishing your house, and all the other little stuff, it’s a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, could offer their services to good friends and neighbors throughout the vacation season.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these 10 jobs for 12-year-olds offer fantastic chances to explore their interests, develop confidence, and cultivate a strong work principles. Encouraging your child to attempt a task at this young age can be a valuable steppingstone towards their future success.

– What are some popular tasks for 12 years of age?

The most popular tasks for 12 year olds consist of babysitting, animal sitting, lawn work, canine walking, and mom’s helper.

While 12 year olds are not lawfully permitted to operate in more traditional roles like those at junk food restaurants, they can operate in a personal home setting doing the above pointed out tasks.

– Exist any limitations or restrictions on tasks for 12 years of age?

Yes, there are some restrictions and job limitations on tasks for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for the types of jobs and number of hours that young workers can undertake. For instance, 12 years of age generally can not operate in harmful occupations or throughout school hours. It is very important to inspect with your local and state laws, along with acquire any required authorizations or consents.

– How can 12 years of age find task opportunities?

Here are a couple of methods for 12 years of age to discover task chances:
– Ask friends and family: Let your household and good friends know that you’re searching for work. They may have connections or know someone who requires help with odd tasks.
– Local businesses: Visit regional stores, dining establishments, or recreation center and ask if they have any part-time task openings for young employees.
– Online platforms: Some sites and apps particularly deal with connecting young employees with task opportunities. Try to find trusted platforms that adhere to labor laws and standards.

Remember to always prioritize your security and well-being when thinking about task chances, and speak with your moms and dads or guardians before pursuing any employment.

Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over twenty years of expertise in assisting people towards career success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted thousands of trainees write engaging resumes to land their very first jobs and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform dedicated to offering task hunters with tools and services tailored to their special fields and profession goals.

Comment navigation

– Hermione Eldridge

21 hours ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a great deal of love for animals and I was aiming to have a summertime task so I was thinking I might be a dogsitter also I am trying to find a job near to me -Kayla Thomas
I was wondering

the number of jobs I can do cause I child sit chickens for free and I have a crochet club but i haven’t done is recently, so I was considering however I am unsure about it.

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You might attempt to make some income by using pet-sitting services (you already have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can use your existing employer as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Seems like a fantastic pastime. You never understand … ultimately pastimes can become earnings also.

Susy

Hello, do you believe I can operate at a library I actually like books and I can provide excellent guidance for books and I feel like even kid libraries would be excellent. What do you think?

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have actually discovered something you enjoy and you want to attempt to get a job involved with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking family and friends if anybody has connections to any libraries or bookstores in your area. You can likewise visit your library and ask about jobs. There might be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a job, you can inquire about offering. This is a terrific method to learn more about working in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be ready for a paying job!

Jayla Lancaster

Can I babysit I’m 12 years old

3 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years of ages. That’s actually a fantastic age to start doing this type of task. Start by contacting friends and family and letting them understand you are interested in a childcare job. Once you start gettings ome experience sitting for individuals you know, they will tell other people they know about how awesome you are and you’ll get recommendations!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser

How can I get task

? I have experience in childcare, taking care of a dog, and I could most likely tutor somebody, but my older sibling constantly gets those jobs and she will not let me have one; likewise I make sure individuals would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any advice?

1 month ago Reply

Hello excellent concern thank you for connecting! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you do not believe in your capabilities nobody else will either (there are great deals of 12-year-olds who are more responsible than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about inspecting to see if your moms and dads or caretakers have any friends with more youthful kids or animals? If a household already knows you and knows your moms and dads, there is currently some trust there and they will be most likely to wish to employ you. You might also make some flyers marketing your services and walk your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody requires assistance strolling their pet dog. Start with individuals you already understand. After they employ you and you do an aamzing task, you can use these people as references for other tasks.

Don’t offer up! Keep attempting and you will get a terrific task quickly!

Oakleigh

Do you think helping my mother in her beauty parlor would be alright? If not I may get babysitting. I’ve got experience, specifically with 5 younger brother or sisters.

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe helping in your mama’s hairdresser would be a terrific very first task. However, you and your mom have to consult the labor laws in your state to make sure you are legally permitted to work there. Many states enable kids to operate in the household company, however there are limitations (like variety of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is constantly a terrific alternative too. With five younger siblings, I bet you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my first time but because I currently pet my dogs, I believe I might be a pet sitter, am only readily available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this job cause.I dream I might animal sit a pet cause I enjoy canines thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have canines you can definitely use that experience to get a task as a canine walker. Start by asking your family, friends, and neighbors (i.e. individuals who already understand you). After you get some experience, you can use them as references to get more jobs. Best of luck!

Graeson

Can I do backyard work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do backyard work. Start by offering your services to neightbors and individuals you understand. Once they hire you and trust you, they will likely inform their buddies and you can get more company.

Ellie

Can I do the sitter club since I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, childcare is a fantastic task for 12-year olds! I’m uncertain which babysitter club you are describing, but you can certainly babysit at 12!

Comment navigation

Leave your comment (Cancel Reply)

Δ

Related Articles

10 Trade Jobs Worth Exploring (and How to Land One)

In a world where conventional four-year college degrees frequently control the discussion about career courses, trade tasks are a terrific yet overlooked profession option that are worthy of more attention. The fact is that trades experts carry out important work that assists society in a lot of methods. For instance, keeping the lights on, maintaining comfy living areas, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a mommy caring for kids, you likely currently know that stabilizing a profession in law with the duties and demands of household can seem like a significant challenge. Although I do not operate in the field of law, I’ve got mommy friends who do. Many have actually discovered flexible career paths in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the sort of person who enjoys dealing with your hands, solving issues, and seeing instant arise from your efforts? Maybe you’ve always taken pleasure in fixing things, taking them apart, and finding out how they work-or maybe you’re the go-to individual for troubleshooting mechanical problems among your family and friends. If this sounds like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

Let’s be honest-when many people think about pharmacists, they think of somebody in a white coat, looking down at a sea of prescription bottles, sometimes asking, “Do you have any concerns for the pharmacist today?” However, a profession in pharmacy is a lot more than analyzing chicken-scratch physician handwriting!As health care progresses, driven by technological improvements, an …

What is Pediatric Nursing (and How to Land a Fantastic Job)

Job markets ups and downs. But the one sector of the workforce that constantly appears to hold constant? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or physicians, health care professionals are always in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 13% increase in health care jobs by 2031-proof that this field isn’t slowing down anytime soon.Of all health care professionals, …

Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired

Interested in learning more about tasks helping kids? There are so numerous chances that involve assisting kids that span throughout fields like education, healthcare, arts, and social work. From teaching a child their first word to mentoring a tween or teen through obstacles, each task opportunity enables you to make a meaningful distinction in a kid’s …

Top Jobs in Philanthropy (and How to Land One)

Bill Gates. MacKenzie Scott. Dolly Parton. What do these individuals share? They’re not only multi-billionaires, but also benefactors. Gates might be a tech magnate and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his legacy lies strongly in his humanitarian efforts, from HIV research to fair access to vaccines.Here’s the important things: all of these huge names …

Careers That Involve Helping People (and Pay Well Too)

Money or significance? This option has actually haunted millions of specialists. You imagine making a genuine difference. But you can’t since you have a home mortgage to pay.