10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds
I’ve been a career coach for over 20 years, and if there’s one thing I have actually discovered it’s that a one-size-fits-all technique to job browsing does not work. Whether you are a student, an early professional, an experienced task applicant, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has personalized, tailored resources and design templates to assist you land the task of your dreams!
Register for our Newsletter
Stay up to date on the current career and home organization short articles, news, and tips
How Can We Help?
Resume Writing
Resume Templates
DIY Resources
Home Organization Planners
You may also 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 profession coach, I felt forced to give an intelligent, experienced action. But in truth, I didn’t have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides household tasks? I believed to myself. „Uh, let me do some research and return to you on that,“ I stated while rapidly googling the very best tasks for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you’ve got a teen, have a look at the best jobs for teenagers.
While I understand my daughter is not rather ready to tackle a babysitting or pet sitting task, she definitely will be in a couple years. Given that truth, I decided to sit down and research all about task opportunities for tweens. Are you in a comparable boat with your kids? If so, keep checking out to find out about the very best tasks for 12- year-olds, along with basic information concerning labor laws and ensuring the security and security of your kids as they launch their first job experience.
Before I dive into the finest gigs for tweens, employment let me very first cover the laws regarding child 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 employment Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for child work, including limiting the variety of hours kids can work, in addition to designating the types of tasks kids can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, but exceptions exist for tasks like paper delivery, childcare, and agricultural work, where children can work from a younger age under particular conditions.
Each state may also have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for example, the legal working age is 14 years old. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without an authorization doing things like yard mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name just a couple of. Minors can also work certain farming jobs, if the child is used by a parent or legal guardian who controls, runs, or owns the residential or commercial property.
Children over 14, while legally allowed to work numerous jobs, face a lot of limitations. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!
Okay, now let’s enter into the enjoyable stuff. Specifically, here are the very best tasks for 12-year-olds that provide kids a chance to have enjoyable, establish a good work principles, discover themselves, and most importantly, remain safe:(need pointers on composing a resume for teens? Check out How to Write a Student Resume).
# 1: Babysitting
Let me start by highlighting that this list is not indicated to be in any particular order. With that stated, I’m going to start by composing about childcare. My extremely own first job as a 12 years of age was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And fortunately for me, he was a simple kid to watch. Even better, my mother was home while I babysat which offered me peace of mind. It was the best task for my first job!
Babysitting, animal sitting, and even dog strolling can be fantastic very first jobs for tweens. Besides the obvious advantages of earning their own money, these jobs permit kids to hone communication skills and learn obligation. Also, I need to toss in that it will absolutely assist if your kid likes kids and family pets. If they are not really into playing with kids and they do not like pets, they probably won’t last extremely long.
My best advice as both a mom and a career coach: motivate your child to do something they like. My child, for instance, definitely loves having fun with more youthful kids and she adores pet dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Perhaps even more than she enjoys me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will really take pleasure in babysitting and animal sitting. This is not to state that your child can’t do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is absolutely a skill that can be learned. They simply might not enjoy it as much.
Before my child takes her very first babysitting job, I’m going to make sure a couple of things are in place. Top, I desire 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 aspect (and the most essential aspect) for me is security. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will veterinarian the family and ensure my daughter will be in a safe environment. In fact, her first jobs will likely be with families we currently understand and trust.
# 2: Creative Jobs
If your kid has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can help them look into methods to generate income doing what I call „imaginative jobs for tweens!“
I recently chatted with a mommy friend of mine who stated her daughter was making money making hand-written thank you notes. She discussed that her daughter is working for a pal of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade items. The store owner could not stay up to date with the tailored thank you cards for her customers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!
I just love this task concept for many factors. First of all, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I understand well because she also takes place to be my child’s close good friend). She has naturally lovely handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My good friend informed me the very best part is her child can write thank you notes from anywhere and write them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.
Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your kid is creative and loves creating, they might make and sell handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a comparable site (an adult will require to produce the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or short articles to kids’s magazines? I can not think of a much better way for a child to hone composing abilities and acquire confidence!
Is your child more tech savvy than you (don’t worry, your secret is safe with me)? What about looking into methods to establish these abilities like developing an app or video game?
Is your kid a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or tv performing or perhaps narrations? These types of tasks do not have age limitations and can be a terrific way to allow your child to hone their acting and singing abilities while also making some money.
# 3: Mother’s Helper
„Mother’s helper“ is another popular job for tweens. This can include helping with laundry, making treats, babysitting, pet dog walking, and other family tasks. The great thing about this type of task is that if your child is on the more youthful side (like ten or younger), they can do the task while being supervised by a grownup.
Another perk of this task is that you can quickly find a mom or caretaker you currently know who requires assistance. Start by sending out a message to your instant circle of mama friends and/or family to see if anyone needs extra aid. You can also publish in a regional mama’s group relying on your convenience level with permitting your kid to enter another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would initially speak with the family and make sure the environment is safe and safe. I would likewise likely accompany my child the very first couple visits.
# 4: Photographer’s Assistant
Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your kid love taking photos? If so, you could either purchase a digital camera or even better simply begin with your phone cam. Your kid might start by helping with taking pictures for family and buddies free of charge to develop their abilities as well as a photography portfolio. There is constantly a huge requirement for images of special events like birthdays, graduations, and family photos, to name simply a couple of.
Once your child becomes more experienced and knowledgeable, they can begin charging a minimal cost for their photography while they continue to hone their abilities. Your child can even establish a basic site ultimately to promote their services.
# 5: Blogger or Vlogger
Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by mentioning that if you kid wants to make some fast cash, this is absolutely not the path to go! As a professional blogger, I know from individual experience it requires time and devotion to construct your blog site or vlog and eventually develop an income stream.
That said, I honestly don’t see a major drawback to beginning a vlog or blog site. Kids can develop their writing, oral communication, video editing, and marketing abilities, as well as learn the basics of ending up being a business owner!
If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to alert you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the inescapable question that every tween seems to be asking these days: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does need that your kid be 13 or have adult authorization to produce a channel. It will likewise depend on you as a parent to identify the particular specifications of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.
Myself and my hubby, for example, chose that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not permit them to use their real name or identity. At least while they are under 13 years old. We’ll see what our comfort level will be when they age. Every moms and dad certainly has various comfort levels regarding online safety for their kids.
Your Future Starts Here
In regards to how to begin a blog, all your kid truly needs is select a blog site topic they are enthusiastic about. That, and ideally something that they desire to show the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some excellent complimentary platforms that allow you to quickly produce a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I understand that Wix does require users to be at least 13 years old to create a site.
Once your child has a recognized blog site or vlog, they can likewise market it in the future their high school or college resume or even in the college application procedure. Employers are constantly trying to find abilities like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and ambition!
# 6: Landscaping Helper
Landscaping helper. This can involve things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other tasks. If your kiddo is active and enjoys being outside, this might well be the task for them! My idea is to make a flyer and walk around to your neighbors with your child, to see if anyone might need some landscaping aid. As they grow older and become more responsible, your kid can branch off and broaden their services.
# 7: Lemonade Salesperson
Lemonade stand. Of course, I have to mention the lemonade stand! I do not know that I would consider this as an actual „job“ as much as a method to make periodic cash during the summer. But this is an excellent first task for a younger kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little money and test out their sales and entrepreneurial abilities!
# 8: Help in Family Business
Family organization. If you are the sole owner of a dining establishment or other type of family company, your 12-year-old child can work in numerous capacities as long as they aren’t considered unsafe or harmful. You likewise need to make sure to comply with your state’s kid labor laws regarding the number of hours and times of days that you kid can lawfully work.
That stated, this can be a great very first work experience for a kid. Learning more about the family organization first-hand will develop self-confidence, work principles, and will also permit your kid to discover about themselves and their strengths and interests relating to the work world.
# 9: Plant Sitter
Plant sitter. This job is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who love to find out about gardening and plants. Watering plants for neighbors on trip is likewise a terrific way to make earnings while learning more about the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!
# 10: Season Job
Seasonal job. Completing my leading ten tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal tasks. These tasks can include wrapping presents throughout the vacations or even assisting with celebration preparation. If there’s one thing that I know most mothers would enjoy is a vacation helper or even a birthday celebration assistant. Am I right ?!
This time of the year, while definitely fantastic, can also be exhausting for moms and dads. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, embellishing your home, and all the other little stuff, it’s a lot. Your kid, depending upon their interests and strengths, could provide their services to buddies and next-door neighbors throughout the holiday season.
In Conclusion
As you can see, these ten jobs for 12-year-olds use wonderful opportunities to explore their interests, establish self-esteem, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Encouraging your kid to try a task at this young age can be an important 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 childcare, family pet sitting, backyard work, dog walking, and mom’s helper.
While 12 year olds are not legally enabled to operate in more conventional functions like those at fast food restaurants, they can operate in a personal home setting doing the above pointed out jobs.
– Are there any restrictions or constraints on tasks for 12 year olds?
Yes, there are some restrictions and restrictions on jobs for 12 years of age. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the kinds of jobs and variety of hours that young employees can undertake. For example, 12 years of age usually can not work in harmful occupations or during school hours. It is necessary to contact your regional and state laws, in addition to obtain any necessary licenses or permissions.
– How can 12 year olds discover task opportunities?
Here are a couple of methods for 12 years of age to find task opportunities:
– Ask friends and family: Let your family and friends know that you’re looking for work. They might have connections or understand someone who needs assistance with tasks.
– Local companies: Visit local shops, restaurants, or recreation center and ask if they have any part-time job openings for young workers.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps specifically deal with connecting young workers with job opportunities. Search for credible platforms that comply with labor laws and guidelines.
Remember to constantly prioritize your security and wellness when thinking about task chances, and seek advice from 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 proficiency in assisting people towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she helped countless trainees compose compelling resumes to land their very first jobs and employment internships. More recently, Lee founded The Career Counter, a platform devoted to offering job candidates with tools and services tailored to their unique fields and career objectives.
Comment navigation
– Hermione Eldridge
21 hours ago Reply
I am 12 years I have actually constantly had a great deal of love for animals and I was wanting to have a summer task so I was believing I could be a dogsitter also I am looking for a task near me -Kayla Thomas
I was questioning
the number of tasks I can do trigger I infant sit chickens for complimentary and I have a crochet club however i haven’t done is recently, so I was considering babysitting but I am unsure about it.
Hi Kayla,
Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You could attempt to make some income by providing pet-sitting services (you currently have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can utilize your current company as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a wonderful hobby. You never ever know … ultimately pastimes can develop into earnings too.
Susy
Hello, do you believe I can operate at a library I truly like books and I can give very good recommendations for books and I seem like even kid libraries would be excellent. What do you believe?
2 weeks ago Reply
Hey there! I like that you have actually discovered something you enjoy and you want to try to get a job involved with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking pals and family if anybody has connections to any libraries or bookstores in your area. You can also visit your library and ask about tasks. There might be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a job, you can ask about offering. This is a terrific way to learn more about operating in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be prepared 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 old. That’s really a great age to start doing this kind of task. Start by calling family and friends and letting them understand you are interested in a babysitting job. Once you start acquirings ome experience sitting for people you know, employment they will inform other individuals they learn about how incredible you are and you’ll get referrals!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser
How can I get task
? I have experience in childcare, looking after a canine, and I could most likely tutor someone, however my older sister always gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; also I make sure individuals would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any recommendations?
1 month ago Reply
Hello great concern thank you for reaching out! 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 accountable than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about checking to see if your moms and dads or caretakers have any pals with younger kids or animals? If a family already knows you and knows your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be most likely to wish to hire you. You might also make some leaflets promoting your services and walk your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody needs assistance strolling their pet. Start with individuals you already understand. After they hire you and you do an aamzing job, you can use these individuals as references for other tasks.
Don’t quit! Keep attempting and you will get a terrific job soon!
Oakleigh
Do you think helping my mother in her beauty parlor would be fine? If not I may get childcare. I have actually got experience, especially with 5 younger brother or sisters.
Hello and thank you for your concern! I believe assisting in your mommy’s beauty parlor would be a terrific very first job. However, you and your mama have to consult the labor laws in your state to make sure you are lawfully permitted to work there. Many states enable kids to operate in the family service, however there are constraints (like number of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, etc).
Babysitting is always a fantastic choice too. With five younger brother or sisters, I wager you would be a professional!:-RRB- Dimpho
So this is my very first time but given that I already pet my canines, I think I could be an animal sitter, am just readily available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I wish I could pet sit a canine cause I enjoy dogs thanks.
2 months ago Reply
Since you currently have dogs you can certainly utilize that experience to get a job as a dog walker. Start by asking your household, friends, and neighbors (i.e. people who currently understand employment you). After you get some experience, you can use them as referrals to get more tasks. All the best!
Graeson
Can I do lawn work cuss I’m 12
3 months ago Reply
Hi Graeson! Yes you can do lawn work. Start by providing your services to neightbors and people you understand. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely inform their friends and you can get more service.
Ellie
Can I do the sitter club since I’m 12
– Lee Beaser
4 months ago Reply
Hello Ellie, babysitting is a terrific job for 12-year olds! I’m not exactly sure which babysitter club you are referring to, but you can definitely 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 typically dominate the discussion about career paths, trade tasks are a wonderful yet ignored profession option that should have more attention. The reality is that trades experts perform important work that assists society in numerous methods. For example, keeping the lights on, keeping comfortable living areas, or …
Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms
If you’re a mama taking care of kids, you likely already understand that a career in law with the obligations and demands of household can seem like a monumental difficulty. Although I do not work in the field of law, I have actually got mother friends who do. Many have discovered versatile career paths in law that …
The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore
Are you the type of individual who enjoys working with your hands, solving problems, and seeing instant results from your efforts? Maybe you’ve always delighted in fixing things, taking them apart, and determining how they work-or maybe you’re the go-to person for repairing mechanical issues amongst your loved ones. If this seems like you, …
Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips
Let’s be honest-when many people consider pharmacists, they picture someone in a white coat, gazing down at a sea of prescription bottles, sometimes asking, „Do you have any questions for the pharmacist today?“ However, a career in drug store is a lot more than deciphering chicken-scratch doctor handwriting!As health care progresses, driven by technological improvements, an …
What is Pediatric Nursing (and How to Land an Excellent Job)
Job markets ebb and circulation. But the one sector employment of the workforce that always seems to hold stable? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or physicians, health care experts are always in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% boost in health care jobs by 2031-proof that this field isn’t slowing down anytime soon.Of all healthcare professionals, …
Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired
Interested in finding out about jobs assisting kids? There are many chances that include assisting kids that cover across fields like education, health care, arts, and social work. From teaching a child their first word to mentoring a tween or teenager through challenges, each job chance allows you to make a meaningful difference in a kid’s …
Top Jobs in Philanthropy (and How to Land One)
Bill Gates. MacKenzie Scott. Dolly Parton. What do these people share? They’re not just multi-billionaires, however likewise philanthropists. Gates might be a tech magnate and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his tradition lies securely in his humanitarian initiatives, from HIV research to fair access to vaccines.Here’s the thing: all of these huge names …
Careers That Involve Helping People (and Pay Well Too)
Money or significance? This option has actually haunted countless specialists. You dream of making a real difference. But you can’t due to the fact that you have a home mortgage to pay.