10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I have actually been a career coach for over twenty years, and if there’s something I’ve discovered it’s that a one-size-fits-all method to job searching does not work. Whether you are a student, an early expert, an experienced job candidate, or a working parent, The Career Counter has actually tailored, customized resources and templates to help you land the job of your dreams!

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the newest career and home organization articles, news, and pointers

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You may also like

Career Products Hand Crafted by a Licensed Professional Resume Writer

Professional Career Coaches with Decades of Experience

My energetic tween just recently asked me, “Mom, can I work?” Given my 20+ years as a career coach, I felt compelled to give an intelligent, educated action. But in truth, I didn’t have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides household chores? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research and get back to you on that,” I stated while quickly googling the finest jobs for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you have actually got a teenager, employment take a look at the finest tasks for teenagers.

While I understand my daughter is not rather ready to take on a babysitting or family pet sitting job, she definitely will remain in a couple years. Given that truth, I decided to take a seat and research study everything about task opportunities for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to learn more about the very best tasks for 12- year-olds, in addition to basic information relating to labor laws and guaranteeing the security and protection of your kids as they launch their first job experience.

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

Each state might likewise have its own laws, which can be stricter than federal laws. In California, for example, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without a license doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name simply a couple of. Minors can also work particular agricultural tasks, if the kid is employed by a moms and dad or legal guardian who controls, runs, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while legally enabled to work many jobs, deal with a lot of restrictions. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s enter the fun stuff. Specifically, here are the best tasks for 12-year-olds that use kids a chance to have fun, develop a great ethic, discover themselves, and most significantly, remain safe:(require pointers on composing a resume for teens? Have a look at How to Write a Trainee Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me begin by stressing that this list is not implied to be in any specific order. With that said, I’m going to start by blogging about babysitting. My really own very first job as a 12 year old was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And thankfully for me, he was an easy kid to watch. Even much better, my mother was home while I babysat which provided me comfort. It was the ideal job for my first job!

Babysitting, animal sitting, and even canine strolling can be excellent first tasks for tweens. Besides the apparent advantages of making their own cash, these tasks allow kids to refine communication skills and find out obligation. Also, I need to toss in that it will certainly help if your kid likes kids and pets. If they are not truly into having fun with kids and they don’t like dogs, they probably will not last very long.

My best suggestions as both a mom and a profession coach: encourage your kid to do something they like. My child, for example, absolutely loves playing with more youthful kids and she loves canines. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she likes me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I understand she will actually delight in babysitting and animal sitting. This is not to state that your child can’t do these jobs if they are not natural caretakers. Caring for kids and animals is absolutely an ability that can be learned. They just might not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her very first babysitting task, I’m going to make sure a few things remain in place. Primary, I want her to take a kid CPR and emergency treatment course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency circumstance while she is babysitting and not know what to do. Another factor (and the most crucial aspect) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will veterinarian the family and guarantee my child will remain in a safe environment. In fact, her very first jobs will likely be with households we currently know and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your kid has a particular strength and is self-motivated, you can assist them look into ways to generate income doing what I call “imaginative tasks for tweens!”

I just recently talked with a mom buddy of mine who said her child 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 store selling handmade items. The store owner could not keep up with the personalized thank you cards for her customers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just enjoy this job idea for so many factors. First of all, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I understand well since she likewise takes place to be my child’s friend). She has naturally stunning handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My buddy told me the finest part is her child can compose thank you notes from anywhere and compose them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your child is creative and loves developing, they could make and offer handmade art or items on Etsy or a similar website (an adult will need to produce the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or posts to children’s magazines? I can not think of a much better method for a child to hone composing abilities and get confidence!

Is your child more tech savvy than you (do not fret, your secret is safe with me)? What about researching methods to develop these skills like developing an app or computer game?

Is your kid a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or television acting or perhaps commentaries? These kinds of jobs do not have age limitations and can be a terrific method to enable your child to hone their acting and singing abilities while likewise earning some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s helper” is another popular job for tweens. This can include helping with laundry, making treats, babysitting, employment pet dog walking, and other family jobs. The good aspect of this type of job is that if your child is on the younger side (like 10 or younger), they can do the job while being monitored by an adult.

Another perk of this job is that you can quickly discover a mommy or caretaker you already understand who requires help. Start by sending a message to your instant circle of mommy friends and/or family to see if anybody needs extra assistance. You can likewise publish in a local mama’s group relying on your comfort level with allowing your kid to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would first interview the household and make sure the environment is safe and safe. I would likewise likely go along with my kid the very first couple visits.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking images? If so, you might either purchase a digital camera or even better just start with your phone electronic camera. Your child might begin by assisting with taking pictures for friends and family totally free to establish their abilities along with a photography portfolio. There is constantly a big requirement for pictures of special events like birthdays, graduations, and family images, to name simply a few.

Once your kid ends up being more skilled and skilled, they can start charging a minimal price for their photography while they continue to hone their abilities. Your kid can even set up a basic website ultimately to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by stating that if you kid wishes to make some fast money, this is definitely not the route to go! As an expert blog writer, I understand from personal experience it takes some time and commitment to construct your blog site or vlog and eventually create an earnings stream.

That stated, I truthfully don’t see a significant disadvantage to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can hone their writing, oral interaction, video modifying, and marketing abilities, along with find out the fundamentals of ending up being an entrepreneur!

If your kid hasn’t already, I need to warn you that it’s just 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 require that your kid be 13 or have parental grant create a channel. It will also depend on you as a moms and dad to determine the particular parameters of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my other half, for example, chose that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not permit them to use their genuine name or identity. A minimum of while they are under 13 years of ages. We’ll see what our comfort level will be when they grow older. Every parent obviously has various comfort levels concerning online security for their kids.

Your Future Starts Here

In terms of how to start a blog site, all your kid truly requires is pick a blog subject they are enthusiastic about. That, and ideally something that they desire to share with the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some fantastic free platforms that allow you to quickly develop a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be at least 13 years old to create a website.

Once your kid has an established blog site or vlog, they can likewise market it later on their high school or college resume or perhaps in the college application process. Employers are constantly searching for skills like self-motivation, imagination, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping assistant. This can include things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and employment other odd tasks. If your kiddo is active and likes being outside, employment this might well be the task for them! My tip is to make a flyer and walk around to your next-door neighbors with your child, to see if anyone might need some aid. As they grow older and end up being more responsible, your child can branch out and broaden their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Of course, I need to discuss the lemonade stand! I don’t know that I would consider this as a real “job” as much as a way to make periodic cash throughout the summer. But this is an excellent very first task for a younger kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little cash and test out their sales and entrepreneurial skills!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family company. If you are the sole owner of a dining establishment or other kind of household business, your 12-year-old kid can operate in many capacities as long as they aren’t considered harmful or hazardous. You also require to make sure to abide by your state’s kid labor laws concerning the variety of hours and times of days that you child can legally work.

That said, this can be an excellent first work experience for a child. Learning more about the household organization first-hand will develop confidence, work ethic, and will also permit your kid to discover themselves and their strengths and interests regarding the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant caretaker. This task is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who like to discover about gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on getaway is likewise an excellent method to make earnings while finding out about the essentials of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal task. Rounding out my leading ten jobs for 12-year-olds are seasonal tasks. These jobs can include wrapping presents during the holidays and even helping out with party preparation. If there’s one thing that I understand most moms would like is a holiday assistant or perhaps a birthday celebration assistant. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely terrific, can likewise be exhausting for parents. Between getting presents, covering presents, decorating your house, and all the other little things, it’s a lot. Your child, depending upon their interests and strengths, might use their services to friends and neighbors throughout the holiday.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these 10 jobs for 12-year-olds offer great opportunities to explore their interests, establish self-esteem, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Encouraging your child to try a task at this young age can be an important steppingstone towards their future success.

– What are some popular tasks for 12 year olds?

The most popular jobs for 12 year olds include childcare, animal sitting, backyard work, pet walking, and mom’s helper.

While 12 years of age are not legally enabled to operate in more traditional functions like those at quick food restaurants, they can operate in a private home setting doing the above discussed tasks.

– Exist any limitations or limitations on jobs for 12 year olds?

Yes, there are some limitations and constraints on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the kinds of jobs and variety of hours that young workers can carry out. For instance, 12 year olds usually can not work in dangerous professions or employment during school hours. It’s essential to contact your regional and state laws, along with get any essential permits or authorizations.

– How can 12 year olds discover task opportunities?

Here are a few ways for 12 year olds to discover job chances:
– Ask household and good friends: Let your friends and family know that you’re looking for work. They might have connections or understand somebody who requires aid with odd tasks.
– Local organizations: Visit local shops, dining establishments, or recreation center and employment inquire if they have any part-time task openings for young employees.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps specifically deal with linking young employees with task opportunities. Look for reliable platforms that comply with labor laws and standards.

Remember to constantly prioritize your security and wellness when thinking about task opportunities, and speak with your moms and dads or guardians before pursuing any work.

Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over twenty years of proficiency in directing people towards profession success. During her period at San Jose State University, she helped thousands of students compose compelling resumes to land their first jobs and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform committed to providing task hunters with tools and services tailored to their unique fields and profession objectives.

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 looking to have a summertime task so I was thinking I might be a dogsitter also I am trying to find a job near me -Kayla Thomas
I was wondering

the number of jobs I can do trigger I baby sit chickens totally free and I have a crochet club but i have not done is recently, so I was thinking about babysitting however I am not exactly sure about it.

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You might attempt to make some income by providing pet-sitting services (you already have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can use your current company as a referral to get you more tasks). Keep doing the crochet club! Seems like a terrific pastime. You never ever understand … eventually hobbies can become earnings too.

Susy

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

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have discovered something you love and you wish to attempt to get a task included with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking pals and family if anyone has connections to any public libraries or bookstores in your area. You can likewise visit your public 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 volunteering. This is a terrific method to learn more about operating in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be all set for a paying task!

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 really a great age to begin doing this type of job. Start by getting in touch with household and pals and letting them know you have an interest in a babysitting job. Once you begin gettings ome experience sitting for individuals you know, they will inform other individuals they know about how amazing you are and you’ll get referrals!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser

How can I get job

? I have experience in childcare, taking care of a pet, and I might probably tutor somebody, however my older sibling constantly gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; likewise I make certain individuals would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any recommendations?

1 month ago Reply

Hello fantastic question thank you for reaching out! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you don’t believe in your abilities no one else will either (there are lots of 12-year-olds who are more responsible than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about checking to see if your parents or caretakers have any good friends with younger kids or family pets? If a household already knows you and understands your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be most likely to want to employ you. You could also make some flyers promoting your services and walk around your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody requires help walking their pet dog. Start with individuals you already know. After they hire you and you do an aamzing job, you can use these people as referrals for other tasks.

Don’t quit! Keep attempting and you will get an excellent job soon!

Oakleigh

Do you think helping my mother in her beauty parlor would be alright? If not I might get childcare. I’ve got experience, especially with 5 younger siblings.

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe assisting in your mother’s beauty parlor would be an excellent first job. However, you and your mama need to talk to the labor laws in your state to make sure you are lawfully allowed to work there. Many states allow kids to operate in the family business, however there are limitations (like variety of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is constantly an excellent alternative too. With 5 younger siblings, I wager you would be a professional!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time however given that I currently pet my dogs, I believe I might be an animal sitter, am just offered in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I wish I might family pet sit a pet cause I love canines thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have canines you can definitely use that experience to get a job as a pet walker. Start by asking your household, good friends, and next-door neighbors (i.e. individuals who currently know you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as recommendations to get more jobs. Good luck!

Graeson

Can I do yard work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do yard work. Start by using your services to neightbors and individuals you know. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely inform their good friends and you can get more business.

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 unsure 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 standard four-year college degrees typically dominate the conversation about career paths, trade jobs are a wonderful yet neglected career choice that should have more attention. The reality is that trades experts carry out crucial work that helps society in so many methods. For instance, keeping the lights on, keeping comfortable living spaces, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a mommy taking care of kids, you likely currently understand that stabilizing a profession in law with the responsibilities and demands of family can seem like a monumental obstacle. Although I don’t operate in the field of law, I have actually got mom buddies who do. Many have discovered flexible profession paths in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the sort of person who likes dealing with your hands, solving problems, and seeing instant arise from your efforts? Maybe you have actually always enjoyed repairing things, taking them apart, and determining how they work-or possibly you’re the go-to individual for fixing mechanical problems amongst your family and friends. If this seems like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

Let’s be honest-when the majority of people consider pharmacists, they imagine 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 pharmacy is so much more than analyzing chicken-scratch physician handwriting!As healthcare evolves, driven by technological advancements, an …

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

Job markets ups and downs. But the one sector of the workforce that always seems to hold constant? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or doctors, health care professionals are always in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% boost in health care tasks by 2031-proof that this field isn’t decreasing anytime soon.Of all health care professionals, …

Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired

Interested in discovering about tasks helping kids? There are a lot of opportunities that involve assisting kids that cover across fields like education, health care, arts, and social work. From teaching a kid their very first word to mentoring a tween or employment teenager through challenges, each job opportunity enables you to make a significant difference in a child’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, however also benefactors. Gates may be a tech tycoon and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his legacy lies strongly in his humanitarian efforts, from HIV research study 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 countless specialists. You dream of making a real distinction. But you can’t since you have a mortgage to pay.