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Opened Feb 16, 2025 by Erika Yarbrough@erikayarbrough
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10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds


I have actually been a career coach for over 20 years, and if there's one thing I've discovered it's that a one-size-fits-all approach to job browsing doesn't work. Whether you are a trainee, an early expert, a skilled task applicant, or a working parent, The Career Counter has personalized, tailored resources and design templates to help you land the job of your dreams!

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My energetic tween recently asked me, "Mom, can I work?" Given my 20+ years as a profession coach, I felt obliged to offer an intelligent, educated response. But in reality, I didn't have a clear answer for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides household chores? I believed to myself. "Uh, let me do some research and return to you on that," I said while rapidly googling the best jobs for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you have actually got a teenager, examine out the best tasks for teens.

While I know my child is not rather prepared to deal with a babysitting or pet sitting job, she certainly will be in a couple years. Given that truth, I chose to take a seat and research study everything about job opportunities for tweens. Are you in a comparable boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to find out about the finest tasks for 12- year-olds, along with basic info relating to labor laws and making sure the safety and protection of your kids as they embark upon their first task experience.

Before I dive into the very best gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws concerning kid labor. If you're not familiar, I'll give you the general gist: 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, including limiting the variety of hours kids can work, along with designating the kinds of tasks children can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, but exceptions exist for jobs like paper shipment, childcare, and agricultural work, where children can work from a more youthful age under certain 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 lawfully work without a license doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and childcare, to call just a few. Minors can likewise work particular farming tasks, if the child is utilized by a moms and dad or legal guardian who controls, operates, or owns the property.

Children over 14, while lawfully enabled to work lots of tasks, deal with a great deal 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 enjoyable stuff. Specifically, here are the very best jobs for 12-year-olds that offer kids a possibility to have a good time, establish a good work principles, discover themselves, and most notably, remain safe:(need suggestions on writing a resume for teenagers? Check out How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me begin by emphasizing that this list is not indicated to be in any specific order. With that said, I'm going to begin by discussing childcare. My very own very first job as a 12 years of age was, yup, you thought it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And fortunately for me, he was an easy kid to view. Even much better, my mother was home while I babysat which offered me peace of mind. It was the ideal task for my first job!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even dog strolling can be excellent very first tasks for tweens. Besides the obvious advantages of making their own cash, these jobs permit kids to develop interaction abilities and learn responsibility. Also, I have to toss in that it will certainly help if your kid likes kids and pets. If they are not truly into playing with kids and they do not like pet dogs, they probably won't last long.

My finest guidance as both a mom and a career coach: motivate your child to do something they like. My child, for instance, definitely enjoys playing with more youthful kids and she loves canines. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she enjoys me. But I digress. Anway, that's how I understand she will actually enjoy babysitting and family pet sitting. This is not to say that your kid can't do these jobs if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is certainly an ability that can be discovered. They just may not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her first babysitting task, I'm going to ensure a couple of things remain in location. Primary, I desire her to take a child CPR and first help course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency situation while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another element (and the most essential factor) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will veterinarian the household and ensure my daughter will be in a safe environment. In truth, her very first jobs will likely be with families we already know and trust.

Your Future Starts Here

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your kid has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can assist them check out methods to earn cash doing what I call "innovative jobs for tweens!"

I just recently talked with a mother buddy of mine who said her child was generating income making hand-written thank you notes. She discussed that her child is working for a good friend of theirs who owns her own online store selling handmade products. The shop owner couldn't keep up with the tailored thank you cards for her clients. So, she employed a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just love this task idea for numerous reasons. First of all, it plays to this specific child's strengths (whom I know well because she also happens to be my daughter's friend). She has naturally beautiful handwriting. Also, it's uber-flexible. My good friend 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 concepts for jobs like this one: If your child is artistic and loves producing, they might make and sell handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a comparable website (a grownup will need to create the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or posts to children's magazines? I can not believe of a better way for a kid to develop composing skills and get self-confidence!

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

Is your child a natural-born performer? What about looking into theatre or tv performing or even commentaries? These types of tasks do not have age limitations and can be a fantastic way to allow your kid to develop their acting and singing abilities while likewise making some money.

# 3: Mother's Helper

"Mother's assistant" is another popular task for tweens. This can include assisting with laundry, making snacks, childcare, pet dog walking, and other family jobs. The nice thing about this type of job is that if your kid is on the younger side (like ten or more youthful), they can do the task while being monitored by a grownup.

Another perk of this task is that you can quickly discover a mommy or caregiver you currently know who needs aid. Start by sending out a message to your immediate circle of mommy pals and/or family to see if anybody requires extra aid. You can likewise publish in a regional mother's group depending upon your convenience level with allowing your kid to get in another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would initially speak with the household and make certain the environment is safe and safe and secure. I would also likely accompany my child the very first couple sees.

# 4: Photographer's Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer's Assistant. Does your child love taking pictures? If so, you might either invest in a digital electronic camera or much better yet just begin with your phone camera. Your child could start by assisting with taking images for friends and family totally free to develop their skills in addition to a photography portfolio. There is constantly a huge need for images of special occasions like birthdays, graduations, and family images, to name simply a couple of.

Once your kid ends up being more knowledgeable and skilled, they can start charging a minimal rate for their photography while they continue to hone their skills. Your kid can even establish a fundamental site ultimately to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I desire to start by specifying that if you kid desires to make some quick money, this is absolutely not the route to go! As a professional blog writer, I understand from personal experience it requires time and commitment to construct your blog or vlog and ultimately create an earnings stream.

That stated, I honestly do not see a significant downside to starting a vlog or blog site. Kids can hone their writing, oral communication, video editing, and marketing skills, in addition to learn the essentials of becoming a business owner!

If your kid hasn't currently, I have to caution you that it's just a matter of time before they ask the inescapable concern 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 develop a channel. It will likewise depend on you as a parent to figure out the particular parameters of keeping your child safe on YouTube.

Myself and my spouse, 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. A minimum of while they are under 13 years old. We'll see what our comfort level will be when they grow older. Every moms and dad clearly has various comfort levels concerning online safety for their children.

In terms of how to begin a blog site, all your kid actually needs is select a blog site subject they are enthusiastic about. That, and ideally something that they wish to show the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some terrific complimentary platforms that enable you to quickly create a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be a minimum of 13 years of ages to produce a website.

Once your child has an established blog site or vlog, they can also market it later their high school or college resume or perhaps in the college application process. Employers are always trying to find abilities like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping helper. This can include things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other tasks. If your kiddo is active and likes being outside, this may well be the job for them! My tip is to make a flyer and walk around to your neighbors with your kid, to see if anybody may require some landscaping aid. As they age and end up being more accountable, your kid can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Obviously, I need to discuss the lemonade stand! I do not know that I would consider this as an actual "job" as much as a way to make occasional cash throughout the summertime. But this is a terrific very first job 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 family business, your 12-year-old child can operate in lots of capabilities as long as they aren't considered unsafe or dangerous. You also require to make certain to abide by your state's child labor laws regarding the variety of hours and times of days that you kid can lawfully work.

That said, this can be a great first work experience for a kid. Discovering the household organization first-hand will establish self-confidence, work ethic, and will likewise allow your kid to learn more about themselves and their strengths and interests concerning the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This job is excellent for kids who have an interest in and who like to find out about gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on trip is also an excellent way to make earnings while discovering the essentials of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal task. Completing my top ten jobs for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These jobs can consist of covering presents during the holidays and even helping out with celebration planning. If there's something that I understand most mommies would like is a holiday helper and even a birthday party helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely fantastic, can likewise be tiring for parents. Between getting presents, covering presents, embellishing your home, and all the other little stuff, it's a lot. Your child, depending upon their interests and strengths, could use their services to buddies and next-door neighbors during the holiday.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these 10 tasks for 12-year-olds provide great to explore their interests, establish confidence, and cultivate a strong work principles. Encouraging your child to attempt a job at this young age can be a valuable steppingstone towards their future success.

- What are some popular jobs for 12 year olds?

The most popular jobs for 12 years of age include childcare, pet sitting, yard work, pet walking, and mother's assistant.

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

- Are there any constraints or limitations on jobs for 12 year olds?

Yes, there are some limitations and limitations on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the types of jobs and variety of hours that young workers can carry out. For instance, 12 years of age usually can not operate in harmful professions or throughout school hours. It's essential to examine with your regional and state laws, in addition to acquire any necessary permits or permissions.

- How can 12 years of age find task opportunities?

Here are a couple of methods for 12 years of age to find task opportunities:

  • Ask family and buddies: Let your household and pals understand that you're looking for work. They might have connections or understand someone who requires assist with tasks.
  • Local organizations: Visit local shops, restaurants, or recreation center and inquire if they have any part-time job openings for young employees.
  • Online platforms: Some websites and apps specifically deal with linking young employees with job chances. Look for reliable platforms that adhere to labor laws and guidelines.

    Remember to always prioritize your security and wellness when considering task chances, and seek advice from your moms and dads or guardians before pursuing any work.






Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer). Lee brings over 20 years of proficiency in guiding individuals towards profession success. During her period at San Jose State University, she assisted thousands of students write compelling resumes to land their very first tasks and internships. More just recently, Lee founded The Career Counter, a platform committed to supplying job candidates with tools and services tailored to their unique fields and career objectives.



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- Hermione Eldridge

7 days ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a great deal of love for animals and I was wanting to have a summer job so I was believing I might be a dogsitter also I am trying to find a job near to me 6 days ago Reply

Hello Hermione!

Beat method to get a task is through word of mouth (inform loved ones you are trying to find pet dog sitting tasks). Make some flyers and put them up around your neighborhood. Be persistent! The very first task may be hard to find, but if you do a great task you will get recommendations.

Best of luck to you!


Kayla Thomas

I was wondering how lots of tasks I can do cause I child sit chickens totally free and I have a crochet club but i have not done is just recently, so I was considering babysitting however I am unsure about it.


- Lee Beaser

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Sounds like you enjoy animals. You might attempt to make some earnings by providing pet-sitting services (you currently have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can use your present employer as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Seems like a terrific hobby. You never ever know ... eventually pastimes can become earnings also.


Susy

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

3 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have discovered something you enjoy and you want to attempt to get a task included with books. First thing I would suggest doing is asking friends and household if anyone has connections to any public libraries or bookstores in your area. You can likewise visit your public library and inquire about jobs. There might be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a task, you can ask about offering. This is a terrific way to find out about working 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

4 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years of ages. That's actually a great age to begin doing this type of job. Start by contacting family and buddies and letting them understand you have an interest in a childcare job. Once you begin gettings ome experience sitting for people you know, they will tell other individuals they learn about how awesome you are and you'll get referrals!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey Mrs. Beaser
How can I get task
? I have experience in babysitting, looking after a dog, and I might probably tutor someone, but my older sis constantly gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; likewise I am sure people would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any guidance?

Hello great concern thank you for connecting! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you don't 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 buddies with younger kids or pets? If a household currently knows you and understands your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be most likely to wish to employ you. You might likewise make some leaflets advertising your services and walk around your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody requires assistance strolling their pet. Start with individuals you already know. After they employ you and you do an aamzing task, you can use these people as references for other tasks.

Don't give up! Keep trying and you will get an excellent job soon!


Oakleigh

Do you believe assisting my mom in her hair salon would be alright? If not I may get childcare. I've got experience, particularly with 5 younger siblings.

2 months ago Reply

Hello and thank you for your concern! I believe helping in your mom's hair beauty salon would be a terrific first job. However, you and your mama need to talk to the labor laws in your state to ensure you are legally enabled to work there. Many states allow kids to work in the family business, however there are constraints (like variety of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, etc).

Babysitting is always a fantastic alternative too. With 5 younger siblings, I bet you would be a professional!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time but because I already 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 desire I could animal sit a pet dog cause I enjoy pet dogs thanks.

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


Graeson

Can I do backyard 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 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, babysitting is an excellent task for 12-year olds! I'm unsure which sitter club you are describing, but you can definitely babysit at 12!




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