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Opened Feb 11, 2025 by Jacquie McClinton@jacquiemcclint
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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 technique to job browsing doesn't work. Whether you are a trainee, an early professional, an experienced task candidate, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has actually personalized, tailored resources and templates to help you land the job of your dreams!

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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 reaction. But in reality, I didn't have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides family chores? I believed to myself. "Uh, let me do some research and get back to you on that," I said while rapidly googling the best jobs for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you've got a teenager, take a look at the very best jobs for teenagers.

While I know my child is not rather ready to deal with a childcare or animal sitting job, she absolutely will remain in a couple years. Given that fact, I decided to sit down and research all about task opportunities for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to discover the very best jobs for 12- year-olds, along with basic information regarding labor laws and making sure the safety and security of your kids as they launch their first task experience.

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

Each state might also have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for instance, the legal working age is 14 years old. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without a license doing things like yard mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to call just a few. Minors can likewise work specific farming tasks, employment if the kid is used by a parent or legal guardian who manages, runs, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while lawfully permitted to work lots of tasks, deal with a lot of constraints. However, that's an entire other topic that I'll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let's enter the fun things. Specifically, here are the very best tasks for 12-year-olds that use kids a possibility to have fun, establish a great ethic, learn more about themselves, and most significantly, stay safe:(need ideas on writing a resume for teens? Check out How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me start by highlighting that this list is not suggested to be in any particular order. With that said, I'm going to start by writing about babysitting. My very own very first task as a 12 year old was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And luckily for me, he was a simple kid to watch. Even much better, my mother was home while I babysat which gave me comfort. It was the perfect task for my first job!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even canine walking can be excellent very first jobs for tweens. Besides the apparent benefits of making their own cash, these tasks allow kids to develop communication skills and find out obligation. Also, I need to include that it will absolutely assist if your child likes kids and animals. If they are not actually into having fun with kids and they don't like pets, they probably will not last very long.

My finest recommendations as both a mother and a profession coach: encourage your kid to do something they like. My daughter, for instance, definitely likes playing with more youthful kids and she loves dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she likes me. But I digress. Anway, that's how I know she will actually take pleasure in babysitting and animal sitting. This is not to say that your kid can't do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is certainly a skill that can be found out. They simply might not enjoy it as much.

Before my daughter takes her first babysitting task, I'm going to make sure a few things remain in place. Top, I desire her to take a child CPR and first aid course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency circumstance while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another factor (and the most important element) for me is security. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will veterinarian the household and ensure my daughter will be in a safe environment. In truth, her first tasks will likely be with families we already know and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your child has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can assist them look into methods to generate income doing what I call "imaginative tasks for tweens!"

I just recently chatted with a mommy good friend of mine who said her daughter was generating income making hand-written thank you notes. She discussed that her daughter is working for a friend of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade products. The shop owner couldn't stay up to date with the personalized thank you cards for her consumers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I simply enjoy this task idea for so many factors. First off, it plays to this specific child's strengths (whom I understand well since she also occurs to be my daughter's buddy). She has naturally stunning handwriting. Also, it's uber-flexible. My pal informed me the very best 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 tasks like this one: If your kid is creative and loves creating, they could make and sell handmade art or items on Etsy or a comparable site (a grownup will require to produce the account). Does your kid love to write? What about submitting pitches or articles to children's publications? I can not think of a much better way for a child to sharpen writing skills and get self-confidence!

Is your child more tech savvy than you (do not fret, your trick is safe with me)? What about looking into methods to establish these skills like establishing 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 restrictions and can be a terrific way to enable your child to develop their performing and singing skills while likewise making some cash.

# 3: Mother's Helper

"Mother's helper" is another popular job for tweens. This can include aiding with laundry, making snacks, babysitting, pet dog walking, and other family jobs. The great feature of this kind of job is that if your kid is on the more youthful side (like 10 or more youthful), they can do the job while being supervised by a grownup.

Another perk of this job is that you can easily find a mama or caregiver you currently understand who needs aid. Start by sending out a message to your immediate circle of mommy good friends and/or household to see if anybody needs extra assistance. You can also publish in a local mommy's group relying on your convenience level with enabling your kid to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this path, I would initially interview the family and make certain the environment is safe and secure. I would likewise likely support my kid the very first couple sees.

# 4: Photographer's Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer's Assistant. Does your child love taking images? If so, you might either invest in a digital electronic camera or much better yet simply begin with your phone video camera. Your kid could start by helping with taking photos for friends and family for free to develop their skills in addition to a photography portfolio. There is always a huge requirement for pictures of special events like birthdays, graduations, and household pictures, to call simply a couple of.

Once your child becomes more knowledgeable and employment knowledgeable, they can start charging a very little price for their photography while they continue to refine their abilities. Your kid can even establish a standard site ultimately to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to begin by stating that if you kid wishes to make some quick cash, this is definitely not the path to go! As an expert blogger, I understand from personal experience it requires time and devotion to build your blog site or vlog and ultimately produce an earnings stream.

That said, I truthfully do not see a major downside to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can sharpen their writing, oral interaction, video editing, and marketing abilities, along with find out the fundamentals of ending up being a business owner!

If your kid hasn't already, I have to alert you that it's just a matter of time before they ask the inescapable concern that every tween appears to be asking these days: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does need that your kid be 13 or have adult grant produce a channel. It will likewise depend on you as a parent to identify the particular specifications of keeping your child safe on YouTube.

Myself and my other half, for example, decided 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 of ages. We'll see what our comfort level will be when they grow older. Every moms and dad obviously has various convenience levels regarding online security for their kids.

Your Future Starts Here

In regards to how to begin a blog, all your kid truly needs is choose a blog site subject they are enthusiastic about. That, and ideally something that they wish to share with the world and/or something they can teach individuals about. There are some great complimentary platforms that enable you to easily produce a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be a minimum of 13 years of ages to create a site.

Once your kid has a recognized blog or vlog, they can likewise market it later on their high school or college resume and even in the college application procedure. Employers are always searching 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 tasks. If your kiddo is active and enjoys being outside, this might well be the task for employment them! My tip is to make a leaflet and walk around to your neighbors with your kid, to see if anybody may require some landscaping help. As they get older and become more responsible, your kid can branch out and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Of course, I need to mention the lemonade stand! I don't know that I would consider this as a real "job" as much as a way to make periodic money throughout the summertime. But this is an excellent very first task for a more youthful 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 household organization, your 12-year-old kid can operate in many capabilities as long as they aren't thought about or hazardous. You also need to ensure to comply with your state's kid labor laws regarding the variety of hours and times of days that you child can lawfully work.

That stated, this can be a terrific first work experience for a kid. Finding out about the household business first-hand will establish confidence, work ethic, and will also permit 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 enjoy to learn about gardening and plants. Watering plants for neighbors on vacation is also an excellent method to earn income while finding out about the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Completing my leading 10 jobs for employment 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These tasks can consist of covering presents throughout the holidays or even helping out with celebration preparation. If there's something that I understand most mamas would love is a vacation assistant or perhaps a birthday celebration assistant. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely wonderful, can also be tiring for parents. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, embellishing your home, and all the other little things, it's a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, could provide their services to buddies and next-door neighbors throughout the vacation season.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these 10 jobs for 12-year-olds provide wonderful opportunities to explore their interests, establish confidence, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Encouraging your kid to try 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 tasks for 12 years of age consist of childcare, family pet sitting, lawn work, dog walking, and mom's assistant.

While 12 years of age are not lawfully allowed to work in more traditional roles like those at fast food dining establishments, they can operate in a personal home setting doing the above mentioned tasks.

- Exist any restrictions or constraints on tasks for 12 year olds?

Yes, there are some restrictions and constraints on jobs for 12 years of age. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for the types of tasks and variety of hours that young employees can undertake. For example, 12 years of age normally can not work in dangerous occupations or throughout school hours. It is very important to check with your regional and state laws, along with acquire any necessary licenses or permissions.

- How can 12 year olds discover job opportunities?

Here are a couple of methods for 12 year olds to discover task opportunities:

  • Ask friends and family: Let your family and good friends understand that you're searching for work. They may have connections or understand somebody who needs aid with tasks.
  • Local services: Visit local stores, restaurants, or community centers and inquire if they have any part-time task openings for young workers.
  • Online platforms: Some websites and apps particularly cater to connecting young employees with job chances. Try to find trustworthy platforms that adhere to labor laws and guidelines.

    Remember to constantly prioritize your security and well-being when considering job opportunities, and seek advice from your parents or guardians before pursuing any employment.






Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer). Lee brings over 2 decades of expertise in guiding people towards profession success. During her period at San Jose State University, she helped thousands of trainees write compelling resumes to land their first tasks and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform devoted to supplying job applicants with tools and services customized to their distinct fields and career goals.



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- Hermione Eldridge

21 hours ago Reply

I am 12 years I have actually constantly had a lot of love for animals and I was seeking to have a summertime task so I was thinking I might be a dogsitter likewise I am trying to find a job near me -Kayla Thomas
I was questioning

how many tasks I can do cause I infant sit chickens totally free and I have a crochet club however i have not done is recently, so I was considering babysitting but I am uncertain about it.

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You could attempt to make some earnings by offering pet-sitting services (you already have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can utilize your existing employer as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a fantastic hobby. You never ever understand ... eventually hobbies can become income also.


Susy

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

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I enjoy that you have discovered something you enjoy and you desire to try to get a job included with books. First thing I would suggest doing is asking family and friends if anybody has connections to any libraries or book shops in your area. You can likewise visit your local 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 volunteering. This is a great method to discover about working in a library. When you do get old enough, you'll be ready 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 in fact a terrific age to start doing this type of job. Start by getting in touch with family and friends and letting them know you have an interest in a babysitting task. Once you begin acquirings ome experience sitting for people you understand, they will inform other individuals they understand about how amazing you are and you'll get referrals!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey Mrs. Beaser
How can I get task
? I have experience in childcare, taking care of a canine, and I could most likely tutor someone, however my older sis constantly gets those jobs 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 terrific concern thank you for connecting! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you do not 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 moms and dads or caregivers have any buddies with more youthful kids or family pets? If a household already understands you and understands your moms and dads, there is currently some trust there and they will be most likely to want to employ you. You could likewise make some flyers promoting your services and walk your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody requires aid strolling their dog. Start with people you already know. After they hire you and you do an aamzing task, you can utilize these individuals as recommendations for other tasks.

Don't quit! Keep trying and you will get a fantastic job soon!


Oakleigh

Do you believe assisting my mother in her hairdresser would be okay? If not I might get childcare. I have actually got experience, employment especially with 5 younger brother or sisters.

Hello and thank you for your question! I think assisting in your mom's beauty parlor would be a fantastic first task. However, you and your mother have to consult the labor laws in your state to make certain you are legally allowed to work there. Many states permit kids to work in the household company, however there are restrictions (like number of hours you can work, type of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is always a fantastic alternative too. With 5 younger brother or sisters, I bet you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time however given that I already pet my dogs, I believe I might be a family pet sitter, am just available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this job cause.I dream I might animal sit a pet cause I like pet dogs thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have pet dogs you can definitely use that experience to get a job as a pet walker. Start by asking your household, friends, and next-door neighbors (i.e. people who currently understand you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as referrals 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 people you understand. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely inform their good friends and you can get more company.


Ellie

Can I do the babysitter club since I'm 12

- Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, childcare is an excellent task for 12-year olds! I'm not exactly sure which sitter club you are describing, but you can definitely babysit at 12!

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