Something About Company

10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a profession coach for over twenty years, and if there’s something I’ve learned it’s that a one-size-fits-all approach to job browsing does not work. Whether you are a student, an early professional, a seasoned job hunter, 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 most recent career and home organization short articles, news, and tips

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You may likewise 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 obliged to provide an intelligent, well-informed response. 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 get back to you on that,” I said while quickly googling the very best tasks for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you have actually got a teen, have a look at the finest jobs for teenagers.

While I know my child is not quite ready to tackle a babysitting or animal sitting task, she definitely will be in a couple years. Given that reality, I chose to sit down and research all about job chances for tweens. Are you in a comparable boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to discover about the finest jobs for 12- year-olds, along with general information concerning labor laws and making sure the safety and security of your kids as they embark upon their first job experience.

Before I dive into the best gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws regarding kid 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 variety of hours kids can work, in addition to designating the kinds of jobs children can have. Generally, the minimum age for work is 14, however exceptions exist for tasks like newspaper delivery, 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 permit doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to call simply a couple of. Minors can likewise work specific farming tasks, if the kid is employed by a parent or legal guardian who manages, runs, or owns the property.

Children over 14, while legally enabled to work lots of jobs, deal with a lot of limitations. However, that’s a whole other topic that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, employment now let’s get into the enjoyable things. Specifically, here are the finest jobs for 12-year-olds that provide kids an opportunity to have a good time, develop a great ethic, find out about themselves, and most significantly, stay safe:(need pointers on writing a resume for teenagers? Take a look at How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me start by highlighting that this list is not indicated to be in any specific order. With that stated, I’m going to begin by writing about childcare. My extremely own very first task as a 12 year old was, yup, you thought it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And thankfully for me, he was a simple kid to view. Even much better, my mama was home while I babysat which gave me comfort. It was the best job for my very first job!

Babysitting, animal sitting, and even canine walking can be great very first jobs for tweens. Besides the apparent advantages of earning their own cash, these jobs enable kids to hone interaction abilities and learn responsibility. Also, I need to include that it will absolutely assist if your kid likes kids and family pets. If they are not truly into having fun with kids and they don’t like canines, they probably won’t last long.

My best guidance as both a mommy and a career coach: encourage your child to do something they like. My daughter, for example, definitely loves having fun with younger kids and she loves pets. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she loves me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will actually enjoy babysitting and pet sitting. This is not to say that your kid can’t do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Caring for kids and animals is certainly a skill that can be learned. They simply might not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her very first childcare task, I’m going to ensure a couple of things remain in place. Top, I desire her to take a kid CPR and emergency treatment course. The last thing I want is for her to be in an emergency circumstance while she is babysitting and not know what to do. Another aspect (and the most important element) for me is security. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will vet the family and ensure my daughter will remain in a safe environment. In truth, her first jobs will likely be with households we already understand and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

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

I just recently chatted with a mama good friend of mine who said her child was generating income making hand-written thank you notes. She described that her daughter is working for a buddy of theirs who owns her own online store selling handmade products. The store owner could not stay up to date with the personalized thank you cards for her clients. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just like this task idea for many factors. To start with, it plays to this specific child’s strengths (whom I know well since she likewise occurs to be my daughter’s friend). She has naturally stunning handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My pal told me the best part is her child can compose thank you notes from anywhere and compose them at odd hours, employment whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your kid is creative and likes producing, they could make and offer handcrafted art or items on Etsy or a similar website (an adult will need to develop the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or short articles to children’s magazines? I can not think of a much better way for a child to sharpen writing abilities and gain self-confidence!

Is your child more tech savvy than you (don’t fret, your secret is safe with me)? What about investigating ways to establish these skills like establishing an app or computer game?

Is your child a natural-born performer? What about looking into theatre or television performing or perhaps voice-overs? These kinds of jobs do not have age constraints and can be a fantastic method to enable your child to hone their performing and singing abilities while likewise making some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s assistant” is another popular job for tweens. This can include aiding with laundry, making snacks, childcare, canine walking, and other household jobs. The nice aspect of this type of task is that if your kid is on the more youthful side (like ten or more youthful), they can do the job while being monitored by a grownup.

Another perk of this task is that you can quickly find a mom or caregiver you already understand who requires help. Start by sending a message to your instant circle of mother pals and/or household to see if anyone needs additional assistance. You can likewise publish in a regional mama’s group relying on your convenience level with permitting your child to enter another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would first interview the family and ensure 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 pictures? If so, you might either invest in a digital video camera or even better just start with your phone electronic camera. Your child could begin by helping with taking images for family and buddies totally free to develop their skills as well as a photography portfolio. There is always a big need for images of special events like birthdays, graduations, and household images, to name simply a few.

Once your child ends up being more competent and skilled, they can start charging a minimal cost for their photography while they continue to refine their abilities. Your kid can even establish a basic site eventually to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by specifying that if you kid desires to make some fast cash, this is absolutely not the path to go! As a professional blog writer, I know from personal experience it requires time and dedication to construct your blog or vlog and eventually create an income stream.

That stated, I truthfully don’t see a major downside to beginning a vlog or blog site. Kids can sharpen their writing, oral communication, video modifying, and marketing skills, as well as find out the basics of ending up being a business owner!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to caution you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the inescapable 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 develop a channel. It will also be up to you as a parent to identify the specific criteria of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my partner, for instance, decided that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not permit them to utilize 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 get older. Every parent undoubtedly has different comfort levels regarding online security for their kids.

Your Future Starts Here

In terms of how to start a blog site, all your kid really requires is choose a blog subject they are passionate about. That, employment and preferably something that they wish to share with the world and/or something they can teach individuals about. There are some terrific totally free platforms that enable you to easily create a blog like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be at least 13 years old to create a site.

Once your child has an established blog or vlog, they can likewise market it later their high school or college resume or even in the college application process. Employers are constantly searching for abilities like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping assistant. This can include things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other tasks. If your kiddo is active and likes being outside, this might well be the task for them! My idea is to make a flyer and walk around to your next-door neighbors with your child, to see if anyone may need some landscaping help. As they get older and become more accountable, your child can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Naturally, I need to discuss the lemonade stand! I do not know that I would consider this as a real “task” as much as a way to make periodic cash during the summer. But this is a fantastic very first task for a more youthful kiddo who is feeling inspired 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 kind of household business, your 12-year-old kid can operate in numerous capacities as long as they aren’t considered unsafe or hazardous. You also need to make certain to adhere to your state’s kid labor laws regarding the number of hours and times of days that you child can lawfully work.

That said, this can be a great very first work experience for a child. Finding out about the household organization first-hand will develop confidence, work principles, and will likewise enable your child to discover themselves and their strengths and interests relating to the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This job is exceptional for kids who have an interest in and who enjoy to find out about gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on holiday is likewise a fantastic way to earn earnings while discovering the essentials of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Completing my top ten tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These jobs can consist of wrapping presents during the holidays and even assisting with party preparation. If there’s something that I know most moms would like is a vacation assistant or even a birthday party helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely fantastic, can likewise be exhausting for parents. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, decorating your house, and all the other little stuff, it’s a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, could use their services to good friends and neighbors throughout the holiday season.

In Conclusion

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

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

The most popular jobs for 12 years of age include childcare, pet sitting, lawn work, pet walking, and mom’s helper.

While 12 year olds are not legally permitted to work in more standard roles like those at quick food restaurants, they can work in a personal home setting doing the above discussed jobs.

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

Yes, there are some constraints and limitations on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the kinds of tasks and variety of hours that young employees can undertake. For example, 12 year olds typically can not work in dangerous occupations or during school hours. It is necessary to inspect with your regional and state laws, in addition to get any needed permits or authorizations.

– How can 12 years of age find task chances?

Here are a few methods for 12 years of age to discover job chances:
– Ask friends and family: Let your household and pals know that you’re trying to find work. They might have connections or understand somebody who requires aid with odd tasks.
– Local services: Visit regional shops, dining establishments, or recreation center and inquire if they have any part-time job openings for young workers.
– Online platforms: Some sites and apps specifically accommodate connecting young workers with task opportunities. Try to find credible platforms that abide by labor laws and guidelines.

Remember to always prioritize your safety and wellness when considering task opportunities, and talk to your moms and dads or guardians before pursuing any employment.

Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over 20 years of expertise in guiding individuals towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she helped thousands of trainees write engaging resumes to land their very first tasks and internships. More just recently, Lee founded The Career Counter, a platform committed to offering task seekers with tools and services tailored to their distinct fields and career goals.

Comment navigation

– Hermione Eldridge

21 hours ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a lot of love for animals and I was seeking to have a summer job so I was thinking I could be a dogsitter also I am looking for a task close to me -Kayla Thomas
I was wondering

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

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you like animals. You might try to make some earnings by offering 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! Seems like a terrific pastime. You never understand … eventually hobbies can turn into earnings too.

Susy

Hello, do you believe I can work at a library I actually like books and I can give very great recommendations for books and I feel like even kid libraries would be good. What do you believe?

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have found something you love and you want to try to get a task involved with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking friends and household if anyone has connections to any libraries or book shops in your location. You can also visit your library and inquire about tasks. There may be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a task, you can inquire about offering. This is a terrific method 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 of ages

3 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years old. That’s in fact an excellent age to start doing this kind of job. Start by calling friends and family and letting them understand you are interested in a childcare task. Once you start acquirings ome experience sitting for people you understand, they will tell other individuals 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 babysitting, taking care of a canine, and I might probably tutor someone, but my older sis constantly gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; also I am 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 reaching out! 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 examining to see if your parents or caretakers have any buddies with more youthful kids or ? If a family currently knows you and knows your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be most likely to want to employ you. You could likewise make some leaflets marketing your services and walk your street (with a moms and dad or guardian) and ask if anybody needs assistance walking their pet. Start with people you already understand. After they hire you and you do an aamzing job, you can use these individuals as recommendations for other jobs.

Don’t give up! Keep trying and you will get a terrific job quickly!

Oakleigh

Do you think assisting my mom in her hair beauty salon would be okay? If not I may get childcare. I have actually got experience, particularly with 5 more youthful siblings.

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe assisting in your mom’s hair beauty parlor would be an excellent very first job. However, you and your mama have to consult the labor laws in your state to make sure you are legally allowed to work there. Many states permit kids to operate in the family service, but there are restrictions (like number of hours you can work, type of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is constantly a fantastic choice too. With 5 younger brother or sisters, I wager you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time but since I already pet my pet dogs, I think I might be a family pet sitter, am just offered in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I dream I could family pet sit a canine cause I like canines thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have pets you can definitely utilize that experience to get a job as a pet walker. Start by asking your household, friends, and next-door neighbors (i.e. individuals who already understand you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as references to get more tasks. All the best!

Graeson

Can I do yard work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do backyard work. Start by using your services to neightbors and people you know. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely inform their friends 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 a great 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

This website uses Akismet to minimize spam. Learn how your comment information is processed.

Related Articles

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

In a world where conventional four-year college degrees frequently dominate the conversation about career paths, employment trade tasks are a fantastic yet overlooked career choice that deserve more attention. The reality is that trades experts perform vital work that assists society in a lot of methods. For instance, keeping the lights on, maintaining comfy living spaces, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a mama taking care of little ones, you likely currently understand that stabilizing a career in law with the duties and demands of household can seem like a monumental challenge. Although I don’t operate in the field of law, I’ve got mom friends who do. Many have actually found flexible profession courses in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the type of person who loves working with your hands, fixing problems, and seeing instant arise from your efforts? Maybe you have actually always delighted in fixing things, taking them apart, and determining how they work-or possibly you’re the go-to individual for troubleshooting mechanical concerns amongst your friends and household. If this seems like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

Let’s be honest-when many people believe of pharmacists, they think of somebody in a white coat, looking 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 deciphering chicken-scratch medical professional handwriting!As health care develops, driven by technological improvements, an …

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

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

Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired

Interested in discovering jobs helping kids? There are so many chances that include assisting kids that cover across fields like education, healthcare, arts, and social work. From teaching a kid their first word to mentoring a tween or teen 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 individuals have in typical? They’re not just multi-billionaires, but likewise philanthropists. Gates may be a tech tycoon and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his tradition lies strongly in his philanthropic initiatives, from HIV research to fair access to vaccines.Here’s the important things: all of these big names …

Careers That Involve Helping People (and Pay Well Too)

Money or meaning? This choice has haunted countless specialists. You dream of making a genuine distinction. But you can’t due to the fact that you have a mortgage to pay.