10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a profession coach for over twenty years, and if there’s one thing I have actually discovered it’s that a one-size-fits-all approach to task searching doesn’t work. Whether you are a trainee, an early professional, a seasoned job seeker, or a working parent, The Career Counter has personalized, tailored resources and design templates to assist you land the task of your dreams!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the most recent profession and home company short articles, news, and pointers

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You might also like

Career Products Hand Crafted by a Certified 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 career coach, I felt forced to provide a smart, educated reaction. But in truth, I didn’t have a clear answer for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides household tasks? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research study and return to you on that,” I said while quickly googling the finest jobs for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you’ve got a teenager, inspect out the very best tasks for teens.

While I understand my child is not rather prepared to take on a babysitting or pet sitting task, she absolutely will remain in a couple years. Considered that reality, I chose to sit down and research all about task chances for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep checking out to discover the finest tasks for 12- year-olds, in addition to general information concerning labor laws and ensuring the safety and protection of your kids as they launch their first task 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 offer you the basic gist: On the federal level, child labor laws are set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for child work, including limiting the number of hours kids can work, along with designating the types of tasks kids can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, but exceptions exist for jobs like paper delivery, childcare, and agricultural work, where children can work from a more youthful age under particular conditions.

Each state may also have its own laws, which can be stricter than federal laws. In California, for instance, 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 yard mowing, selling arts and crafts, and childcare, to name simply a couple of. Minors can also work certain agricultural jobs, if the kid is employed by a parent or legal guardian who controls, operates, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while lawfully permitted to work many jobs, deal with a great deal of constraints. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s enter the enjoyable stuff. Specifically, here are the very best jobs for 12-year-olds that offer kids an opportunity to have fun, develop a great ethic, discover about themselves, and most importantly, stay safe:(require ideas 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 start by writing about childcare. My really own very first job 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 an easy kid to enjoy. Even better, my mama was home while I babysat which provided me assurance. It was the ideal task for my first job!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even canine walking can be fantastic very first jobs for tweens. Besides the obvious advantages of earning their own money, these tasks enable kids to develop interaction abilities and discover obligation. Also, I have to include that it will definitely assist if your child likes kids and animals. If they are not really into playing with kids and they don’t like canines, they most likely will not last very long.

My finest advice as both a mother and a profession coach: encourage your kid to do something they like. My child, for instance, definitely enjoys having fun with more youthful kids and she adores pets. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she likes me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I understand she will truly take pleasure in 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 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 ensure a couple of things are in location. Number one, I want her to take a kid CPR and very first help 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 crucial aspect) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will vet the family and guarantee my child will be in a safe environment. In reality, her first tasks will likely be with families we already understand and trust.

Your Future Starts Here

# 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 jobs for tweens!”

I recently talked with a mama good friend of mine who stated her child was making money making hand-written thank you notes. She explained that her daughter is working for a friend of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade items. The store owner could not stay up to date with the customized thank you cards for her customers. So, she employed a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I simply like this job idea for numerous reasons. First off, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I know well since she likewise happens to be my daughter’s buddy). She has naturally lovely handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My good friend told 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 concepts for jobs like this one: If your child is creative and loves developing, they might make and sell handcrafted art or items on Etsy or a similar site (an adult will require to create the account). Does your kid love to write? What about submitting pitches or short articles to children’s magazines? I can not think of a much better way for a child to refine composing abilities and acquire self-confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (don’t worry, employment your trick is safe with me)? What about investigating methods to establish these abilities like establishing an app or computer game?

Is your child a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or tv performing or perhaps voice-overs? These kinds of jobs do not have age constraints and can be a wonderful method to allow your child to hone their performing and singing skills while also making some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s helper” is another popular job for tweens. This can involve aiding with laundry, making snacks, childcare, pet walking, and other household jobs. The great feature of this kind of task is that if your child is on the more youthful side (like 10 or younger), they can do the task while being monitored by a grownup.

Another perk of this task is that you can quickly find a mother or caregiver you already know who needs assistance. Start by sending out a message to your immediate circle of mama buddies and/or family to see if anyone requires extra aid. You can also publish in a local mom’s group relying on your comfort level with permitting your kid to enter another home. For me personally, if I went this path, I would first speak with the family and make certain the environment is safe and secure. I would also likely accompany my kid the first couple gos to.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking pictures? If so, you could either buy a digital electronic camera or even better just start with your phone video camera. Your kid might begin by helping with taking images for friends and family totally free to establish their abilities in addition to a photography portfolio. There is constantly a substantial need for pictures of unique events like birthdays, graduations, and family photos, to call just a few.

Once your kid ends up being more skilled and knowledgeable, they can begin charging a very little cost for their photography while they continue to refine their abilities. Your child can even set up a fundamental site eventually to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I desire to begin by mentioning that if you kid wishes to make some quick money, this is certainly not the path to go! As a professional blogger, I know from individual experience it requires time and dedication to build your blog site or vlog and ultimately develop an income stream.

That stated, I truthfully do not see a significant disadvantage to beginning a vlog or blog. Kids can hone their writing, oral communication, video modifying, and marketing skills, as well as learn the essentials of becoming an entrepreneur!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to caution you that it’s just a matter of time before they ask the inevitable question that every tween seems to be asking these days: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does require that your kid be 13 or have parental grant develop a channel. It will also be up to you as a parent to determine the particular parameters of keeping your child safe on YouTube.

Myself and my hubby, for example, chose that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not enable them to utilize their genuine name or identity. At least while they are under 13 years of ages. We’ll see what our convenience level will be when they age. Every moms and dad certainly has various comfort levels concerning online safety for their kids.

In terms of how to start a blog site, all your kid actually requires is select a blog topic they are passionate about. That, and ideally something that they desire to share with the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some terrific totally free platforms that allow you to quickly produce a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I understand that Wix does need users to be a minimum of 13 years old to develop a website.

Once your child has a recognized blog or vlog, they can also market it in the future their high school or college resume or perhaps in the college application process. Employers are constantly searching for abilities like self-motivation, imagination, drive, and aspiration!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping assistant. This can include things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other chores. If your kiddo is active and enjoys being outside, this may well be the job for them! My recommendation is to make a flyer and walk around to your neighbors with your kid, to see if anyone may need some landscaping assistance. As they age and end up being more responsible, your child can branch out and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Obviously, I need to mention the lemonade stand! I don’t understand that I would consider this as a real “job” as much as a method to make periodic money throughout the summer season. But this is a terrific very first job for a more youthful kiddo who is feeling encouraged to make a little money and test out their sales and entrepreneurial skills!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family company. If you are the sole owner of a restaurant or other kind of family business, your 12-year-old child can operate in many capacities as long as they aren’t thought about unsafe or dangerous. You also require to make sure to comply with your state’s child labor laws regarding the number of hours and times of days that you kid can lawfully work.

That stated, this can be an excellent first work experience for a kid. Finding out about the household service first-hand will develop confidence, work ethic, and will also enable your child to discover 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 enjoy to learn about gardening and plants. Watering plants for neighbors on holiday is likewise a fantastic method to earn earnings while learning more about the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal task. Rounding out my leading 10 tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal tasks. These jobs can include covering presents during the holidays or perhaps assisting out with celebration preparation. If there’s something that I understand most moms would like is a holiday helper or perhaps a birthday party helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while certainly terrific, can also be exhausting for moms and dads. Between getting presents, covering presents, employment embellishing your home, and all the other little stuff, employment it’s a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, might offer their services to friends and neighbors throughout the holiday.

In Conclusion

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

– What are some popular jobs for 12 year olds?

The most popular jobs for employment 12 years of age include childcare, pet sitting, backyard work, pet dog walking, and mother’s helper.

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

– Exist any constraints or restrictions on jobs for 12 years of age?

Yes, there are some constraints and constraints on jobs for 12 years of age. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the types of jobs and variety of hours that young workers can undertake. For instance, 12 years of age usually can not operate in dangerous occupations or throughout school hours. It is essential to consult your regional and state laws, as well as acquire any necessary licenses or authorizations.

– How can 12 year olds find task chances?

Here are a couple of methods for 12 years of age to find job opportunities:
– Ask friends and family: Let your friends and family understand that you’re searching for work. They may have connections or know someone who requires aid with odd jobs.
– Local companies: Visit local shops, restaurants, or neighborhood centers and inquire if they have any part-time job openings for young employees.
– Online platforms: Some sites and apps specifically cater to connecting young workers with job chances. Search for trustworthy platforms that adhere to labor laws and standards.

Remember to always prioritize your safety and well-being when about job chances, and speak with 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 competence in directing individuals towards career success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted countless trainees compose engaging resumes to land their very first jobs and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform dedicated to supplying job applicants with tools and services customized to their unique fields and profession objectives.

Comment navigation

– Hermione Eldridge

7 days ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a lot of love for animals and I was aiming to have a summer season job so I was thinking I might be a dogsitter likewise I am trying to find a job near me 6 days ago Reply

Hello Hermione!

Beat way to get a job is through word of mouth (tell buddies and household you are trying to find canine sitting tasks). Make some flyers and put them up around your neighborhood. Be relentless! The very first task might be tough to find, however if you do a great task you will get referrals.

Best of luck to you!

Kayla Thomas

I was questioning the number of tasks I can do trigger I baby sit chickens for totally free and I have a crochet club however i haven’t done is just recently, so I was considering babysitting however I am unsure about it.

– Lee Beaser

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for reaching out:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You might attempt to make some earnings by using pet-sitting services (you currently have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can utilize your present employer as a recommendation to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a terrific hobby. You never ever understand … ultimately pastimes can develop into earnings also.

Susy

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

3 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I enjoy that you have discovered something you love and you wish to try to get a task involved with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking family and friends if anybody has connections to any regional libraries or bookstores in your location. 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 task, you can ask about offering. This is a fantastic method to learn 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 of ages

4 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years of ages. That’s actually a fantastic age to begin doing this kind of job. Start by getting in touch with household and friends and letting them know you have an interest in a childcare job. Once you begin gettings ome experience sitting for individuals you know, they will tell other individuals they understand 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 babysitting, employment taking care of a pet, and I might probably tutor someone, but my older sister always gets those jobs 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 suggestions?

Hello great concern thank you for connecting! 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 accountable than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about inspecting to see if your parents or caregivers have any friends with more youthful kids or animals? If a household already understands you and knows your parents, there is currently some trust there and they will be more likely to desire to hire you. You could also make some leaflets promoting your services and walk your street (with a moms and dad or guardian) and ask if anyone needs help walking their canine. Start with people you already know. After they employ you and you do an aamzing task, you can utilize these people as referrals for other jobs.

Don’t give up! Keep attempting and you will get a fantastic task quickly!

Oakleigh

Do you think assisting my mom in her hair beauty salon would be alright? If not I may pick up babysitting. I have actually got experience, especially with 5 younger brother or sisters.

2 months ago Reply

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe helping in your mom’s hair beauty salon would be an excellent very first task. However, you and your mom have to contact the labor laws in your state to make certain you are lawfully enabled to work there. Many states enable kids to operate in the family business, but there are limitations (like number of hours you can work, type of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is constantly a fantastic choice too. With five more youthful brother or sisters, I bet you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time however because I currently pet my canines, I believe I might be an animal caretaker, am just readily available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I wish I might animal sit a dog cause I love dogs thanks.

Since you currently have dogs you can absolutely utilize that experience to get a task as a pet dog walker. Start by asking your family, good friends, and neighbors (i.e. individuals who already know you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as referrals to get more jobs. All the best!

Graeson

Can I do lawn work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do backyard work. Start by providing your services to neightbors and people you understand. Once they hire you and trust you, they will likely tell their buddies and you can get more organization.

Ellie

Can I do the sitter club since I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, babysitting is a fantastic task for 12-year olds! I’m not sure which sitter club you are describing, however you can certainly babysit at 12!

Comment navigation

Leave your comment (Cancel Reply)

Δ

This website uses Akismet to decrease spam. Learn how your remark information is processed.

Related Articles

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

In a world where traditional four-year college degrees typically dominate the conversation about career courses, trade jobs are a terrific yet neglected profession choice that are worthy of more attention. The reality is that trades experts perform important work that helps society in a lot of ways. For example, keeping the lights on, preserving comfy living spaces, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a mama taking care of little ones, you likely already understand that balancing a profession in law with the responsibilities and needs of household can seem like a monumental challenge. Although I don’t operate in the field of law, I’ve got mommy pals who do. Many have discovered versatile career paths in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the kind of person who likes dealing with your hands, solving problems, and seeing immediate outcomes from your efforts? Maybe you have actually constantly enjoyed repairing things, taking them apart, and figuring out how they work-or maybe you’re the go-to person for troubleshooting mechanical concerns among your family and friends. If this sounds like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

Let’s be honest-when the majority of people consider pharmacists, they think of someone in a white coat, gazing down at a sea of prescription bottles, periodically asking, “Do you have any concerns for the pharmacist today?” However, a profession in drug store is so much more than understanding chicken-scratch physician handwriting!As health care develops, driven by technological developments, an …

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

Job markets ebb and flow. But the one sector of the workforce that constantly appears to hold steady? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or doctors, healthcare experts are always in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% increase in healthcare jobs 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 finding out about jobs helping kids? There are many chances that include helping kids that cover throughout fields like education, healthcare, arts, and social work. From teaching a kid their first word to mentoring a tween or teen through difficulties, each job chance permits you to make a meaningful distinction in a child’s …

Top Jobs in Philanthropy (and How to Land One)

Bill Gates. MacKenzie Scott. Dolly Parton. What do these people have in common? They’re not only multi-billionaires, however likewise philanthropists. Gates may be a tech magnate and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his legacy lies firmly in his philanthropic efforts, 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 choice has actually haunted millions of professionals. You imagine making a genuine difference. But you can’t since you have a mortgage to pay.