10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a profession coach for over 20 years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that a one-size-fits-all method to task browsing doesn’t work. Whether you are a student, an early expert, a skilled job hunter, or a working parent, The Career Counter has actually personalized, customized resources and design templates to assist you land the job of your dreams!

Register for our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the most recent profession and home organization short articles, news, and tips

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You may also like

Career Products Hand Crafted by a Qualified 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 profession coach, I felt compelled to provide a smart, educated reaction. But in truth, I didn’t have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides household chores? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research and get back to you on that,” I said while quickly googling the finest jobs for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you have actually got a teenager, have a look at the very best jobs for teens.

While I know my child is not quite ready to deal with a childcare or family pet sitting task, she definitely will be in a couple years. Given that truth, I decided to take a seat and research study all about job opportunities for tweens. Are you in a comparable boat with your kids? If so, keep checking out to find out about the very best tasks for 12- year-olds, as well as general info concerning labor laws and guaranteeing the safety and security of your kids as they embark upon their very first job experience.

Before I dive into the very best gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws relating to kid 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 employment, including restricting the number of hours kids can work, as well as designating the types of tasks children can have. Generally, employment the minimum age for employment is 14, but exceptions exist for tasks like paper shipment, babysitting, and farming work, where children can work from a younger age under certain conditions.

Each state might likewise have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for example, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without an authorization doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name just a few. Minors can also work specific agricultural jobs, if the kid is utilized by a moms and dad or legal guardian who manages, runs, or owns the residential or commercial property.

Children over 14, while lawfully enabled to work numerous jobs, face a lot of constraints. However, that’s a whole other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s enter the fun things. Specifically, here are the finest jobs for 12-year-olds that provide kids an opportunity to have a good time, establish a great work ethic, find out about themselves, and most significantly, remain safe:(require tips on writing a resume for teens? Have a look at How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me begin by highlighting that this list is not suggested to be in any specific order. With that said, I’m going to begin by discussing childcare. My really own first job 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 mommy was home while I babysat which provided me peace of mind. It was the ideal task for my very first task!

Babysitting, family pet sitting, and even pet dog strolling can be terrific first jobs for tweens. Besides the obvious advantages of earning their own money, these jobs enable kids to develop communication abilities and learn duty. Also, I have to throw in that it will definitely assist if your child likes kids and pets. If they are not truly into playing with kids and they do not like dogs, they most likely will not last extremely long.

My finest guidance as both a mother and a career coach: encourage your child to do something they like. My child, for example, definitely enjoys having fun with younger kids and she loves pet dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she loves me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will truly enjoy babysitting and family 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 definitely a skill that can be discovered. They simply may not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her very first childcare task, I’m going to guarantee a couple of things remain in location. Number one, I desire her to take a child CPR and very first aid course. The last thing I want is for her to be in an emergency situation while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another element (and the most important factor) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will veterinarian the family and guarantee my daughter will be in a safe environment. In fact, her first jobs will likely be with households we already understand and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your child has a particular strength and is self-motivated, you can help them look into ways to make money doing what I call “creative jobs for tweens!”

I just recently talked with a mom friend of mine who stated her child was making cash making hand-written thank you notes. She discussed that her child is working for a good friend of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade items. The shop owner couldn’t stay up to date with the customized thank you cards for her customers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just enjoy this task concept for numerous factors. First of all, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I understand well because she also takes place to be my daughter’s close buddy). She has naturally gorgeous handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My friend informed me the very best part is her daughter can compose thank you notes from anywhere and compose them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your child is creative and enjoys creating, they might make and sell handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a similar website (a grownup will need to develop the account). Does your kid love to write? What about sending pitches or employment articles to kids’s magazines? I can not think of a much better way for a kid to hone composing skills and acquire self-confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (don’t worry, 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 checking out theatre or television acting or perhaps voice-overs? These kinds of jobs do not have age restrictions and can be a wonderful method to permit your kid to develop their performing and singing skills while also earning some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s assistant” is another popular job for tweens. This can include aiding with laundry, making treats, babysitting, dog walking, and other household jobs. The good 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 task while being supervised by an adult.

Another perk of this task is that you can easily find a mom or caretaker you currently understand who requires assistance. Start by sending out a message to your immediate circle of mother friends and/or family to see if anybody needs extra assistance. You can also post in a local mother’s group relying on your convenience level with enabling your kid to get in another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would initially interview the household and make sure the environment is safe and protected. I would likewise likely support my child the very first couple sees.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking photos? If so, you might either buy a digital camera or even better simply start with your phone cam. Your kid might start by helping with taking pictures for family and buddies for complimentary to establish their skills as well as a photography portfolio. There is constantly a big need for photos of unique events like birthdays, graduations, and family pictures, to call just a couple of.

Once your kid becomes more competent and skilled, they can start charging a very little price for their photography while they continue to develop their skills. Your kid can even establish a basic site ultimately 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 quick cash, this is definitely not the path to go! As an expert blogger, I know from individual experience it requires time and commitment to construct your blog or vlog and eventually develop an income stream.

That stated, I truthfully do not see a major downside to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can develop their writing, oral communication, video modifying, and marketing abilities, as well as find out the essentials of becoming an entrepreneur!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to alert 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 require that your kid be 13 or have adult approval to produce a channel. It will also be up to you as a parent to identify the specific parameters of keeping your child safe on YouTube.

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

Your Future Starts Here

In terms of how to begin a blog, all your kid actually requires is select a blog topic they are passionate about. That, and preferably something that they desire to show the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some fantastic complimentary platforms that allow you to easily produce a blog like Wix or Ionos. I understand that Wix does need users to be at least 13 years old to produce a site.

Once your child has an established blog site or vlog, they can likewise market it in the future their high school or college resume and even 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 odd jobs. If your kiddo is active and enjoys being outside, this may well be the job for them! My suggestion 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 end up being more accountable, your child can branch out and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Of course, I have to mention the lemonade stand! I don’t know that I would consider this as a real “task” as much as a way to make periodic money throughout the summer season. But this is a terrific very first task for a younger kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little cash 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 kind of family organization, your 12-year-old child can work in lots of capabilities as long as they aren’t considered hazardous or harmful. You likewise need to make certain to comply with your state’s kid labor laws relating to the number of hours and times of days that you child can legally work.

That stated, this can be a terrific first work experience for a child. Learning more about the household service first-hand will develop confidence, work principles, and will likewise enable your kid to discover themselves and their strengths and interests relating to the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant caretaker. This task is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who love to find out about gardening and plants. Watering plants for neighbors on holiday is also an excellent method to make earnings while learning about the fundamentals of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and employment flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal task. Completing my top 10 tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These tasks can consist of covering presents throughout the vacations or perhaps assisting with party planning. If there’s one thing that I understand most mamas would love is a vacation helper or even a birthday party helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely wonderful, can also be exhausting for moms and dads. Between getting presents, covering presents, decorating your house, and all the other little things, it’s a lot. Your child, relying on their interests and employment strengths, could provide their services to good friends and neighbors throughout the holiday.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these ten tasks for 12-year-olds offer fantastic chances to explore their interests, develop self-esteem, and cultivate a strong work principles. Encouraging your kid to attempt a job at this young age can be a valuable steppingstone towards their future success.

– What are some popular tasks for 12 year olds?

The most popular jobs for 12 year olds include babysitting, family pet sitting, yard work, pet walking, and mom’s helper.

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

– Are there any restrictions or on jobs for 12 years of age?

Yes, there are some limitations and limitations on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the kinds of tasks and number of hours that young workers can undertake. For instance, 12 year olds normally can not operate in harmful occupations or during school hours. It is essential to talk to your local and state laws, as well as obtain any necessary authorizations or authorizations.

– How can 12 year olds discover job chances?

Here are a few methods for 12 year olds to discover job opportunities:
– Ask friends and family: employment Let your household and friends understand that you’re trying to find work. They may have connections or know someone who needs aid with chores.
– Local businesses: Visit local stores, restaurants, or recreation center and ask if they have any part-time task openings for young employees.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps particularly accommodate connecting young workers with task opportunities. Try to find trusted platforms that abide by labor laws and guidelines.

Remember to always prioritize your safety and wellness when considering job opportunities, and talk to 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 expertise in guiding people towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted thousands of trainees compose compelling resumes to land their very first tasks and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform committed to offering task hunters with tools and services tailored to their special fields and profession objectives.

Comment navigation

– Hermione Eldridge

21 hours ago Reply

I am 12 years I have actually constantly had a great deal of love for animals and I was seeking to have a summer job so I was believing I could be a dogsitter also I am searching for a job close to me -Kayla Thomas
I was wondering

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

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Sounds like you like animals. You might try 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 present company as a reference to get you more tasks). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a terrific hobby. You never know … ultimately hobbies can become income also.

Susy

Hello, do you think I can operate at a library I actually like books and I can offer really great guidance for books and I seem like even kid libraries would be great. What do you believe?

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I like that you have found something you like and you wish to attempt to get a job included with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking loved ones if anybody has connections to any libraries or bookstores 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 job, you can inquire about volunteering. This is a fantastic method to find out about operating in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be all set for a paying job!

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 old. That’s actually a fantastic age to begin doing this kind of task. Start by calling household and employment pals and letting them know you have an interest in a childcare job. Once you start acquirings ome experience sitting for individuals you understand, they will tell other individuals they understand about how incredible you are and you’ll get recommendations!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser

How can I get task

? I have experience in childcare, taking care of a pet, and I could most likely tutor somebody, but my older sibling always gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; also I make certain 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 abilities no one 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 caregivers have any good friends with younger kids or pets? If a family already knows you and knows your moms and dads, there is currently some trust there and they will be more 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 anyone requires assistance strolling their pet. Start with individuals you already know. After they hire you and you do an aamzing job, you can utilize these individuals as referrals for other jobs.

Don’t provide up! Keep attempting and you will get a fantastic task soon!

Oakleigh

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

Hello and thank you for your question! I think helping in your mom’s hair beauty salon would be a great first job. However, you and your mom need to examine with the labor laws in your state to make sure you are legally enabled to work there. Many states allow kids to operate in the family business, however there are constraints (like number of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is always a terrific option too. With 5 younger brother or sisters, employment I wager you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my first time however considering that I currently pet my pets, I believe I could be a family pet caretaker, am only readily available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I desire I might animal sit a pet dog cause I enjoy pet dogs thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have canines you can certainly use that experience to get a task as a canine walker. Start by asking your family, friends, and next-door neighbors (i.e. individuals who currently understand you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as references to get more jobs. Best of luck!

Graeson

Can I do yard work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

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

Ellie

Can I do the babysitter club since I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, babysitting is a terrific job for 12-year olds! I’m uncertain which sitter club you are referring to, however you can definitely babysit at 12!

Comment navigation

Leave your remark (Cancel Reply)

Δ

Related Articles

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

In a world where traditional four-year college degrees frequently dominate the discussion about career paths, trade tasks are a wonderful yet overlooked career alternative that deserve more attention. The truth is that trades professionals perform crucial work that assists society in many ways. For instance, keeping the lights on, preserving comfortable living spaces, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a mommy caring for kids, you likely already know that balancing a profession in law with the obligations and demands of household can seem like a monumental challenge. Although I do not operate in the field of law, I’ve got mommy good friends who do. Many have discovered flexible profession courses in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the sort of individual who enjoys working with your hands, resolving issues, and seeing instant outcomes from your efforts? Maybe you have actually constantly taken pleasure in repairing things, taking them apart, and finding out how they work-or maybe you’re the go-to person for repairing mechanical issues amongst your loved ones. If this seems like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

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

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

Job markets ebb and flow. But the one sector of the labor force that always seems to hold stable? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or physicians, healthcare specialists are constantly in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 13% boost in healthcare tasks by 2031-proof that this field isn’t decreasing anytime soon.Of all health care experts, …

Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired

Interested in discovering about tasks assisting kids? There are many chances that involve assisting kids that span throughout fields like education, health care, arts, and social work. From teaching a kid their very first word to mentoring a tween or teenager through difficulties, each task chance allows you to make a significant distinction 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 common? They’re not just multi-billionaires, but also benefactors. Gates might be a tech tycoon and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his legacy lies securely in his humanitarian 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 significance? This choice has haunted countless professionals. You dream of making a real distinction. But you can’t since you have a mortgage to pay.