10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a career coach for over 20 years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that a one-size-fits-all approach to task searching does not work. Whether you are a trainee, an early professional, a seasoned task hunter, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has personalized, tailored resources and design templates to help you land the job of your dreams!

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My energetic tween recently asked me, “Mom, can I work?” Given my 20+ years as a profession coach, I felt compelled to offer an intelligent, well-informed response. But in reality, I didn’t have a clear answer for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides family chores? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research study and get back to you on that,” I said while quickly googling the best tasks for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you have actually got a teen, have a look at the very best tasks for teenagers.

While I know my child is not quite prepared to tackle a babysitting or pet sitting job, she absolutely will be in a couple years. Considered that truth, I chose to take a seat and research all about job 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 details relating to labor laws and guaranteeing the safety and security of your kids as they embark upon their first job experience.

Before I dive into the finest gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws regarding child labor. If you’re not familiar, I’ll provide you the general essence: On the federal level, child labor laws are set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for kid employment, consisting of limiting the number of hours kids can work, as well as designating the kinds of jobs children can have. Generally, the minimum age for work is 14, but exceptions exist for jobs like paper shipment, childcare, and farming work, where children can work from a younger age under certain conditions.

Each state may likewise have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for instance, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without a license doing things like yard mowing, selling arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name just a few. Minors can likewise work certain agricultural jobs, if the kid is used by a parent or legal guardian who controls, operates, or owns the residential or commercial property.

Children over 14, while lawfully allowed to work lots of tasks, deal with a lot of restrictions. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s get into the enjoyable things. Specifically, here are the finest jobs for 12-year-olds that provide kids a chance to have enjoyable, establish a great work ethic, find out about themselves, and most importantly, remain safe:(need suggestions on composing a resume for teenagers? Have a look at How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me begin by stressing that this list is not meant to be in any particular order. With that stated, I’m going to start by discussing childcare. My extremely 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 enjoy. Even better, my mama was home while I babysat which provided me peace of mind. It was the perfect job for my first task!

Babysitting, animal sitting, and even pet strolling can be excellent very first tasks for tweens. Besides the apparent perks of making their own money, these jobs enable kids to sharpen communication abilities and discover duty. Also, I have to throw in that it will certainly assist if your child likes kids and family pets. If they are not actually into playing with kids and they don’t like canines, they probably won’t last very long.

My finest recommendations as both a mom and a career coach: motivate your child to do something they like. My daughter, for instance, absolutely enjoys playing with younger kids and she loves dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she likes me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I understand she will really enjoy babysitting and pet sitting. This is not to state that your child can’t do these jobs if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is definitely an ability that can be discovered. They simply might not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her first childcare job, I’m going to make sure a few things remain in location. Top, I want her to take a kid CPR and first aid course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency scenario while she is babysitting and not know what to do. Another element (and the most crucial factor) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will vet the family and guarantee my child will remain in a safe environment. In truth, her very first jobs will likely be with households we currently know and trust.

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# 2: Creative Jobs

If your kid has a particular strength and is self-motivated, you can assist them check out ways to generate income doing what I call “innovative jobs for tweens!”

I just recently chatted with a mother friend of mine who said her child was making money making hand-written thank you notes. She explained that her daughter is working for a buddy of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade products. The store owner couldn’t keep up with the individualized thank you cards for her customers. So, she hired a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just love this task idea for a lot of factors. Firstly, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I understand well because she likewise occurs to be my child’s friend). She has naturally lovely handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My pal told me the best part is her daughter can write thank you notes from anywhere and write them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your child is artistic and loves producing, they could make and offer handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a similar site (an adult will need to create the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or posts to children’s magazines? I can not believe of a better method for a child to sharpen composing abilities and acquire confidence!

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

Is your child a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or tv acting or even narrations? These types of tasks do not have age restrictions and can be a wonderful way to permit your kid to hone their performing and singing abilities while likewise earning some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

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

Another perk of this job is that you can easily discover a mother or caregiver you already understand who needs assistance. Start by sending a message to your immediate circle of mommy friends and/or family to see if anyone requires extra aid. You can also post in a regional mother’s group relying on your convenience level with permitting your kid to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would first interview the household and make sure the environment is safe and safe. I would likewise likely accompany my child the first couple gos to.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking photos? If so, you could either buy a digital camera or even better just start with your phone electronic camera. Your child could begin by assisting with taking pictures for family and good friends totally free to develop their abilities in addition to a photography portfolio. There is always a substantial requirement for pictures of special events like birthdays, graduations, and family photos, to call simply a few.

Once your kid ends up being more experienced and experienced, they can begin charging a minimal price for their photography while they continue to refine their abilities. Your child 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 route to go! As a professional blogger, employment I know from individual experience it takes some time and dedication to construct your blog site or vlog and eventually develop an income stream.

That said, I honestly do not see a major drawback to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can hone their writing, oral interaction, video modifying, and marketing skills, as well as learn the fundamentals of becoming an entrepreneur!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to caution you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the unavoidable concern that every tween seems to be asking these days: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does need that your kid be 13 or have adult approval to develop a channel. It will likewise depend on you as a parent to determine the specific specifications of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my other half, for example, chose that if we let our kids start a YouTube channel, we will not allow 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 grow older. Every parent obviously has various comfort levels relating to online safety for their kids.

In terms of how to begin a blog, all your kid really needs is choose a blog site topic they are enthusiastic about. That, and preferably something that they want to show the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some great totally free platforms that enable you to quickly create a blog like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be a minimum of 13 years of ages to create a website.

Once your kid has a recognized blog site or vlog, they can likewise market it later on their high school or college resume and employment even in the college application procedure. Employers are constantly searching for abilities like self-motivation, imagination, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping helper. This can include things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other chores. If your kiddo is active and enjoys being outside, this might well be the task for them! My idea is to make a leaflet and go around to your neighbors with your kid, to see if anybody might need some landscaping help. As they age and become more accountable, your child can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Naturally, I have to mention the lemonade stand! I do not understand that I would consider this as an actual “task” as much as a method to make occasional money throughout the summertime. But this is an excellent very first job 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 organization. If you are the sole owner of a restaurant or other kind of family service, your 12-year-old child can operate in lots of capacities as long as they aren’t considered dangerous or hazardous. You also need to ensure to adhere to your state’s child labor laws concerning the number of hours and times of days that you child can lawfully work.

That stated, this can be an excellent very first work experience for a kid. Discovering the household business first-hand will develop self-confidence, work principles, and will also permit your kid to discover themselves and their strengths and interests regarding the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This task is exceptional for kids who are interested in and who like to learn about gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on vacation is also an excellent method to make income while discovering the essentials of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Rounding out my leading ten tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These tasks can consist of wrapping presents during the holidays or perhaps assisting out with celebration planning. If there’s something that I understand most moms would enjoy is a vacation assistant or perhaps a birthday celebration helper. Am I right ?!

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

In Conclusion

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

– What are some popular tasks for 12 year olds?

The most popular jobs for 12 years of age consist of babysitting, family pet sitting, yard work, canine walking, and mom’s assistant.

While 12 years of age are not lawfully allowed to work in more traditional functions like those at junk food restaurants, they can work in a private home setting doing the above mentioned tasks.

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

Yes, there are some limitations and constraints on tasks for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the types of tasks and number of hours that young employees can undertake. For instance, 12 year olds typically can not work in harmful occupations or throughout school hours. It is very important to contact your local and state laws, along with acquire any required permits or permissions.

– How can 12 year olds find job opportunities?

Here are a few ways for 12 year olds to find task chances:
– Ask friends and family: Let your friends and family understand that you’re trying to find work. They may have connections or know somebody who requires aid with tasks.
– Local companies: Visit local shops, dining establishments, or community centers and ask if they have any part-time task openings for young workers.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps particularly accommodate linking young workers with task opportunities. Look for reputable platforms that abide by labor laws and guidelines.

Remember to always prioritize your safety and wellness when considering task 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 twenty years of expertise in assisting individuals towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted countless trainees write compelling resumes to land their very first jobs and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform committed to providing task applicants with tools and services customized to their special fields and career goals.

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– Hermione Eldridge

7 days ago Reply

I am 12 years I have always had a lot of love for animals and I was aiming to have a summer season task so I was believing I might be a dogsitter also I am trying to find a job close to me 6 days ago Reply

Hello Hermione!

Beat method to get a task is through word of mouth (tell loved ones you are trying to find pet sitting jobs). Make some flyers and put them up around your area. Be relentless! The first task may be difficult to discover, however if you do a good job you will get recommendations.

Best of luck to you!

Kayla Thomas

I was wondering how many tasks I can do trigger I child sit chickens free of charge and I have a crochet club however i haven’t done is recently, so I was thinking of babysitting however I am not sure about it.

– Lee Beaser

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You might attempt to make some income 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! Seems like a terrific pastime. You never know … ultimately hobbies can become income too.

Susy

Hello, do you think I can operate at a library I really like books and I can give great recommendations for employment books and I seem like even kid libraries would be excellent. What do you think?

3 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have actually discovered something you love and you wish to try to get a task involved with books. First thing I would recommend doing is asking loved ones if anyone has connections to any public libraries or bookstores in your location. You can likewise visit your public library and ask about jobs. 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 fantastic method to discover operating 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

4 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years old. That’s in fact an excellent age to begin doing this type of task. Start by contacting friends and family and letting them understand you have an interest in a childcare job. Once you begin acquirings ome experience sitting for individuals you know, they will tell other individuals they understand 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, looking after a pet, and I might probably tutor somebody, but my older sis always gets those jobs 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 suggestions?

Hello fantastic concern thank you for reaching out! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you do not think in your abilities no one else will either (there are great deals of 12-year-olds who are more accountable than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about examining to see if your parents or caretakers have any good friends with younger kids or family pets? If a household already knows you and understands your parents, employment there is currently some trust there and they will be more most likely to desire to hire you. You could likewise make some leaflets marketing your services and walk your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody needs aid strolling their dog. Start with people you already know. After they employ you and you do an aamzing job, you can use these individuals as referrals for other tasks.

Don’t give up! Keep attempting and you will get an excellent job soon!

Oakleigh

Do you think assisting my mother in her beauty parlor would be fine? If not I may pick up babysitting. I’ve got experience, especially with 5 more youthful brother or sisters.

2 months ago Reply

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe assisting in your mama’s beauty parlor would be a terrific very first job. However, you and your mother need to talk to the labor laws in your state to make certain you are legally enabled to work there. Many states enable kids to operate in the household business, but there are limitations (like variety of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, etc).

Babysitting is always a terrific alternative too. With 5 more youthful brother or sisters, I wager you would be a professional!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time but because I already pet my canines, I think I might be an animal caretaker, am just available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I wish I could family pet sit a pet cause I love pets thanks.

Since you currently have canines you can absolutely utilize that experience to get a job as a canine walker. Start by asking your family, buddies, and neighbors (i.e. individuals who currently understand you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as references to get more tasks. Best of luck!

Graeson

Can I do yard 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 company.

Ellie

Can I do the babysitter club because I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, babysitting is an excellent task for 12-year olds! I’m not sure which babysitter club you are referring to, employment but you can definitely babysit at 12!

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