Hey there, young go-getters! 👋 Are you 12 and looking for cool ways to earn some cash?
In this article, I’ll share 21 easy jobs that you can do and get paid well for your awesome efforts. No boring stuff, just fun and valuable ideas!
But, wait, remember to check with your parents first and follow the rules in your area. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! 💪😎
Easy Jobs For 12 Years Old
1. Babysitting
Babysitting is a fun job for 12-year-olds. You take care of younger kids when their parents are away.
It’s like being the boss of playtime! You play games, read stories, and have snacks together. Just remember to keep the kids safe and happy.
You can ask neighbors or family friends if they need a babysitter. You can also join babysitting platforms like UrbanSitter, Sitter.com, Care.com, Sittercity, etc. to get babysitting jobs.
However, it is important to note that not all states in the United States allow kids for babysitting.
If your state allows you to babysit, then you can make $10-$15 per hour on average depending on the number of kids and other factors.
Babysitting teaches responsibility and feels great when you help others.
2. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking
If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking can be a great way to earn money!
Pet sitting means taking care of pets when their owners are away, like feeding and showing them love. Dog walking is about taking dogs for a walk and giving them exercise.
You can ask neighbors if they need help with their pets.
Before you begin, talk to your parents and the pet owners to know what to do. Always follow their instructions and ask if you have questions. Safety matters!
You can make $10 to $15 per hour as a pet sitter. You can also charge a flat fee for a day or week or even a month.
Being patient and friendly with animals is essential. Remember, it’s not just about money – you’re also caring for furry friends and making them happy!
3. Online Surveys
Online surveys are an easy way for 12-year-olds to earn some money. Companies want to know what young people think, so they pay for their opinions.
You just need an internet connection and some time. Join survey websites that accept kids your age and complete surveys honestly. Remember, don’t share personal info.
There are many sites that offer online surveys for kids. Some of them are:
KidzEyes: It offers online surveys for 6-12 years old under parental consent.
PanelPolls: It offers online surveys for all age groups. Besides completing online surveys ($1 to $10 per survey), you can earn money by testing apps and games ($10 to $100 per test) and online community participation ($10 to $200 per month).
Respondent.io: It also offers online surveys and research participation for all age groups.
These survey sites may ask about your favorite games, hobbies, or snacks you like. Each survey takes a few minutes, and you’ll earn a few bucks per survey.
The more surveys you do, the more you can make. It’s not a full-time job, but it’s fun and gives you extra pocket money.
4. Testing Websites and Apps
Testing websites and apps can be a cool job for teens like you! Some companies want kids your age to try their websites and apps. They pay you to use them and tell them what you think. It’s like being a tech explorer!
Here’s what you do: you sign up with a company that offers this gig. They’ll give you websites or apps to try out. You click around, see how things work, and check if everything is easy to use. Then, you share your thoughts with them.
You can join UserTesting.com under your parent’s consent and make around $10 for 20 minutes of testing.
It’s fun because you get to see new stuff before others do. Plus, you can do it from your computer or tablet at home.
5. Create a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel is fun! You can create cool videos and share them with everyone.
First, ask your parents for permission and help. They should know what you’re doing. Choose something you love, like gaming or crafts, as your channel’s theme.
Grab a camera or a phone with a good camera, and start recording your videos. Upload your videos to YouTube and add catchy titles and descriptions.
Now, let’s talk money! When your channel gets popular, YouTube might show ads before or during your videos.
That’s how you make money! People watch the ads, and you earn some cash. But remember, it takes time to grow your channel and make money.
6. Selling Pokemon Cards
If you are into Pokemon and love collecting cards, you can make some money by selling Pokemon cards! It’s like being a Pokemon trader!
You can buy, trade, and sell these collectible cards. First, get some Pokemon cards that you don’t need anymore, or buy some from friends or stores.
Next, find people who want the cards you have. You can ask friends or family, or even sell online.
You can sell your Pokemon cards on websites like eBay, Card Cavern, Card Market, and pawn shops.
Remember, some cards are worth more than others. Rare or powerful cards might get you more money.
Take good care of your cards by keeping them safe in plastic sleeves or card protectors. It’s essential, to be honest about the card’s condition when selling.
7. Lawn Mowing/Yard Work
Want to make some money and get some exercise too? Lawn mowing and yard work is a perfect job for 12-year-olds! It’s easy and fun. You can help your neighbors by cutting their grass, raking leaves, or pulling weeds.
A lawnmower, rake, or gardening tools are required. Put on gloves and closed-toed footwear while working for your own safety. You can charge a flat rate or between $10 and $20 per hour.
Remember, happy customers can tell their friends about you, and you might get more jobs! Keep your neighbors’ lawns neat and tidy, and you’ll have a great time earning some extra cash!
8. Lemonade Stand
A lemonade stand is like having your mini-shop to sell yummy lemonade! When it’s hot outside, people get thirsty, and they love a refreshing drink like lemonade. All you need is some lemons, sugar, water, and cups.
Here’s how to do it:
- Ask your parents for help to buy the ingredients.
- Make lemonade at home. Squeeze the lemons, and mix them with water and sugar until it tastes just right.
- Set up a table outside your house or at a park (with permission).
- Put a sign saying “Lemonade for Sale” to attract customers.
- Offer the lemonade for a fair price, like 50 cents or a dollar per cup.
- Be friendly and smile when people come by
9. Car Washing
Car washing means cleaning cars. You can offer this service to people around you, like family, friends, and neighbors. It’s fun and can earn you some cash.
What to do: Grab a bucket, soapy water, and a sponge or cloth. Wet the car, scrub gently with soap, and rinse it off. Dry with a towel. Ta-da! A clean car!
Be safe: Always ask a grown-up for permission. Work in a safe area, away from traffic. Use gentle products, so you don’t damage the car’s paint.
Get customers: Make posters or tell people in your community about your service. You could offer discounts for repeat customers!
You can charge $10 to $15 per hour for your hard work. Or you can charge a flat fee for washing cars.
10. Gardening
Gardening is a great job for kids who are 12 years old. You take care of plants, making sure they stay healthy and happy.
Gardening teaches you about different plants and how they grow. Plus, it’s good exercise since you use your hands and move around a lot.
You can ask your neighbors if they need gardening help. If they agree, you can charge $15 to $25 per hour.
Just remember to be gentle with the plants and follow instructions. Gardening also helps you learn responsibility and patience while waiting for the plants to grow.
So, if you love nature and want to make some money, gardening could be the perfect job for you!
11. Tutoring
Tutoring is when you help others with school subjects, you’re good at. You can teach kids who need extra help in math or reading, like a school superhero!
You can tutor classmates or younger kids in your neighborhood. Show them cool tricks for math or fun ways to read. It feels awesome when they understand things better because of you.
Get your parents’ or teachers’ support first. They can help find students who need tutoring. Do it after school or on weekends, but balance it with your studies and fun.
If you are looking for online jobs, then you can tutor younger kids online. You’ll need a laptop (or mobile) with an internet connection and video conferencing software like Zoom.
You can make $12 to $18 per hour depending on the subject and grade.
12. Craft Sales
Craft Sales is a fun way for 12-year-olds to make money by creating and selling their handmade crafts or artwork.
You can make cool things like friendship bracelets, cute keychains, or even colorful paintings! Just let your creativity flow!
Start by thinking about what you enjoy making the most. It could be drawing, painting, or using beads to make pretty accessories.
Once you’ve made some awesome crafts, ask your parents or guardians to help you set up a little booth or table at a local event or market. You can also sell your crafts online through websites like Etsy or social media.
People love unique and handmade stuff, so make sure to show off your creations with clear pictures and catchy descriptions.
It’s essential to price your crafts reasonably, considering the time and effort you put into making them.
13. Errand Services
Errand Services mean helping others with tasks. It’s like being a helpful hero! People who can’t go out or are busy might need your assistance. You can run errands for them and make their day easier!
Here’s how it works: Neighbors or older folks might ask you to pick up groceries, drop off letters, or fetch small things they need. It’s simple stuff, but super useful!
Just talk to your parents first and ask them to tag along. Safety first! They’ll be happy to help and make sure everything’s cool.
To start, let people know you’re up for errands! Tell them you’re available to lend a hand. Soon, you’ll be the go-to kid in the neighborhood! Plus, you’ll earn some money doing these good deeds.
14. Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistance is like being a helpful online sidekick! You help people with their work from your computer.
It’s super cool! Small businesses or busy people might need help with simple tasks like replying to emails, organizing schedules, or managing social media.
You can be their hero by doing these tasks remotely! Just make sure to have permission from your parents and take breaks for schoolwork and fun. Always be safe online, and don’t share personal info!
Here’s how it works:
- Communicate with your boss through emails or messages.
- Do tasks like data entry, organizing files, or writing short posts.
- Keep things neat and organized.
- Meet deadlines and be reliable, they’ll love you for it!
You can charge $15 to $30 per hour depending on the tasks.
15. Garage Sale Helper
Being a garage sale helper is a great way for 12-year-olds to earn money! It’s like a cool treasure hunt and a chance to help people sell their stuff.
Your job is to work with grown-ups who want to have a garage sale but might need some help organizing things.
You get to sort out items, like toys, clothes, and books, making them look neat and attractive to buyers. You might also help with setting up tables and signs. On the big day, you can greet visitors and assist them as they look around.
You can charge $10 to $15 per hour as a garage sale helper.
16. Social Media Management
Social media management involves supporting small businesses with their online presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The task includes creating and scheduling engaging posts to keep customers interested.
It’s like being a brand ambassador for the business, interacting with customers through comments and messages.
You’ll also help the business grow by gaining new followers and promoting their products or services.
For instance, if a business sells yummy cupcakes, you’d post delicious pictures and share where to buy them.
You can make $18 to $30 per hour depending on the tasks.
17. Delivering Newspapers
Delivering newspapers is an awesome job for 12-year-olds! You get to bring newspapers to people’s homes. It’s like an early morning adventure!
You’ll need to talk to the newspaper company first to see if they have delivery jobs in your area. If they do, you’ll be given a bunch of newspapers and a route to follow.
As you walk or ride your bike, put the newspapers by the front doors or mailboxes. Super easy! You’ll have to wake up early, but it’s cool because you’ll be finished before school starts. Plus, you’ll get some exercise and fresh air.
You can make $15 to $20 per hour delivering newspapers.
18. Washing Windows
Washing windows can be an easy way to make money when you’re 12 years old. You need some simple tools like a squeegee, a bucket, and a cleaning solution.
You can offer this service to your neighbors or local businesses. Just ask them nicely if they want their windows sparkly clean. Make sure to get permission from the property owners first!
When you start washing windows, be careful and stay safe. Don’t climb too high or try to reach tricky spots. Stick to the ones you can handle safely.
You can charge a fair price for each window or for the whole job. You can also charge hourly like $10 to $15 per hour.
19. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing is an online way to earn money by promoting stuff you like.
You share special links, and if people buy something using those links, you get a reward. It’s like recommending cool things to friends and getting paid for it!
To start, you need a computer or smartphone and an adult’s help. Find companies with affiliate programs and check if they allow kids to join.
Share the links on your social media or blog if you have one. Be honest and share things you genuinely enjoy, so people trust you.
20. Become a Voice Actor
Ever heard someone on TV or in videos speaking with cool voices? Well, that could be you! It’s called voice-over acting, and it’s super fun.
People need voices for cartoons, commercials, and even audiobooks. If you’re good at changing your voice or acting, this job might be perfect for you!
First, practice different voices and accents. Then, create a sample recording to show people what you can do. You can ask your parents or guardians to help you set up a little recording area.
Next, look for opportunities online. You can join sites like Fiverr.com, Voices.com, filmless, etc to find voice-acting jobs.
If you get hired, you’ll record your voice and send it to the people who need it. You can charge $20 to $40 per hour as a voice actor or charge based on the project.
21. Work in Your Family Business
Helping out in your family’s business is an excellent way to learn and make some money! If your parents own a shop or company, you can ask if they need assistance.
Tasks like organizing items, greeting customers, or doing paperwork can teach you responsibility and show you how a business works.
But, keep in mind that most other regular jobs outside of your family’s business might not be allowed for 12-year-olds.
There are laws to protect kids, and they usually say you need to be a bit older to work at places that aren’t owned by your parents.
Jobs For 12 Years Old (Limitations and Challenges)
Yes, 12-year-olds can work, but there are limitations. Traditional non-agricultural jobs are mostly off-limits, except if the retail store is owned by the child’s parents.
Some non-agricultural jobs are allowed, but strict rules apply to working hours and times of the day.
Agricultural jobs offer more flexibility as long as they are outside of school hours, non-hazardous, and have parental consent.
Regulations differ by state, so it’s crucial to review local laws regarding 12-year-olds and employment.
Landing a job at 12 can be challenging due to limited availability and competition with older teens and adults.
However, jobs designed for younger teens may have less competition. Many young teens prioritize education or other activities, further reducing competition for jobs requiring parental consent.
Parent Responsibilities
Parents should be responsible and aware of the following things before allowing their children for jobs:
- Safety First: Parents should ensure any job is safe for their child. Check if it involves dangerous tools or tasks.
- Legal Stuff: Check the laws in your area about working at 12 years old. Follow the rules and get any permits if needed.
- Talk Together: Discuss the job ideas with your child. See if they like the job and if it fits their abilities.
- Time Management: Make sure the job doesn’t interfere with school and other important things.
- Supervision: If the job is outside of the family business, ensure there’s a responsible adult overseeing the work.
- Learning Opportunity: Encourage jobs that help your child learn new skills and responsibilities.
- Fair Pay: Ensure your child is getting paid fairly for their work and time.
- Balance: Help your child balance work, school, and playtime. Don’t let them get overwhelmed.
- Support: Be there to support and guide your child throughout their job experience.
- Have Fun: Jobs can be a great way for your child to learn and earn, but it should also be enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, 12-year-olds! These 21 easy jobs can actually pay you well! Isn’t that cool? Remember, you don’t need to wait till you’re older to start earning some money.
Remember, safety first! Ask your parents or guardians for permission and help. They got your back!
Some jobs might pay more, some less. It’s good to know what you want to save up for and choose the right gig.
Doing jobs can teach you responsibility and how to handle money. A valuable life lesson!
So, find what you enjoy and get started! Go earn some cash and have fun!