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

Register for our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the newest profession and home organization posts, 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 Qualified 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 compelled to give an intelligent, educated response. But in reality, 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 return to you on that,” I stated while rapidly googling the best jobs for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you’ve got a teen, inspect out the very best jobs for teens.

While I know my child is not quite prepared to deal with a babysitting or animal sitting job, she absolutely will remain in a couple years. Considered that fact, I decided to take a seat and research study all about task chances for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to learn about the finest tasks for 12- year-olds, along with basic information regarding labor laws and ensuring the safety and protection of your kids as they launch their very first task experience.

Before I dive into the very best gigs for tweens, let me very first cover the laws relating to child labor. If you’re not familiar, I’ll give you the general gist: 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 number of hours kids can work, along with designating the types of jobs kids can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, however exceptions exist for tasks like paper shipment, childcare, and agricultural work, where kids can work from a younger age under particular conditions.

Each state may also have its own laws, which can be more stringent 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 an authorization doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to call simply a couple of. Minors can also work particular agricultural tasks, if the child is employed by a parent or legal guardian who manages, runs, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while lawfully allowed to work lots of tasks, face a great deal of restrictions. However, that’s an entire other topic 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 use kids a possibility to have fun, develop a great principles, discover themselves, and most importantly, remain safe:(require suggestions 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 particular order. With that stated, I’m going to begin by blogging about childcare. My really own 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 see. Even better, my mother was home while I babysat which gave me peace of mind. It was the ideal job for my first task!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even canine walking can be great very first tasks for tweens. Besides the apparent advantages of making their own money, these jobs enable kids to refine communication skills and learn duty. Also, I have to throw in that it will absolutely help if your child likes kids and animals. If they are not truly into having fun with kids and they don’t like dogs, they probably will not last really long.

My finest advice as both a mom and a profession coach: motivate your kid to do something they like. My child, for example, absolutely likes having fun with more youthful kids and she adores pet dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Perhaps 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 child can’t do these jobs if they are not natural caretakers. Caring for kids and animals is certainly an ability that can be found out. They simply may not enjoy it as much.

Before my child takes her very first childcare job, I’m going to ensure a few things remain in place. Primary, I want her to take a kid CPR and emergency treatment course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency situation while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another factor (and the most crucial aspect) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will veterinarian the family and ensure my daughter will be in a safe environment. In reality, her first jobs will likely be with families we currently know and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

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

I recently chatted with a mom pal of mine who stated her child was earning cash making hand-written thank you notes. She explained that her daughter is working for a pal of theirs who owns her own online store selling handmade products. The shop owner could not keep up with the individualized thank you cards for her clients. So, she employed a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I simply enjoy this job idea for many reasons. First of all, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I know well due to the fact that she likewise happens to be my child’s buddy). She has naturally lovely handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My buddy informed 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 ideas for tasks like this one: If your child is creative and loves producing, they could make and offer handmade art or products on Etsy or a similar website (a grownup will require to develop the account). Does your kid love to write? What about submitting pitches or articles to kids’s publications? I can not believe of a much better way for a kid to sharpen composing abilities and get confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (do not stress, your trick is safe with me)? What about researching ways to develop these skills like establishing an app or computer game?

Is your kid a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or television performing or perhaps commentaries? These types of jobs do not have age limitations and can be a wonderful method to permit your kid to hone their performing and singing skills while likewise making some money.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s assistant” is another popular job for tweens. This can include helping with laundry, making snacks, childcare, dog walking, and other home tasks. The great aspect of this type of job is that if your child is on the more youthful side (like 10 or younger), they can do the job while being supervised by a grownup.

Another perk of this task is that you can easily find a mother or caretaker you currently understand who needs assistance. Start by sending out a message to your immediate circle of mother friends and/or family to see if anybody requires additional aid. You can also post in a local mama’s group relying on your comfort level with enabling your kid to enter another home. For me personally, if I went this path, I would initially speak with the household and make certain the environment is safe and secure. I would also likely go along with my kid the first couple visits.

# 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 just begin with your phone electronic camera. Your child could begin by assisting with taking photos for family and friends totally free to develop their skills in addition to a photography portfolio. There is always a huge need for pictures of unique occasions like birthdays, graduations, and household images, to name simply a few.

Once your kid ends up being more knowledgeable and knowledgeable, they can start charging a minimal cost for their photography while they continue to refine their skills. Your kid can even set up a fundamental site ultimately to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by mentioning that if you kid wishes to make some quick money, this is definitely not the route to go! As a professional blog writer, I understand from personal experience it takes some time and dedication to develop your blog or vlog and ultimately develop an earnings stream.

That stated, I honestly do not see a major disadvantage to beginning a vlog or blog. Kids can refine their writing, oral interaction, video editing, and marketing abilities, in addition to find out the basics of ending up being 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 inevitable concern that every tween appears to be asking nowadays: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does require that your kid be 13 or have adult consent to develop a channel. It will likewise be up to you as a parent to determine the particular criteria of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my husband, for instance, decided 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 comfort level will be when they grow older. Every moms and dad clearly has various comfort levels concerning online security for their kids.

Your Future Starts Here

In regards to how to start a blog site, all your kid actually needs is choose a blog site subject they are passionate about. That, and preferably something that they want to show the world and/or something they can teach individuals about. There are some terrific totally free platforms that allow you to easily develop a blog site like Wix or Ionos. I understand that Wix does need users to be at least 13 years of ages to develop a site.

Once your child has an established blog site or vlog, they can also market it in the future their high school or college resume and even in the college application procedure. Employers are always trying to find skills like self-motivation, imagination, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping helper. This can involve 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 suggestion is to make a leaflet and walk around to your next-door neighbors with your child, to see if anybody may require some landscaping aid. As they age and end up being more accountable, your child can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Naturally, I have to point out the lemonade stand! I don’t know that I would consider this as a real “task” as much as a way to make occasional money throughout the summertime. But this is an excellent first job for a younger kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little money and test out their sales and entrepreneurial skills!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family organization. If you are the sole owner of a or other type of family service, your 12-year-old kid can work in lots of capabilities as long as they aren’t considered unsafe or hazardous. You likewise require to ensure to comply with your state’s child labor laws concerning the variety of hours and times of days that you kid can legally work.

That stated, this can be a fantastic very first work experience for employment a kid. Learning about the household service first-hand employment will establish self-confidence, work principles, and will also enable your child to learn more about themselves and their strengths and interests regarding the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This job is excellent for kids who are interested in and who love to discover gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on trip is also a terrific method to make earnings while learning more about the fundamentals of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

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

This time of the year, while certainly terrific, can likewise be tiring for moms and dads. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, embellishing your house, and all the other little things, it’s a lot. Your child, relying on their interests and strengths, might use their services to good friends and next-door neighbors during the holiday.

In Conclusion

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

- What are some popular tasks for 12 year olds?

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

While 12 years of age are not legally permitted to work in more conventional roles like those at fast food restaurants, they can work in a private home setting doing the above discussed jobs.

- Are there any limitations or constraints on tasks for 12 years of age?

Yes, there are some limitations and restrictions on tasks for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for the types of tasks and variety of hours that young workers can undertake. For example, 12 years of age typically can not work in harmful occupations or during school hours. It’s important to contact your regional and state laws, as well as obtain any necessary authorizations or approvals.

- How can 12 year olds discover task opportunities?

Here are a couple of methods for 12 year olds to discover task opportunities:

• Ask friends and family: Let your friends and family understand that you’re looking for work. They may have connections or understand someone who needs assist with chores.
• Local businesses: Visit regional stores, dining establishments, or recreation center and inquire if they have any part-time job openings for employment young employees.
• Online platforms: Some sites and apps specifically cater to connecting young workers with job chances. Look for reputable platforms that abide by labor laws and guidelines.
  
  Remember to always prioritize your security and wellness when considering task opportunities, and speak with your parents or guardians before pursuing any employment.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lee Cristina Beaser
  
  MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer). Lee brings over 2 years of competence in guiding individuals towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she helped thousands of students write compelling resumes to land their first tasks and internships. More just recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform dedicated to providing task hunters with tools and services customized to their unique fields and profession goals.
  
  
  
  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 looking to have a summer season task so I was thinking I could be a dogsitter likewise I am looking for a job close to me -Kayla Thomas
  I was questioning
  
  how lots of tasks I can do cause I child sit chickens for complimentary and I have a crochet club however i have not done is just recently, so I was considering babysitting but I am not exactly sure about it.
  
  Hi Kayla,
  
  Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you love animals. You might try to make some earnings by providing pet-sitting services (you already have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can use your existing employer as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a terrific hobby. You never know … eventually pastimes can become income also.
  
  
  Susy
  
  Hello, do you think I can operate at a library I truly like books and I can give great advice for books and I seem like even kid libraries would be good. What do you believe?
  
  2 weeks ago Reply
  
  Hey there! I love that you have discovered something you enjoy and you wish to attempt to get a job included with books. First thing I would suggest doing is asking loved ones if anyone has connections to any regional libraries or book shops in your area. You can also visit your library and ask about jobs. There might be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a task, you can inquire about volunteering. This is a great way to learn more about working in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be prepared for a paying task!
  
  
  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 of ages. That’s actually a terrific age to begin doing this type of job. Start by getting in touch with family and friends and letting them understand you are interested in a childcare task. Once you begin gettings ome experience sitting for individuals you understand, they will inform 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 childcare, taking care of a pet, and I could probably tutor someone, but my older sis always gets those tasks and she will not let me have one