How to Turn Young Learners Into Big Earners

Until now, you’ve probably relied on your parents or gifts from family and friends for money. As you get older, your needs and wants will increase, and having some extra cash can help! Discover how to earn money on your own and develop financial responsibility that will benefit you in the future.

Why Making Money Matters

You’re learning more about the importance of money. Having money means being able to buy and do what you need and want. While you’re probably not ready for a long-term career, there are ways you can earn some spending money or grow your savings. You just have to be creative.

Earning Money Through Chores and Jobs

Doing chores around your home is a good way to start earning money. Your parents likely have many jobs they could use your help with. Regular chores can teach you responsibility and show you the value of hard work. Could you take on any of these chores?

• Washing dishes
• Folding and putting away laundry
• Taking the trash out
• Sweeping the garage
• Raking leaves
• Washing the car

If you’re interested in earning money outside the home, consider doing odd jobs for your neighbors. Busy families or older adults may appreciate your help if you do a good job. Put some flyers around the neighborhood advertising what you can do and your reasonable rates, or chat with neighbors at block parties or other gatherings to let them know how you can help. Popular neighborhood jobs include:

• Babysitting
• Dog-walking or pet-sitting
• Mowing lawns
• Pulling weeds
• Skimming pools
• Shoveling snow
• Washing cars
• Running simple errands

Remember, being reliable and doing a good job is important to build a positive reputation in your neighborhood and get more business!

Pursuing a Part-Time Job

As you get older, you’ll probably want to explore part-time jobs to help you earn more money. Balancing a job with school, sports, and other activities can be tricky, which is why many teens choose to work only during the summer. Think about what works best for you, and consider how you’ll get to and from your job. Retail stores, supermarkets, fast food restaurants, ice cream shops, movie theaters, trampoline parks, and roller or ice rinks are examples of places that hire part-time teen employees. Here are some tips about how to find a job:

• Put together a simple resume. While you might not have much work history, you can highlight other activities that show commitment and willingness to work hard. These may include volunteer work, participation on a sports team or school club, and jobs you’ve done here and there, like babysitting or mowing lawns.
• Ask people you know about opportunities. Maybe your friend works at a local ice cream shop, or your parents know the manager of a supermarket. You can ask your neighbors, teachers, and coaches for ideas of where to apply – and personal recommendations, too. Employers are more likely to hire you if someone they trust can vouch for you.
• Make your first contact. You can try walking into a place when it’s not too busy, calling ahead to set up an appointment, or contacting employers who post part-time job openings on employment websites. It’s a good idea to ask a trusted adult to review job postings to make sure they seem legitimate.
• Prepare for rejection. Some places just won’t be hiring, and at others, you may not be the right fit for the position they have available. Thank them for their time, leave a resume, and encourage them to call if something fitting comes up.
• Get ready for your interview. Great news: A potential new employer has called you for an interview! Make sure to dress professionally, be polite and confident, and prepare in advance by researching common interview questions for jobs like the one you’re pursuing.
• Follow up. If you don’t hear back right away, wait about a week before calling the hiring manager. This shows that you’re enthusiastic about joining their team.

If you get the job – congratulations! Now it’s time to show you’re a reliable employee who will show up on time and work hard. Not only will you earn extra spending money, but you’ll also be building skills and your resume for future employment!

Do you have a great idea? Believe it or not, even kids can start their own small businesses. Turn those successful odd jobs you’ve done for friends and neighbors into a service. Babysitting, pet-sitting, lawn care, and tutoring are examples of little jobs that can transform into something bigger. Get recommendations from happy past clients, set your hourly rates, and decide how you’ll advertise – on flyers or through your neighborhood or community Facebook group, perhaps.

You can also create and sell items as your small business. Are you crafty? You can sell jewelry and other items at local fairs and festivals.

The digital marketplace also holds great potential – from selling your crafts online to blogging about your interests. However, keep in mind that many platforms have age restrictions. If you’re interested in pursuing an online venture, make sure you talk to a parent or trusted adult to help you understand age requirements, avoid scams, and stay safe online.