Every kid has set up a lemonade stand in hopes of becoming a neighborhood vending hot-spot. And every kid knows the disappointment of counting up the loose change at the end of the day and realizing that it doesn't compensate for the sticky hands and the summer heat. There are many ways for kids to make money that are both more fun and more profitable than the usual avenues. Here are five gigs for your grade-school entrepreneur.
Cut Coupons
If your child has always enjoyed cutting out paper dolls, turn her scissor-happy tendencies into cash! Many elderly people no longer have the dexterity to cut out the coupons they would like to use at the grocery, but your child can easily do this kind of task. Other shoppers just don't have the time to cut out their own coupons, and would gladly pay someone to clip and organize their coupons for them. Advertise with flyers or in a local paper, and see what happens.Pet-Sit
Some kids seem to have a natural connection with pets. If your child just can't get enough pets of his own, try letting him pet-sit. Pet owners often want someone to feed and water their animals while they are away, and an enthusiastic youngster is quite capable of that. If possible, you might consider setting up a kennel area in the back yard for drop-offs. This will also cut down on the driving time if your child gets customers across town. The best times for pet-sitting are the usual vacation seasons: summer and the Christmas season.Sew Baby Blankets
This job couldn't be easier; all that is needed is a square of fabric and minimal sewing skills. Your child will need to know how to turn a normal hem and sew corners, and possibly how to iron. If you don't want your child using a hot iron, you'll need to take over that part of the job! Home-made receiving blankets make great gifts for baby showers and could bring in a bit of money for your child. Flannel and cotton fabrics make good blankets.Clown Around
Every kid is a natural entertainer. Turn your child's goofy ways into a job - as a birthday party clown! You'll need some fun clothing, clown makeup, and an assortment of memorized jokes. Be sure to always supervise your child at the parties he attends. This is a job that requires high energy, but the rewards can be great!Sell Produce
If you grow vegetables, allow your child to set up a vending stand in the neighborhood. You can also advertise the fresh produce (lettuce, tomatoes, squash) in email groups you belong to, as long as you have permission from the group moderators. Although superstores are in nearly every county in America, there is something about the taste of locally grown food. A farmer's market is also a good place to set up shop.
As always, keep your child's safety in mind at all times. There is much fun to be had in the world of entrepreneurship, and with you as a guide, your child is sure to enjoy himself and learn a lot in the process.
