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10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

by Elliot Ralston (2025-02-10)

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I have actually been a career coach for over 20 years, and if there's one thing I have actually discovered it's that a one-size-fits-all method to job browsing doesn't work. Whether you are a student, an early expert, a seasoned task seeker, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has actually tailored, tailored resources and design templates to assist 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 obliged to give a smart, experienced response. But in reality, I didn't have a clear response for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides home tasks? I believed to myself. "Uh, let me do some research study and get back to you on that," I said while rapidly googling the best tasks for 12-year-olds. By the method, if you have actually got a teenager, take a look at the best tasks for teenagers.


While I know my daughter is not rather all set to deal with a childcare or family pet sitting job, she definitely will be in a couple years. Considered that fact, I chose to sit down and research everything about job chances for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep checking out to learn more about the best jobs for 12- year-olds, as well as basic information regarding labor laws and making sure the safety and security of your kids as they embark upon their very first job experience.


Before I dive into the best gigs for tweens, let me very first cover the laws regarding child labor. If you're not familiar, I'll give you the basic gist: 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, including restricting the number of hours kids can work, in addition to designating the kinds of tasks children can have. Generally, the minimum age for work is 14, but exceptions exist for tasks like paper shipment, childcare, and agricultural work, where kids can work from a younger age under particular conditions.


Each state might likewise have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for example, the legal working age is 14 years old. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can lawfully work without a license doing things like lawn mowing, offering arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name simply a couple of. Minors can likewise work particular farming tasks, if the kid is utilized by a moms and dad or legal guardian who controls, runs, or owns the property.


Children over 14, while legally permitted to work numerous jobs, face a great deal of constraints. However, that's an entire other topic that I'll likely cover in a future post!


Okay, now let's enter into the fun things. Specifically, here are the very best tasks for 12-year-olds that use kids an opportunity to have enjoyable, establish a great work principles, find out about themselves, and most significantly, remain safe:(require suggestions on writing a resume for teenagers? Take a look at How to Write a Trainee Resume).


# 1: Babysitting


Let me start by emphasizing that this list is not suggested to be in any specific order. With that said, I'm going to begin by blogging about childcare. My extremely own very first job as a 12 years of age was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And luckily for me, employment he was a simple kid to see. Even much better, my mother was home while I babysat which provided me comfort. It was the perfect task for my first job!


Babysitting, pet sitting, and even dog strolling can be great first tasks for tweens. Besides the apparent advantages of earning their own money, these jobs enable kids to sharpen interaction skills and learn duty. Also, I need to include that it will certainly assist if your child likes kids and pets. If they are not truly into playing with kids and they do not like dogs, they most likely will not last long.


My finest suggestions as both a mother and a profession coach: encourage your kid to do something they like. My daughter, for example, definitely loves playing with more youthful kids and she adores canines. Like, seriously LOVES them. Perhaps even more than she loves me. But I digress. Anway, that's how I understand she will really delight in babysitting and pet sitting. This is not to state that your child can't do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is definitely a skill that can be found out. They simply may not enjoy it as much.


Before my child takes her first babysitting job, I'm going to make sure a couple of things are in place. Primary, I desire her to take a child CPR and emergency treatment course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency circumstance while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another aspect (and the most essential element) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting job, I will veterinarian the household and ensure my daughter will be in a safe environment. In reality, her first tasks will likely be with families we already understand and trust.


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# 2: Creative Jobs

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If your kid has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can help them look into methods to generate income doing what I call "creative jobs for tweens!"


I just recently chatted with a mommy buddy of mine who stated her child was making money making hand-written thank you notes. She explained that her child is working for a good friend of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade products. The shop owner couldn't stay up to date with the tailored thank you cards for her clients. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!


I simply like this job concept for so numerous factors. To start with, it plays to this specific child's strengths (whom I understand well due to the fact that she also takes place to be my daughter's close friend). She has naturally beautiful handwriting. Also, it's uber-flexible. My good friend 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 concepts for tasks like this one: If your child is creative and enjoys creating, they could make and offer handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a similar website (a grownup will need to produce the account). Does your kid love to write? What about sending pitches or short articles to kids's magazines? I can not believe of a much better way for a child to refine writing abilities and gain self-confidence!


Is your kid more tech savvy than you (don't worry, your secret is safe with me)? What about investigating ways to develop these skills like developing an app or video game?


Is your child a natural-born entertainer? What about looking into theatre or television performing and even voice-overs? These types of jobs do not have age restrictions and can be a wonderful way to allow your kid to develop their acting and singing skills while also making some cash.


# 3: Mother's Helper


"Mother's helper" is another popular task for tweens. This can involve assisting with laundry, making treats, childcare, pet walking, and other family tasks. The great feature of this kind of task is that if your kid is on the more youthful side (like 10 or more youthful), they can do the task while being monitored by an adult.


Another perk of this job is that you can quickly discover a mommy or caregiver you already know who needs help. Start by sending a message to your instant circle of mommy pals and/or household to see if anybody needs additional assistance. You can likewise publish in a regional mom's group relying on your convenience level with permitting your kid to enter another home. For me personally, if I went this path, I would initially speak with the family and make certain the environment is safe and safe and secure. I would likewise likely accompany my kid the first couple check outs.


# 4: Photographer's Assistant


Photographer/ Photographer's Assistant. Does your child love taking photos? If so, you could either invest in a digital camera or even better just start with your phone video camera. Your kid could begin by assisting with taking photos for household and good friends for totally free to establish their skills in addition to a photography portfolio. There is always a big requirement for pictures of special occasions like birthdays, graduations, and household images, to call simply a few.


Once your kid ends up being more skilled and experienced, they can start charging a minimal cost for their photography while they continue to sharpen their skills. Your kid can even set up a fundamental website eventually to promote their services.


# 5: Blogger or Vlogger


Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by specifying that if you kid wants to make some quick money, this is absolutely not the route to go! As a professional blogger, I know from individual experience it takes some time and devotion to build your blog site or vlog and eventually create an income stream.


That stated, I truthfully don't see a major downside to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can refine their writing, oral communication, video editing, and marketing abilities, along with find out the essentials of becoming an entrepreneur!


If your kid hasn't currently, I need to warn you that it's just a matter of time before they ask the inevitable concern that every tween seems to be asking nowadays: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does need that your child be 13 or have adult approval to create a channel. It will also be up to you as a moms and dad to figure out the specific parameters of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

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Myself and my other half, for instance, chose that if we let our kids begin a YouTube channel, we will not permit 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 age. Every parent clearly has various convenience levels relating to online safety for their children.


In regards to how to start a blog, all your kid really needs is pick a blog subject they are enthusiastic about. That, and preferably something that they want to share with the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some great totally free platforms that permit you to easily create a blog like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does require users to be at least 13 years of ages to produce a site.


Once your kid has a recognized blog or vlog, they can also market it later their high school or college resume and even in the college application process. Employers are constantly trying to find skills like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and aspiration!


# 6: Landscaping Helper


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


# 7: Lemonade Salesperson


Lemonade stand. Obviously, I have to mention the lemonade stand! I don't understand that I would consider this as a real "job" as much as a method to make occasional money throughout the summer season. But this is an excellent very first job for a more youthful kiddo who is feeling encouraged to make a little money and test out their sales and entrepreneurial abilities!


# 8: Help in Family Business


Family company. If you are the sole owner of a restaurant or other kind of family organization, your 12-year-old kid can work in many capabilities as long as they aren't considered unsafe or harmful. You likewise need 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 first work experience for a child. Learning more about the family organization first-hand will establish 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 caretaker. This job is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who enjoy to learn more about gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on trip is likewise a terrific way to make earnings while discovering the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

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# 10: Season Job


Seasonal task. Completing my leading ten tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These jobs can consist of covering presents during the holidays and even helping out with celebration planning. If there's one thing that I know most mamas would enjoy is a holiday helper or perhaps a birthday party assistant. Am I right ?!


This time of the year, while definitely wonderful, can also be exhausting for parents. Between getting presents, wrapping presents, decorating your home, and all the other little things, it's a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, could offer their services to friends and next-door neighbors throughout the holiday.


In Conclusion


As you can see, these 10 tasks for 12-year-olds use fantastic chances to explore their interests, develop confidence, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Encouraging your kid 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 tasks for 12 year olds consist of childcare, animal sitting, yard work, canine walking, and mother's assistant.


While 12 years of age are not legally enabled to work in more traditional roles like those at junk food dining establishments, they can operate in a personal home setting doing the above pointed out jobs.


- Are there any restrictions or limitations on jobs for 12 year olds?


Yes, there are some restrictions and constraints on tasks for 12 years of age. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for the types of tasks and number of hours that young employees can carry out. For example, 12 year olds usually can not operate in hazardous professions or during school hours. It is very important to talk to your regional and state laws, as well as get any essential authorizations or approvals.


- How can 12 year olds find task opportunities?


Here are a few ways for 12 year olds to discover task opportunities:
- Ask household and good friends: Let your household and good friends know that you're looking for work. They may have connections or know somebody who requires assist with chores.
- Local services: Visit local stores, dining establishments, or recreation center and ask if they have any part-time job openings for young workers.
- Online platforms: Some sites and apps particularly accommodate linking young employees with task chances. Look for respectable platforms that adhere to labor laws and standards.


Remember to always prioritize your safety and well-being when considering task opportunities, and seek advice from with your moms and dads or guardians before pursuing any employment.












Lee Cristina Beaser


MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over 2 decades of competence in guiding individuals towards career success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted thousands of students compose compelling resumes to land their very first tasks and internships. More recently, Lee established The Career Counter, a platform devoted to supplying job hunters with tools and services tailored to their distinct fields and career objectives.






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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 wanting to have a summertime task so I was thinking I could be a dogsitter likewise I am looking for a job near to me 6 days ago Reply


Hello Hermione!


Beat way to get a task is through word of mouth (inform pals and household you are searching for pet sitting tasks). Make some leaflets and put them up around your community. Be persistent! The very first task might be tough to discover, but if you do a good task you will get referrals.


Best of luck to you!




Kayla Thomas

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I was wondering how many tasks I can do trigger I baby sit chickens totally free and I have a crochet club however i have not done is just recently, so I was thinking about babysitting but I am unsure about it.



- Lee Beaser


Hi Kayla,


Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Sounds like you love animals. You could try to make some earnings by offering pet-sitting services (you currently have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can utilize your existing company as a referral to get you more jobs). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a terrific pastime. You never ever understand ... eventually pastimes can turn into income also.




Susy


Hello, do you believe I can work at a library I really like books and I can offer very excellent recommendations for books and I seem like even kid libraries would be good. What do you believe?


3 weeks ago Reply


Hey there! I like that you have actually found something you enjoy and you desire to attempt to get a task included with books. First thing I would advise doing is asking loved ones if anyone has connections to any libraries or bookstores in your area. You can likewise visit your public library and inquire about jobs. There may be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a job, you can ask about volunteering. This is a great way to discover working in a library. When you do get old enough, you'll be all set for a paying task!




Jayla Lancaster


Can I babysit I'm 12 years of ages


4 weeks ago Reply


Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years of ages. That's really a great age to start doing this kind of job. Start by contacting friends and family and letting them understand you have an interest in a babysitting task. Once you start acquirings ome experience sitting for individuals you know, they will inform other individuals they learn about how amazing you are and you'll get recommendations!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser

How can I get job

? I have experience in childcare, taking care of a pet dog, and I might probably tutor someone, but my older sister constantly gets those jobs and she will not let me have one; likewise I am sure people would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any recommendations?


Hello fantastic concern thank you for connecting! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you don't believe in your abilities nobody else will either (there are great deals of 12-year-olds who are more responsible than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about inspecting to see if your moms and dads or caretakers have any buddies with younger kids or pets? If a family already knows you and understands your parents, there is already some trust there and they will be more most likely to wish to hire you. You might likewise make some flyers promoting your services and stroll around your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anyone requires aid walking their canine. Start with people you already know. After they employ you and you do an aamzing job, you can utilize these individuals as recommendations for other jobs.


Don't quit! Keep trying and you will get a fantastic task soon!




Oakleigh


Do you think assisting my mom in her hairdresser would be alright? If not I might get childcare. I have actually got experience, especially with 5 younger brother or sisters.


2 months ago Reply


Hello and thank you for your question! I believe helping in your mama's beauty parlor would be an excellent first job. However, you and your mama need to contact the labor laws in your state to ensure you are legally allowed to work there. Many states allow kids to work in the household business, however there are constraints (like number of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, etc).


Babysitting is constantly an excellent option too. With five younger siblings, I bet you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho


So this is my very first time but since I currently pet my pet dogs, I think I could be a family pet caretaker, am only available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this job cause.I desire I could pet sit a pet dog cause I enjoy dogs thanks.


Since you currently have dogs you can absolutely utilize that experience to get a task as a canine walker. Start by asking your family, good friends, and neighbors (i.e. people who already know you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as referrals to get more jobs. Good luck!




Graeson

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Can I do yard work cuss I'm 12


3 months ago Reply


Hi Graeson! Yes you can do lawn work. Start by offering your services to neightbors and individuals you know. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely tell their buddies and you can get more business.




Ellie


Can I do the sitter club because I'm 12


- Lee Beaser


4 months ago Reply


Hello Ellie, childcare is a terrific task for 12-year olds! I'm unsure which babysitter club you are referring to, but you can certainly babysit at 12!




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