Many 12-year-olds are at a point where they want to earn pocket money. This is where student jobs come into play; they are an excellent opportunity to learn work ethic while making some money on the side.
Since child labor laws prevent 12-year-olds from working for employers, they can’t work traditional jobs like cashiers and fast-food workers.
However, most preteens have other options to earn money, like helping a neighbor or a family member.
Here are the best options for 12-year-olds based on criteria like safety, fun, and flexibility.
1. Yard Worker
Salary: $12 per hour (on average).
Training time: a few hours.
Workload: as much as you want.
Yard workers take care of backyards: they spread mulch, pull weeds, plant flowers, etc.
Many tasks in the backyard do not require potentially dangerous tools like a lawnmower or snowblower. This is a great opportunity to make money as a 13-year-old.
Job Information
- Salary: $12 per hour (on average).
- Training time: a few hours.
- Workload: as much as you want.
Requirements
- Having a neighbor or family member with a yard.
2. Pet Sitter
Salary: $15 per hour (on average).
Training time: a few hours.
Workload: as much as you want.
Pet sitters take care of pets while their owner is on vacation. Pet sitting tasks include cleaning litter boxes and feeding the pet.
It is a great job for 12-year-olds who love dogs, cats, birds, fishes, and reptiles.
Job Information
- Salary: $15 per hour (on average).
- Training time: a few hours.
- Workload: as much as you want.
Requirements
- An extensive amount of hands-on experience with the animal in question.
- Preferred: pet first aid and CPR training.
3. Dog Walker
Salary: $14 per hour (on average).
Training time: a few hours.
Workload: as much as you want.
Dogs need to walk to get mental stimulation, exercise, and take a “potty break.”
However, many dog owners are busy and do not have the time to walk their own dogs. This is where you can propose your service as a dog walker. It is a great opportunity to make side money while taking a quick walk in the park.
Job Information
- Salary: $14 per hour (on average).
- Training time: a few hours.
- Workload: as much as you want.
Requirements
- An extensive amount of hands-on experience with dogs.
If you want to get an edge over your competition, feel free to read our guide: How To Start A Dog Walking Business.
4. Tutor
Salary: $20 per hour (on average).
Training time: a few hours.
Workload: as much as you want.
Tutoring is all about sharing the beauty of a subject with people who have a hard time understanding it.
Some 12-year-olds get paid to assist their schoolmates with homework and test preparation.
Job Information
- Salary: $20 per hour (on average).
- Training time: a few hours.
- Workload: as much as you want.
Requirements
- Good grades in the subject at hand.