Summer Jobs for Kids: Turning Vacation Time into Valuable Work Experience

Minute Read

Having a summer job can help keep kids busy while also teaching them about money management, the basics of budgeting and how to set savings goals.

Jobs for Kids Ages 5 to 7

Some ideas for kids between the ages of 5 and 7 can include things around the house that they might not be regularly asked to do as chores. For this, start by making a chore chart for the tasks you might already want them to complete and see where you can add some payment chores.

Examples include:

• Vacuuming
• Washing the dishes
• Being a morning helper for younger siblings or pets

These are still age appropriate while also requiring a little more effort than their usual chores.

Jobs for Kids Ages 7 to 10

Let’s talk about kids between the ages of 7 and 10. They can handle a little bit more responsibility and can start jobs outside or even for the neighbors.

Most people will have some yard work that needs to be done in the summer, such as:

• Pulling weeds
• Planting and watering flowers
• Other light landscaping

These jobs will keep the kids outside and off devices while allowing them to earn money. An added benefit to working outside your house for this money is the lessons in communication and negotiation they will learn from talking with your neighbors they probably see every day!

Jobs for Kids Ages 7 to 10 and 10 to 12

If you have kids between the ages of 7 to 10 and 10 to 12, some great group jobs could include:

• Car or pet washing
• Cleaning the house
• Dog walking

Jobs for Kids Ages 10 to 12

Kids that are a little older in the ten to 12 age group might be able to do harder jobs than you think.

These jobs could include:

• Supervised lawn mowing
• Pet/house sitting
• Working at a local farm or greenhouse

Some of these jobs might be with an outside employer or you could pay your child to do them for your home.

Want to get your kids ready to go back to school without them catching on? Try giving them some of the money books on this list, now that they’re excited about money.

Since your kids have spent all summer working hard and learning about money, they’re going to be eager to spend it. What better way to spend it than back-to-school clothes and supplies! Don’t forget to do your homework and be smart about back-to school shopping.