Kids don’t have to wait until they grow up to start earning.
With a little creativity and effort, they can turn simple ideas into real money — and feel proud doing it.
From neighborhood jobs to online gigs, there are tons of ways for kids to earn and learn valuable life lessons along the way.
One of the easiest options? Swagbucks. Kids aged 13 and above (with parental permission) can earn points by watching videos, taking surveys, or playing games, then redeem them for gift cards or PayPal cash.
🌟 Best Ways for Kids to Make Money
Whether it’s classic jobs or creative new ideas, these fun side hustles help kids learn responsibility and start building confidence early on.
Table of Contents
🍋 1. Run a Lemonade Stand
A timeless favorite — and it still works wonders!
Set up a stand on a sunny day, bring a friendly smile, and you’ll have customers lining up.
My nephew made $254.70 in under four hours, proving this old-school idea still shines.
Tips to Boost Sales:
- Offer small sample cups to attract people
- Add a combo deal with cookies or popcorn
- Place a cute sign like “Saving for a Puppy” or “College Fund”
Estimated Earnings: $50–$200 in a few hours
🎨 2. Sell Crafts or Friendship Bracelets
If you love being creative, this one’s perfect.
Make bracelets, keychains, or wristbands and sell them at school events, parks, or local fairs. Handmade items always attract attention.
Smart Tips:
- Try a “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” deal
- Create a small display board to showcase your designs
Earnings: $30–$100 a day
🗑️ 3. Start a Trash Bin Service
Offer to pull out and return trash bins for your neighbors on collection days.
It’s quick, simple, and surprisingly appreciated.
What to Do:
- Print small flyers for your street
- Offer a monthly plan (e.g., 4 weeks for $15)
Earnings: $20–$50 a week
🧩 4. Sell 3D-Printed Toys or Custom Designs
Love tech? Use a 3D printer to create name tags, mini figures, or fidget toys.
Personalized products sell fast and help kids learn digital creativity.
Tips:
- Offer themed sets for birthdays or holidays
- Customize free design files for unique requests
Earnings: $50–$150 per week
🍫 5. Sell Snacks at School (If Allowed)
Buy snacks in bulk and resell them for a profit during breaks.
Chips, candy, and small drinks are always popular.
Tips to Earn More:
- Offer snack-and-drink combo deals
- Track costs and earnings to stay organized
Earnings: $20–$100 weekly
🖍️ 6. Create Printable Coloring Books on Etsy
Artistic kids can design and sell coloring pages or digital printables on Etsy using free tools like Canva.
Once uploaded, buyers can instantly download and print them.
Pro Tips:
- Bundle 5–10 pages in one file for extra value
- Use bright covers and fun titles
Earnings: $5–$50 a day depending on sales
🏠 7. Offer Curb Address Painting
Paint or refresh house numbers on curbs — homeowners love the added visibility for deliveries.
Steps:
- Use reflective paint and stencils for a professional look
- Advertise locally with door-to-door flyers
Earnings: $10–$20 per house
🧷 8. Open a Sticker Shop on Etsy
Turn your doodles into stickers and sell them online!
Kids can use Canva or Procreate to make cute, themed designs and offer them digitally or physically.
Sales Tips:
- Use clear, colorful mockups
- Offer discounts for bulk packs
Earnings: $20–$100 per week
🎮 9. Start a YouTube Channel (Toys or Gaming)
Love games or unboxing toys?
Start a simple YouTube review channel and share your thoughts.
With time, you can earn through ads, affiliate links, or even brand deals.
Tips:
- Keep videos short and fun
- Always have a parent help manage your channel
Earnings: Starts slow, can grow to $50–$200+ monthly
🎁 10. Sell Mystery Toy Boxes
With a parent’s help, find discount toys from Walmart, bundle them into themed mystery boxes, and sell locally or on Etsy.
Add gift wrap for holidays to make them even more special.
Tips:
- Group boxes by age or theme
- Offer porch pickup or shipping options
Earnings: $50–$200 per week, especially around holidays
🛡️ Safety Tips for Young Entrepreneurs
Before starting any money-making idea, always keep safety first:
- Have an adult nearby for in-person sales or services
- Use parent-approved accounts for anything online
- Never share private info like your address or full name
- Only work with trusted people and familiar neighborhoods
- Talk through a safety plan before starting a new project
With a bit of guidance and the right precautions, kids can earn money safely and have fun doing it.
🌈 Final Thoughts
There are so many exciting and safe ways for kids to start earning.
From lemonade stands to digital downloads, each idea teaches creativity, confidence, and responsibility.
With a little help from parents and some imagination, these small side hustles can lead to big lessons — and maybe even a future business!
When you’re ready for the next step, explore how to make money as a teenager and keep growing your financial skills.
