Finding ways to make money as a 12 year old is easier than ever, thanks to kid-friendly jobs and creative earning opportunities that don’t require experience. Whether you want to help around the house, take on small neighborhood tasks, or explore online jobs for 12 year olds, there are plenty of safe and fun options to choose from. Kids today can earn by doing chores, selling crafts, sharing their talents, or even starting simple small business ideas for 12 year olds with parental guidance.

This guide covers the best and safest ways to make money as a 12 year old, including easy jobs, beginner-friendly side hustles, and money-making ideas for kids that build confidence and independence. If you’re wondering how to make money at 12, you’ll find practical, enjoyable options you can start today.

Can a 12 Year Old Really Make Money?

Yes—there are plenty of safe and fun ways to make money as a 12 year old, as long as the work follows basic legal rules and involves proper supervision. Kids can earn through chores, neighborhood jobs, creative projects, and beginner-friendly online tasks, all designed to help them learn responsibility while having fun.

Understanding Legal Guidelines for Kids

Most countries allow 12-year-olds to earn money, but with restrictions. Kids are usually permitted to take on light, age-appropriate tasks that don’t interfere with school or safety. They cannot work in formal employment settings but can do small jobs at home or in the neighborhood.

What Kinds of Jobs Are Allowed at Age 12?

At 12, kids can do chores, pet sitting, dog walking, lawn care, crafts selling, tutoring younger children, or helping family members. These jobs are safe, flexible, and perfect for learning how to make money as a kid.

Importance of Parental Permission and Supervision

Parents play a major role in ensuring safety. They should approve every job, help communicate with neighbors or customers, and supervise any online activity. With the right guidance, 12-year-olds can earn confidently and safely.

Best Ways to Make Money as a 12 Year Old (Online & Offline)

There are countless safe, fun, and beginner-friendly ways to make money as a 12 year old, especially with a little help from parents. Below are the most popular earning ideas, described in detail so kids and parents understand exactly how each option works.

Chore-Based Earning at Home

1. Weekly Tasks

Weekly chores are one of the simplest and most reliable ways to make money as a 12 year old, because the work is done at home under parental supervision. Kids can handle tasks like cleaning their room, organizing the living area, feeding pets, washing dishes, or folding laundry. To get started, a 12-year-old can sit down with their parents and create a clear chore plan outlining what they can do each week and how consistently. Parents appreciate the help, and kids learn responsibility while earning a small allowance. Most families pay anywhere from $10 to $25 per week, depending on the number of chores and effort involved.

2. Seasonal Chores

Seasonal chores offer great opportunities to earn extra money during certain times of the year. A 12-year-old can rake leaves in the fall, shovel light snow in the winter, help plant flowers in spring, or assist with holiday decorations. These tasks are usually heavier than regular chores but still manageable with adult guidance. Kids can start by asking parents or neighbors if they need seasonal help, especially during busy weeks. Since the jobs require more effort, parents or neighbors usually pay more, giving kids a chance to earn $10 to $30 per task, depending on the size of the job.

3. Negotiating Allowance Responsibly

Learning to negotiate allowance teaches kids how work connects to earnings. A 12-year-old can talk with parents about the chores they’re willing to take on and suggest a fair weekly amount based on time and difficulty. This conversation helps kids express responsibility and understand the value of their work. Allowances typically range between $10 and $20 per week, adjusted as kids take on more responsibilities.

Neighborhood Jobs for 12 Year Olds

4. Pet Sitting

Pet sitting is a fantastic way for animal-loving kids to make money as a 12 year old. The job includes feeding pets, refreshing water bowls, playing with them, or checking in while owners are away for the day. Parents should help kids connect with trusted neighbors or family friends who need occasional help. It’s a gentle, safe introduction to responsibility, and many neighbors appreciate affordable pet care. Kids can earn $5 to $15 per visit, depending on the pet’s needs and the length of the visit.

5. Dog Walking

Dog walking is another fun, active way to make money. A 12-year-old can walk gentle, friendly dogs for short distances, giving both the dog and the child some fresh air and exercise. To begin, parents can introduce their child to neighbors who have dogs and might need help during work hours. Safety is key: kids should only walk well-trained dogs and stay close to home. Dog walking usually earns between $5 and $10 per walk, making it one of the most rewarding quick-earning jobs.

6. Lawn Mowing

Lawn mowing is a seasonal but highly profitable job for responsible kids. With supervision, a 12-year-old can mow smaller lawns, water gardens, or help keep outdoor spaces tidy. Parents should demonstrate how to use the mower safely and supervise initial attempts. Kids can offer their services to neighbors who prefer affordable help with yard work. Depending on lawn size and frequency, this job can bring in $10 to $25 per lawn, especially during summer months.

7. Car Washing

Car washing is ideal for warm weekends and doesn’t require much equipment beyond household supplies. A 12-year-old can wash, rinse, and dry a neighbor’s car, and even offer interior cleaning if permitted. Parents can help organize a small “car wash day” in the driveway or reach out to neighbors through local group chats. Because the job is straightforward and satisfying, neighbors often tip generously, allowing kids to earn $5 to $15 per car.

8. Helping Neighbors With Errands

Helping neighbors with small tasks is a simple and flexible way for 12-year-olds to earn money. Tasks may include bringing in mail, watering plants, carrying groceries, organizing small spaces, or helping older neighbors with everyday chores. Kids can start by offering help to trusted neighbors or family friends who appreciate assistance. These quick jobs usually pay $5 to $10 per task, making it a great option for beginners who want light, safe work.

Creative Ways to Earn Money

9. Selling Crafts (Bracelets, Slime, Art)

Selling handmade crafts is a fun and creative way to make money as a 12 year old. Kids can create friendship bracelets, slime, keychains, paintings, or small art pieces using inexpensive materials. Once they build a few samples, they can show neighbors, classmates, or family friends to see who’s interested. Parents can help promote the items through word of mouth or local groups. Many kids earn $2–$10 per item, depending on the product. Some young creators who want to expand later on even look for small accessories or packaging options from platforms like Spocket, but this step is optional and only for families who want help sourcing add-ons.

10. Opening a Mini Craft Stand

A mini craft stand works like a lemonade stand but with handmade items. A 12-year-old can set up a small table outside their home, at a yard sale, or during community events to display their creations. This is a great way to learn basic entrepreneurship—pricing, talking to customers, and presenting products nicely. With parental supervision, a stand can be promoted to neighbors beforehand to attract more buyers. Kids typically earn $10–$50 in a single afternoon, depending on foot traffic and variety.

11. Using Parental Supervision to Sell Online (Etsy, Instagram, etc.)

If a child enjoys crafting or designing, parents can help them open a small online shop. Websites like Etsy or Instagram allow kids to reach more people, but accounts must always be created and managed by adults. A 12-year-old can take photos of their crafts, write short descriptions, and package items at home. Selling online helps them understand marketing and customer service early. Earnings vary widely—some kids make $20–$200+ per month, depending on consistency and demand.

Online Money-Making Ideas for 12 Year Olds

12. Taking Kid-Safe Surveys (With Parent Approval)

Kid-friendly survey platforms allow children to earn gift cards or small rewards by answering simple questions about games, hobbies, or school life. Parents must create the account and review each survey for safety. This is a low-effort way to make money as a 12 year old, though earnings are modest—about $5–$20 per month depending on availability.

13. Creating YouTube Videos

YouTube gives kids a space to share their creativity—whether it’s gaming, crafts, toy reviews, art, or simple tutorials. A 12-year-old can film short videos using a phone, and parents can help edit and upload them. Once the channel meets YouTube’s requirements, it can earn money through ads and sponsorships. While it takes time to grow, kids who stay consistent may eventually earn $50–$500+ per month, depending on views and niche.

14. Starting a Kids’ Blog

Blogging is perfect for kids who love writing or storytelling. Parents can help set up a simple, free blog where the child shares book reviews, craft ideas, recipes, or helpful tips for other kids. Over time, a blog can earn money through ads, affiliate links, or sponsorships. Earnings may start small, but it teaches valuable writing and communication skills.

15. Becoming a Junior Content Creator

Brands sometimes look for kids to create simple content—photos, videos, or short reviews of kid-friendly products. With a parent managing all communication, a 12-year-old can create fun, authentic content in exchange for payment or free items. Junior creators typically earn $10–$50 per collaboration, depending on the brand and project.

16. Designing Digital Stickers or Art

Digital art is an exciting way for preteens to earn money online. Kids can design digital stickers, wallpapers, coloring pages, or simple graphics using free drawing apps. Parents can help them list the designs online where customers download them instantly. Since digital products sell repeatedly, kids can earn $5–$100+ per month depending on how many designs they create and promote.

Small Business Ideas for 12 Year Olds

17. Handmade Items

Creating and selling handmade items is one of the most rewarding ways for a 12-year-old to begin a small business. They can make bracelets, bookmarks, slime, candles, keychains, or simple artwork using affordable craft supplies. Kids can sell these items to neighbors, classmates, or at community events. Parents can help with pricing, packaging, and promoting the items locally. Many young creators earn $20–$100 per month, depending on how often they make and sell products.

18. Snack Stands or Lemonade Stands

A lemonade stand or snack stand is a classic business model and an excellent introduction to entrepreneurship. A 12-year-old can set up a small table in the neighborhood or at community gatherings to sell lemonade, cookies, popcorn, or homemade treats. They learn about pricing, customer interaction, and managing supplies. With supervision and a good location, kids can make anywhere from $10 to $50 in a single afternoon.

19. Tutoring Younger Kids

If a child excels in subjects like math, reading, science, or spelling, they can tutor younger kids in the neighborhood. This not only helps them make money as a 12 year old, but also strengthens their own understanding. Parents can help arrange short sessions after school or on weekends. Tutoring sessions often earn $5–$15 per hour, making it one of the most profitable kid-friendly businesses.

20. Tech Help for Older Adults

Many seniors appreciate help with simple tech tasks—setting up phones, organizing photos, learning apps, or troubleshooting basic computer issues. A tech-savvy 12-year-old can offer these services with a parent nearby. This builds patience and communication skills while providing meaningful support to the community. Kids can earn $5–$20 per session, depending on the task.

21. Kid-Friendly Products They Can Create

Children can make and sell kid-friendly products such as bookmarks, stickers, coloring sheets, homemade toys, or decorated notebooks. These products are inexpensive to make and fun for other kids to buy. Parents can help kids package their items and promote them at school events, local fairs, or small markets. Earnings vary but often reach $20–$75 per month, depending on demand.

Fun, Low-Effort Money-Making Ideas for 12 Year Olds

22. Reviewing Toys or Books Online

If a child loves reading or playing with toys, they can turn their opinions into content. With a parent’s help, they can post short reviews on YouTube, TikTok, or a kids’ blog. These reviews help other kids discover new books or games while allowing the creator to slowly build an audience. Over time, as views grow, kids can earn through ad revenue, affiliate links, or sponsorships. Even beginners can start earning small amounts at first, eventually growing toward meaningful monthly income with consistency.

23. Selling Old Items With Parent Help

Kids often have gently used toys, books, clothes, or games they no longer need. With parental supervision, they can sort through their belongings and select items suitable for selling. Parents can help list these items on safe marketplaces or organize a small yard sale. This teaches kids how to price items, communicate respectfully with buyers, and understand the value of recycling. Depending on the items sold, kids may earn $10–$50 in a day, making it a low-effort but rewarding way to earn money.

24. Hosting Small Workshops for Younger Kids

A 12-year-old who has a special skill—drawing, crafting, basic sports, reading, or even simple baking—can host mini workshops for younger children. These sessions can take place in the neighborhood, at a community center, or at home with parent supervision. Kids learn leadership while younger children enjoy learning something new. Workshops can be short, fun, and easy to organize. Even small groups can bring in $5–$10 per child, making it an enjoyable and meaningful way to earn.

Skills Kids Can Build While Earning Money

Earning money at a young age does more than help kids buy things they want—it teaches valuable life skills they’ll use forever. When a child learns how to make money as a 12 year old, they naturally develop character, confidence, and real-world abilities that set the foundation for future success.

Responsibility

Taking on small jobs—whether chores, pet sitting, or crafting—teaches kids to follow through on commitments. They learn the importance of showing up on time, completing tasks properly, and being dependable. This sense of responsibility builds maturity and trust.

Communication

Many earning activities require kids to talk with neighbors, family friends, or other children. They learn how to ask questions, clarify instructions, express ideas politely, and respond respectfully. These communication skills help them in school, friendships, and future jobs.

Creativity

Selling crafts, making videos, or hosting workshops encourages kids to think creatively. Whether they’re designing a bracelet, filming a review, or decorating a lemonade stand, creativity becomes a natural part of the earning process. It boosts imagination and problem-solving skills.

Time Management

Balancing school, hobbies, and small jobs teaches kids how to plan their time wisely. They learn how long tasks take, how to prioritize, and how to manage their schedules without feeling overwhelmed. Time management is one of the most valuable skills they can build early.

Basic Entrepreneurship

Starting any small money-making activity introduces kids to entrepreneurship. They learn how to price their work, handle simple finances, talk to customers, deliver value, and understand profit. These early lessons help them think like young entrepreneurs and feel confident when exploring bigger ideas later on.

How to Stay Safe While Making Money as a Kid

Safety should always come first when a child wants to make money as a 12 year old. Even small jobs require thoughtful guidelines so kids stay protected while learning and earning. Understanding how to stay safe online, around strangers, and while handling money ensures a positive experience for both kids and parents.

Online Safety Rules

If a 12-year-old is earning money online—through videos, crafts, tutoring, or reviews—parents must help manage accounts, approve messages, and monitor interactions. Kids should never share personal details like their full name, school, address, or phone number. Using private accounts or parent-managed profiles ensures they stay safe while exploring online earning opportunities.

Stranger Safety

For neighborhood jobs like pet sitting, dog walking, or car washing, kids should only work with people the family knows and trusts. Parents should handle introductions, confirm the job details, and check the environment before the child begins. Kids should never go inside a stranger’s home without a parent present.

Money-Handling Basics

Teaching children how to handle cash properly builds early financial confidence. Parents can help kids keep money in a safe place, track earnings in a notebook or app, and understand the difference between saving, spending, and giving. Kids should avoid carrying large amounts of cash or discussing their earnings publicly.

Parent Involvement

Parents play a central role in supervising all earning activities. This includes approving jobs, reviewing online tasks, helping with payments, and being nearby during neighborhood work. Parental guidance ensures that kids stay safe, supported, and confident every step of the way.

How Parents Can Support Their 12-Year-Old in Earning Money

Parents are the backbone of a child’s earning journey. With the right support, kids not only learn how to make money as a 12 year old, but also grow responsible, independent, and financially aware.

Helping Them Choose Safe Opportunities

Not all jobs are appropriate for kids. Parents can help by selecting age-friendly tasks such as pet care, tutoring, crafting, or reviewing books. This ensures kids start with low-risk, high-learning opportunities.

Setting Boundaries

Healthy boundaries help kids feel secure. Parents can limit working hours, approve who their child works with, and define which tasks are acceptable. Boundaries prevent stress and keep earning fun, not overwhelming.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

Different regions have different rules for minors. Parents should check basic guidelines to make sure the chosen work is allowed for a 12-year-old—especially for public jobs, online earning, or paid services.

Teaching Basic Financial Literacy

Earning money is only half the journey. Parents can teach kids how to save, budget, and track spending. Simple tools—like jars or kid-friendly budgeting apps—help young earners build strong money habits early.

What to Avoid When Trying to Make Money at 12

While there are many safe ways for kids to earn, some activities are risky, inappropriate, or against child labor rules. Knowing what to avoid keeps the earning journey positive and protective.

Scams

Kids are often targeted by fake “get paid fast” offers, especially online. Parents should help identify real opportunities versus scams promising unrealistic earnings or asking for money upfront.

Unsafe Work

Jobs involving heavy lifting, dangerous tools, unsupervised travel, or risky environments should be avoided. A 12-year-old should only take on tasks that match their physical ability and maturity.

Jobs Not Allowed for Minors

Laws typically prevent kids from working in retail stores, restaurants, factories, or any formal employment. Minors cannot be hired for roles that require contracts or scheduled shifts. Sticking to kid-friendly tasks—like chores, crafts, tutoring, or neighborhood help—is safest.

High-Risk Online Activities

Children should not join adult freelancing sites, accept private messages from strangers, or participate in online tasks that expose personal information. Any online earning must be parent-supervised and age-appropriate.

Final Thoughts: Encouraging Kids to Earn Money the Smart Way

Learning how to make money as a 12 year old helps kids build confidence early by showing them they’re capable of achieving real goals. It also teaches the value of money, patience, and smart decision-making—skills that stay with them for life. Encouraging creativity and independence allows kids to explore their strengths through fun, age-appropriate earning opportunities. And for families who enjoy exploring simple entrepreneurship together, tools like Spocket can offer helpful guidance when introducing kids to safe, parent-supported ecommerce ideas. With the right support, kids can learn, grow, and earn in meaningful ways.