Kids can learn important lessons outside of the classroom, and summer is a great time to reinforce learning in the areas of finance and managing money. In between trips to the pool or the movies, family vacations and sports camps, consider building in the opportunity for summer jobs.
Here is a guideline that will help you with suggestions for the best summer jobs by age group.
Junior High and Middle School Age
Outside work around the home. Children this age love to be outside, so combine this love with a job doing exterior home work. There are a number of chores that can be done around the house, and neighbors will gladly pay for the service. From mowing the lawn, to cleaning out the garage, young entrepreneurs can earn extra cash.
Summer Tutoring. Good students can offer their services to younger kids for summer tutoring and remedial help. Just ask parents, teachers, neighbors, the people at church, whomever you come across, if they know anyone who needs a tutor.
Pet Sitting. Neighbors and friends who are going on vacation may just need a reliable young person to feed the cats and walk the dogs. Have them market their services by committing to also spend quality time with the pets, a service that is sure to win over the customers.
Cleaning Service. If kids don’t mind the work, they can make good money, have regular clients and have a good chance of making their own schedule. Most families just need a little light cleaning during the summer just to keep their homes maintained, and they would rather pay someone reliable than do it themselves. For safety reasons, be very selective with clients (only the families that you know), work in pairs, or have a trusted adult in the home during the service.
Kids Camp. High school aged students can earn some good money babysitting during the summer when school is out but parents are working. It saves the parents time and money compared to a traditional camp. They will need a good plan of activities to keep the kids happy. Some parents are also looking for babysitters who will come along on vacation, all expenses paid, and will pay a good salary for the service.
Ticketing Staff. Local theme parks and movie theaters all have an increased need for ticketing staff in the summer. Taking tickets is an easy way for older kids to earn some money, while getting some nice perks such as free admission and free movies. Plus, because of the typical operating times, workers usually don’t have to report in until late morning or early afternoon, a bonus for most kids of this age.
Barista at a Coffee Shop. Coffee shop workers generally make better wages than typical restaurant staff, and they don’t have to reply on tips, although sometimes they still receive them. The pace is generally more manageable, too, and they may enjoy getting free coffee every day.
Retail. There are so many opportunities for temporary summer work in retail. Besides needing cashiers and people on the floor, many retail stores are also looking to hire people to do stock and inventory during the summer months, as they prepare for the upcoming holiday season.