15 Real (and Fun) Ways for Kids to Make Money in 2025

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 Ever wanted to earn your own money before turning 18? Maybe you want to buy that new gaming headset, save for a bike, or just stop asking your parents for cash. I’ve been there — washing cars in my neighborhood for $5 a pop, thinking I was basically Jeff Bezos.

The truth is, kids today have more ways than ever to earn money — online and offline. Whether you’re 8 or 17, this guide will show you 15 fun, safe, and smart ways to make money, plus how to do it responsibly (and legally).

👶 For Younger Kids: Earning Starts at Home

If you’re under 13, you probably can’t get a “real” job yet — but that doesn’t mean you can’t start building your hustle mindset. These are great ways to start.

1. Do Chores and Odd Jobs

Start small! Clean your room? $1. Wash the dishes? $2. Mow the lawn? Maybe $10.
Parents love rewarding initiative — and it teaches you how effort = earnings.
💡 Pro tip: Set up a “family rate card.” Assign prices to tasks so everyone’s clear on what you’ll earn per job.

2. Babysitting

If you’re good with kids (and responsible), babysitting can be gold. Many parents are happy to pay $10–$20 per hour for a sitter they trust.

✅ Example: 13-year-old Lily from Ohio started babysitting for neighbors. She used her earnings to buy art supplies and now sells her drawings online. Double income win!

3. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Love animals? Walk dogs, feed cats, or watch pets while owners are away. It’s fun, and you’ll get exercise too.
Start by telling neighbors and family friends — or ask your parents to help you post about it in your community Facebook group.

4. Sell Stuff You Don’t Use

Got old toys, books, or clothes? Sell them! You can host a mini yard sale or have your parents help you list items on Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp (ages 16+).

✅ Example: A 12-year-old in Texas earned $200 selling Lego sets he no longer used. He reinvested in new ones — and started a mini “Lego flipping” business!

5. Sell Arts & Crafts

If you’re creative, make bracelets, drawings, slime, or T-shirts and sell them at school events (with permission) or local games.
Online platforms like Etsy allow kids 13+ to sell under a parent’s account.

🖌️ Example: Emma, 14, made beaded bracelets for her soccer team. Within weeks, parents and other teams started ordering too.

6. Lemonade or Hot Cocoa Stand

The classic never fails! Lemonade in summer, hot cocoa in winter. Add a twist — like sparkling lemonade or marshmallow cocoa — and you’ll sell out fast.
Check local rules, though — some cities require a small permit.

7. Trash Can Cleaning (Yes, Really!)

Trash cans get gross. Offer to clean your neighbors’ bins for $10–$20 each.
All you need: soap, gloves, and a hose. Many kids even upgrade to a pressure washer once they start making money.

8. Teach a Skill

Are you good at drawing, soccer, or Roblox building? Teach other kids!
You can offer short weekend lessons for $10–$15 each. Teaching boosts confidence — and your wallet.

👩‍💻 For Teens: Turning Skills into Side Hustles

Once you hit 13, the internet becomes your business playground. Here are ways to make real money online (and gain skills for your future career).

9. Find Local Gigs on Nextdoor

Apps like Nextdoor or TaskRabbit (with adult help) let you offer services like pet sitting, babysitting, or yard work in your neighborhood. It’s easy, local, and safe with parental guidance.

10. Freelance Online

If you can design, write, edit, or even make PowerPoints — people will pay for it.
Sites like Fiverr and Upwork let teens 13+ (with parental consent) start freelancing.

🧠 Example: 15-year-old Maya started making logos on Fiverr. She now earns $200 a month — while still in high school!

11. Tutor Classmates

If you’re great at math, science, or English, help others catch up.
Charge $10–$15 an hour. You can meet in libraries, schools, or online via Zoom. Ask teachers to help spread the word.

12. Part-Time or Family Jobs

Kids under 16 can still work for family businesses or do community gigs like babysitting, lawn mowing, or grocery bagging.

Look around — many local shops hire teens for summer help. Ask politely, and you might be surprised who says yes.

🌐 For Creative Kids: Online Earning Ideas

These are perfect for older teens who love creating, streaming, or storytelling.

13. Grow a Social Media Channel

Whether it’s dancing on TikTok, reviewing toys on YouTube, or making funny skits on Instagram — creative kids are earning followers and money.

Just remember: consistency matters more than virality. Build slowly, stay authentic, and avoid copying others.

✅ Example: Ryan Kaji (of “Ryan’s World”) started reviewing toys at age 4 — now his brand earns millions per year. Start small, dream big.

14. Stream on Twitch

If you love gaming, Twitch can pay off. You can earn through donations, sponsorships, or affiliate links.
Just remember — it’s not instant money. Stream because you love it first; the audience (and income) will follow.

15. Self-Publish a Book

Got stories or poems? Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) lets you publish eBooks, paperbacks, or comics — with your parent’s help.

🖋️ Example: A 16-year-old named Jason wrote a short fantasy novel and sold 300 copies. Not bad for a first try!

🧾 Comparison Table: Quick Overview of Top Money Ideas

Age Range	Best Option	Average Pay	Needs Adult Help	Fun Level 🎉
8–12	Chores, Lemonade Stand	$5–$20/hr	✅ Yes	⭐⭐⭐⭐
13–15	Babysitting, Tutoring	$10–$25/hr	⚙️ Some	⭐⭐⭐⭐
15–17	Freelancing, YouTube	$50–$200+/mo	⚙️ Minimal	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

💡Real-World Tips for Kid Entrepreneur

1. Stay Safe Online: Always ask a parent before joining apps or meeting new clients.

2. Keep Records: Track your earnings in a notebook — you’re learning real money management.

3. Save Smart: Consider opening a custodial Roth IRA (yes, kids can!). Your future self will thank you.

4. Learn as You Earn: Watch finance channels like The Financial Diet or NerdWallet for simple money advice.

🏁 Final Thoughts: The Money Lesson That Lasts Forever

Making money as a kid isn’t just about cash — it’s about learning how work, time, and creativity connect. Every small job builds habits that lead to bigger opportunities later.

Talk to your parents, teachers, or mentors for help. They can guide you, keep you safe, and maybe even become your first customers.

So go ahead — pick one of these ideas, make a plan, and get started today. You’ll be amazed at how empowering it feels to earn your own money.

✨ Ready to Start?

Which money idea are you most excited to try — selling crafts, tutoring, or creating content?
💬 Share your answer in the comments below or subscribe for more fun money guides for young entrepreneurs!