Summer break is right around the corner, and we all know how expensive that can be for us parents. From child care costs to an increase in the grocery bill, summer break has proven to be the perfect opportunity to cough up some extra coins.
However, it is also a great opportunity to collect some extra coins. As a matter of fact, even your children can earn some extra money over the summer.
Yep, the kiddos can build their savings, and help out with some of the summer expenses by earning an income for themselves. And if you are wondering how to make this happen, keep reading for some ideas.
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Many parents are looking for babysitters throughout the summer. For older kids, this work can be quite lucrative. Simply post an ad, or share your child’s services with your network to get started.
2. Start your own business
When my daughter was 6-years-old, she discovered that she enjoyed (and was actually really great at) creating candy bouquets. So she turned that into a little summer hustle. If your child has a special skill or talent, look into how they can turn it into a part-time business for the summer. I highly recommend checking out this Simple Startup Challenge for kids to get their summer business up and running.
3. Sell your old stuff
Parents… you will definitely appreciate this. Not only do you get to de-clutter, but your child can make some extra money in the process. My kids spend some time over the summer going through their old clothes and toys to pick out items worthy of selling on Poshmark or at local resale shops. Our community also does a summer yard sale, so we will sell items during that event as well.
4. Recycle
Children can collect plastic bottles to recycle at their local grocery store. If they want to take this a step up, they can actually offer a recycling service to friends and family members who do not have a recycle bin pick-up service in their neighborhood.
5. Start an Ice Cream or Float Stand
Yum! Instead of the traditional lemonade stand, children can sell scoops of ice cream or even yummy floats. For just a few bucks, they can get this stand up and running, and the payout can be pretty nice.
6. Wash Cars
Washing cars can actually be pretty fun for kids. What’s even better is that they can make money doing it. Really, all you need is a good garden hose connected to a water supply and/or some sturdy buckets filled with soapy water. And don’t forget the sponges and washcloths!
7. Walk Dogs
There are many people actively looking for someone to walk their dogs for them. This is another really great business idea (and great exercise) for older children.
8. Be a Mom Assistant
Know a Mom who could use an extra bit of help during the day? Is your child the perfect little helper? If so, they may want to consider becoming a Mom (or Dad) Assistant for the summer.
9. Become a Coach’s Assistant
If your little athlete likes to lead other children in a particular sport, they may enjoy being a Coach’s Assistant part-time over the summer.
10. Water Plants
Help a neighbor keep their garden intact by offering a plant watering service. This can be a simple way to earn a few extra dollars each week.
11. Social Media Management
If you have a child that is a social media guru, they may want to consider managing social media accounts for small businesses for a few extra bucks over the summer.
12. Sell Glow Toys at Fourth of July Events
This is a fun way for children to use the holidays as an opportunity to rake in some cash. Purchase a few inexpensive glow toys in bulk and sell them at Fourth of July events.
We would love for you to share some of your favorite ways for children to earn some extra cash over the summer. Please feel free to share in the comments.
Briana Marie is a mental health and financial literacy advocate, and founder of Major League Mommy. In her spare time, Briana enjoys yoga, travel, and spending time with her Husband and two daughters.
*Post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure can be viewed here. 
