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Do you remember the first job you ever had?

If you could share your answer, we are willing to guess that most people would more than likely say that their first job was during the summer when they were a kid. Although summer looks a little bit different for children this year, it is never to early or too late to teach children the importance of earning and saving money. For many, a summer job baby-sitting or working at the local ice cream shop is a right of passage; an opportunity for children to branch out and earn their own money and maybe even save up to buy something they’ve always wanted. A summer job, no matter how big or small, teaches kids important skills they can use later in life to excel at whatever career or life path they decide to take.

Okay, now that you’re on board with helping your child find a job for the summer, where do you begin? Don’t worry, we’re here to share some ideas for jobs kids of all ages can participate in this summer to learn the value of a dollar and maybe even have some fun while doing it!

Younger Children

Open a Lemonade Stand- This is a classic that kids at any age can do. Not only can this job teach your child entrepreneurial skills, it is a simple and cost-effective option.

Doing Chores Around the House- This is a great way for children and parents to set up a chore chart and get a cleaning schedule going. Cleaning gives kids the opportunity to take on some responsibility around your home.

Car Wash- Even if you just have your children was your own car, a car wash is another way for children to take charge and complete a task while also earning money at the same time.

Mother’s Helper- Your child may not be old enough to walk dogs or mow lawns, but it doesn’t mean they are too young to help with whatever task you may need help completing. Kids can learn more about what you do, while also earning a buck or two!

Pre-teens and Teenagers

Lawn Mowing- If your teen knows how to properly mow lawns, this could be a great way for them to earn some money this summer; it’s a job that virtually every person needs done. Have them start by asking family, friends, and neighbors if they need their grass mowed and keep growing from there. Not only will your child get paid, they will also develop communication skills.

Selling Arts and Crafts- Does your child have a knack for crafts? If so, selling their art pieces online or at in-person venues could help them earn a dollar for doing something they love.

Babysitting/Dog sitting- Another classic, this is a job for teens that are particularly good with babies, toddlers, and/or dogs. This job also requires the most amount of responsibility and is a great opportunity for teens to learn problem solving skills.

Tutor- If your child excels at any area of school, helping their fellow classmates or children younger than them out over the summer could be a great way to earn money and to develop people skills!

After your child has racked up a few bucks this summer, you might want to help guide them through the process of spending and saving their money wisely. If they don’t have one already, open a youth savings account with Fairmont FCU so they can start growing and investing in their savings. Our youth savings account is for children below the age of 17 and is the perfect way to teach children about money and the banking process.  

If your child is wanting to save up for something big or just wants to have a goal for adding to their savings, try one of our fun and creative savings challenges.  Our savings challenges are designed to help children understand that challenging themselves to save their hard-earned money is an effective way to build a savings that will grow with them.

Sources:

https://www.thelogicofmoney.com/kids-make-money/

https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0612/10-great-summer-jobs-for-teens.aspx