BY ELISABETH HALL, FINIANCIAL PROFESSIONAL
Summer camps and amusement parks are certainly fun activities for kids to do during their vacations. But, they also tend to be quite expensive for the parents. How about finding unique opportunities for your children to learn about money while earning some along the way? Summer jobs aren’t just for the sixteen and over crowd – kids of all ages can find ways to earn a little extra cash. Earning and spending wisely are important skills for our children to learn, so why not start teaching them early? Here are some ways your youngsters can earn a few bucks of their own during their summer vacations.
Pet Sitting
Taking care of a neighbor’s dog or cat while the owners are away is a great way for kids to earn a little extra money. Many people take vacations over the summer, and end up spending hundreds of dollars on dog kenneling. Leaving their pet in the hands of a responsible
child for only dollars a day is a perfect solution. Your child not only earns some money, but also learns about the importance of being reliable and attentive. Setting out food, changing the water, and walking a pet are all essential parts of being a good sitter. Plus, if your child does a good job, he or she will likely get referrals to other neighbors. This starts the process of building a small business built on values like honesty and trustworthiness – a win-win situation!
Selling Hand Made Items Online
Getting in touch with one’s artistic side is a great activity for young children to get involved in over the summer. Children love making glass bead necklaces or weaving potholders. Teaching children how to crochet or complete needlework can turn not only into something profitable, but also a great bonding opportunity between child and parent.
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Two popular online marketplaces are Ebay and Etsy. While most of us are familiar with the format of Ebay, Etsy is actually the premier site for selling and buying all things handmade. Both Ebay and Etsy require that users under the age of 18 “must be under the constant supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age.” Therefore, parents can manage the account for the child, and assist with posting new items and the buying and selling process.
Outdoor Gardening
While mowing the neighbor’s yard might be a little beyond a young child’s capability, there are many other outdoor jobs that children can assist others with completing. Many adults find the process of weeding a garden or flowerbed to be tedious work. Handing this type of job over to a child is likely worth a few dollars. The same goes for watering flowers or vegetable gardens. Many adults would happily hand over the responsibility of carrying watering cans to a willing child.
Earn and Learn This Summer
Helping your children find unique ways to earn money over the summer can be a valuable lesson. Not only does your wallet stay closed a few more times, but a job also teaches children about the value of money and responsibility. Take the time this summer to introduce your kids to these important skills. You’ll be giving them money management techniques that will last a lifetime.
Elisabeth A. Hall is a Financial Professional with Alliance Advisory Group in Jamestown, NY. She serves as Vice President of the local National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors for Chautauqua County and is a member of the Million Dollar Round Table. Mrs. Hall can be reached by calling (716) 483-1531 or via email at elisabeth_hall@glic.com.