Think Outside the Lemonade Stand

By Steffanie Lynch

Money doesn’t grow on trees you know?” We’ve all said it or something like it when our kids ask for something one too many times. Instead of reacting negatively, use the opportunity to spark their entrepreneurial spirit. While lemonade stands might work for little kids and babysitting is okay for some, many tweens and teens scoff at traditional kids’ jobs. The pay is too low or they are just not cool. With some ingenuity, there are opportunities for kids to make good money, whether it is for that one thing they long for or as a supplement to their allowance. When making suggestions, consider their interests, skills, and spare-time activities.

Here are some alternative ideas to get started.

Instead of: Babysitting, sports enthusiasts can organize a neighborhood soccer game for younger kids on Saturday mornings. Ten kids at $2 per child will net a profit of $20 for an hour of fun. Charge even more by leading games for sports themed birthday parties. Get the word out and shoot for two or three parties per weekend.

A lemonade stand, think baked goods and candy. Location is key. Look for places where people gather like sports events and community functions. Check the calendar for town parades or fairs. Just make sure they get permission from property owners.

Washing cars, wash boats, campers, or other auxiliary vehicles. A lot of people like having these grown up toys but do not like to clean them and will pay generously for someone else to do it. Charge below professional prices, and they could have a few regular customers and a lot more cash.

Pet sitting, try dog training. With some research and self-education, your son or daughter could be the next dog whisperer. It is not enough these days to just have a dog. People want their pets well trained. Take some lessons from the experts to get started. Or organize doggy play dates at the local dog park. Exercise three dogs in the time it takes to do one.

A yard sale, try selling last years hottest electronics on eBay or Craig’s list. Fifteen year old Bradley Ziegler buys discounted video games from Walmart right after Christmas and resells them on eBay for ten times the price he paid. Or shop yard sales for kids’ novelties to sell on-line. This works well for collectors who know their product well.

Sometimes all it takes is a new twist on a traditional money-making idea to turn pocket change into a substantial profit. The key with kids is to keep them interested and having fun. And don’t forget to dangle that carrot! Even if they only stick with it long enough to get the latest toy they want, the experience will teach them a lot about the value of money, the world of work, and the confidence to do it again.

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