Looking for ways to keep your kids busy and help them learn real-world skills this summer? Whether your child is saving up for a special toy, learning about entrepreneurship, or just wants to try something new, summer is the perfect time to get creative with earning money. These 18 fun and age-appropriate ideas are designed especially for kids ages 7 to 12—easy to start, low-cost, and full of hands-on learning.

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How Can Making Money Help Kids?

  • Builds responsibility – Kids learn to follow through on tasks and manage simple jobs.

  • Teaches time management – They plan ahead and balance their time to complete their work.

  • Introduces financial skills – Kids start to understand saving, spending, and budgeting.

  • Encourages goal setting – Earning money motivates kids to set and reach personal goals.

  • Boosts confidence – Successfully completing tasks helps kids feel capable and proud.

  • Develops problem-solving skills – They learn to handle challenges and think creatively.

  • Promotes independence – Kids take initiative and learn what it means to earn their own money.

  • Creates opportunities to give – Making money also teaches generosity and the value of helping others.

18 Creative Was for Kids to Make Money

Looking for fun and doable ways your child can earn a little cash this summer? These creative money-making ideas are perfect for kids who want to try something new, learn responsibility, and build confidence—all while having fun!

1. Lemonade or Snack Stand

Sell lemonade, cookies, popsicles, or other simple treats in your driveway or at a community event. Use this Lemonade stand template to make it efficient and easy.

2. Pet Helper

Offer to walk dogs, feed pets, or help with pet care while neighbors are away on vacation.

3. Chore Service

Do small jobs like watering plants, bringing in mail, sweeping porches, or helping with trash bins.

4. Gardening Helper

Help neighbors pull weeds, water gardens, or harvest fruits and vegetables. If you feel comfortable, you can mow their lawn.

5. Toy or Clothing Resale

Clean out your closet and toys, and sell gently used items at a yard sale or online with a parent’s help. You could also take them into Kid to Kid or other resell shops.

6. Craft or Art Stand

Create and sell homemade items like friendship bracelets, painted rocks, or simple jewelry.

_painted rocks

7. Bookmarks & Custom Cards

Design handmade bookmarks or greeting cards to sell at events, family gatherings, or to neighbors.

8. Homemade Dog Treats

Make and package simple dog treats to sell to friends and family with pets.

9. Kids Camp or Activity Hour

Host a mini camp for younger siblings or neighbors with crafts, games, and snacks.

10. Puzzle and Game Rental Box

Set up a small rental box where neighbors can borrow puzzles or board games for a fee.

11. Bake Sale Table

Sell homemade baked goods like brownies, muffins, or cupcakes at a family or neighborhood sale.

12. Photo Booth for Parties

Create a simple photo booth setup and offer to take fun party pictures for a small fee.

13. Wash Cars, Bicycles or Scooters

Set up a small wash station and clean bikes, cars, and scooters for neighborhood kids and families.

14. Host a Storytime or Puppet Show

Put on a short story time or puppet show for little kids and charge a small entry fee.

15. Sell Popsicles or Freeze Pops

Stock up on inexpensive freeze pops and sell them to friends during hot days in the neighborhood.

16. Sidewalk Chalk Art for Hire

Offer to decorate driveways with custom chalk art for birthdays or summer events.

17. Recycled Craft Kits

Make simple craft kits using recycled materials (toilet paper rolls, scrap paper, etc.) and sell them to friends.

18. Bubble Station at the Park

Bring a big tub of bubble solution, wands, and offer kids unlimited bubbles for a small fee at local gatherings (with permission).

What Will You Do to Make Some Extra Cash?

Teaching kids how to earn money doesn’t have to be complicated—it can be fun, empowering, and even part of your summer routine. From selling lemonade to offering pet care or creating handmade crafts, there are plenty of simple ways for kids to develop confidence and responsibility while making a little extra cash. Pick a few favorites from this list and help your child turn their summer energy into something rewarding and memorable!