11 Best Jobs for 12-Year-Olds With No Experience

Last Updated on November 10, 2023 by Robert Porter

In this article, you'll find the best jobs for 12-year-olds with no experience. As young teens take their first steps into the working world, it's essential to find roles that suit their age, abilities, and inexperience. Not every job requires a resume filled with prior roles; many are perfect for those just starting. Listed below are 11 of the best jobs for 12-year-olds with no experience.

  1. Babysitter
  2. Lawn Mower
  3. Dog Walker
  4. Lemonade Stand Operator
  5. Gardener
  6. Car Washer
  7. Household Helper
  8. Paper Deliverer
  9. Tutor for Younger Kids
  10. Craft Seller
  11. Farmhand

1. Babysitter

Babysitting is a classic job for young teens, allowing them to develop responsibility while earning money. It involves taking care of younger children, ensuring their safety, and engaging them in activities.

Skills Required

  • Patience
  • Responsibility
  • Basic first aid knowledge
  • Good communication skills.

Salary Range

Between $5 - $10 hourly.

2. Lawn Mower

Mowing lawns in the neighborhood can be a great way for 12-year-olds to earn and learn the value of hard work.

Skills Required

  • Attention to detail
  • Physical stamina
  • Time management
  • Basic knowledge of lawn care.

Salary Range

Between $7 - $15 per lawn.

3. Dog Walker

Dog walking is an enjoyable job for kids who love animals. It involves taking dogs for walks, ensuring their safety, and sometimes feeding and playing with them.

Skills Required

  • Love for animals
  • Responsibility
  • Time management
  • Good communication skills.

Salary Range

Between $5 - $10 per walk.

4. Lemonade Stand Operator

Running a lemonade stand teaches young ones about entrepreneurship, money management, and customer service.

Skills Required

  • Basic math skills
  • Creativity for stand decoration and promotion
  • Good communication skills.

Salary Range

Varies, typically $20 - $50 daily, depending on traffic and pricing.

5. Gardener

Helping neighbors with gardening tasks can be both fun and educational.

Skills Required

  • Knowledge of basic gardening tools
  • Physical stamina
  • Attention to detail.

Salary Range

Between $7 - $15 per hour.

6. Car Washer

Washing cars for neighbors or family friends is a way to earn money while enjoying outdoor activities.

Skills Required

  • Attention to detail
  • Physical stamina
  • Time management

Salary Range

Between $5 - $15 per car.

7. Household Helper

Being a helper around the house can involve various tasks, from cleaning to helping with grocery shopping.

Skills Required

  • Organizational skills
  • Basic cleaning knowledge
  • Time management

Salary Range

Between $5 - $10 hourly.

8. Paper Deliverer

Delivering newspapers in the morning or afternoon is a classic job for young teens.

Skills Required

  • Responsibility
  • Punctuality
  • Good orientation and sense of direction

Salary Range

Varies, typically $5 - $10 daily.

9. Tutor for Younger Kids

If a 12-year-old excels in a particular subject, they can offer tutoring services to younger children.

Skills Required

  • Patience
  • Good communication skills
  • Expertise in the subject being taught

Salary Range

Between $5 - $10 hourly.

10. Craft Seller

For those who are crafty, creating and selling crafts can be both fun and profitable.

Skills Required

  • Creativity
  • Basic marketing skills
  • Time management

Salary Range

Varies based on items sold and their pricing.

11. Farmhand

Helping out on a farm can provide valuable experience and a connection to nature.

Skills Required

  • Physical stamina
  • Knowledge of basic farming tasks
  • Responsibility

Salary Range

Between $5 - $10 hourly.

Are these jobs legal for 12-year-olds?

Yes. Most of these jobs are informal and don't violate child labor laws. However, always check local regulations before starting any work.

Is it safe for a 12-year-old to work?

When supervised and under the right conditions, yes. Parents should ensure the work environment is safe and the employers are trustworthy.

How can parents support their kids in these jobs?

Parents can provide transportation, offer guidance, and ensure their child's safety and well-being while working.

How can 12-year-olds find these jobs?

Networking, talking to neighbors, friends, and family, and advertising services can help secure these positions.