Are you a kid looking to earn some extra cash in 2025? Or perhaps a parent wanting to teach your child about financial independence? Look no further! This comprehensive guide shares ideas on how to make money as a kid in 2025, from classic chores to cutting-edge AI-powered ventures. Whether you’re 11, 13, or 15, there’s something here for you. We’ve included real-world success stories, practical tips, and age-appropriate ideas to help you get started safely and effectively.
Why Earning Money Matters for Kids
Earning money as a kid is more than just pocket change—it’s a chance to learn financial literacy, responsibility, and entrepreneurship. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, kids can engage in many types of work with proper supervision, and these experiences build skills for life. In 2025, technology like AI and online platforms opens new doors, making it easier for kids to turn hobbies into income. From traditional tasks like babysitting to creating digital art with AI, this guide covers it all.
Getting Started: how to make money as a kid
Before you begin, here are some key steps:
- Talk to Parents: Discuss your plans with a parent or guardian to ensure safety and compliance with local laws.
- Check Age Restrictions: Many online platforms require users to be 13 or older. Parents can often set up accounts for younger kids.
- Start Small: Choose a method that matches your skills and interests, then scale up as you gain experience.
- Stay Safe Online: Never share personal information, and use secure platforms with parental oversight.
- Track Earnings: Use apps like bunq to manage your money and learn budgeting.
Now, let’s dive into the 45 ways to make money, organized by category for easy navigation. Each method includes age recommendations, potential earnings, and real-world examples where possible.
Traditional Jobs and Services (Ages 8+)
These classic methods are perfect for kids of all ages, often requiring minimal skills and offering flexible hours.
| Method | Description | Age Range | Potential Earnings | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Do Chores for Parents or Neighbors | Clean rooms, wash dishes, or organize garages. Set prices (e.g., $5 for vacuuming). | 8+ | $5-$20/task | Create a chore menu with prices to attract clients. |
| 2. Yard Work | Mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow for neighbors. | 10+ | $10-$30/job | Check local weather for seasonal opportunities. |
| 3. Babysit | Watch younger kids with parental supervision. Charge $10-$20/hour. | 12+ | $10-$20/hour | Take a babysitting course (Sittercity) for credibility. |
| 4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking | Feed pets or walk dogs for busy neighbors. Use apps like Rover. | 10+ | $5-$15/job | Start with friends’ pets to build trust. |
| 5. Run Errands | Pick up groceries or deliver small items for neighbors. | 12+ | $5-$15/task | Use a bike for eco-friendly deliveries. |
| 6. Wash Cars | Clean cars in your neighborhood. Offer interior organizing for extra. | 10+ | $10-$25/car | Bundle services for higher rates. |
| 7. Recycle Bottles and Cans | Collect recyclables and redeem at centers (Ink Recycling). | 8+ | $0.05-$0.10/item | Partner with local businesses for bulk collection. |
| 8. Help Seniors | Assist with small chores like shopping or tech setup. | 10+ | $5-$15/task | Advertise through community centers. |
| 9. Deliver Newspapers | Deliver papers in your area, if available. | 12+ | $10-$50/week | Check local publications for openings. |
| 10. Paint Fences | Offer painting or minor home improvement services. | 12+ | $20-$50/job | Ensure parental supervision for safety. |
Success Story: Meet siblings Emma (10), Lucas (8), and Sophie (6) from a small town in Oregon, who turned their love for crafts and baking into a mini-business. Inspired by their mom, Karen, they started making bookmarks with pressed flowers, each costing just $0.25 to create but sold for $3 at local craft fairs. They also baked cookies and delivered them to seniors in their neighborhood, charging $5 per batch. Their secret? High-quality creations and polite, friendly service that won the hearts of their elderly customers. In just one summer, they earned $250, which they saved for new school supplies. Emma’s big lesson? “Put love into what you make, and treat people kindly—it makes them want to support you!” (Money Prodigy)
Creative and Artistic Endeavors (Ages 10+)
Turn your creativity into cash with these artistic ventures, perfect for kids who love to create.
| Method | Description | Age Range | Potential Earnings | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11. Sell Handmade Crafts | Make jewelry, candles, or art for local markets or Etsy (13+ with parent account). | 10+ | $5-$50/item | Focus on unique designs to stand out. |
| 12. Create and Sell Artwork | Paint or draw and sell at community events or online. | 10+ | $10-$100/piece | Build a portfolio on DeviantArt. |
| 13. Design Custom T-Shirts | Use platforms like Teespring to sell custom designs. | 13+ | $5-$20/shirt | Promote on social media for more sales. |
| 14. Write and Publish E-Books | Write stories and publish via Kindle Direct Publishing (parent account needed). | 12+ | $1-$10/book | Focus on niches like kids’ adventure stories. |
| 15. Offer Photography Services | Take photos for events or portraits using a smartphone or camera. | 13+ | $20-$100/job | Practice with free editing apps like Snapseed. |
| 16. Make and Sell Music | Create beats or songs and sell on platforms like SoundCloud. | 13+ | $5-$50/track | Collaborate with other young artists. |
| 17. Voice-Over Work | Record voice-overs for videos or audiobooks on Fiverr (13+). | 13+ | $10-$50/gig | Use a good microphone for quality. |
| 18. Enter Art Competitions | Participate in contests with cash prizes. | 10+ | $50-$500/prize | Search for local and online competitions. |
| 19. Sell Handmade Jewelry | Create bracelets or necklaces and sell locally or online. | 10+ | $5-$30/item | Use affordable materials to start. |
| 20. Design Graphics or Logos | Create logos for small businesses on Canva or Fiverr. | 13+ | $10-$50/design | Offer revisions to build a reputation. |
Success Story: 14-year-old Fraser Doherty from the UK turned his love for cooking into a business by making fruit-based jam. Starting at farmers’ markets, he scaled up with a $9,000 loan and landed a deal with Waitrose, earning millions by age 20. His brand, SuperJam, now sells globally. Fraser’s tip? Start small and reinvest profits to grow. (Self Sufficient Kids)
Technology and Online Opportunities (Ages 13+)
Leverage technology and AI to earn money online, ideal for tech-savvy teens.
| Method | Description | Age Range | Potential Earnings | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21. Create YouTube or TikTok Content | Make videos on hobbies and monetize via ads or sponsorships (YouTube, TikTok). | 13+ | $100-$1,000/month | Focus on a niche like gaming or tutorials. |
| 22. Stream on Twitch | Livestream gaming and earn via donations or subscriptions (Twitch). | 13+ | $50-$500/month | Engage viewers with a consistent schedule. |
| 23. Take Online Surveys | Use platforms like Swagbucks for small earnings. | 13+ | $1-$10/hour | Combine with other methods for better income. |
| 24. Develop Simple Apps or Games | Code basic apps using Scratch and monetize via ads. | 13+ | $50-$500/project | Learn coding through JetLearn. |
| 25. Sell Digital Art with AI | Use tools like DALL·E to create and sell art. | 13+ | $5-$50/image | Sell on Etsy or Redbubble. |
| 26. Offer Virtual Assistance | Manage emails or schedules for small businesses on Fiverr. | 13+ | $10-$30/hour | Start with simple tasks to build skills. |
| 27. Manage Social Media Accounts | Create posts for local businesses using AI tools like Canva. | 13+ | $10-$50/post | Learn basic marketing skills. |
| 28. Freelance Writing | Write blog posts or reviews on Fiverr. | 13+ | $10-$50/article | Use AI tools for outlines and editing. |
| 29. Transcribe Audio/Video | Transcribe files for clients on Upwork. | 13+ | $10-$30/hour | Practice for speed and accuracy. |
| 30. Affiliate Marketing | Promote products and earn commissions via Amazon Associates. | 13+ | $10-$100/month | Build a blog or social media following. |
| 31. Create Online Courses | Teach skills like coding on Udemy. | 13+ | $50-$500/course | Use AI for course outlines. |
| 32. Test Websites or Games | Provide feedback on platforms like PlaytestCloud. | 13+ | $5-$20/test | Be thorough in your feedback. |
| 33. Sell 3D Models | Create models using Blender and sell on Turbosquid. | 13+ | $10-$100/model | Start with simple designs. |
| 34. Offer Tech Support | Help with software or app setup for neighbors or online clients. | 13+ | $10-$30/hour | Advertise locally or on Nextdoor. |
| 35. Participate in Coding Competitions | Join contests with cash prizes on HackerRank. | 13+ | $50-$1,000/prize | Practice coding regularly. |
Success Story: Imagine being 3 years old and turning your love for toys into a global sensation! That’s exactly what Ryan Kaji from Texas did when he started reviewing toys on his YouTube channel, “Ryan’s World.” With help from his parents, Ryan’s fun, kid-friendly videos grew to millions of subscribers. By 2025, now a teenager, he earns big bucks through ads, brand sponsorships, and even his own toy line. His parents ensure everything follows the rules, keeping it safe and legal. In one year, Ryan made millions, but his real win? Having fun while sharing what he loves. Ryan’s lesson? “Do what you enjoy, and with hard work, you can turn your passion into something amazing!” Source: Forbes
Educational and Tutoring Services (Ages 12+)
Share your knowledge to help others while earning money.
| Method | Description | Age Range | Potential Earnings | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36. Tutor Younger Kids | Tutor in math, reading, or other subjects. | 12+ | $10-$30/hour | Advertise at schools or libraries. |
| 37. Teach Music or Art Lessons | Offer lessons in instruments or drawing. | 12+ | $15-$40/hour | Start with friends or family. |
| 38. Online Language Tutoring | Teach languages via platforms like Italki. | 13+ | $10-$25/hour | Highlight your fluency in ads. |
| 39. Create Study Guides | Sell guides for school subjects on Teachers Pay Teachers. | 13+ | $5-$20/guide | Focus on popular subjects like math. |
| 40. Coach Sports | Teach younger kids soccer or other sports. | 12+ | $10-$30/session | Get certified for credibility. |
Success Story: A 13-year-old kid from California, Zach, sitting in his bedroom, frustrated that his school blocks his favorite gaming sites. Instead of giving up, he gets coding! Zach builds a sneaky website that looks like a study tool but lets kids play games during breaks. That site, Totally Science, becomes a hit with millions of students, earning him $660,000 a year by age 15. Fast forward to 2025, now 17, Zach takes it up a notch with an AI-powered app that solves a real-world problem, raking in $1.12 million a month! With his parents’ support to keep things legit, he’s proof that kids can dream big with tech. Zach’s lesson? “Spot a problem around you, learn a skill to fix it, and don’t be afraid to start small!” Source: (Medium)
Entrepreneurial Ventures (Ages 12+)
Start your own small business with these entrepreneurial ideas.
| Method | Description | Age Range | Potential Earnings | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41. Run a Lemonade or Treat Stand | Sell drinks or baked goods in your neighborhood. | 8+ | $20-$100/day | Check local permit requirements. |
| 42. Start a Car Wash Business | Organize a car wash service with friends. | 12+ | $50-$200/day | Offer package deals for repeat customers. |
| 43. Dropshipping | Sell products online without inventory via Shopify. | 13+ | $100-$1,000/month | Research trending products. |
| 44. Resell Items | Buy and resell clothes or toys on Mercari. | 13+ | $10-$100/item | Look for deals at thrift stores. |
| 45. Organize Kids’ Events | Plan birthday parties or playdates for a fee. | 12+ | $50-$200/event | Partner with parents for logistics. |
FAQs
How can kids make money safely?
Kids should always involve parents, especially for online activities. Use reputable platforms, avoid sharing personal information, and check local laws for work permits.
What are the best ways for an 11-year-old to make money?
Chores, yard work, pet sitting, and selling crafts are great for 11-year-olds. Online options like surveys may require parental consent.
How can a 13-year-old make money online?
Teens can try content creation, freelance writing, or selling digital art on platforms like Fiverr or Etsy.
How much can kids earn?
Earnings vary: chores might pay $5-$20 per task, while online ventures like YouTube could yield $100-$1,000/month with significant effort.
Are there legal restrictions for kids working?
Yes, the U.S. Department of Labor sets rules for young workers. Most online platforms require users to be 13+, and some jobs need permits.
How to make money fast as a kid?
Quick methods include chores, yard work, or selling items at a garage sale. Online surveys or game testing (PlaytestCloud) can also provide fast cash.
How to make money as a kid at home?
Try online options like creating YouTube videos, selling digital art, or taking surveys. Offline, you can do chores or create crafts to sell.
How to make money at 14?
Teens can freelance on Fiverr, tutor peers, or start a small business like a car wash. Check local job listings for part-time work.
Can kids use AI to make money?
Yes, kids can use AI tools like DALL·E to create art or ChatGPT for content ideas, then sell their creations online.
Conclusion
In 2025, kids have endless opportunities to make money, from traditional chores to innovative AI-driven projects. By starting small, seeking parental guidance, and exploring their passions, kids can earn cash while learning valuable skills. Whether you’re 11 or 15, there’s a method for you. Start today, and turn your ideas into income!
