The Best Summer Jobs for Kids: Fun Opportunities to Earn This Season

When the sun's blazing, the sprinklers are dancing, and school is officially so last season, it’s prime time to teach kids that summer fun can come with a paycheck (or at least a piggy bank clink). That’s right, we're diving into the delightful world of summer jobs for kids! Whether your kiddo is four or ten, there are fun, safe ways to sprinkle a little earning magic into their break.

Summer Jobs For Kids: Why Even Littles Can Learn to Earn

Before you picture your kindergartner with a briefcase, don’t worry—we’re talking snack-sized jobs here. The summer months are a prime time for kids to try out these jobs, as outdoor work and seasonal opportunities are plentiful. Certain jobs, like lemonade stands or pet care, are in high demand during the summer months, making it easier for kids to find opportunities and earn some extra cash. Think bite-sized tasks that help kids:

• Build confidence

• Learn responsibility

• Practice basic money skills

• Perform simple duties and tasks

• Understand the sweet satisfaction of hard work (and ice cream money!)

For parents, it’s a win-win: kids stay active and engaged, and you get fewer “I’m bored!” chants echoing through the house. These jobs often offer flexible schedules, making it easy for families to fit them in around summer activities.

Tiny Tycoons: Summer Jobs for Ages 4–7

Yep, even preschoolers can get in on the action with a little help and supervision. Here’s where they shine:

• Toy Washing Station: Set up a bubbly outdoor bin and let them scrub toys squeaky clean for a small fee (or sticker chart rewards).

• Pet Helper: With adult supervision, kids can brush the dog, refill water bowls, or “babysit” stuffed animals while older siblings walk the real ones.

• Garden Gnome-in-Training: Pulling weeds, watering flowers, or talking to the tomatoes. Bonus: they’ll feel proud seeing their work grow!

• Lemonade (or Water) Stand: Classic, simple, and oh-so-refreshing. Kids can create their own signage with crayons or create unique stand themes to attract customers for extra charm that sells.

  
  

✨ Parent Tip: Start simple. Use visual chore charts or a reward jar to make the connection between effort and earnings fun and tangible.

Money-Making Missions for Ages 8–10

As kids grow, so does their earning potential! These bigger kids can take on slightly more responsibility while still keeping the fun front and center:

• Dog Walking Assistant: If they’re strong and confident, neighborhood pups need some love—and movement. Pair up with a parent or older sibling at first.

• Craft Seller Extraordinaire: Friendship bracelets, painted rocks, or bookmarks can turn into treasure at local yard sales or family gatherings. Kids can also sell their crafts to friends or through friends' families to expand their customer base.

• Household Hero: Vacuuming, sorting laundry, washing windows—these aren’t just chores, they’re business deals in disguise.

• Snack Stand CEO: Upgrade from lemonade to popsicles, trail mix bags, or cold drinks. Bonus points for a catchy business name!

  
  

These jobs offer flexible hours, so kids can work around family plans or summer activities.

Treasure Hunts: How Kids (and Parents) Can Find the Perfect Summer Job

Searching for a summer job can feel like a real-life treasure hunt—full of clues, surprises, and maybe even a little friendly competition. For high school students and their parents, the key is knowing where to dig for those golden opportunities.

Start with What You Know: Encourage your child to think about their skills, interests, and what kind of summer job would make them excited to get out of bed. Are they a people person? Local ice cream shops, grocery stores, or community centers often hire high school students for guest services or food service worker positions. Love the outdoors? Summer camps and golf courses are always on the lookout for camp counselors, ride operators, or golf caddies—many offering flexible hours and a fun environment.

Let the Earnings Do the Teaching

Once your mini-mogul has made a few dollars (or dimes), it’s the perfect time to teach the basics of money management:

• Save a little in a clear jar or digital piggy bank like Greenlight

• Spend on something special (hello, slime kit or comic book!)

• Share with a cause they care about, like helping animals or a local food pantry

As kids get older, they might use a debit card to manage their earnings, make transactions, and learn about financial responsibility.

Encourage your child to talk with you about their money choices and what they’ve learned from their summer jobs. Building these habits early will help them as young adults when they take on bigger jobs and more financial responsibility.

📚 Bonus Resource: Want to keep the learning going? Check out Money As You Grow, a free tool from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau packed with age-appropriate tips.

Growing Generosity: Volunteering and Community Service for Kids

Summer isn’t just the perfect time for earning extra cash—it’s also a great season for giving back! Volunteering and community service are fantastic “summer jobs” for kids and high school students who want to build leadership skills, boost their resumes, and make a real difference in their neighborhoods. Participating in these activities can help youth build a strong resume for future opportunities.

Looking for ways to get started? High school students can check out online job boards or swing by local community centers to discover summer programs that match their interests. Many summer camps and community organizations are always looking for energetic helpers, whether it’s leading games, helping with guest services, or supporting summer events. These experiences can lead to future employment or help youth discover new interests. Many youth programs encourage kids to join a team and work together on community projects. Consider joining local youth programs or community service teams to gain valuable experience.

Turn Jobs Into Jokes (and Joy!)

The goal isn’t to raise Wall Street wizards overnight. It’s to have fun, build good habits, and maybe even inspire a lifelong love of learning and earning. Let your kid name their “business,” make cute signs, or wear a silly apron. (Yes, even superheroes can be snack stand CEOs.)

Encourage kids to have fun creating their own business ideas or job ads—imagine them brainstorming and designing what their own business could look like. Starting their own business or taking on summer gigs can inspire kids to think about their future career paths. These activities help kids explore the world of entrepreneurship and creativity.

🎨 Creative Corner: Use apps like Canva to design signs, menus, or “job ads” with your child. It’s graphic design meets entrepreneurship!

Final Word from the Money Tree

Summer jobs for kids aren’t about the dollars—they’re about the sense. With a little encouragement and a sprinkle of silliness, you’re helping your child grow skills that last way beyond the sunny season. So grab that lemonade and let the business adventures begin!