Jobs for Teens 12–15: Smart and Safe Ways to Start Earning Early

By

Are you a teen between the ages of 12 and 15 looking for ways to earn some extra cash or learn valuable life skills?

Or are you a parent searching for age-appropriate job ideas for your preteen or early teen? Good news—there are plenty of safe, fun, and rewarding job opportunities out there for younger teens.

Even though teens under 16 have limited options due to labor laws, there are still great ways to build experience, earn money, and gain responsibility.

This guide shares some of the best jobs for teens ages 12 to 15, both online and offline.

Why Should Teens 12–15 Start Working?

Before diving into job ideas, let’s look at a few reasons why it’s great for younger teens to start working:

  • Learn responsibility and time management

  • Develop real-world skills like communication, problem-solving, and money management

  • Save up for goals like a new phone, video games, or future school trips

  • Explore future interests or career paths

  • Gain independence in a safe, structured way

Now let’s jump into some creative and age-appropriate jobs!

1. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Love animals? Offer to walk dogs or pet sit for neighbors or family friends. It’s a great way to earn money and bond with pets.

📝 Tip: Always meet the pets with their owner first and walk dogs in familiar, safe areas.

2. Yard Work or Gardening Help

Seasonal jobs like raking leaves, pulling weeds, watering plants, or mowing small lawns can be perfect for active teens.

💡 Bonus: Create flyers or ask your parents to post your services in local Facebook groups.

3. Babysitting

Teens 13+ can often start babysitting with a parent’s permission. If you love working with kids, this is a fun and responsible way to earn money.

✅ Take a babysitting course (like Red Cross Babysitting Certification) to build trust and learn safety tips.

4. Household Chores for a Fee

Set up a system at home to earn money by doing extra chores. Things like cleaning the garage, organizing the pantry, or washing the car could earn you some extra allowance.

💰 Talk to your parents about setting “bonus” chores outside your normal responsibilities.

5. Create and Sell Crafts or Art

Are you creative? Try making jewelry, paintings, digital art, or handmade crafts. You can sell them at school fairs, to neighbors, or even with help on Etsy.

📦 Use platforms like Etsy (with a parent’s account) or local community markets to sell your items.

6. Start a YouTube or TikTok Channel

If you enjoy creating videos, consider starting a family-friendly YouTube or TikTok account. Share your hobbies, tutorials, or fun reviews.

⚠️ Always get parental permission, and have an adult supervise your content and interactions online.

7. Car Washing Service

Offer a basic car wash and interior vacuum service in your neighborhood. It’s a great weekend job for sunny days.

🪣 All you need is water, soap, a sponge, and towels—simple tools to start your business.

8. Online Surveys and Reviews (With Supervision)

Some survey sites allow teens 13+ to sign up with parental permission and complete easy surveys for rewards or gift cards.

🔐 Use platforms like Swagbucks, MyPoints, or Survey Junkie—but always check the age requirements and use parental supervision.

9. Sell Baked Goods

If you love baking, make cookies, brownies, or cupcakes, and sell them at local events or to neighbors (with help from a parent).

🍪 Try “order sheets” to take custom requests and build regular customers.

10. Teach Tech Skills to Adults

Are you good at using phones, tablets, or apps? Offer to teach grandparents or neighbors how to use social media or email.

🧠 You’d be surprised how valuable your tech knowledge is to someone who didn’t grow up with it!

Also Check: How to Make Money as a Kid

Safety Tips for Working Teens 12–15

While many jobs are safe, it’s important to take a few precautions:

  • Always get parental permission before starting any job

  • Never go to a stranger’s home alone—stick to people your family knows

  • Don’t share personal information online

  • Keep communication open with your parents or guardians

  • If working online, parents should help set up accounts and supervise activities

How Much Can a Teen 12–15 Earn?

Earnings vary depending on the job, but here’s a general idea:

Job Type Expected Pay
Dog walking $5–$15 per walk
Babysitting $8–$12 per hour
Lawn care $10–$25 per job
Selling crafts $5–$50+ per item
Car washing $10–$20 per car
Online surveys $0.50–$5 per survey

Best Tools and Products for Teen Jobs

Here are some helpful tools you can recommend to parents or teens to get started (affiliate-friendly):

Final Thoughts

Being between 12 and 15 doesn’t mean you have to wait to earn money or explore your interests.

From pet sitting to crafting and teaching tech skills, there are many safe and fun jobs for teens aged 12 to 15.

With a bit of creativity and support from adults, you can build confidence, gain skills, and start your journey into the world of work!

FAQs: Jobs for Teens 12–15

Q1: Can a 13-year-old get a real job?

A: Not a traditional job, but yes! Many side gigs, like babysitting or yard work, are great for 13-year-olds.

Q2: Is it legal for 12–15-year-olds to earn money?

A: Yes, as long as it’s in non-hazardous and age-appropriate work. Most are informal, local, or family-supervised.

Q3: How can teens promote their services?

A: Flyers, word-of-mouth, neighborhood bulletin boards, and parent-supervised social media are great options.

Q4: How many hours can a teen work?

A: For younger teens, a few hours per week is ideal to balance school, rest, and fun.

Q5: What if I don’t know where to start?

A: Start with your hobbies! Think about what you enjoy doing—pets, kids, crafts—and build from there.

Related Posts

Scroll to Top