Are you a 6th grader looking for ways to earn money or a parent helping your child take their first steps toward financial independence? Preteens are at the perfect age to start learning about responsibility, time management, and the value of hard work through age-appropriate jobs. Here’s a list of 10 fun and safe jobs for 6th graders that are easy to start and perfect for building life skills.
1. Pet Sitting
What It Involves: Feeding, walking, or playing with pets while the owners are away.
Why It’s Great: Preteens love animals, and this is a fun way to earn money while spending time with furry friends.
2. Lawn Mowing
What It Involves: Mowing lawns or raking leaves for neighbors.
Why It’s Great: A great way to stay active while helping others. Just be sure to use safety equipment and get guidance for handling tools.
3. Babysitting (With an Adult Nearby)
What It Involves: Watching younger kids while parents are home or nearby.
Why It’s Great: This job builds responsibility and teaches how to handle caregiving tasks.
4. Selling Crafts
What It Involves: Making and selling handmade items like friendship bracelets, painted rocks, or keychains.
Why It’s Great: It combines creativity with earning money, and platforms like local craft fairs or family networks make selling easy.
5. Helping with Chores
What It Involves: Offering to do tasks like washing cars, cleaning garages, or watering plants for neighbors.
Why It’s Great: Flexible hours and low startup costs. It’s perfect for learning the value of small, consistent work.
6. Dog Walking
What It Involves: Walking dogs for busy pet owners.
Why It’s Great: This is an active job that allows 6th graders to connect with pets and enjoy outdoor time.
7. Recycling for Cash
What It Involves: Collecting cans, bottles, or other recyclable materials and turning them in for money.
Why It’s Great: It’s environmentally friendly and teaches the importance of recycling while earning some pocket money.
8. Tutoring Younger Kids
What It Involves: Helping younger kids with subjects like math, reading, or spelling.
Why It’s Great: A great way to reinforce their own knowledge while helping others succeed in school.
9. Running a Lemonade Stand
What It Involves: Setting up a lemonade or snack stand in the neighborhood.
Why It’s Great: This classic job teaches basic business skills like pricing, marketing, and customer service.
10. Assisting Seniors
What It Involves: Helping elderly neighbors with light tasks like grocery shopping, tidying up, or setting up technology.
Why It’s Great: It fosters a sense of community and helps kids develop empathy and patience.
Tips for Getting Started
- Set Clear Expectations: Discuss hours, pay, and responsibilities with the job’s organizer, whether it’s a neighbor, friend, or parent.
- Stay Safe: Always ensure adult supervision or permission when starting a new job.
- Have Fun: Pick jobs that align with personal interests to make earning money enjoyable!
By exploring these 10 job ideas, 6th graders can start earning their own money, learning valuable life skills, and feeling a sense of accomplishment. Save this list for inspiration and get started today!