A great way to teach your kids how to manage money better is to use their own. However, how will your kids earn money besides their own allowance? Here are a few great ways your kids can earn money around their community, from neighborhood services to yard sales.
Neighborhood Services
Ordinary neighborhood services, such as house cleaning, lawn mowing, car washing, and babysitting can be a good source of income for your kids to better learn how to manage their money. However, this is also a great way for your children to learn how to give back to their community as well. As a parent, you can help your kids put out flyers and learn about pricing their services to serve a larger amount of the community. These life skills will be helpful down the road.
Lemonade Stand
Although operating a lemonade stand may be an easy way for your kids make money, it’s also a great way for them to learn about entrepreneurship. You should encourage your kids to make cookies and sell lemonade on the street corner. This way, they can learn how products are sold and earn a little extra to put in their savings at the same time. However, make sure you don’t need a permit for your stand, or else you might get into trouble with local authorities.
Recycle Cans for Cash
In some states, you can trade in cans for cash. Help your child collect empty bottles and cans that they can then turn into spending money. This can also teach them about the importance of recycling metal, and it will help them learn how to protect the environment. Plus, putting the cans and bottles in the machine at the supermarket is fun.
Yard Sale
Having a yard sale is a great way to encourage your kids to clean their rooms and allow them to make some money at the same time. Many children have too many toys, way more than they have time to play with. Ask your kid to sort through their toys and set aside toys they no longer use. Then, throw a family yard sale and them keep the money earned from their toys.
Even though your kid can’t get a job yet, there a plenty of ways for them to make a little bit of extra money. Say goodbye to boring chores and show them the real value of a dollar. From recycling cans to mowing lawns, your child can make some cash and have fun too.
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter @RachelleWilber