Ways for Kids to Make Extra Money This Summer

Are you tired of your children always begging for money? Having children implies a willingness to care for the physical, emotional, and financial needs of someone else. While parents may view financial needs as providing food, clothing, shelter, and maybe college tuition - children see things a little differently. Aside from life's necessities, children usually want more. These extras might include a new video gaming system, the latest fashion trends, or perhaps their own car. Between keeping up with the high cost of living and taking care of their children's essential needs, many parents have little money leftover for extras.

With so many creative ways to earn a buck, preteens and teenagers might explore different ways to earn money.

Here are four ways for kids to earn quick money.

1. Start a Babysitter's Club: Every preteen girl is familiar with the well-liked Babysitter's Club series. If looking to make extra money for clothes, makeup or movies, consider starting your own babysitter's club. Rally a few close friends, and begin offering your services to neighbors. Pass out flyers or post an ad on a community message board. The average babysitter rate is $5 per hour/ $5 per child. Within a couple of hours, you could earn a quick $20 or $30. Of course, babysitting involves more than making extra cash. If you don't like children, or don't know how to care for small children, find a different hustle.

2. Grass Cutting Business: During the summertime, everyone on your block will likely need their grass cut at least once a week. Capitalize on this need and offer your service. A reasonable rate is $20 - $30 per lawn, depending on size. On average, it'll take about one hour to cut the lawn. If you like, offer additional services such as bagging leaves, or edging the lawn.

3. Live-in Housekeeper: Parents normally give their children allowances for completing chores. However, if you child is looking for ways to earn additional cash, hire them as live-in housekeeper. If specific areas around the house need attention such as closets, garage, basement, or laundry room, hire your child to organize or clean these rooms. Summarize your expectations beforehand, and pay them a fair wage.

4. Find a Summer Job: Some teenagers don't have the tenacity or discipline to start a summer business. Instead, they prefer a boss breathing down their back. In any case, there are always summer jobs available at local fast food restaurants and retail stores. To jumpstart their future, a few teens look for summer employment in a specific field.