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Make a Break for Business

With spring break just around the corner, and summer vacation on the way, it’s a good time for teens to start thinking about creative ideas for making extra cash. Short-term money-making projects can give them something to do with their time, as well as some quick spending money. And best of all, their self-esteem and confidence will be boosted along the way.

With six kids of our own, we are constantly coming up with money-making ideas for all ages. We encourage our young ‘treps to enter the business world at an early age. The first thing we do is have each of our children make a list of what they like to do and what they are good at. Spring break and summer vacation also provide opportunities for many new business ventures because most families have conflicting vacation schedules. So we try to think of services families may need when kids are out of school. 

Parents who have younger children will be looking for older teens to baby-sit. Home-based business owners may be interested in having someone come over and keep their children busy so they can work without interruptions. Even industrious 9-year-olds can turn such situations into profit by offering to play board games, read stories, go to the park or just play sports with them.

For ‘treps who are handy with tools, spring is a good time to offer services such as cleaning garages, porches, patios, and yards, or sweeping, mowing, and gardening. Washing windows, RV’s, and boats, and cleaning pools are all things that need to be done to get ready for summertime fun. Even repairing bikes, wagons, or toys are excellent income producers.

For those who enjoy making things, this is a fine time for selling handmade craft items to neighbors, parent’s co-workers, in nursing homes, or from a booth in your own yard. But don’t be surprised if these seasonal enterprises become long-term money-making projects.

My 10-year-old daughter started a small business that faxes lunch menus from local restaurants to area businesses. She began this during spring break two years ago, but the restaurants continued to hire her because they were so pleased. Fortunately, she is able to fit this business venture into her own schedule and makes about $80 per week ($10 per hour) with this service.

Help your ‘treps prepare for business by planning ahead, no matter what they choose to do. If they will need supplies, start gathering them now. Help them make flyers announcing their new services, and encourage them to tell everyone they know about their new enterprise. It won’t be long before your ‘treps will be springing into business!