The biggest hurdle to starting a Roth IRA for your child is the “earned income” requirement. For teenagers, this is straightforward—they can get a formal job. But what about younger kids? How can a 7, 8, or 9-year-old possibly earn income? You might be surprised. The world of jobs for kids under 10 has expanded far beyond the classic lemonade stand.
Instilling a strong work ethic early is a gift in itself. When that work also funds a powerful investment vehicle like a Roth IRA, you’re setting your child up for a lifetime of financial success. This list provides over 25 creative, practical, and legitimate job ideas that can help your young child build real-world skills while earning their own money.
Creative & Entrepreneurial Jobs
These jobs encourage creativity and a business mindset. They are perfect for kids with a passion for making things.
- Handmade Jewelry Maker: Selling friendship bracelets, beaded necklaces, or keychains to friends, family, and at local craft fairs.
- Custom Artwork Creator: Selling drawings, paintings, or digital art prints.
- Holiday-Themed Crafter: Making and selling holiday decorations, ornaments, or greeting cards.
- Rock Painter: Painting creative designs on smooth stones and selling them as paperweights or garden decorations.
- Subscription Box Curator: Creating a monthly “fun box” for other kids with small toys, crafts, and snacks.
- Slime-preneur: Making and selling unique, high-quality slime with different colors, textures, and scents.
Service-Based Jobs in the Neighborhood
These jobs teach responsibility and the value of helping others. They are a great way to get to know the community.
- Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: A classic for a reason. Responsible kids can care for neighbors’ pets while they are at work or on vacation.
- Yard Work Assistant: Helping with tasks like watering plants, pulling weeds, or raking leaves.
- Car Washer: Offering a neighborhood car wash service on sunny weekends.
- Mail and Newspaper Retriever: Collecting mail and newspapers for neighbors who are out of town.
- House Number Painter: Offering to repaint faded house numbers on curbs for visibility.
- Holiday Decorating Assistant: Helping neighbors put up or take down holiday lights and decorations.
- Recycling Bin Manager: Offering to take neighbors’ recycling bins to the curb and bring them back each week for a small fee.
Performance & Skill-Based Jobs
If your child has a specific talent, they can turn it into a source of income.
- Musician for Hire: Playing an instrument (like piano or violin) at small local events or parties.
- Magic Show Performer: Putting on a magic show for younger kids’ birthday parties.
- Junior Tutor: Helping younger kids with reading, writing, or basic math.
- Tech Support for Seniors: Assisting older neighbors with basic smartphone, tablet, or computer questions.
- Sports Coach Assistant: Helping a parent coach a team of younger kids in a sport they excel at.
Jobs for the Family Business
If you own a business, hiring your child is one of the most effective ways for them to earn income. The work must be legitimate and the pay reasonable.
- Office Assistant: Filing papers, shredding documents, organizing supplies.
- Social Media Helper: Taking photos for the business’s social media, or helping to schedule posts.
- Product Packager: Helping to box up products for shipping.
- Official Greeter: Welcoming customers to a family-owned retail shop.
- Content Model: Modeling for photos or videos if your business sells kids’ products.
- Cleaning Crew: Helping to clean the office or storefront.
The Modern Lemonade Stand
The classic lemonade stand is still great, but here are some modern twists.
- Gourmet Dog Treat Baker: Baking and selling healthy, homemade dog treats at local parks.
- Mobile Snack Bar: Selling pre-packaged snacks and cold drinks at local sports games or parks using a wagon.
- Plant and Herb Seller: Growing popular herbs like basil and mint or easy-to-care-for succulents and selling them.
Making It Official
No matter which job your child chooses, the key to making it count for their Roth IRA is documentation. Remember to:
- Keep a detailed log of their work and earnings.
- Pay them a reasonable amount for their work.
- Take photos or videos of them on the job as further proof.
By encouraging your child to find a job they enjoy, you’re not just helping them earn income. You’re teaching them about responsibility, entrepreneurship, and the incredible power of their own potential. And when that income starts funding their Roth IRA, you’re teaching them the most important money lesson of all: the earlier you start, the brighter your future will be.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult with a qualified professional to ensure any income-earning activities are compliant with local laws and IRS regulations.