Finding a job at 13 years old can be a great way to learn valuable skills, earn some extra money, and gain independence. While there are some limitations on the types of jobs that 13 year olds can do, there are still plenty of opportunities out there. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best jobs for 13 year olds, the requirements for working at this age, and some tips for finding and succeeding in a job.

Legal Requirements for Jobs at 13 Years Old

Before we get into the types of jobs that 13-year-olds can do, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for working at this age. In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the rules for youth employment. According to the FLSA, 13-year-olds can only work in certain types of jobs, and there are also restrictions on the hours they can work.

Some of the jobs that 13-year-olds can do include:

  • Babysitting or doing odd jobs for family and neighbors
  • Delivering newspapers or flyers
  • Lawn mowing and yard work
  • Cleaning or organizing homes or businesses
  • Pet sitting or dog walking
  • Tutoring younger children
  • Working at a family-owned business (with parental permission)

However, there are also some types of work that 13-year-olds are not allowed to do. For example, they cannot work in hazardous jobs, such as construction or mining, or in jobs that involve driving. They also cannot work in jobs that involve using power-driven machinery or power tools.

In addition to these restrictions on the types of jobs, 13-year-olds are also limited in the number of hours they can work. During the school year, they can work a maximum of three hours per day and 18 hours per week. On weekends and during school breaks, they can work up to eight hours per day and 40 hours per week.

Best Jobs For 13 Year Olds

Now that you understand the legal requirements for jobs at 13 years old, let’s take a look at some of the best jobs for this age group.

Babysitting

Babysitting is a great job for 13-year-olds, as it allows them to earn money while developing important skills like responsibility, communication, and problem-solving. Many parents are willing to hire teenage babysitters, especially if they have younger children. Babysitting can be done on weekends or in the evenings, and it usually pays around $10-15 per hour.

Dog Walking/Pet Sitting

If you love animals, dog walking or pet sitting can be a fun and rewarding job. Many pet owners need someone to walk their dogs during the day, or to look after their pets while they’re away on vacation. As a 13-year-old, you can start by offering your services to friends and neighbors, and then gradually expand your client base. Dog walking and pet sitting usually pays around $10-15 per hour.

Yard Work

Another job that’s perfect for 13-year-olds is yard work. This can include mowing lawns, raking leaves, trimming hedges, and pulling weeds. Many homeowners are willing to pay teenagers to take care of these tasks, especially during the spring and summer months. Yard work usually pays around $10-15 per hour.

Tutoring

If you’re good at a particular subject, like math or science, you can offer your services as a tutor. Many parents are willing to pay for extra help for their children, especially if they’re struggling in school. Tutoring can be done in person or online, and it usually pays around $15-20 per hour.

Newspaper Delivery

Delivering newspapers is another great job for 13-year-olds. As a newspaper delivery person, you will be responsible for delivering newspapers to subscribers on a regular basis, typically early in the morning. This job can help you develop time management and organizational skills, as well as provide exercise and fresh air. Newspaper delivery jobs often pay per paper, and the amount you can earn depends on the number of papers you deliver and the rate of pay. You can find newspaper delivery jobs by checking with your local newspaper or through online job boards.

Online Survey Taker

There are many websites that offer paid surveys to users, including 13-year-olds. This is a great option for those who want to work from home and have some extra time to spare. While the pay is usually low, typically around $1-5 per survey, it’s a good way to earn some extra cash in your free time.

Sell Crafts or Goods

If you’re crafty or have a talent for making things, you can start a small business selling your crafts or goods. This could include handmade jewelry, clothing, or home decor items. You can sell your products online through websites like Etsy or at local craft fairs. The amount you can earn depends on the products you’re selling and how much you’re able to sell them for.

Car Wash Attendant

If you live in an area where cars are prevalent, you can work as a car wash attendant. This job involves washing and cleaning cars, and can be done at a car wash facility or at a customer’s home. Car wash attendants typically earn around $10-15 per hour.

House Cleaning

House cleaning is another job that’s in high demand, especially among busy families or elderly individuals. You can offer your services to clean homes on a regular basis or for one-time jobs, like move-out cleanings. House cleaning usually pays around $10-15 per hour.

Photography Assistant

If you have an interest in photography, you can work as a photography assistant. This job involves helping the photographer with various tasks, such as setting up equipment, arranging props, and assisting with photo shoots. Photography assistants usually earn around $10-15 per hour.

Tips for Finding and Succeeding in a Job

Finding a job as a 13-year-old can be challenging, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances of success:

  1. Network with friends and family: Let your friends and family know that you’re looking for a job. They may know someone who needs help with babysitting, yard work, or other tasks.
  2. Look for job postings: Check online job boards or local classifieds for job postings that are appropriate for 13-year-olds.
  3. Ask local businesses: Some small businesses may be willing to hire 13-year-olds for tasks like cleaning or organizing.
  4. Be responsible and reliable: Once you’ve landed a job, make sure you show up on time and do your best work. This will increase your chances of getting hired again and receiving positive recommendations.
  5. Build your skills: Use your job as an opportunity to develop new skills and gain experience. This can help you stand out when applying for future jobs.

Conclusion

While there are limitations on the types of jobs that 13-year-olds can do, there are still plenty of opportunities for earning money and gaining valuable experience. By understanding the legal requirements for working at this age and exploring the options available, you can find a job that’s right for you. Remember to be responsible, reliable, and professional in your work, and you’ll be well on your way to success.