A Penny Earned Is A Penny Earned
There is nothing that warms my heart more than watching my son traverse the isles of his favorite store, Target, in search of something to spend his hard earned money on. Watching this meticulous process is like watching an artist at work. Conversely, when Dad is footing the bill, this process seems more arbitrary, and his choices more indiscriminant.
Kids value their money so much more when it is theirs. When they have worked for it, the selection on what to buy is even more scrupulous. As parents we owe it to our kids to encourage them to be resourceful in earning a buck. So gather your kids, and have them read the following list of my top three ways your kids can make a buck!
Parents
Kids, your parents are your number one resource for earning a buck. Don’t think do routine jobs that you should already be doing as chores and expect to get paid for it, though! Offer to do jobs that are not a part of your daily routine. Here is a list of jobs will likely open up your parent’s wallet:
• Clean the garage
• Wash the cars
• Wash the blinds or windows
• Vacuum underneath the cushions on the couch or love seat
Tip: Offer to do a job for free. This will butter them up so when you do work for money they may be more generous!
Neighbors
Depending on where you live or what time of year it is, there is always a job that your neighbors will be more than willing to pay someone else to do. Jobs such as:
• Mowing lawns
• Shoveling driveways
• Yard work
Tip: Make a flyer and present it to you neighbors. This will make you look more professional and may earn you more bucks!
Be creative
Get permission to have a yard sale – or better yet, ask your neighbors if they are willing to donate items that otherwise may be thrown out. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure! Look through your belongings and see what you are willing to get rid of for some extra spending money!
Making money for yourself not only shows responsibility, it also makes you feel good too! Don’t forget to set aside 10% for a charitable donation. Whether it is for your church, the local animal shelter, or food bank; donating a part of what you earned gives someone else an opportunity to benefit as well.
For a little bit more “beginner” information on money, see Credits and Debits: Teaching Our Youth About Money
Erik Johnson, the author of this blog, is employed by a privately owned chemical manufacturing facility – working in training as well as supervision. During Erik’s off hours, he enjoys traveling with his beautiful wife, cooking, hanging out with the kids, and playing with his two dogs. He also enjoys cycling, running, and anything else that keeps him outside. You can find him hanging out at the local antique shops searching for hidden treasures. Erik’s strength comes from his positive outlook on life. He incorporates his optimism and love of life into helping others and inspiring people to reach their full potential.
Wallet image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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Renee is a retail tech executive, leads a non profit chapter providing education on prescription drug abuse, and is an avid yoga practitioner. Most importantly however: she and her ever patient husband of 6 years are raising three boys through what most days and in many ways is truly a Life Half Crunched.
Susan Ellis-Saller, founder of See You, Be You Life Coaching is all about helping people! She knows from her own experience that diet plays an extremely important role in helping one feel and do her best! You might catch Susan hanging out with her husband and three children; hiking; reading; taking a class about Aromatherapy, Bach Flower Therapies, or Reiki; at an art museum; or pursuing some new life experience.
