25 Profitable Business Ideas for Kids to Spark Creativity

Exploring business ideas for kids is a great way to nurture creativity, boost confidence, and teach valuable life skills from an early age. In this article, NextSky presents 25 unique and age-appropriate business ideas designed to inspire young entrepreneurs, while also providing practical, engaging options for parents who want to support their child’s development in a meaningful way.

Why should children start a business?

Entrepreneurship helps kids explore their passions, develop essential skills, and gain real-world experience in a safe, supportive way. Here are some of the amazing benefits:

• Builds confidence and self-esteem: Earning money from their efforts and seeing customers appreciate their products gives children pride. For example, when a child sells a handmade craft, they feel joy and accomplishment.
• Teaching about financial management: Managing costs, pricing products and saving profits helps children get familiar with the concept of budgeting early.
• Inspire creativity and problem-solving: From product design to service marketing, kids learn to think creatively and overcome challenges.
• Soft skills development: Communicating with customers, time management and handling failure help children practice communication, responsibility and adaptability.
• Encourage a growth mindset: Mistakes become learning opportunities, teaching children to persevere and be flexible.

Read more: Top 26 Best Online Business Ideas Worth Trying Today

Top 25 profitable business ideas for kids to start early

Here are 25 business ideas for kids, tailored to different interests and skill levels, with practical starting tips and skills kids can learn. 

1. Lemonade stand owner

On hot sunny days, a cool lemonade stand on the street corner suddenly becomes a favorite stop. Each drink is the result of small hands and the first business idea. A little lavender, a few homemade cookies make the stand special. Children learn how to welcome customers, set prices, and smile with every first penny of profit.

• Suitable for: Children who love to communicate, from 6–12 years old
• Skills learned: Sales, customer service, basic math
• Getting Started Tip: Invest in a small table, cups, and materials (around $20–$30). Help your child create an eye-catching sign and set reasonable prices (e.g., $1–$2 per cup). Make sure your child is in a safe, high-traffic area with parental supervision.
• For example, Mikaila Ulmer started Me & the Bees Lemonade at age 4, growing it into a national brand available in major retailers like Target.

Read more: How to Start a Reseller Business: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

2. Handmade jewelry maker

Sparkling beads turn into beautiful jewelry under meticulous hands. Each bracelet or necklace carries its own mark, becoming a meaningful gift for friends and customers. The journey from the school desk to the small stall teaches children to love beauty and patience.

• Suitable for: Children who love crafts, aged 8–14
• Skills learned: Creativity, fine motor skills, marketing
• Getting Started Tip: Start with cheap materials like beads and string ($10–$20). Help your child set up a store on Instagram or Shopify to reach more customers.
• For example, Gunner & Lux by Riley Kinnane-Petersen started out with recycled jewelry and is now sold in over 500 stores.

See more: TOP 25 Seasonal Business Ideas to Boost Your Income

3. Online content creator

YouTube or TikTok are now the ideal “playgrounds” for children who love storytelling, playing games, or doing crafts. No fancy equipment is needed, just interesting ideas and perseverance. Creating content helps children gain confidence, better digital skills and know how to attract an audience.

• Suitable for: Active children, 10–16 years old
• Skills learned: Video editing, storytelling, audience engagement
• Tips for getting started: Use a smartphone or basic camera to get started. Parents should monitor content and comments for safety. Focus on niche topics like toy reviews or craft tutorials.
• Example: Ryan Kaji of Ryan's World started making toy review videos at age 3, building a multi-million dollar brand.

Learn more: 25 Family Business Ideas to Build Wealth and Strengthen Bonds

4. Peer tutor

A gifted child can use his or her strengths to help his or her peers learn, while also practicing communication skills. This is a friendly and useful form of “knowledge sharing.” With a little patience and enthusiasm, tutoring can easily become a steady source of income.

• Suitable for: Studious children, 12–16 years old
• Skills learned: Communication, patience, subject expertise
• Starting Tip: Price competitively (e.g., $10–$15/hour) and create flyers or a promotional website. Parents help with scheduling and payment.
• For example, many teens tutor through community centers or platforms like Wyzant.

5. Costume designer

From scraps of fabric, foam, and bold ideas, children create unique costumes. The products worn on stage or at festivals bring unspeakable pride. Each design is a story of imagination and skillful hands.

• Suitable for: Creative children, 10–16 years old
• Skills learned: Design, attention to detail, social media marketing
• Getting Started Tip: Start with basic fabric and foam ($20–$50). Use Instagram to showcase your designs and attract local customers.
• For example, Max Alexander started making clothes at the age of 4, then organized fashion shows as the youngest designer.

6. Pet sitter or gardener

When the neighbors are away, kids can take care of dogs, cats, or water plants. The work is simple but requires trustworthiness and a love of animals. Outdoor activities help kids exercise, connect with the community, and develop responsibility.

• Suitable for: Children who love animals, aged 10–14
• Skills learned: Responsibility, time management, customer service
• Tips for getting started: Charge $5–$10 per visit. Post flyers in the area. Parents ensure a safe environment and supervise young children.
• For example, many kids start pet grooming businesses in their neighborhoods, building trust and regular customers.

Learn more: 1000+ Pet Business Name Ideas to Inspire Your Brand Today

7. Programming Teacher

Code becomes a game, a story, or an interesting lesson for friends. From seemingly dry concepts, children build a classroom full of excitement and creativity. Teaching programming becomes an academic playground and the beginning of a technological journey.

• Suitable for: Tech-savvy kids, 12–16 years old
• Skills learned: Programming, teaching, communication
• Starting Tip: Host group workshops or teach 1-1 ($10–$20/hour). Use a free platform to keep costs down. Parents help promote.
• For example, Samaira Mehta created CoderBunnyz, a coding game, at the age of 6, inspiring thousands of kids.

8. Party Actor

The cheerful laughter and surprised eyes of the young audience are the sweet rewards for the performances. This is an attractive children's business idea that helps children practice increasing their confidence with positive energy to bring the brilliance of childhood.

• Suitable for: Children who love performing, aged 8–14
• Skills learned: Public speaking, creativity, confidence
• Starting Tip: Practice short performances (15–30 minutes) and charge $20–$50 per session. Parents can help book through local networks.
• For example, child actors often start out at school events, building their reputation locally.

9. Child Artist

With artistic talent, children can create paintings, print them on shirts or household items to sell. Online spaces like Redbubble open up many opportunities for small artistic ideas. Creativity is no longer a private passion but can spread and bring in income.

• Suitable for: Creative children, 8–14 years old
• Skills learned: Creativity, marketing, customer service
• Getting Started Tip: Use a platform like Redbubble to sell your art on t-shirts or mugs with no initial cost. Start with a portfolio of 5–10 pieces.
• For example, many young artists sell prints on Etsy, earning $5–$20 per item.

Read more: 800+ Art Business Name Ideas That Entrepreneurs Shouldn't Miss

10. Technology Support Assistant

A phone reset, a laptop running smoothly – all thanks to small but agile hands. Children become “tech experts” in the eyes of their neighbors, solving problems that adults are often afraid to touch.

• Suitable for: Tech-savvy kids, ages 12–16
• Skills learned: Technical skills, communication, and patience
• Getting Started Tip: Offer your services for $10–$15/hour. Create flyers or a website. Parent supervision is required when interacting with clients.
• For example, Gen Alpha children often assist older adults with technology, building confidence and skills.

11. Social activist

A charity bag, a park clean-up or a campaign to help the community comes from a sincere heart. Children step out into the world, leaving small footprints on the journey to change the lives around them. Every act of kindness has the power to spread.

• Suitable for: Compassionate children, ages 10–16
• Skills learned: Advocacy, fundraising, community engagement
• Starting Tip: Partner with a local nonprofit and donate a portion of profits from another project (e.g., a lemonade stand). Promote it on social media.
• For example, Jahkil Jackson started Project I Am at age 8, providing supplies to the homeless.

12. Festival Vendor

In the bustling atmosphere, the crisp cries and cute items attract everyone's eyes. The small stalls are where children learn to communicate, calculate, serve and have fun with friends. The festive atmosphere ignites the first spark of business.

• Suitable for: Children who love to communicate, from 8–14 years old
• Skills learned: Sales, design, money management
• Starting Tip: Buy items like water bottles in bulk ($20–$30) and sell them at a higher price. Check local licensing requirements. Have parents help with setup.
• For example, kids often sell snacks at community events, earning $50–$100 per day.

13. Skateboard repairman

The sound of wheels, the whir of wrenches, and the smiles after a skateboard repair give a palpable sense of accomplishment. Kids are not only helping their friends play safely, but they are also turning their passion into a small craft. The park becomes a place where skill and enthusiasm meet.

• Suitable for: Skilled children, 12–16 years old
• Skills learned: Fine motor skills, communication, and money management
• Starter Tip: Buy basic tools ($20–$30) and offer on-site service for $5–$15 per repair.
• For example, repair services at skate parks are popular with teenagers.

14. The Neighbor's Maid

Every neatly mowed lawn, every clean yard, is the result of sweat and dedication. Every day, chores become valuable sources of income. Children learn to be punctual, keep their word, and work hard under all circumstances.

• Suitable for: Active children, 10–14 years old
• Skills learned: Hard work, time management, communication
• Getting Started Tips: Use tools you have or rent ($10–$20). Charge $10–$20 per job. Parent support ensures safety and scheduling.
• For example, Many children earn a steady income through neighborhood jobs.

15. Recycler

Collecting cans, plastic bottles, or cardboard is a great way to help the environment and earn a little money. Children can sort, recycle, or create new products. A simple way to teach children about responsible consumption and green living.

• Suitable for: Environmentally conscious children, ages 8–14
• Skills learned: Mobility, organization, conscious consumption
• Starting tips: Provide bags and gloves ($10). Check local recycling rates (e.g., 5–10 cents each). Parents monitor collection routes.
• For example, kids in recycling programs typically earn $20–$50 per week.

16. Children's book author

With a rich imagination, children can write and illustrate short books for their friends to read. Print-on-demand technology helps bring ideas to life professionally. Writing books helps children gain confidence, develop logical storytelling skills, and understand the publishing process.

• Suitable for: Children who love writing and drawing, aged 10–16
• Skills learned: Writing, creativity, publishing
• Getting Started Tip: Use Amazon KDP to self-publish. Start with a short book (10–20 pages). Parents help with editing.
• For example, Many child authors publish books on Amazon, earning $2–$5 per book.

17. Cake Entrepreneur

If your child loves cooking, baking is a great opportunity to start a small business. Cupcakes, cookies, and handcrafted candies are always a favorite among students. Each batch is not only delicious, but also helps children learn math and customer service skills.

• Suitable for: Children who love food, from 8–14 years old
• Skills learned: Cooking, math, customer service
• Starting Tips: Start with simple recipes and ingredients ($20–$30). Sell for $1–$3 each. Make sure to follow local food safety regulations.
• For example, Charlie Kobdish started selling cakes at age 10 and now has a presence at farmers' markets.

18. Summer camp organizer

Older children can take the lead in organizing summer activities for younger children. A backyard summer camp with games, crafts, or sports will appeal to many children. It is an opportunity to learn teamwork, planning, and time management.

• Suitable for: Organized children, ages 12–16
• Skills learned: Leadership, planning, teaching
• Starting Tips: Plan a 3–5 day camp ($50–$100 per child). Use a free space like a backyard. Parents supervise and handle payments.
• For example, teens often host art or drama camps, earning $200–$500 per week.

19. Reseller of goods

An old shirt becomes a sought-after item, and an old toy is returned to the hands of a lover. Children learn how to price, take photos, write compelling descriptions, and engage with customers. The art of reselling sharpens the eye and the ability to negotiate.

• Suitable for: Fashion-loving children, 12–16 years old
• Skills learned: Photography, marketing, negotiation
• Starting Tip: Find items at thrift stores ($10–$20) and resell them on eBay or Poshmark for a higher price. Parents manage the online account.
• For example , teens who resell on Poshmark typically make $50–$200 per month.

20. Professional Gamer

In each match, children demonstrate their skills, build their personalities and build their following. Livestream is no longer a strange place, but a "stage" where passion is recognized and connected.

• Suitable for: Game lovers, 13–16 years old
• Skills learned: Streaming, fine motor skills, social communication
• Getting Started Tips: Use existing gaming hardware. Start streaming on Twitch for free. Parents monitor online interactions.
• For example, Teens make money from advertising or sponsorships on Twitch.

21. Greeting card designer

With Canva or crayons, kids can design their own birthday, thank you, or holiday cards. Personalized cards are always appreciated. This is a model that combines art, emotion, and small business.

• Suitable for: Creative children, 8–14 years old
• Skills learned: Design, digital tools, customer service
• Starting Tip: Use Canva or hand-draw cards, sell through print-on-demand services or marketplaces ($1–$3 per card). Start with 5–10 designs.
• Example: Kids sell cards at local markets, earning $10–$50 per event.

22. Professional babysitter

After a short course in safety and first aid, children can start babysitting in their neighborhood. The job requires a lot of responsibility, but also provides a steady income. Children learn how to handle situations and care for others in a professional manner.

• Suitable for: Responsible children, 12–16 years old
• Skills learned: Child care, first aid, communication
• Getting Started Tip: Take a Red Cross babysitting course ($50–$100). Charge $8–$15/hour. Parents verify clients and ensure safety.
• For example, many teens start babysitting locally, earning $50–$100 per week.

Learn more: Top 580 Babysitting Business Name Ideas To Attract Clients

23. Slime Maker

Colorful, shiny, and soft slime jars delight friends. Kids experiment with recipes, add scents, package them carefully, and create a product that is uniquely theirs.

• Suitable for: Children who love crafts, from 8-12 years old
• Skills learned: Crafting, marketing, creativity
• Getting Started: Buy glue, borax, and additives ($10–$20). Sell small batches for $3–$5 per jar. Promote via social media.
• For example, kids sell slime at school or online, earning $20–$50 per batch.

24. Character Actor

Colorful, shiny, and soft slime jars delight friends. Kids experiment with recipes, add scents, package them carefully, and deliver a product that is uniquely theirs.

• Suitable for: Children who love drama, aged 10–14
• Skills learned: Acting, communication, creativity
• Starting Tip: Rent or make costumes ($20–$50). Charge $30–$60 per event. Parents handle booking and shipping.
• Example: Kids perform at local parties, earning $50–$100 per show.

25. The egg seller

Early in the morning, the rooster crows to wake up the new day, and children go into the coop to collect eggs with simple joy. The clean eggs are carefully packaged and delivered to acquaintances in the neighborhood. Love for nature and responsibility grow with each time of care.

• Suitable for: Responsible children, 10–16 years old
• Skills learned: Animal care, responsibility, and sales
• Starting Tips: Start with 2–3 chickens ($50–$100). Sell eggs for $3–$5 per dozen. Make sure to follow local regulations.
• For example, kids in the suburbs often sell eggs door to door, earning $20–$50 per week.

Tips for parents supporting young entrepreneurs

• Start small and play it safe: Choose low-risk, low-cost projects that fit your child's schedule and interests. Be sure to supervise to stay safe, especially when online or in public.
• Encourage passion-based ideas: Let kids choose businesses based on their interests to stay motivated. For example, a gamer might enjoy streaming, while an art lover might enjoy selling paintings.
• Teach basic business skills: Teach kids about pricing, budgeting, and customer service. Use Google Sheets to track costs and profits.
• Promote online safely: Help kids set up social media or e-commerce accounts (like Shopify, Etsy) under parental supervision to ensure safety and compliance.
• Celebrate effort, not just success: Praise your child's efforts and learning, even if the business doesn't turn a profit. View failure as an opportunity to grow.
• Check legal requirements: Find out about local licensing, tax, or labor laws for your child's business. Parents may need to handle legal aspects for minors.

Starting a business at a young age is a great way for children to learn life skills, build confidence and discover their passions. In the article above are 25 business ideas for children that NextSky has created to suit their age so that children can develop as real entrepreneurs.