Legal jobs for 13 year olds

Parents & guardians · Tips · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What types of jobs are legally allowed for 13 year olds?

At age 13, federal child labor laws in the U.S. generally prohibit formal employment in most business settings, but allow certain exceptions primarily focused on non-hazardous, light work. Common legal jobs include babysitting, pet sitting, lawn care, and delivering newspapers. These jobs are often informal and usually arranged within the family or local community. Some states may permit additional jobs with restrictions, so it’s important to check local laws.

Parents should start with jobs that match their child’s maturity and skills. For example, if your child enjoys pets, pet sitting can be a fun, age-appropriate job. To tell if the job is working, observe if the child handles responsibilities reliably and enjoys the work without stress or safety concerns.

How can parents help 13 year olds find babysitting jobs?

Babysitting is a classic job for 13 year olds because it is flexible and often informal. Parents can help by encouraging children to take a babysitting safety course, available through local community centers or organizations like the Red Cross. This builds confidence and skills in handling emergencies.

Start by having your child offer babysitting services to family friends or neighbors. The child should be responsible and mature enough to watch younger kids safely. Parents can help create a simple schedule and discuss payment expectations. Success is seen when the child gains repeat clients and positive feedback, showing reliability and trustworthiness.

What are good ways for 13 year olds to earn money with pet care?

Pet care jobs like dog walking, pet sitting, or feeding neighbors’ animals while they are away are ideal for 13 year olds. These jobs teach responsibility and can be scheduled flexibly around school.

To start, parents can help their child draft flyers or use neighborhood social media groups to advertise services. Setting clear rules for the number of pets and length of walks ensures safety. Progress can be tracked by the number of regular clients and the child’s ability to manage time and pet needs without issues.

How can 13 year olds make money doing lawn and garden work?

Lawn mowing, raking leaves, watering plants, and weeding are physical but manageable jobs suitable for 13 year olds. These tasks teach work ethic and time management.

Parents should ensure the child knows how to use equipment safely and only handle age-appropriate tools. Begin by offering these services to neighbors or family members. Use a simple checklist for the child to mark completed jobs. Success is when the child can consistently complete tasks on time and earns positive responses, showing growing competence.

Can 13 year olds deliver newspapers or flyers?

Delivering newspapers or flyers is often permitted for 13 year olds since it typically involves early morning or afternoon hours and light physical activity. It’s a good choice for kids who enjoy being outside and working independently.

Parents can help by contacting local newspaper companies or businesses to find delivery routes that fit the child’s age and schedule. Make sure safety rules are clear, such as walking in safe areas and not interacting with strangers. Track the child’s ability to maintain a delivery schedule and handle the responsibility well.

Are there online or creative jobs suitable for 13 year olds?

Some 13 year olds may want to earn money through online tasks like selling crafts, tutoring younger kids, or doing simple graphic design if skilled. While formal online work may have age restrictions, parents can supervise and manage accounts or sales platforms.

Parents should help set up safe, monitored online spaces and establish rules about communication and time spent. Starting with small projects like handmade crafts or helping with family social media pages can build skills. Progress is shown by completed projects, sales, or requests for tutoring sessions.

How do child labor laws affect 13 year olds’ job options?

Federal laws restrict the hours and types of work 13 year olds can legally perform to protect their health and education. For example, they can’t work in hazardous industries or during school hours on school days. Parents should consult the U.S. Department of Labor’s child labor rules and their state’s laws.

Start by reviewing these rules together with your child and focusing on jobs that allow after-school or weekend hours. If a job feels overwhelming or unsafe, it’s a sign it’s not suitable. Parents should monitor hours worked and conditions to ensure compliance and safety.

How can parents support their 13 year olds in managing their first jobs?

Parents play a key role by helping set schedules, establish clear expectations about punctuality and responsibility, and encouraging good communication with clients or employers. They should also teach budgeting skills to manage earnings.

Start by creating a simple work agreement or schedule that outlines hours, tasks, and payment. Check in regularly to discuss any challenges and celebrate accomplishments. Success means the child builds responsibility, earns money, and balances work with school and free time effectively.

What are some practical steps to start a 13 year old’s job search?

1. Identify the child’s interests and strengths.
2. Research local child labor laws and restrictions.
3. Brainstorm age-appropriate jobs like babysitting, pet care, or yard work.
4. Help prepare a simple resume or flyer with job offers.
5. Reach out to family, neighbors, or local businesses.
6. Set a schedule balancing work and school.
7. Monitor for safety and job satisfaction.

Starting small and building confidence is key. Parents should look for signs the child enjoys the work and can handle responsibilities without stress.

Frequently asked questions

Can 13 year olds work in retail or restaurants?

Generally, federal law prohibits 13 year olds from working in retail or restaurants due to safety and age restrictions. Some states may have exceptions for family businesses, but parents should verify local laws carefully.

How many hours can a 13 year old legally work?

Federal rules limit 13 year olds to non-school hours and restrict the number of work hours per day and week, especially during the school year. Exact limits vary by state, so parents should check local regulations to avoid violations.

Do 13 year olds need work permits?

In many states, 13 year olds need a work permit or parental consent to work legally, even for informal jobs. Parents can obtain permits through local schools or labor departments depending on state requirements.

How can parents ensure jobs are safe for 13 year olds?

Parents should assess each job for physical risks and supervise early work experiences. Teaching safety rules, providing proper equipment, and monitoring the environment helps ensure the child’s well-being.

Are 13 year olds allowed to do chores for pay at home?

Yes, chores and tasks around the home for pay are allowed and a great way to teach responsibility and money management without legal restrictions.

What should parents do if an employer violates child labor laws?

Parents should document the situation and contact their state labor department or child labor enforcement office to report violations. Legal aid or labor rights organizations can provide guidance.