Earning power

If you want to increase the amount of money you receive, or get together a larger amount for something special, there are ways that you can boost your earnings.

Jumble sales, yard sales and car boot sales

Get together all your old books, toys and clothes and sell them at a jumble or car boot sale. You normally can’t charge a lot at these (small toys can go for 50p and toys up to £5 perhaps) but if you get enough things together then you can earn a fair amount in a few hours. Plus your room will look a lot tidier afterwards!

Gardening and odd jobs

Perhaps your parents or a neighbour need some help with some easy garden work, like mowing the lawn, weeding, sweeping, etc. It’s worth asking as this will earn you some money and could lead to a regular job.

Pet care

Perhaps if your friends or neighbours are going away you could earn a small amount by looking after their pets? You might have to see whether they would offer to pay you as sometimes people do this for free but it’s worth trying!

Ask for cash gifts

Around the time of your birthday or Christmas, tell friends and family that you want to save up for things so, if they want to give you something, could they please give you cash or vouchers.

The laws about children working

Children are not allowed by law to work full time until after they have left school (normally aged 16 at least). The earliest you are legally allowed to have a part-time job is 13 and then there are rules about the type of work you can do and how many hours you are allowed to work. You can find out more on Direct Gov.