Legal Jobs

• Kids of 14 can work legally in several businesses including offices, retail establishments, restaurants, movie theaters and grocery stores, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. However, there are limits to the number of hours and the time of day you can work. For example, 14-year-olds can only work until 7 p.m. during the school year and cannot work more than 40 hours during a non-school week.
  
  

Yard Work

• This old standby is more than mowing lawns and raking leaves. Kids can compile a list of services that could include weeding gardens and patios; collecting debris like black walnuts, rotten apples and seed pods; removing animal droppings; planting plants; trimming shrubs; aerating with the use of a machine or aerating shoes, and weeding yards for people who don't like herbicides. Parents need to carefully instruct kids about safety issues, particularly with lawn equipment.
  
  

Babysitting

• A good babysitter is considered a treasure by parents who hire her. Many babysitters make upwards of $10 an hour. Show up at the home of one family you feel is safe with a backpack of books and games for the kids; stay off the phone and computer; don't invite anyone over, and leave the family refrigerator alone. If the kids are happy and in bed on time, you may be able to quickly build a lucrative business.
  
  

Petsitting

• Boarding a pet is expensive and often stresses the animals. So many people would love a pet sitter to walk their pets, feed them, and clean out litter boxes. For an extra fee, collect mail and newspapers and water plants. Give customers confidence by emailing or texting each day to let them know you did your job. Word of mouth is your best marketing tool.
  
  

Arts and Crafts

• The designer of Blue Fish clothing started making clothes in her garage and by the time she was 18 had a huge business with her own factory. If you are skilled with sewing, knitting, bead work or other crafts, you could sell them at farmer's markets, local gift stores or on the corner.