Does your child love solving problems, coming up with new ideas, or taking charge of projects? These could be early signs of entrepreneurial potential. Kidpreneurs - young entrepreneurs - often display traits like curiosity, resilience, and leadership that set them apart. Here’s a quick look at the seven key signs that your child might have a knack for entrepreneurship:
- Always Asking Questions: They’re naturally curious and want to understand how things work.
- Comes Up With New Ideas: They think outside the box and find creative solutions.
- Bounces Back From Setbacks: They learn from mistakes and keep trying.
- Stays on Task: They focus and complete projects without giving up.
- Takes Charge: They naturally step into leadership roles.
- Plans and Makes Choices: They make thoughtful decisions and manage tasks well.
- Likes to Fix Things: They enjoy solving problems and tinkering with solutions.
Encouraging these traits through meaningful activities, hands-on projects, and simple tools can help nurture your child’s entrepreneurial mindset. Whether it’s running a lemonade stand or inventing a new game, these skills can prepare them for success in any field. Keep reading to learn how to support and guide your young entrepreneur.
Cameron Herold: Let's raise kids to be entrepreneurs
1. Always Asking Questions
Does your child constantly ask "why" and "how" about the world around them? That endless curiosity could be an early sign of entrepreneurial potential.
"Just like curious kids, you must seek out information, grow new theories, convert theories into actionable ideas, and then execute them. Asking questions and taking a game-based approach to critical thinking will make sure you remain nimble and develop potential solutions for problems your customers are facing."
This natural curiosity often shows up as:
- Wondering how things work behind the scenes
- Questioning existing solutions or approaches
- Digging into why certain rules or systems exist
- Aiming to understand processes on a deeper level
- Thinking of ways to make everyday items better
One parent shared a memorable story: his daughter would touch and inspect everything in stores. He reassured shop owners, "She's just curious. If she breaks something, I'll pay for it." That curiosity is the first step toward gathering knowledge, refining ideas, and taking action.
How parents can encourage this curiosity:
- Have meaningful discussions that challenge them to think critically
- Respond to their questions with thoughtful answers instead of brushing them off
- Show your own curiosity by asking questions together
- Provide hands-on opportunities for them to explore and experiment
- Support their interest in figuring out how things work
This habit of asking questions lays a strong foundation for other entrepreneurial skills, which we’ll dive into next.
2. Comes Up With New Ideas
Thinking outside the box is a key trait of entrepreneurial minds, and your child might showcase this by finding imaginative solutions to problems. Kids often see the world from a fresh perspective, which can lead to surprising and creative approaches.
"Entrepreneurs often have big ideas and even bigger goals." - Kristina Curtin, UnchartedLearning.org
This ability to solve problems creatively is highly valued. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 91% of employers prioritize problem-solving skills when hiring.
Signs your child might be a creative thinker:
- They come up with out-of-the-box solutions to everyday issues.
- They find new ways to combine ideas or objects.
- They invent new games or tweak existing ones to make them more fun.
- They explore options beyond the obvious.
- They’re not shy about sharing bold or unconventional ideas.
How to encourage creative thinking in your child:
- Create a space where they feel comfortable sharing ideas without fear of judgment.
- Ask open-ended questions that inspire multiple answers.
- Provide tools and opportunities for them to express their creativity.
- Show genuine interest when they share their ideas or suggestions.
- Guide them to explore different ways to tackle challenges.
- Give them time to solve problems on their own.
Creative thinking isn’t just about generating ideas - it’s about crafting solutions that can make a difference. This mindset also builds resilience, which is the next important trait of a future entrepreneur.
"When kids see failure not as a permanent setback but as an opportunity for growth, there is no limit to what they may accomplish." - Kristina Curtin, UnchartedLearning.org
3. Bounces Back From Setbacks
Setbacks are a natural part of entrepreneurship. If your child can recover and push forward when things don’t go as planned, they might be showing the traits of a future business leader. Learning to bounce back is critical - not just in business, but in life.
Signs of resilience in young entrepreneurs:
- They see mistakes as chances to improve
- They keep a positive attitude after setbacks
- They experiment with new strategies when the first one doesn’t work
- They stay motivated, even when facing challenges
When your child encounters a setback, avoid stepping in to fix everything right away. Instead, provide a supportive space where they can process their emotions and figure out what to do next.
"When children perceive their emotions are understood, charged emotions dissipate and allow them to focus their energy on feeling better." - Tracey Tullis, Author
Developing resilience now can help them build other important habits for entrepreneurship.
Ways to encourage resilience in your child:
-
Acknowledge their emotions
Let your child express how they feel without fear of judgment. Whether they’re upset about a failed project or disappointed by slow sales at a lemonade stand, show them you understand their frustration. -
Teach problem-solving
Help them reflect on what went wrong and brainstorm new solutions. This not only builds critical thinking skills but also strengthens their confidence in handling challenges. -
Focus on effort, not just outcomes
Praise their hard work and determination, even if the results weren’t what they hoped for. This approach fosters a mindset where obstacles are seen as opportunities to grow.
Resilience isn’t just about moving past disappointments - it’s also key to building the focus and determination needed to stick with long-term goals.
4. Stays on Task
Being able to focus and complete tasks is a key trait for future entrepreneurs. A child who sees projects through to the end, even when they’re tough, is showing early signs of leadership.
Key behaviors of task-focused kids:
- They finish what they start, even if it gets difficult.
- They’re committed to improving their abilities.
- They manage their time well without constant reminders.
"Industriousness: Build independence by giving kids chores to do and responsibility for getting things done. Lead by example and reduce your own time-wasting habits."
These traits lay the groundwork for teaching effective task management.
How to Help Kids Build Task Management Skills
- Set Clear Goals: Help them define both short- and long-term goals. Break big projects into smaller, manageable steps.
-
Create Structure: Build routines and responsibilities into their daily lives:
- Assign specific chores.
- Set up a dedicated space for their projects.
- Use simple schedules to organize daily tasks.
- Introduce timers for focused work sessions.
- Encourage Their Interests: Let them explore hobbies they’re passionate about. This naturally strengthens their ability to focus.
What Strong Task Management Looks Like
| Behavior | Why It’s Important for Entrepreneurship |
|---|---|
| Completes chores without reminders | Reflects self-motivation and reliability. |
| Tracks progress on long-term projects | Shows planning and organizational skills. |
| Returns to unfinished tasks | Demonstrates commitment and persistence. |
| Balances time between activities | Indicates growing time management skills. |
Developing these skills takes time. Celebrate small successes and treat challenges as opportunities to grow confidence and focus.
5. Takes Charge
Taking charge is a key trait of budding entrepreneurial leaders. Young individuals often show early signs of leadership by naturally stepping into roles where they organize, guide, and take responsibility.
Signs of Leadership Potential
Here are some ways young leaders might demonstrate their potential:
- Organizing games or activities without adult direction
- Speaking confidently when placing orders or making requests
- Taking accountability for group project results
- Assisting younger siblings or classmates with tasks
- Making independent decisions when given choices
Building Leadership Skills
You can nurture leadership abilities through engaging activities:
| Activity | Goal | How to Implement |
|---|---|---|
| Team Sports or Clubs | Foster teamwork and leadership | Encourage participation in group activities where they can lead small teams |
| Family Event Planning | Teach project management | Involve them in organizing events like birthdays or family gatherings |
| Decision-Making Practice | Boost confidence in choices | Present a few options and discuss the outcomes together |
| Public Speaking | Improve communication skills | Let them order meals or engage with adults in conversations |
"Teach your children to weigh the pros and cons of each option in order to make the most informed decision possible. This will help them to make correct decisions in everyday life." - Kristy Rampton, Entrepreneur
Developing Negotiation Skills
When your child negotiates, encourage a conversation. Ask them to explain their reasoning and suggest alternatives. This approach helps sharpen their problem-solving and negotiation abilities.
Encouraging Initiative Without Stepping In
- Give them space to tackle challenges before offering help
- Discuss different strategies after they’ve tried solving the problem
- Celebrate their efforts, even if the results aren’t perfect
- Model initiative by pointing out moments when you take charge
- Provide chances for them to lead, like organizing family activities
Leadership skills grow over time through hands-on experiences. By offering opportunities and stepping back when needed, you help your child build the confidence and resilience they’ll need to succeed as future entrepreneurs. These experiences lay the groundwork for a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
sbb-itb-a46f019
6. Plans and Makes Choices
Once creativity, resilience, focus, and leadership are in place, the next step in shaping your kidpreneur involves planning and making thoughtful choices. These skills are key indicators of entrepreneurial potential.
Decision-Making Development
Young entrepreneurs often show their decision-making skills in ways like:
- Creating clear plans for projects
- Carefully considering options before taking action
- Managing their allowance or savings with purpose
These abilities evolve as kids grow, and their decision-making needs shift over time.
Age-Appropriate Decision Making
| Age Range | Decision Type | Support Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 3-5 | Simple choices (e.g., clothes, snacks) | Offer 2–3 clear options |
| Ages 6-8 | Choices related to daily tasks | Discuss possible outcomes |
| Ages 9-12 | Planning projects and managing money | Encourage independent problem-solving |
| Ages 13+ | Setting and achieving long-term goals | Provide mentorship rather than direct control |
"You're exposing them to what it feels like to make a decision, and helping them feel good for being able to do that." – Dr. Andrea Vazzana, clinical assistant professor of child psychiatry at New York University Langone's Child Study Center
Developing Planning Skills
Good planning builds on solid decision-making. To help your child develop these skills:
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage problem-solving
- Let them brainstorm their own solutions to challenges
- Support their decisions, even if they aren't what you would choose
Preventing Decision Overload
Too many choices can overwhelm kids. Simplify the process by:
- Starting with straightforward either/or options
- Gradually increasing complexity as they gain confidence
- Giving context for bigger decisions
- Talking through potential outcomes together
- Allowing time for thoughtful decision-making
Strong planning and decision-making pave the way for entrepreneurial growth. These skills are crucial for future leadership and strategic thinking.
7. Likes to Fix Things
In addition to thinking creatively and being resilient, enjoying fixing things can be another early sign of entrepreneurial potential. Kids who love to repair and tinker often demonstrate a hands-on approach to problems, uncovering issues and working toward practical solutions.
Traits of a Natural Problem-Solver
Kids with a knack for fixing things often show these qualities:
- Analytical: They carefully examine problems before diving into repairs.
- Resourceful: They use whatever materials are available to come up with solutions.
- Persistent: They’re willing to try different methods until they succeed.
- Intuitive: They seem to naturally understand how parts and systems fit together.
Encouraging the Fix-it Mindset
Here are some ways to support and grow this skill:
-
Set Up a Tinkering Space
Dedicate a safe area stocked with basic tools and materials. Let them experiment and build confidence through hands-on practice. -
Guide Their Process
Encourage them to think through the problem before jumping into action. Ask questions like:- "What do you think is wrong?"
- "How could we fix it?"
- "What tools might help?"
-
Show Real-World Applications
Help them connect their skills to practical opportunities. For example, repairing bikes could evolve into a small neighborhood service. Encourage them to try new ideas and explore different possibilities.
Building Future Entrepreneurs
By fostering these problem-solving skills, you’re helping them develop the creativity and determination they’ll need for future success. This ability to tackle challenges complements other entrepreneurial traits, setting a strong foundation for their ventures ahead.
How to Support Your Young Entrepreneur
Helping your young entrepreneur thrive means offering guidance while letting them explore independently. Dr. Andrea Vazzana, clinical assistant professor of child psychiatry at New York University Langone's Child Study Center, highlights, "It's all about shaping the child's behavior. Social emotional skills are important and the earlier you can help a child with them, the better." Here are some practical ways to encourage these skills.
Create Learning Opportunities
Structured learning can help build confidence. When challenges arise, guide your child through a clear, step-by-step problem-solving process:
- Pinpoint the specific problem
- Brainstorm potential solutions together
- Weigh the pros and cons of each option
- Decide on and implement the best solution
Provide Constructive Feedback
Offer feedback in a way that motivates rather than discourages. Dr. Vazzana suggests using a "feedback sandwich" approach: "The child doesn't feel so harshly criticized; they can take away a positive message."
- Start with praise
- Suggest areas for improvement
- End with encouragement
Teach Decision-Making Skills
Begin with simple choices and gradually expand their decision-making responsibilities:
- Let them pick a name for their business
- Work with them to set fair prices
- Guide them in deciding on products or services to offer
Strengthen Problem-Solving Skills
"The more parents can break down what's needed within that problem solving task, really verbalize it, and talk it out with the child, the better off the child will be."
Instead of offering quick fixes, encourage your child to think critically:
- Ask guiding questions to help them find solutions
- Help them identify the root of the problem
- Discuss alternative approaches to solving it
Model Entrepreneurial Behavior
Set an example by demonstrating key entrepreneurial habits. Show them how to:
- Stay positive when facing setbacks
- Communicate clearly and professionally
- Manage finances responsibly
- Track progress and evaluate results
Introduce Real Business Tools
Practical tools can make the entrepreneurial journey more hands-on and engaging. For instance, the My Lil Startup Slime Business Kit includes:
- Sales tracking sheets
- Marketing templates
- Thank you cards
- Business planning guides
"Learning something from experience as opposed to instruction is key in developing problem solving skills and confidence in oneself." - Tracey Tullis
Using real-world tools and strategies not only builds skills but also fosters confidence in their entrepreneurial abilities.
My Lil Startup Kit Options
My Lil Startup offers three kits aimed at helping kids develop entrepreneurial skills through fun, hands-on activities. Each kit focuses on different aspects of business, making them great tools for teaching young entrepreneurs.
Lemonade Stand Kit ($24.99)
This beginner kit is perfect for kids just starting to learn about business. It teaches basic math and customer service skills. Inside, you'll find:
- A reusable budget whiteboard with markers
- Play money for practice transactions
- "Profit Tracker" worksheets
- A calculator with percentage functions
Craft & Sell Kit ($34.99)
Designed for intermediate learners, this kit dives into product development and marketing basics. It includes:
- A branding workbook with logo templates
- Social media marketing guides
- A customer feedback journal
- Tools for creating pricing strategies
According to research, 68% of users improved their negotiation skills within six weeks, gaining confidence in product positioning and customer interaction.
Tech Innovator Kit ($49.99)
Aimed at kids aged 10–14, this kit introduces technology-driven entrepreneurship. It features:
- Drag-and-drop app design software
- "Pitch Deck" storyboard templates
- Problem-solving flashcards
- User testing simulation tools
| Kit Feature | Lemonade Stand | Craft & Sell | Tech Innovator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 6–9 | 8–12 | 10–14 |
| Skill Focus | Basic Math & Sales | Product Design & Marketing | Tech & Innovation |
| Key Tools | Budget Board & Calculator | Branding Templates | App Design Software |
| Learning Style | Hands-on Practice | Creative Projects | Digital Creation |
Each kit includes a parent dashboard for tracking progress and offers an optional "Biz Builder" subscription for $15/month. The subscription provides quarterly updates with new skill-building materials and business scenarios. All kits are aligned with Common Core standards for grades 3–6, ensuring they offer both educational and practical value.
To ensure safety and support, every kit also comes with:
- Weekly coaching guides
- Age-appropriate safety checklists
- Video tutorials accessible through QR codes
- Access to a moderated entrepreneur community designed for kids
Parents have given these kits a 92% satisfaction rate in 2024, highlighting their success in nurturing young entrepreneurial talent.
Next Steps
Here's how to channel the creativity, determination, and focus you've seen into actionable steps.
Start with Simple Projects
For kids aged 6–9, consider small-scale projects like toy reviewing, plant care services, or car washes. These activities teach basic business concepts such as:
- Calculating costs for supplies
- Setting fair prices
- Creating eye-catching signs
- Practicing friendly customer service
For those aged 8–12 with a creative streak, try making and selling items like:
- Friendship bracelets
- Handmade bookmarks
- DIY snack packs
- Painted garden rocks
Build Important Skills
"Teaching kids about entrepreneurship at a young age can be fun and educational. Creating business projects helps children understand critical concepts like planning, responsibility, and money management." – Matthew Toren
Focus on developing these essential skills:
- Money management: Learn to track earnings and expenses.
- Customer service: Practice positive interactions with others.
- Marketing: Design appealing displays and promotions.
- Problem-solving: Handle unexpected challenges with confidence.
These skills lay the groundwork for choosing and succeeding in a business venture.
Choose Age-Appropriate Ventures
| Age Group | Project Ideas | Skills Gained |
|---|---|---|
| 6–9 years | Toy reviewing, Plant care, Car wash | Basic math, Customer interaction |
| 10–12 years | Pet sitting, Tutoring, Garden stand | Time management, Service skills |
| 13–14 years | Tech support, Swimming lessons, Lawn care | Advanced planning, Marketing |
For a hands-on experience, try My Lil Startup's Starter Kit ($39.95). This kit includes everything your child needs to start their own slime business: 20 pre-made slimes, fun decorations, an instruction book, marketing flyers, thank you cards, and a sales tracker. As they gain confidence, they can explore advanced kits tailored to their growing interests and skills.
FAQs
How can I help my child balance their business ideas with school and other responsibilities?
Supporting your child in balancing their entrepreneurial activities with school and other responsibilities starts with creating a structured schedule. Encourage them to set aside specific blocks of time for school, their business, and personal activities. This helps them stay organized and ensures nothing gets overlooked.
Teach them to prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance - like focusing on schoolwork before a big test or dedicating time to a business goal when schoolwork is lighter. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also make things less overwhelming and easier to tackle.
Finally, maintain open communication and provide emotional support. Celebrate their efforts, offer guidance when needed, and remind them it’s okay to take breaks. This balance will help them grow both as a student and a budding entrepreneur.
How can I help my child develop strong leadership skills as a young entrepreneur?
Helping your child build leadership skills starts with leading by example - demonstrate integrity, empathy, and perseverance in your own actions. Encourage them to participate in team activities like sports, clubs, or group projects, as these foster collaboration and decision-making.
Support their growth by giving them opportunities to solve problems independently and make decisions, even if it means experiencing small failures along the way. This teaches resilience and critical thinking. Additionally, encourage early entrepreneurial ventures, no matter how small, to help them practice leadership in real-world scenarios.
Finally, nurture their communication skills by encouraging public speaking, active listening, and confident self-expression. By fostering creativity, a growth mindset, and financial literacy, you can help your child become a strong and capable leader.
How can I help my child see setbacks as opportunities to grow?
Helping your child view setbacks as opportunities to grow starts with normalizing challenges as a natural part of learning. Teach them that every failure offers a chance to improve and get closer to success.
Encourage them to focus on the effort they put in rather than just the outcome. Share stories of your own struggles and what you learned from them to show that even mistakes can lead to valuable lessons. Create an environment where trying new things and experimenting is celebrated, even if it doesn’t work out perfectly the first time. This will help them build resilience and a healthy mindset for future challenges.
