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Your room might be full of money-making opportunities! Whether it’s toys, books, craft supplies, or gadgets you no longer use, these items can help you earn cash while learning practical skills. Here’s how you can start:
- Sell what you don’t need: Toys, clothes, electronics, or books in good condition can be sold online or locally.
- Offer services: Use what you have to start small services like pet sitting, car washing, or tech help for neighbors.
- Create crafts: Turn your art supplies into bookmarks, bracelets, or seasonal decorations to sell.
- Upcycle items: Repurpose old jars, T-shirts, or furniture into something useful or decorative.
With some organization, fair pricing, and help from your parents, you can turn everyday items into a small business. It’s a fun way to earn money, save, and even surprise your family with thoughtful gifts.
Quick Start:
- Sort through your room for items to sell or repurpose.
- Clean and prepare them for sale.
- Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace or local garage sales to find buyers.
- Track your earnings and expenses to grow your business!
Your entrepreneurial journey begins with what you already own. Start small, stay safe, and enjoy the process of earning and learning!
How To Make Money as a Kid or Teenager
Step 1: Look for Money-Making Items in Your Room
Your bedroom might be hiding a treasure trove of items that could earn you some extra cash. It’s all about seeing everyday objects in a new light. That stack of books you’ve already read, clothes that no longer fit, or forgotten craft supplies could all turn into money with a little effort.
How to Spot Items with Resale Value
Start by doing a full sweep of your room. Check every corner - your closet, under the bed, drawers, shelves - anywhere items might be stashed. Focus on things you no longer use or need. Some great examples include:
- Toys and collectibles: Popular brands like LEGO sets or Pokémon cards often retain their value.
- Books: Series like Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dog Man are always a hit with younger readers.
- Electronics: Old tablets, phones, gaming consoles, or even accessories like controllers and chargers can fetch a good price.
- Sports gear: Outgrown baseball gloves, soccer cleats, or skateboards are in demand since replacing them new can be pricey.
- Craft supplies: Unopened paint sets, markers, fabric, beads, or scrapbooking kits are perfect for other creative kids.
- Musical instruments: Beginner instruments like recorders or small keyboards can appeal to families starting music lessons.
- Clothing and accessories: Designer jeans, sneakers, jackets, or special occasion outfits in good condition often sell well. Don’t forget about backpacks, jewelry, or watches - they could add to your earnings.
Once you’ve gathered some items, it’s time to prep them for sale.
Getting Items Ready to Sell
Before listing anything, make sure your items are in tip-top shape. Clean them thoroughly and double-check that all parts are included. For electronics, test each one to confirm it works. Take photos of items in working condition - buyers like seeing proof that everything functions properly.
To make selling easier, group similar items together. For example, bundle art supplies or toys with their original packaging if you still have it. Bundling can make pricing simpler and even boost the appeal of what you’re selling.
Do a little research to figure out how much your items are worth. Check completed listings on platforms like eBay or browse local posts on Facebook Marketplace to see what similar items are selling for. This will help you set fair prices that attract buyers quickly.
When writing descriptions, be honest about the condition of each item. If there are flaws or missing pieces, mention them upfront. Buyers appreciate transparency, and it helps avoid problems later. Take clear photos from multiple angles, highlighting both the good features and any wear or damage.
Once your items are ready, it’s important to handle the sales process safely.
Get Help from Parents and Follow Safety Rules
Involving your parents isn’t just about following rules - it’s about staying safe and learning how to handle sales responsibly. They can guide you through pricing, avoiding scams, and managing the logistics of meeting buyers or shipping items.
Here’s how parents can help:
- Oversee transactions: They should handle communication with buyers, money exchanges, and shipping details to keep your personal information private.
- Ensure safety during meetups: If you’re selling locally, parents should arrange to meet buyers in public spaces, like a busy store parking lot.
- Help with legal details: Some items, like electronics or toys, might have safety recalls or restrictions. Plus, if you earn a significant amount, there could be tax considerations.
Work with your parents to set clear rules about what you’re allowed to sell, how much money you can keep, and how much should go into savings. This not only ensures everything runs smoothly but also turns your sales project into a valuable learning experience, teaching you responsibility and smart money management.
Step 2: Money-Making Ideas with Things You Have
Once you've sorted through your items, it's time to figure out how to turn them into cash. You don’t need a complex business plan - sometimes the easiest ideas are the most effective. Whether you’re selling items as they are, using your creativity to make crafts, or offering services with what you already own, there are plenty of ways to start earning.
Sell Used Items
Got stuff you don’t need anymore? If it’s in good shape and people want it, you can sell it.
Local selling is a great starting point. Garage sales are an easy way to offload items quickly, and you can even team up with neighbors to attract more buyers. Posting flyers on community bulletin boards at libraries, grocery stores, or local centers is another option to spread the word.
Online platforms can help you reach more buyers and often fetch better prices. Facebook Marketplace is a go-to for parents looking for kids' gear, while eBay works well for collectibles, electronics, or branded items. If you're underage, ask your parents to handle the online transactions for you.
When pricing, aim for 25–40% of the original retail price if the item is in good condition. Popular brands like Nike, LEGO, or Apple tend to sell for more. If an item doesn’t sell after a week or two, consider lowering the price - it’s better to make some money than let it gather dust.
Presentation matters. Take clear, well-lit photos - natural daylight near a window works best. Show multiple angles, and for clothing, make sure it’s neatly displayed or hung. For electronics, include a photo of the item powered on to show it’s functional.
Make and Sell Crafts
If selling used items isn’t your thing, why not try making something? If you already have art supplies, you can use them to create crafts without spending much on materials. The trick is to pick projects that are simple and quick to make.
- Friendship bracelets: Use embroidery floss or yarn. Simple designs can sell for $2–3, while fancier ones with beads can go for $5–8.
- Bookmarks: Made from cardstock, ribbons, and markers, these appeal to both kids and adults and typically sell for $1–3.
- Painted rocks: These are popular near parks or trails where people enjoy finding and hiding them. Smooth rocks (free to collect), acrylic paint, and sealant are all you need. Simple designs sell for $3–5, while intricate ones can fetch $8–12.
- Homemade treats: If you’ve got basic baking ingredients, you can whip up cookies, brownies, or Rice Krispie treats. They’re always a hit at school events or neighborhood gatherings. Just check with your parents about local food sale rules.
- Seasonal crafts: Items like Halloween decorations, holiday ornaments, or spring flower pots often sell well because people are looking for them during specific times of the year.
Turn Old Items into New Products
If you’re feeling creative, upcycling could be your thing. This means taking old or unwanted items and transforming them into something new and desirable.
- Glass jars: Empty jars from pasta sauce or jam can be repurposed into storage containers, pencil holders, or lanterns. Clean off the labels, add some paint or decorations, and sell them for $5–10 each at craft fairs or online.
- Old t-shirts: Turn them into reusable shopping bags, pillowcases, or braided rugs. T-shirt bags are especially popular now that many stores charge for plastic bags. They’re quick to make and can sell for $8–12.
- Wooden furniture: A scratched stool or outdated shelf can become stylish with a little sanding and paint. Something that might sell for $5 at a garage sale could go for $25–40 after a makeover.
- Picture frames: Remove old artwork, paint the frames, or add decorations like buttons or fabric. These can sell for much more than plain used frames.
To succeed with upcycling, it helps to know what’s trendy. Check out Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration on colors and styles that people love.
Offer Simple Services
If selling products isn’t your thing, offering services can be a great way to earn steady income. Most service ideas require little to no investment and can grow through word-of-mouth.
- Pet care: Families often need help with dog walking, pet sitting, or daily check-ins, especially during vacations. You can charge $10–20 per visit, and most pet owners provide the supplies you’ll need.
- Plant and garden care: If you have basic gardening tools, offer to water indoor plants or maintain small gardens. You can charge $15–25 per week.
- Car washing: With just soap, sponges, and towels, you can charge $15–25 for an exterior wash or $30–50 for a full cleaning. This works well in neighborhoods where cars are parked in driveways.
- Organization help: If you’re naturally tidy, offer to organize playrooms, closets, or garages for busy families. Many parents are willing to pay $20–30 per hour for this service.
- Tech help: Older neighbors or family friends might need help setting up devices, organizing digital photos, or learning basic computer skills. You can charge $25–40 per hour for this kind of assistance.
Happy customers can lead to referrals, so start with people you know. Deliver excellent service, and your reputation will help your business grow naturally.
Step 3: Start Your First Small Business
So, you’ve figured out what you want to sell or the service you’d like to offer. Now it’s time to bring that idea to life! Starting small doesn’t mean you need fancy tools or a big, detailed plan. The trick is to begin with something you enjoy and can manage with what you already have.
Pick the Right Business Idea
The best business ideas are those that combine what you love, what you’re good at, and what people are willing to pay for. For example, if you’re into crafts and already have art supplies, you could start making handmade items. Or, if you’re great with animals and know neighbors who have pets, pet sitting might be a natural fit for you.
Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Can you start this business with things you already own?
- Do you know at least five people who might be interested?
- Is this something you can do repeatedly without losing interest?
Start small to test the waters. If you’re thinking about selling painted rocks, make just a few and see if they sell before committing to a larger batch. If pet sitting is your plan, try looking after one dog for a weekend before offering your services to more people. This way, you can figure out what works without wasting time or resources.
Also, think about how this fits into your schedule. If you’re crafting, you can work on your items after school or on weekends. But if you’re offering a service like dog walking, you’ll need to be available when your customers need you, which might mean early mornings or afternoons.
Once you’ve settled on an idea, it’s time to figure out pricing and how to track your progress.
Set Prices and Track Profits
Pricing doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by calculating your material costs and adding the value of your time. For example, if you’re making friendship bracelets and the thread costs $0.50 per bracelet, that’s your material cost. If it takes you 30 minutes to make one and you’d like to earn $10 an hour, that’s $5 for your time. Add those together, and your bracelet should sell for at least $5.50.
Don’t underprice your work just because you’re young. Your time and creativity matter! Check out what similar items are selling for online or in local stores to get a sense of fair pricing. Handmade items often cost more because they’re one-of-a-kind, and people are usually willing to pay for that.
Keep track of all your sales and expenses in a notebook or chart. This will help you figure out which items are worth your time and which might need a rethink. Set a goal for how much you’d like to earn. For example, if you want to make $50 in your first month and your bracelets sell for $5 each, you’ll need to sell 10. That’s about 2-3 bracelets per week - much easier to focus on than a big number like $50.
Make Simple Marketing Materials
You don’t need anything fancy to let people know about your business. Create simple flyers - either on a computer or by hand - that include what you’re selling, your prices, and how people can reach you (with your parents’ help, of course).
Word of mouth is super powerful. Tell your family, friends, neighbors, and classmates about your business. Happy customers can help spread the word, too. If someone loves what they buy from you, they’re likely to tell others.
If your parents are okay with it, social media can also be a great tool. They can post pictures of your products on their Facebook or Instagram accounts or help you share posts in local neighborhood groups. Always have them handle any online interactions with potential customers.
Think about where your customers spend time. If your product appeals to kids, maybe you can put up a flyer at school (with permission). For services like pet sitting, community centers or veterinary offices might let you post a flyer on their bulletin boards.
If you’re using a My Lil Startup kit, you’ll already have ready-made marketing materials like flyers and thank-you cards, which can save you time and make your business look more polished.
Once you’ve started promoting your business, it’s important to keep a close eye on your sales and spending.
Keep Track of Sales and Money
Good record-keeping is key to running your business smoothly and feeling like a real entrepreneur. Set up a simple system to track your sales, expenses, and profits.
You can use a basic chart with columns for the date, item sold, price, and customer name. This will help you spot trends - like if weekends are busier or which products are most popular. You can create your own tracker or use one from a My Lil Startup kit.
Keep your business money separate from your personal funds. Use a specific jar, envelope, or even a savings account to hold your earnings. This makes it easier to see how much your business is making and helps you decide what to do with your profits.
Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. Earned your first $10? That’s worth celebrating! Got your first repeat customer? That’s a big deal. These moments show that your business is working and can keep you motivated to grow.
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Get Started Faster with My Lil Startup Kits
Once you've organized your ideas and planned your first small business, My Lil Startup kits can give you a jumpstart on your entrepreneurial journey. These kits are designed to make launching a business simpler and more exciting.
Starting a business can feel like a big challenge, but these kits take out the guesswork. They provide everything you need to hit the ground running.
The focus is on slime businesses, which are a favorite among young entrepreneurs. Why slime? It’s trendy, easy to personalize, and sells well at school events, community gatherings, and family parties. Plus, you don’t need any special skills or pricey equipment to get started.
What’s Inside the Kits
Each My Lil Startup kit is packed with tools to help you feel like a real entrepreneur. Here’s what you’ll find:
- 20 pre-made slimes: Ready to sell as soon as you open the box - no mixing, no waiting, no hassle.
- Decorations galore: Glitter, charms, beads, and glow powder to customize slimes and make them stand out. These extras let you offer unique options that kids love.
- Kid-friendly business guide: The instruction book includes lessons on pricing, customer service, and managing money, all written in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.
- Marketing materials: Flyers, thank-you cards, and a sales tracker to help you promote your business and stay organized from day one.
These kits are designed to make your business look polished and professional, giving you the confidence to dive right in.
Compare the 3 Kit Options
| Kit Option | Price | Tagline | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter Kit | $39.95 | Earn $100 with your slime business kit | 20 pre-made slimes, decorations (glitter, charms, beads, glow powder), instruction book, and marketing materials (flyers, thank-you cards, sales tracker) |
| Growth Bundle | $59.95 | Includes tablecloth for a professional setup | Everything in the Starter Kit plus a tablecloth for a clean and attractive display |
| Mogul Bundle | $99.95 | Includes refills for extended business | Everything in the Growth Bundle plus a refill kit for 40 additional slimes |
Learning Business Skills Through Play
These kits aren’t just about making money - they’re about learning the ropes of running a business while having fun. Here’s how:
- Sales tracking: The included tracker introduces basic accounting skills, helping you keep tabs on your progress.
- Marketing know-how: Using the provided flyers teaches you how to promote a product effectively.
- Customer service: You’ll gain valuable experience interacting with buyers, handling money, and answering questions about your products.
The kits are designed to build confidence by setting you up for success right away. With pre-made slimes ready to sell, you'll experience those early wins that inspire you to dream bigger. Many kids who start with these kits go on to create their own unique ventures using the skills they’ve learned.
The instruction book doesn’t just tell you what to do - it explains why strategies like pricing, marketing, and customer care work. This step-by-step approach lays a solid foundation for future business ideas.
But the learning doesn’t stop there. These kits encourage real-world interactions - talking to customers, setting up displays, and managing actual money transactions. It’s a hands-on experience that teaches practical skills you’ll use for years to come.
Tips for Success
Starting your business is an exciting journey. Here are some strategies to help you develop smart financial habits and ensure you're operating safely.
Handle Money the Right Way
Managing your finances is one of the most important skills for any entrepreneur. These habits work hand-in-hand with the sales tracking system you’ve already set up.
Keeping track of your spending not only helps you stay disciplined but also highlights the importance of saving. Building these habits early can set you up for long-term success.
Make it a point to record every transaction - whether it's income or an expense. For instance, if you sell a handmade bracelet for $5.00, log it as "+$5.00." If you spend $2.50 on materials, jot it down as "–$2.50."
Banking apps can be a great resource, especially when used with a parent’s guidance. Many apps provide real-time updates on your account balance after each transaction, so you can see exactly where your money is going. Some apps even categorize your spending, making it easier to identify trends - like whether you're spending too much on supplies or need to save more of your earnings.
To make things even clearer, color-code your tracker: use green for income, red for expenses, and blue for savings. Set aside time each week to review your tracker and measure your progress.
Stay Safe with Parent Help
Just as you manage your finances, having your parents involved ensures your business is secure. Research shows that parents play a major role in shaping a child’s future financial habits. Their guidance is crucial - not just for safety but also for teaching you essential life skills.
Always keep a parent or guardian in the loop with your business activities. Whether you're handling in-person sales or managing orders online, their involvement ensures clear communication and helps you navigate any challenges. With their support, you’ll be better equipped to grow your business while staying safe.
Conclusion: Turn Your Room into a Money Maker
Your bedroom might be hiding a world of opportunities. Those toys, craft supplies, or even skills you already have could be the foundation of your very first business. The process of turning items from your room into a source of income not only helps you make money but also teaches you lessons that go far beyond the dollar value.
Start small but dream big. Whether you're repurposing old toys, crafting handmade items, or offering services to neighbors, each step helps you build essential entrepreneurial skills. And the best part? You can have fun along the way, especially with your parents' support to guide you.
The journey is also about self-discovery. Maybe you're great at making friendship bracelets, or perhaps you're a natural at helping neighbors organize their tasks. Each idea you try reveals more about your talents and interests.
Every item in your room can be a stepping stone to something bigger. By applying what you've learned, your room transforms from a simple living space into your very own business hub. Whether you're selling unused toys or creating something entirely new, you're gaining confidence and skills that will benefit you for years to come.
So why wait? Take a fresh look around your room, pick an idea that excites you, and take that first step into the world of entrepreneurship. Your path from bedroom to business success starts today!
FAQs
How can I figure out the right price for things I want to sell from my room?
When you're setting prices for items to sell, a handy starting point is 20% to 30% of the original retail price for things like toys, books, or gadgets that are still in good shape. For clothing or smaller items, sticking to 10% to 15% of the original cost is a common approach. Not sure where to start? Think about what you'd be comfortable paying for a similar item at a yard sale or thrift shop.
Remember, buyers are always on the lookout for a good deal. Set prices that feel reasonable but still leave room for a bit of profit. And if an item doesn't sell right away, you can always tweak the price later!
How can kids stay safe and avoid scams when selling items online or in-person?
When selling items, your safety should always come first. Stick to trusted platforms and avoid sharing personal details like your full name, home address, or financial information.
For in-person transactions, choose public, well-lit locations and bring along a parent or guardian to ensure the meeting goes smoothly.
Be wary of offers that seem unusually good - they might not be genuine. Whenever possible, check the buyer’s profile and use secure payment options like cash or reputable digital payment platforms. These steps can help protect you and make the selling process a positive experience.
How can I choose the best service to offer using what I already have?
When choosing a service to offer, think about the tools, skills, or resources you already have that can solve a problem or bring enjoyment to others. Consider what people in your area might need or appreciate. For instance, if you have a stash of art supplies, you could create and sell personalized crafts. Got a lawnmower or other outdoor gear? Offering yard care services could be a great option.
Whatever you decide, make sure it’s something you can handle safely and consistently. Think about the time and effort it’ll require, and ensure it’s priced reasonably for your audience while still being appealing. Prioritize services that are enjoyable, practical, or creative, and always aim to deliver with care and quality to leave a lasting, positive impression!
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