As educators, we know the value of teaching our children about hard work and creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking. If you’re looking for ways to make extra money while spending meaningful time with your kids, these seven side hustles might be just what you need. They’re perfect for families who want to build skills and income streams together.
1. Vending Machines: Teaching Business Basics
Operating a vending machine is a low-cost, hands-on way to teach kids about running a business. Many vending machines are available for cheap—or even free—on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Start by exploring your local options and choosing a machine that fits your budget.
Once you have a vending machine, work with your kids to find the perfect location. Office buildings, parks, and even neighborhood garages can be great spots. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can purchase a machine that’s already in a high-traffic area and generate income.
This side hustle introduces kids to logistics, inventory management, and customer service. Every step becomes a learning opportunity from restocking snacks to counting the cash. Plus, it’s fun to bond over a shared goal while earning passive income.
Vending machines are just one of many “boring” businesses that can create extra income for teachers; trust me, there are many opportunities if you’re ready to do the work.
2. Print-on-Demand: Creativity Meets Commerce
With tools like AI image generators, creating designs for print-on-demand products has never been easier. Your kids can turn their creativity into something tangible, whether t-shirts, mugs, puzzles, or stickers.
Start by brainstorming design ideas together. You can focus on themes your kids love, like animals, sports, or popular sayings. Then, use platforms like Canva or AI tools to create eye-catching designs. Upload them to print-on-demand services like Printful or Printify and list them for sale on Etsy or Amazon. When someone makes a purchase, the print-on-demand company handles the printing and shipping, so there’s minimal effort after the initial setup.
This hustle teaches kids about design, marketing, and the value of intellectual property. Even if you don’t make a fortune, the process is a great way to foster creativity and entrepreneurial thinking.
3. Buy and Sell on Facebook Marketplace
This classic hustle is perfect for kids who love a good treasure hunt. Start by scouring Facebook Marketplace, garage sales, or thrift stores for free or undervalued items. Look for items with potential, such as furniture, electronics, or even musical instruments.
Once you’ve acquired some items, involve your kids in cleaning, repairing, or repainting them. This process teaches valuable skills like resourcefulness and creativity. When the items are ready, list them on the Marketplace for a profit.
For example, you might find a free piano that needs tuning or minor repairs. Your kids can help with the process and learn about the effort that goes into creating value. This hustle generates income and helps kids appreciate the concept of upcycling and sustainability.
4. Local Rentals: Turn What You Have Into Profit
Do you have camping gear, sports equipment, or even a bounce house collecting dust? Renting these items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace can generate steady income.
Start by taking inventory of your household items. Does anyone in your family have snowmobiles, kayaks, or party equipment? If not, consider investing in something with rental potential, like a bounce house or inflatable water slide. These items can pay for themselves after just a few rentals. Your kids can manage customer communication, schedule rentals, and help with setups and takedowns.
This hustle teaches responsibility and the importance of maintaining equipment. It’s also an opportunity for your kids to practice customer service skills in a real-world setting.
5. One-to-many babysitting or Sports Camps
Instead of traditional babysitting, encourage your kids to think bigger by organizing group activities. Babysitting groups or sports camps are a great way to multiply their efforts and earnings.
For example, your child could organize a babysitting club for toddlers in the neighborhood. Charge parents a small fee per child and create a schedule of fun activities. Similarly, if your child is skilled at a sport, they can run a mini sports camp for younger kids. This can be done over weekends or during school breaks, making it a flexible option.
This hustle introduces kids to the concept of scalability—earning more by working smarter, not harder. It’s also a wonderful way to develop leadership and organizational skills.
6. Neighborhood Task Services: Building a Local Business
Help your kids create a business tackling those small, nagging tasks neighbors never get around to—cleaning windows, power-washing driveways, or scrubbing trash cans. Start by knocking on doors or distributing flyers to offer services.
Teach your kids to focus on customer satisfaction and building a loyal clientele. For repeat customers, create a simple system to stay in touch, such as sending monthly texts or emails with seasonal promotions. Over time, your kids will learn the importance of hard work, communication, and business growth.
This hustle is a fantastic way to teach kids the value of persistence and the satisfaction of completing a job well done.
7. Creating and Selling Digital Products
If your kids love drawing, writing, or storytelling, consider helping them create digital products. They can design printable coloring books, planners, or e-books to sell online. Platforms like Etsy and Teachers Pay Teachers are perfect for showcasing these creations.
This hustle is a great introduction to passive income. Once the product is created and listed, it can generate income indefinitely. Your kids will learn valuable skills like time management, digital design, and the basics of e-commerce. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to encourage their creativity and turn their hobbies into a source of income.
Final Thoughts
Each of these hustles helps families make extra money and teaches invaluable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. As educators, we can model lifelong learning and entrepreneurial spirit for our kids. By involving them in these activities, we’re setting the stage for their future success—whether in business or any other field they pursue.
What side hustles have you tried with your kids? Share your ideas in the comments or on social media—I’d love to hear how you’re building skills and creating memories together!