Business Ideas for Kids: Earning a First $10
By Ruby Hafez, founder of MomProAI · 15+ years selling online · Updated October 8, 2026
A first $10 teaches more than a worksheet ever will: cost, price, profit, and talking to a customer. Here is a simple path, always with a parent involved.
1. Start with what your child is good at
Ask: what do you like to make or do? Drawing, baking with a parent, crafts, organizing, helping neighbors. Build on that instead of copying someone else's idea.
2. Do the money math together
Example: friendship bracelets cost about $0.50 each in supplies. Sell them for $2. Profit is $1.50 per bracelet, so 7 sales reach about $10. Write it down so your child sees it.
3. Start with what you already have
Use supplies already at home before buying anything new. Never put all the money into one batch; make a few, sell them, then make more.
4. Find the first customers
Family, neighbors, friends, and community events, with a parent present. Practice one short sentence: "Hi, I made these bracelets, they're $2 each."
5. Keep it safe
A parent handles money online, goes along to every sale, and checks local rules for anything involving food.
Try it free
Answer 3 questions or snap a photo, and My Kid's First $10 builds a step-by-step plan you and your child can follow together.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good first business for a kid?
Something they already enjoy and can make or do with supplies at home, like bracelets, cards, drawings or simple services, with a parent supervising.
How do I teach my child about profit?
Write down the cost of one item, the price, and the difference. Then count how many sales it takes to reach $10.
Should a parent be involved?
Yes. A parent should supervise every sale, handle any online money, and check local rules for food or events.