Twelve-year-olds may want to use their spare-time on weekends or summer vacation to earn extra money. Age-appropriate jobs also teach vital work ethics to kids before they enter the workforce in their teens. In the United States, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), children under 14 can't get jobs from most businesses. Youngsters this age often want to work, though, and can take on easy jobs that benefit them in many ways.

Yard Work

Many 12-year-olds have taken on mowing lawns or raking leaves as their first job. After a storm, kids can offer their services to clean up yard debris or shovel snow. Jobs can be found by passing out fliers in your neighborhood or relying on word-of-mouth from satisfied neighbors. Youngsters should have experience using lawn mowers and may need some parental supervision.

Babysitting

Temporary child care is also a popular job for 12-year-olds. They can earn money taking care of their family's and neighbor's children for a few hours a day. The American Red Cross offers a Babysitter's Training course for youngsters ages 11-15. Pre-teens should not be left in charge of young children overnight or for extended periods of time.

Animal Care

If your 12-year-old loves animals, she might want a job taking care of furry friends. Jobs include dog walking, pet grooming and pet sitting. Neighbors who are going on vacation often hire children they know to feed and walk their pets. Likewise, a busy neighbor or elderly relative may want someone to wash or walk their dog.

Delivering Newspapers

Delivering newspapers is still one of the jobs available to 12-year-olds and protected by the FLSA. This job is best for kids who live in suburban neighborhoods. Many adults have begun to take this job as routes expand, and require licensed drivers. Sometimes parents and children choose to work this job together.