Starting a business can be a daunting task, but it’s also very rewarding, especially if you can pursue your love for children while you do it. Here are six kid-friendly ideas for businesses that can be started with a little hard work and some creativity:
Idea #1: A play-based daycare service
Starting a daycare is probably the most lucrative business idea on this list, but it’s also the most difficult with licensing requirements and other legalities to consider. With that said, starting one with friends can be done by taking turns watching each other’s children in your homes or hosting them at various parks or other locations.
It might be a good idea to have one location where the children are watched so parents can know where they will be at all times. In your daycare, you could promote an environment that is safe and loving, and where the children are free to play. Providing homemade snacks or meals can also be a selling point since parents look for healthy offerings for their kids.
Idea #2: Sell toys, games, and educational tools
Kids love toys! And what’s better than buying them new ones? Buying used toys that are still in excellent condition at low prices! New toys are bright, shiny, and exciting, but used toys still provide hours of fun. Buying them in bulk can also save you money which you can then pass to your customers.
You could offer discounts for secondhand toys with missing parts or other accessories like the original packaging. Another great idea is to provide educational tools like books, games, and toys. If parents leave with their children’s complete wish lists fulfilled, they’ll be back again and again.
Idea #3: A learning center with preschool programs
Preschool is where kids’ brains are more developed than ever! So what better opportunity to work with children at their most receptive age? You could find preschool franchise opportunities and maximize their time-tested business models to jump-start your career as an entrepreneur.
You could also create your learning programs and sell them to schools that can’t afford or don’t have the time to create one. Or you could market your learning center as a tutoring center after school hours for elementary-aged children who need help with their studies. Start small, but dream big!
Idea #4: A small party business
The best age group to focus on with this idea would be children ages five through twelve who are at the prime age of imagination and fun. This is also perhaps one of the easiest businesses to start because it requires minimal overhead cost.
You could offer all types of services like party packages with themed activities, baking and cooking classes, or even parlor games that will bring out your child’s creative side! You can find many creative ideas for parties online and either base your business off of this or make up your own based on customer feedback.
Idea #5: Organize sports teams and camps
Like the idea of having a daycare but don’t want to be limited to working with parents’ schedules? Offer team sports in an afterschool setting! Kids like to play sports and exercise, but not all parents can afford or have time for extracurricular programs.
If you’re passionate about a specific sport, why not run an afterschool program that’s free or low-cost? You can either include other fun activities like arts and crafts or simply focus on one sport like soccer or basketball. You could also start a summer camp or afterschool program during the school year when children can learn and play many sports.
Idea #6: A babysitting service
With the younger generation at their most expensive, this is a great way to earn an income. With such high demand for babysitters, starting a business with just one or two clients will bring in the revenue you need to survive.
You could start a babysitting service where you go on playdates or offer overnight stays if children are old enough. Being a babysitter can be challenging, so your first clients must have long-standing referrals and good reputations with other parents.
As an alternative, you could also volunteer your services at your local children’s hospital or charity organization that would provide you with the experience to work with children in a professional environment. You could also make a great impression on parents and other kids.
Starting your own business is an exciting opportunity to be your own boss. With these six kid-friendly ideas, you’ll be on your way to success in no time. Of course, you can also make up your own ideas and see what works best for you!
