School’s out, the sun’s blazing over the Mojave, and little entrepreneurs are popping up in your neighborhood like blooming cacti. One of them might be your neighbor’s daughter—armed with pitchers of lemonade and a dragon origami army. If you’ve got a kid who’s full of ideas and energy, why not help them channel that into something fun and profitable?
Here are 7 creative, safe, and super fun ways kids can make money right here in Las Vegas:
How Kids Are Having Fun and Making Money in Las Vegas
1. Lemonade Stands — The Classic with a Twist
Kids love lemonade stands because they’re simple, social, and delicious. Want to make it Vegas-level awesome? Let them add flavors (strawberry basil? watermelon mint?) or even create a “hydration station” for joggers and dog walkers.
Pro Tips:
- Always set up in a shaded, low-traffic, supervised spot.
- Encourage colorful signage and reusable cups for eco-friendliness.
Lemonade Stand Supplies on Amazon
2. Painted Rock Art Sales
This is where creativity meets commerce. Kids can collect smooth desert rocks and paint them with designs, animals, emojis, or even uplifting words. Think: Vegas souvenirs on a budget.
Where to Sell:
- In front yards with parent supervision.
- At local craft fairs or school events.
3. Origami Dragons & Paper Crafts
Themed origami is surprisingly popular. Dragons, flowers, even folded dollar-bill shirts—kids can learn and teach these skills while making a few bucks selling their creations.
Bonus Idea: Offer custom-folded gifts for birthdays or party favors.
4. Pet Walking & “Pup Playdates”
Some kids love animals and have a gentle touch. For older, responsible children (with adult oversight), dog walking for neighbors is a great way to earn and learn responsibility.
Keep it safe:
- Start with known dogs and walk short, familiar routes.
- Limit to one dog at a time.
5. Friendship Bracelets & Custom Jewelry
Bright beads, letter charms, and stretchy cords—what more do you need? Let kids create and brand their own “mini jewelry line.” Sell via Instagram (with parental help) or in person.
Hot Tip: Create custom Vegas-themed designs for tourists.
6. Succulent Sales in Recycled Pots
Turn used cans, mason jars, or mini pots into chic plant homes. Succulents are perfect for the desert climate and don’t need much watering.
Market it as: “Desert Decor” or “Plant Pets for Busy People.”
7. Neighborhood Mini Markets
Gather a few kid-entrepreneurs and host a “kid biz fair” in someone’s yard or driveway once a month. Think: lemonade, crafts, snacks, games—kind of like a Vegas farmers’ market, just shorter and sweeter.
Make it festive:
- Music
- Balloons
- Parent-supervised raffles or contests
8. 3D Printed Creations for Profit (Bonus for Tech-Savvy Kids!)
For older kids who are into tech and design, 3D printing is like having a magic machine that turns ideas into reality. Whether it’s funky fidget toys or custom cookie cutters, there’s a market for cool, practical 3D prints.
🔥 Top-Selling 3D Printed Ideas for Kids:
- Custom Keychains — Names, initials, or even Las Vegas-themed designs
- Miniature Toys — Dinosaurs, animals, robots, or chess sets
- Bag Tags & Zipper Pulls — Great for backpacks, sports bags, and lunchboxes
- Phone Stands — Cute, functional, and always in demand
- Cookie Cutters — Shapes like cacti, playing cards, or animals
- Lego-Compatible Parts — Extra bricks or unique pieces (without copyright violations!)
🧠 Resources to Help Kids Get Started:
- Printer to start with: Creality Ender 3 V3 SE — budget-friendly and beginner-approved
- Design Platform: Tinkercad — free, browser-based, and made for kids
- Inspiration & Files: Thingiverse — thousands of free designs to download and customize
- Tutorials: YouTube Channels like “3D Printing Nerd” and “Maker’s Muse” offer beginner-friendly walkthroughs
- Local Help: Las Vegas libraries like the Windmill Library Makerspace often host 3D printing workshops for teens
Conclusion
Las Vegas is known for high-stakes games—but there’s nothing more rewarding than watching a kid beam with pride as they earn their first few bucks. Whether they’re slinging lemonade or selling origami dragons, it’s not just about the cash—it’s about confidence, creativity, and community.
Parental Tip: Help your child price their items based on filament costs, print time, and effort—an early lesson in real business math!
FAQs
1. What if my kid’s too shy to sell face-to-face?
Start with neighbors or family friends. Or try selling to parents’ coworkers, with handmade order forms and photos.
2. Can kids take payments online or via Venmo?
Only with parental supervision! Set up a family payment option like Square or Zelle under your account.
3. How do I avoid burnout or stress for my child?
Keep it light. Set time limits, allow breaks, and emphasize fun over profit. You’re building character—not a corporation.
