If you’re a stay-at-home parent, you know that caring for your kids is a full-time job. Even so, you may find that you have some downtime now and again. Or you may be looking for a way to channel your talents or creativity into some extra cash. During these moments, a side hustle can seem appealing, and work-from-home jobs for moms and dads are readily available.
With that in mind, we’ve identified eight side hustles that are perfect for stay-at-home parents. You won’t have to leave your home, and you don’t have to give up any of your parenting duties. Here are a few options you may want to consider.
Side Hustle Options That Don’t Require Previous Experience
If your resume is feeling a little sparse, there’s no reason to worry. You don’t need previous experience to pursue the following side hustles.
1. Babysitting
If you have capacity to care for additional children, you could consider advertising your availability on a trusted website or neighborhood email group. While this may not require previous experience, you may be asked for personal references to help people feel comfortable leaving their children in your home. If you go this route, keep in mind that there are various rules and guidelines that regulate how many children you can provide in-home childcare for at once without the need for a childcare license.
2. Opening an Online Store
If you enjoy crafting, selling your wares online could bring in some extra money. You can open an online store through an established third-party website and reach a bigger audience than you would operating on your own site. Just remember to use high-quality images for advertising your creations.
3. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Many people need pet care when they aren’t home during the day. You can stay at someone’s house to take care of the pets, bringing your child or children with you. Or just stop over to walk dogs while your neighbors are at work. Post on your neighborhood social media sites to find customers, or advertise your services on a pet sitting app. You may also consider pet sitting in your own home provided you are comfortable with the pet(s) and your family will be safe around them.
Side Hustle Options That Require Relevant Experience
Your experience can help you find side hustle jobs that provide a fun, creative challenge, too. You can do all these jobs at home, and they could turn into an excellent outlet for full-time work once your child gets older if you decide to reenter the workforce.
1. Freelance Writing
Websites will often need writers to pen blog posts or creative copy describing their products or services. Search job hunting websites to find leads on freelance opportunities. You can also network with friends who own businesses to find jobs when you’re just starting out. Getting a few writing samples under your belt can help convince someone else to hire you.
2. Freelance Editing
Are you a stickler for using proper grammar? Do you have an English degree and an uncanny ability to spot typos in your reading material? Then consider a freelance editing job. Again, you can peruse job hunting websites to find people who need everything from book editing to business copy polishing. Joining industry groups can also connect you with other professionals and help you learn about new opportunities.
3. Graphic Design
Graphic design is a wonderful occupation for people who want to continue their stay-at-home parent duties. You can design websites or create illustrations to accompany magazine articles, all from your home office. Use your network to find connections who need illustrations or imagery. Web design is always in demand, and you can start off by designing your own website to show potential clients a snippet of your skills.
4. Translation
If you speak another language, you could make money translating documents from that language to English and vice versa. The business world has become more global, and communication takes place in many languages today. Reach out to companies that serve diverse populations in your area or search online job listings for freelance or contract work. You can also join an industry organization to find new clients.
Maximizing Your Side Hustle Income
Most of these side hustles will run hot and cold. You may make more money in some months and less in others. Whether it’s a busy or slow month for you, there are steps you can take to maximize the extra income you’re bringing in.
First, determine if there are essential expenses your family needs to cover with this income. If your other household income doesn’t make ends meet, you’ll want to set a goal for how much you want to earn each month to pay all of your bills.
Next, if this money can be “extra” after all expenses are met, consider the ways it can work for you, such as putting the money toward paying down debt or contributing to a retirement fund since you aren’t actively contributing to a company-sponsored account.
A side hustle can bring in extra cash and help you feel engaged with other people outside of your home as you perform your most important job – that of a parent. For more tips on making the most of your money, check out our Resource Center.
