"For the typical lemonade stand, lawn-mowing business or snow-shoveling operation, young entrepreneurs will need to check with local officials to determine the compliance requirements," Williams said. Depending on the child's age, a parent will need to help. "Those rules can extend to just about every business, including those owned by a child."Īn increasing number of states and communities have started to make it easier for young entrepreneurs to make money, but in many communities, children and teens need to secure the right paperwork to run their businesses lawfully, according to Williams. "Cities, countries, and states have laws that require businesses to secure permits and licenses to operate," said Mark Williams, director of customer service operations at BizFilings. Believe it or not, neighbors will complain to have a business shut down if there aren't proper permits and paperwork. However, child-run businesses can run into problems if they're not legal. That's why letting them have neighborhood lemonade stands, yard sales or lawn-mowing businesses is a great way for them to learn responsibility and the value of a dollar. This article is for parents and guardians interested in helping kids start their own legal small businesses.Protect your children by making sure their business is legitimate.Having a business can teach children responsibility and good money sense.Kids' businesses are still businesses and need proper permits.
#How to run a lemonade stand for kids how to#
Inspired? Grab our tutorial on how to make a DIY Lemonade Stand using simple wooden crates. Let friends and neighbors know your child is running a stand and you may get some business that way. Unlike when we were kids, there are many ways to advertise your sale. This will allow you to charge more for it.
Offer a premium product as well, such as making your lemonade hand squeezed. Your little business owner might actually make more money this way. One way to get lots of people talking about the stand is to give the lemonade away for free. Also, make sure to wipe up any spills right away so things stay clean. Keep napkins and hand sanitizer clearly displayed for these folks so they know your stand is clean and well kempt. Some folks don’t stop at child-run lemonade stands because they fear they are sticky, germy messes. This allows the children to take time to make lemonade to keep up with the demand. If you plan on doing the stand for most of the day, have siblings or friends take “shifts”. The sad fact is, some people will steal, even from a child. Never leave money out where it could be taken. Not only will this be the best way to sell it, but it will keep it at optimal temperature to avoid issues with safety.
Use bright signs, bold markers and legible writing.Ī cooler with ice is a great way to do just that. This is a great teaching opportunity for children to learn how much things cost and how to figure out profit.Īdvertise the sale with similar to signs you would make directing people to a yard sale. Help them consider the costs of running the stand as well. Use brightly colored signs, tablecloths, and cups.Īsk your children what they would pay for a product. It does not have to be super fancy, but it should draw people in. Make sure you apply sunscreen liberally and try to do it in a shady spot. One that has a lot of foot and car traffic is always good. Some will require permits, inspections and licenses, especially if you plan on doing it near public events.Ĭhoose a warm day and find a good location. Make sure your state and local laws permit it. How to help your child hold a successful lemonade stand Here are some tips to help your child have the most successful one yet! We hope that you enjoy these tips on How to help your child hold a successful lemonade stand. Most children have a bit of entrepreneurial spirit in them and the one of the most traditional ways kids let their inner business owner out is through a lemonade stand.