THE long school holidays are here, and while rest and relaxation are important, it is also a perfect time for children and teenagers to learn about money by earning it.
Helping your child explore small income-generating hustles not only keeps them productive, but also builds entrepreneurial skills and a sense of responsibility.
Here are ways children can make money these holidays:
SELL ICE BLOCKS AND SNACKS
Ice blocks and snacks are always in demand. Children can make and sell simple snacks like popcorn, fat cakes or ice blocks from home or roadside stalls. A cooler box and a small starting budget can go a long way.
HELP IN A FAMILY SPAZA SHOP
Many families run small tuckshops or sell from home. This is a chance for children to learn about stock taking, customer service and handling money, while earning a small weekly allowance. “My daughter helps me sell airtime and snacks,” shared one mother. “Now she even knows how to give correct change and balance the money at the end of the day.”
SELL VEGETABLES OR FRUITS
If the family has a garden, children can help harvest and sell spinach, tomatoes or avocados to the neighbours. This teaches patience, planning and basic agri-business skills.
SELL AIRTIME AND EMALI
Using platforms like Eswatini Mobile e-Mali, teens can earn small commission by helping people buy airtime and data. It is low-risk and helps them learn digital financial tools.
CAR WASH SERVICE
Teenagers can offer a basic car wash service in their area. All that is needed is a bucket, cloth and water access. Safe, visible locations like at home or a yard is ideal. They can even offer washes for E20–E30 per car.
SELL SECOND-HAND CLOTHES
Children can help sort, wash and resell old clothes from the family closet. This works especially well in places where foot traffic is high.
BRAIDING AND SELLING ACCESSORISE
If your child has a talent for braiding hair, they can earn money doing simple hairstyles for friends or neighbours. They can also sell ribbons and hair ties.
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