Plain and simple summer vacation is your time to hang out and have fun. Right? Yep. The problem? All the things you enjoy doing—like going shopping, to the movies, or out for ice cream—cost money. When your allowance just doesn't cut it, and you're too young for hire, why not start your own summer business? With your smarts, you could be the youngest businesswoman on the block! Follow these 5 steps to success!

1. Decide what service(s) to offer
   Think about your community's needs and the talents and skills you can offer. What can you do for a small fee that would help other people? Here's a list of ideas to get you started:

   You like the outdoors: Start a lawn care company. You can weed, plant and water flowers, maintain flowerbeds, or trim bushes. Or how about car washing and waxing? And if you have a green thumb, you can start a garden and sell the veggies you grow.

   You love animals: You can be a dog-walker or a pet sitter. If a neighbor goes on vacation, you can feed and take care of their pet (if you're bringing them to your home, get your parents' permission first). Offer to groom pets, give them baths, and clean their cages.