Additional Coverage:
- My 7-year-old wanted to make money, so I helped him start a small business. He learned about confidence and rejection. (businessinsider.com)
Seven-year-old Recycler Launches Neighborhood Business
A local seven-year-old, inspired by family dinner table business talk, launched his own neighborhood recycling service. With a wagon, some bins, and a lot of determination, he went door-to-door collecting cans and bottles for cash.
The young entrepreneur’s parents, both experienced business owners, instilled in their children the value of hard work and earning their own money. Rather than paying an allowance for chores, they encouraged their sons to create their own income streams.
When the youngest expressed a desire to earn money, they brainstormed ideas, eventually landing on recycling. The boy designed flyers, planned his pitch, and hit the pavement. His mother proudly watched as he gained confidence with each interaction, learning valuable lessons from both acceptances and rejections.
The budding businessman kept meticulous records of his customers and their contact information, establishing a regular pickup schedule. He even sorted and redeemed the recyclables himself at a local redemption center.
Impressively, he also implemented a give-back plan, dividing his earnings into thirds: one for spending, one for reinvesting in the business, and one for donating to a local homeless outreach program.
His recycling business was just the beginning. Over the years, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore other ventures, including sneaker cleaning, car washing, dog walking, and most recently, “Capo Helpers,” a yard work and weeding service.
Now twelve, he continues to manage his various businesses, often texting his mother about newly acquired dog-walking jobs. He’s even learned valuable lessons about partnerships, realizing not everyone shares his work ethic.
His parents emphasize that their role has been one of support, fostering his creativity and allowing him the space to learn and grow. With each new endeavor, he reinforces the belief that he can create anything he sets his mind to.