Whether you want to save up for a new bike or a trip to Disney Land, now is the time to make a plan and start saving!

The first step is to get a savings account. You will want a little cash on hand, so a good strategy is to deposit at least half of whatever you earn. If you're serious about making that cash grow, keeping it in your piggy bank under bed won’t get you as far as depositing it. Keep your spending money in the pig, and deposit the rest.

The next step is to make a plan to make money so you can keep putting it in your account on a regular basis.

How can you keep making money? Here are some ideas for earning extra money in your community. Before you begin, it's important ask your parents to help you make a suitable and safe list of family, friends and neighbors to be your possible clients. Next, try earning some extra cash through simple chores and creative ideas. Then make a trip to the credit union, and watch that balance grow!

1. Become a dog walker. Do you know someone in the neighborhood with a dog? Maybe an elderly neighbor? Offer to give their pet a walk or even a bath!
2. Lawn work. No one likes to pull weeds from their front walk. Look for yards that need some help, make a list of what you think you could do, set a price and offer your services.
3. Wash cars. Load some supplies into a wagon and contact folks from your client list. If your mom will lend you her vacuum you'll really be in business!
4. Collect and return cans and bottles. Lots of families would be happy to donate their recycling if they knew it would really be recycled. Offering to make a pick up once a week will make people feel good about saving the environment, and you can keep whatever you make on the returns!
5. Baby sitting is a great way to make money. Make yourself a business card and list your strengths. If you can take a CPR class, you'll be very popular. Maybe you bring your own arts and crafts or can play an instrument. Point out what would make you different. If you get one babysitting job, leave some with those parents and let them know you are looking for more clients (parents are always talking about sitters).
6. Too young to baby-sit? Ask a busy mom you know if you can help out. Lots of moms would love you to play with a baby while she did some chores, or maybe she could use some help with chores so she can play. Fold laundry or do dishes, get creative! For $1 or $2 per hour you are sure to be invited back!
7. Have a yard sale. Ask your folks if they have stuff they'd like to get rid of, or just go through your closet. Check with people on your possible client list. Offer to pick up some things to sell and split the profits, you'll be doing them a favor and earning cash!
8. Make something to sell. Maybe you and your dad like to work with wood, or maybe you can paint hair clips, or take some pictures and make greeting cards on your home computer. Sell your wares to friends and family!

Whatever you decide to do, keep a little spending money for yourself and put at least half in the credit union. You are on your way!