Introducing Internet Based Kids - Tessa and Laura 

Tessa and Laura's Website: Pre-Wrap

Tessa and Laura ages 15 and 14 teamed up with their mom to start their own online business. Read how much it has grown right from their first order. Very motivating story!

Why did you decide to help your child start his/her own online business? 

As a self-employed woman, I feel that it is important to empower our kids, especially girls, to have the knowledge that they are in control of their own life, including financial aspects.  I think too many kids today love to spend money but don't really understand the value.  In addition, kids are so busy with sports and extra-curriculars allow for little time to get a real job.

That being said, I was hoping that the girls would learn about business while making some extra cash. I think money is a great motivator.  I wanted them to know that selling doesn't have to be hard when you have a product that people want and love.

Finally, I wanted to share my love for business with them.  I saw it as a way I could spend time with them while teaching valuable real life lessons.

Have you had a lot of fun doing this project?  And have there been any setbacks or difficulties in setting it all up? 

We've had a ton of fun but the reality is that it IS work.  The first setback we encountered was not having enough inventory.  We were completely shocked when our first order was a case of 48 rolls when we expected to be selling a roll or two!  The learning curve has been enormous.  We knew nothing about setting up a website, eBay, affiliate marketing, and never sold a physical product before, as opposed to a service.

What experience and life lessons do you hope your child will gain from starting his/her own business? 

I hope my girls will be strong confident young women that realize that the sky is the limit for their lives and careers.  I want them to know that they can have a family and make a good income from home, if they so choose.  I also want them to have financial skills ‚Äì how to balance a checkbook and how not to abuse credit cards. If you want something that requires money, then you need to work for it.

Is it difficult to motivate your child to work on the business or is it coming naturally to them?  If it's difficult do you have any tips for other parents in the same position?

I wouldn't call it difficult, but it is a challenge to keep it fun and interesting.  When my kids come home from school with three hours of homework and a soccer practice ahead of them, it's hard to say, ‚ÄúCome on, let's go work on your business!‚Äù  We have to balance between it being a hobby and it being a serious business.  At this time, we have to service our customers first and foremost.  When someone places an order, it needs to be fulfilled immediately ‚Äì not in our spare time.

Have you seen any changes in your child since starting their own business?

I have seen them grow in confidence, for sure. It's fun to watch them explain to other students and adults that they have their own business.  They are very proud.

And lastly, what advice can you pass on to other parents and kids considering starting their own business? 

Starting an online business can be a great experience for both child and parent, but unless your child is older, you will need to be involved. Setting up websites, Google campaigns, affiliate accounts, eBay accounts etc. often require that you are at least 18 and need a credit card.  Other business that are offline may not need as much parental involvement.  Perhaps it should be considered a joint venture!