10 More Great Ideas for Moms Who Want to Work at Home

Pet Sitter

"I first started keeping dogs as favors to friends, and they insisted on paying me for my services," says Anne. "Some clients bring their dogs to my house, and others I pet sit at their homes. I take excellent care of these pets, feeding them, walking them, and mostly loving them. I love having my own business and the flexibility and time for myself—I can even read a book while the pups sit by my side."

Anne adds that most clients pay by the day, and others even schedule their vacations according to her calendar because they don't want anyone else to pet sit for an extended period of time. "If you love animals, this is a very rewarding job," she says.

Piano Teacher

"My background as an early childhood teacher and music specialist brought me into this home-based job when I decided to leave the classroom and work at home to be with my children while they were growing up," recalls Tania. "Some of my youngest students came in the morning hours and elementary-age children in the afternoons after school. I had a full schedule daily. Music is a universal language; as a child learns notation, it will instill the basics to play a variety of instruments of their choice."

Piano teaching was a wonderful job for Tania; it brought in extra income as she maintained her role as a mother and homemaker at the same time.

Manicurist

What woman doesn't like to be pampered? "I worked as a manicurist in a day-spa," says Kathy. "It was a fun job—meeting exciting women and making them feel good about themselves with beautiful nails. The only drawback was the expense of daycare for my children and not spending enough quality time with them."

Kathy decided to open her own business to clients and give manicures and pedicures in her home. "I started with friends and word of mouth. I had a full schedule of customers. I had to start out with some expense buying tools, sterilizer, and polishes. After a short while my debts were paid off and I was making extra income in the comforts of my own home," Kathy says.