9 Best Side Hustles for Single Moms in Canada: Flexible Options to Boost Your Income

As we enter 2024, single moms in Canada are increasingly looking for flexible ways to supplement their income while balancing the demands of parenting. Side hustles have become a popular option, offering the potential to earn extra money without sacrificing valuable family time. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a family vacation, or simply make ends meet, there are numerous side hustle opportunities tailored to the unique needs and skills of single mothers.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side hustles for single moms in Canada, considering factors such as flexibility, earning potential, and the ability to work from home. From virtual assistance and online tutoring to creative pursuits and digital entrepreneurship, we’ll cover a range of options to help you find the perfect side gig that fits your lifestyle and skills.
Understanding Side Hustles
Side hustles are flexible ways to earn extra income outside of your main job. As a single mom in Canada, you might find these particularly appealing due to their adaptability to your schedule. A side hustle can be anything from freelance work to selling handmade items online. It’s a chance to monetize your skills or hobbies while balancing your family responsibilities.
Some key benefits of side hustles include:
- Additional income to support your family
- Flexibility to work around your children’s schedules
- Opportunity to explore new interests or career paths
- Potential for personal growth and skill development
When considering a side hustle, think about your strengths and available time. Side hustles for single moms can range from online tutoring to pet-sitting, depending on your preferences and expertise. Remember, the goal is to find something that fits your life, not the other way around. Start small and gradually increase your commitment as you find your footing.
Getting Started
Launching a side hustle as a single mom in Canada requires careful planning and self-reflection. You’ll need to evaluate your strengths, set achievable targets, and master the art of balancing multiple responsibilities.
Assessing Your Skills and Interests
Start by taking stock of your talents and passions. What are you naturally good at? What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Make a list of your skills, including those from previous jobs or hobbies.
Consider how these abilities could translate into profitable side gigs. For example, if you’re creative, you might explore graphic design or crafting. If you’re tech-savvy, web development or social media management could be great options.
Don’t overlook soft skills like organization or communication. These can be valuable in roles such as virtual assistance or customer service.
Setting Realistic Goals
Define clear, attainable objectives for your side hustle. Be specific about how much extra income you want to generate and by when. Start small and gradually increase your goals as you gain experience.
Consider your available time and energy when setting targets. As a single mom, your primary focus is your children, so be realistic about how much you can take on.
Set both short-term and long-term goals. This might include earning $200 extra per month in the first three months, then scaling up to $500 per month by the end of the year.
Time Management Strategies
Effective time management is crucial for balancing your side hustle with parenting duties. Create a detailed schedule that allocates specific time slots for your business activities. Use productivity tools like calendar apps or task managers to stay organized. Consider working during nap times or after bedtime if your children are young.
Batch similar tasks together to maximize efficiency. For instance, dedicate one evening to social media content creation for the entire week. Don’t forget to schedule downtime for yourself. Burnout can derail your progress, so ensure you’re taking breaks and practicing self-care.
Best Side Hustles for Single Moms in Canada
1. Watch one or more additional children in your home
As a single mom, you already have experience caring for children. Why not turn that skill into a profitable side hustle? Offering childcare services in your home can be a great way to earn extra income. You can start by watching one or two additional children alongside your own. This allows you to stay home with your kids while bringing in some extra money.
Consider offering services during after-school hours or on weekends. Many working parents need reliable childcare during these times. To get started:
- Check local regulations for in-home daycare providers
- Childproof your home if needed
- Set competitive rates based on your area
- Create a daily schedule of activities
Marketing your services is crucial. Spread the word through:
- Local parenting groups
- Social media
- Community bulletin boards
- Word-of-mouth referrals
Remember to prioritize safety and provide a nurturing environment. Happy children mean satisfied parents and potential for repeat business. With time and positive reviews, you may be able to expand and take on more children. This side hustle has the potential to grow into a full-time business if you desire.
2. School bus driver
Being a school bus driver can be an excellent side hustle for single moms in Canada. You can earn between $16.00 and $36.00 per hour while maintaining a schedule that aligns with your children’s school hours.
One of the biggest perks of this job is the potential to bring your children along on your route. Depending on your local regulations, you might be able to have your younger kids ride with you in a car seat. This can significantly reduce childcare costs and allow you to spend more time with your little ones.
As a school bus driver, you’ll enjoy:
- Flexible hours
- Summers and holidays off
- The opportunity to be home when your kids are
- A chance to get to know your community better
You’ll need to obtain a commercial driver’s license and complete specific training. Many school districts offer paid training programs, making it easier to get started in this career. Remember, safety is paramount in this role. You’ll be responsible for the well-being of many children, so it’s crucial to maintain focus and follow all traffic laws and safety protocols.
3. Buy and sell books
Looking for a flexible side hustle? Buying and selling books could be perfect for you as a single mom. This venture allows you to work from home and set your own hours. Start by sourcing books from various places. You can find great deals at garage sales, thrift stores, and online marketplaces like eBay. Focus on popular genres such as mysteries, science fiction, or textbooks.
Once you’ve built up your inventory, list the books individually on platforms like Amazon. This approach often yields higher profits than selling in bulk. With just a few hours of work each week, you could potentially earn $300-$400 per month. This extra income can make a significant difference in your budget.
Remember to keep track of your expenses and profits. As your business grows, you might consider specializing in certain niches or expanding to other online marketplaces. Buying and selling books offers a low-risk entry into entrepreneurship. It’s a great way to earn money while juggling your responsibilities as a single mom.
4. Soap and beauty product business
Starting a soap and beauty product business can be an excellent side hustle for single moms in Canada. You can create handmade products from the comfort of your home while caring for your children. Begin by experimenting with recipes and perfecting your craft. Once you’ve developed a range of products you’re proud of, consider these steps:
- Set up a Facebook page to showcase your items
- Attend local craft shows to sell your products
- Offer customized options for special events
Your product line could include:
- Handmade soaps
- Lotion bars
- Bath bombs
- Body scrubs
- Lip balms
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing. As you build a loyal customer base, you may receive larger orders for events like baby showers or weddings. These bulk orders can significantly boost your income. Remember to price your products competitively while ensuring a healthy profit margin. For example, you might sell lotion bars as party favors for $2.50 each.
5. Transcribing recordings
Are you a fast typist? If so, transcribing recordings could be an excellent side hustle for you. This flexible job allows you to work from home and set your own hours, making it ideal for busy single moms. To get started, you’ll only need a few basic tools such as a computer, a reliable internet connection, and headphones (optional but recommended).
Transcription work involves listening to audio or video files and typing out what you hear. You might transcribe:
- Interviews
- Podcasts
- Business meetings
- Lectures
The pay for transcription work varies, but you can earn between $0.30 to $1.10 per audio minute with some companies. Your earnings will depend on your typing speed and accuracy.
Don’t worry if you’re not a speed demon on the keyboard. Even average typists can make money with this side hustle. As you practice, you’ll likely improve your skills and increase your earning potential.
Transcription jobs are great for college students and stay-at-home moms. They offer flexibility and the chance to learn about various topics while you work. Plus, you can often choose projects that interest you, making the work more enjoyable.
Ready to give it a try? Check out platforms like Rev or TranscribeMe to find beginner-friendly opportunities. With dedication and practice, you could turn this side hustle into a reliable source of extra income.
6. Rent out the driveway or part of the home
As a single mom in Canada, you might be sitting on an untapped goldmine – your own property! Have you considered renting out your driveway or a portion of your home? It’s an easy way to earn extra income without much effort.

If you live near a busy area or public transit hub, your driveway could be in high demand. Commuters often struggle to find parking, especially when lots fill up quickly. You could offer your driveway as a convenient alternative, charging a daily or monthly fee. Don’t have a driveway? No problem! Look around your home for other spaces you could rent out:
- A spare bedroom
- Your basement
- An unused garage
- A storage shed
These spaces can be perfect for people needing extra storage or a quiet place to work. You might even consider listing a room on vacation rental sites for short-term guests.
Remember to check local regulations before starting. For example, in Toronto, short-term rental operators need to register with the City and are required to collect and remit a six per cent (6%) Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on all rentals.
7. Make and publishes books on Amazon kindle
Have you considered creating and publishing books on Amazon Kindle? It’s a fantastic side hustle for single moms in Canada. With Kindle Direct Publishing, you can generate passive income from your written work. Here’s how you can get started:
- Choose a topic you’re passionate about
- Research your subject thoroughly
- Write your book in a clear, engaging style
- Design an eye-catching cover using tools like Photoshop
- Format your book for Kindle
- Publish through Amazon KDP
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional writer. Many successful Kindle authors are regular people who simply share their knowledge or creativity. You’ll earn money in two ways:
- A percentage of each book sale
- Royalties from Kindle Unlimited readers based on pages read
With dedication and the right strategy, you could earn hundreds of dollars per month. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it can provide a steady stream of extra income. Remember to optimize your book listing with the right keywords to improve visibility. This can lead to more clicks, sales, and ultimately, more passive income for you.
8. Clean houses
Looking for a flexible side hustle that can fit around your busy schedule as a single mom? House cleaning might be the perfect option for you. It’s a straightforward business to start and can be quite lucrative. You can set your own hours and rates, making it ideal for balancing work and family life. Many moms find success charging per job rather than hourly, which can lead to better earnings.
Starting small is perfectly fine. Even cleaning just two houses a week could bring in a few hundred dollars of extra income. As your children grow older and start school, you might find it easier to take on more clients. One of the best parts? You might be able to bring your little ones along to jobs, especially as they get older. This can save on childcare costs and allow you to spend more time with your kids.
Remember to consider using cleaning apps to find your first clients. These platforms can help you build a reputation and connect with potential customers in your area.
9. Product Testing
Many companies are eager to get feedback on their products before they hit the market. They’re willing to compensate you for your time and opinions. Some will pay you cash, while others let you keep the items you test. With kids at home, you’re in a great position to test family-oriented products. Toys, children’s clothing, and food brands are always looking for real families to try their latest offerings. It’s a win-win situation – you get free stuff or extra cash, and they get valuable feedback.

To get started, search for product testing programs from brands you already use and love. Many have dedicated sections on their websites for this purpose. You might find yourself enjoying a free meal, dressing your kids in new outfits, or putting some extra money in your pocket.
The best part? It’s not labor-intensive. You’re simply using products as you normally would and sharing your honest thoughts. It’s an easy way to supplement your income without disrupting your family routine.
10. Donate plasma
Plasma donation centers often offer generous compensation, especially for new donors. You could potentially earn hundreds of dollars for your initial donations. After that, regular donors typically receive payments for each visit. The process is straightforward:
- Schedule an appointment
- Complete a health screening
- Relax while donating (bring a book or watch videos)
- Collect your payment
Donating plasma usually takes about an hour per session. You can typically donate twice a week, making it a flexible option that fits your busy schedule. There are many benefits of plasma donation:
- Earn money: Supplement your income
- Help others: Your plasma saves lives
- Flexible scheduling: Work around your commitments
- Quick process: Usually takes about an hour
By donating plasma for money, you’re not only earning extra cash but also contributing to life-saving medical treatments. It’s a win-win situation that allows you to support your family while making a difference in your community.
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Side Hustle Resources for Single Moms in Canada
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Maurice