@oliverbowie Three are my grandsons (only 7 & 10 but learning and getting stronger) who come with their Mom - it is a very symbiotic relationship - we have always helped their family, now they are helping us. For extra work like trimming bushes, spreading mulch and washing windows they get paid, otherwise it is family helping family.

Another is the daughter of a family friend - this is the second family we have had helping - the first kids are now off on their own. Sometimes I call on my grand-nephews - willing workers but very busy. My "heavy duty" workers I met through the Master Gardener program where we volunteer. All are paid the prevailing wage based on their ability - my current young lady was getting $15/hr early this summer, but has progressed with more independence and greater skills, so she now earns $20-25/hr depending on the job.

How do I find them? I put the word out to friends, neighbors, & family with 14-15 year-old kids. Too young for a "regular job" but eager to earn $$. Many need coaching on work/life skills at first (closed shoes, no phone except on breaks, when you finish one task, don't sit down, go on to the next or ask for direction...) All need to be taught - what are weeds, how to transplant, water, prune, deadhead ... I claim an 80% success rate over the past 8 years - one kid just didn't want to learn or to work, I never figured out which it was. But I have some lovely young friends as a result, and they have benefited from "not fast food" job experience and references. In one 14yo nephew we discovered a talent for garden design! My current helper just showed a talent for handy-person skills - knows how to properly use a drill, hammer, screwdriver, & level, and how work safely on a ladder.

I know finding helpers can be hard, but by thinking outside-the-box, I have managed. My brother suggests contacting your local scout troop or home-school coop when looking for kids who are predisposed to learning new skills and being helpful.