The idea behind a kid's business is, of course, that the kid runs the show and, ideally, the parent is just there for encouragement and minor guidance. Assuming that's the case, here are a few ways parents can help.

• Check with your municipal officials about local zoning laws and your financial adviser about tax rules.

• Caution your child about using tools safely (including kitchen appliances) and about dealing with strangers.

• Suggest to your child that she create a business plan before she starts. A good plan should include consideration of the business type and whether there's a need for the product or service, necessary skills, tools and materials, start-up costs, and time available to devote to the project.

• For more information on kids' businesses, check out one of the many books on the subject or go to:
Kidpreneurs (a division of blackenterprise.com)
ja.com (Junior Achieve-ment, which offers business education programs for grades kindergarten through 12)