Tucked in a booth inside the Providence Day student entrepreneurs marketplace at Fall Fest, Roxie, Coco, and the rest of Ellie Strickland’s gang awaited those walking by to make a purchase.

Ellie, a 9-year-old student, created her Cute Critters business because she loves to make little stuffed animals—each one has its own name.

“I pick one out, look at them, and say, ‘Who does this look like,’” Ellie says. “I pick out names from a list.”

A handful of Ellie’s Cute Critters also come in their own baskets with blankets—a special edition, if you will, of her creation.

“I really like to make them,” she says.

For youngsters like Ellie, the student entrepreneurs marketplace gives them an introduction to the business world while providing a fun platform. The Parents’ Association's annual family-friendly Fall Fest on Brewster Field included a fun zone, pumpkin patch, sports zone, activity zone, and food, but the marketplace, at times, was the most crowded.

“It’s just a fun place,” says Cristo Aragon-Rico, 10, whose Cristo’s Wishing Booth sold dozens and dozens of charms. “I’m good at making charms, and it’s fun for people to want them.”

More and more events like Fall Fest across North Carolina are including space for aspiring student entrepreneurs to help them learn.

“We saw everyone else having booths, so we wanted to join,” says Olivia Chanland and Emily Dodds, who sold their wares at Liv’em Out Jewelry Co. They say they started their jewelry business in June.

“We started making [jewelry] during sleepovers,” they say. “We have a lot of fun because we both get to do it.”

Cora Hartsell sold crochet animals at Cora’s Crochet Corner at Fall Fest. The 11-year-old crocheted everything from a turtle and cow to an octopus and bee—all for sale. “I learned how to crochet from my Nana,” Cora says. “I like animals, so it fits.”

Entrepreneurship can be a fun family activity, foster an interest in business, and help children save money, according to Shopify, a platform that helps people sell goods online and in person. It can also help them learn skills such as communication, problem-solving, and social media marketing.