Does my dependent child have to file a return?

For 2011 returns, if your dependent child (claimed as a dependent on your tax return) has no investment income, the child does not have to file a return if earned income does not exceed $5,800. If you child has more than $950 of investment income, even if it has no other earned income, your child must file a tax return. If the child's earned income is only from interest and dividends, and your child has no earned income, you can elect to report this investment income on your tax return