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Life Events :  Children

Teaching your child about personal finance and investing is one of the most rewarding things you can do as a parent. You'll help them learn about a topic that isn't covered in most schools so they can develop good financial habits at an early age. They may even hold you responsible for their financial success down the road. Wouldn't that be nice?

Your kids shouldn't have to go through "financial boot camp" when learning about money. In fact, most kids will let you know when they're ready for more information. Be on the lookout for questions that show curiosity or that address money in general.

Remember. While you explore investing and money with your kids, make sure you're also investing for them along the way. By starting an investment plan early, you will be putting the power of compounding and time on their side. It's like giving them a jumpstart for their retirement fund.

Laundry List

The following list shows some of the ways you can invest for your children and help them learn about money, investing, and personal finance.

1) Stocks with Kid Appeal:

• Coca-Cola
  
• Pepsi
  
• Apple
  
• Microsoft
  
• The Gap
  
• NIKE
  
• Reebok
  
• Sony
  
• General Mills
  
• Toys R Us
  
• McDonald's
  
• Disney
  
• Harley Davidson
  
• Hershey Foods
  
• Barnes and Noble
  
• Abercrombie and Fitch
  
• American Online
  
• Intel
  
• Mattel
  
• Pixar
  
• Wal-Mart
  
• Target

2) Mutual Funds for Children:

• Stein Roe Young Investor Fund
  
• American Century Gifttrust Investors
  
• Vanguard 500 Index Fund

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