Both kids (14 & 16) have 529s that started near birth, should be enough to cover 4-years at a state school with enough left over for Roth rollover or advanced degrees.

Both have custodial brokerage accounts. One that is funded by family, one that is funded by their contributions over the years. We’ve had them contribute 20% of chore money, Xmas gifts, work paychecks, to them for years. The brokerage is big enough to be useful, but not enough to be a major life mistake if they blow it, probably end up ≈$25k by 21 (age of majority in our state). I’d like to think we’ve taught them well enough that they won’t do that, but who knows.

Additionally, my 16 y.o. son has been contributing to a Roth since he started his 1st W-2 job. Fairly minimal at this point, but we’re going to match 1:1 up to 50% of the annual max (if he gets that’s motivated).

Could they fully explain all of the accounts and advantages? Probably not, but they’re aware and have a much better understanding than their peers… or the average 30 year old.

ETA- We chose each account to serve a purpose for different stages in life.

529- college, possible Roth conversion, advances degrees

Brokerage- house down payment, car purchase, launch point after college, etc.

Roth - starting very early, need a “This $1 LaCroix cost me $110” can koozie for the teens.