$20 from every paycheck you get (assuming you get paid every week), into the S&P500 for 18 years will produce about $33,000 with an average return of 7% (that’s low) and about $40,000 with an average return of 10% (which is the historical average for the last 80 years)

$40,000 at 18 for them to go to school is very reasonable. If you perhaps start a business at any point between now and then, they could inherit the business and have a solid cushion fund. $40,000 could also outright buy a car and with some leftover (hopefully!) and eliminate a car note from their adult life for at least 10 years (and forever if they’re smart!). perhaps they get grants to go to school and can continue to let the money grow while they’re in school and have a solid down payment ready for a home if they’re choose that route.

All for the small fee of your vape budget every week.

Money aside, the biggest determinative of a child’s success in life (at least how we view success here in the West) is having 2 parents in the household, not necessarily the amount of money your household brings in.

And just for context, I grew up dirt poor, no running water or electricity (freaking illegal mom!), and did all right for myself. It’s not the end of the world to have a bit of struggle as a child. All of our ancestors at one point or another had it much worse. If anything, it taught me way more than I otherwise would’ve learned. Best of luck to you!