I remember when our children were of school age, August was a month when we got ready for school in the fall. Camp was over and now it was time to get ready for the future and going to school was on the agenda. Now our children are grown and they have children of their own or even grandchildren! So, we are grandparents or even great-grandparents, a miracle.
When a new child is born, we want to give a gift. A memorable one at that. No use buying layettes or carriages, they may already have those items or someone else may want to buy that gift, so what could we give that would help ensure an educated and prosperous future for this new very loved member of our family. I think the best gift of all would be to start a college fund for this youngster. Clothing will be worn and outgrown, toys are fun but soon discarded, the perfect gift is a license for the future and that is an education. It’s the right size, the right color and the perfect I love you present.
The average annual tuition in state is $8,982 and $19,248 out of state. Private college tuition averages $28,843. Vermont has the highest tuition rate for the fifty states $51,367 while Delaware has the lowest $13,830. Check with your tax advisor for the wisest way to handle this gift giving so it works for you taxwise. Even a small amount could start this college fund, and it would get this child on the road to a good education.
Your grandchild or great-grandchild will always remember that you cared and thought about their future from the moment they were born. This help that you gave them to become well educated and thrive in the future will do wonders to improve their quality of life and reflect how much you loved them.
So, good luck when you have a new member join your family. Your contribution to their education will be a gift that will keep giving and the memory of your caring and kindness will stay with them forever. It’s August and school will be starting, if you haven’t thought about your grandchild’s future education yet, think about it now, it’s not too late and it’s the perfect gift. Judith Levy is the New York Times best-selling author of GRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS, which has sold four million copies to date. Her newest offering GREAT-GRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS, a perfect gift is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It’s bound to be another best-seller.
