This is a segment of Bautis Financial’s college planning series, which includes webinars, podcast episodes, blog posts and downloadables to aid college-bound students and families in the admissions process. Visit our college planning hub for more valuable resources.
Planning and saving for college doesn’t have to be a solo act for parents — it can be a family effort. Involving your child early builds essential skills in budgeting, goal-setting, and financial responsibility.
Here are six smart, age-appropriate ways to involve your child in the process:
1. Start the Conversation Early
Set clear expectations from the beginning. Talk about:
- The cost of college
- What your family can realistically contribute
- The differences between in-state, out-of-state, public, and private schools
Tip: Frame it as a shared goal: “We’re working together to make college possible — and affordable.”
2. Make College Costs Relatable
Big numbers like $60,000 in tuition can feel abstract. Help your child connect the dots:
- Break down costs into monthly payments over four years
- Compare expenses between schools
- Review real student loan repayment scenarios
Tip: Use free online calculators together to make loan amounts and repayment feel real.
3. Get Them Involved in Saving
Even small amounts make a difference — and the habit is what matters most:
- Open a custodial savings account or Roth IRA (if they have earned income)
- Encourage saving from gifts, allowance, or summer jobs
- Let them track progress and celebrate milestones
Tip: Match their savings contributions like a 401(k) to boost motivation.
4. Explore Scholarships Together
Scholarship planning can start as early as freshman year:
- Set family goals (e.g., “Apply to 10 scholarships this semester”)
- Use a spreadsheet to stay organized
- Create reusable essay templates to save time
Tip: Reward the effort — not just the wins — to keep your child engaged.
5. Teach Smart Decision-Making (Not Just Dream Chasing)
Help your child see college as both an academic and financial investment:
- Discuss potential majors and average starting salaries
- Compare return on investment (ROI) for schools and degrees
- Explore cost-saving options like community college or dual enrollment
Tip: Do a side-by-side comparison of their top 3 schools, factoring in aid, tuition, and post-grad debt.
Related: 7 Steps to Take on the Road to College
6. Bring Them to Financial Planning Meetings
Invite your child to attend part of your meetings with a financial advisor. This:
- Normalizes financial conversations
- Introduces budgeting, investing, and long-term planning
- Helps them see how disciplined decisions create long-term freedom
Tip: Let your advisor explain concepts like 529 plans or student loan terms. — sometimes it resonates more coming from a professional.
The earlier your child becomes part of the college planning journey, the more prepared — and empowered — they’ll be. You’re not just saving for college; you’re raising a financially confident young adult.
Begin your journey of mastering the college admissions process with Bautis Financial. Whether you’re a parent or guardian, student or school counselor, book a free consultation to discuss how our financial advisors can be a college planning resource.
Bautis Financial LLC is a registered investment advisor. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial advisor and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.