Raising Future-Ready Kids in the Age of AI - Why Financial Flexibility Matters

Artificial intelligence isn’t science fiction - it’s shaping your child’s world right now. From how we learn to how we work, technology is changing faster than ever. A recent article from Spielgaben titled “Raising Future-Ready Kids in the Age of AI” highlights what parents can do to prepare children for a world of automation, evolving careers, and constant adaptation.

But there’s another critical piece of preparation that often gets overlooked: financial readiness. A flexible financial foundation could be just as important as coding classes or STEM camps.

The Future Is Unpredictable - But Preparation Is Possible

As Spielgaben notes, children will need skills like critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. Many of the jobs they may hold someday don’t even exist today.

That uncertainty doesn’t mean we should panic. But it does mean we should prepare differently - financially included. If the future is full of possibilities, we need financial tools that match that same flexibility.

Why Flexibility Matters in Financial Planning

Traditional savings accounts may feel “safe,” but they often come with a hidden cost: stagnation. According to data from the NYU Stern School of Business, the average long-term return for U.S. equities has been around 10% annually before inflation, or 7% after inflation. Meanwhile, typical savings accounts yield less than 1%.

That gap matters - especially when you’re saving for something 10, 15, or 18 years away.

And unlike 529 plans, which are limited to education-related expenses, UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) accounts offer greater flexibility. Funds can be used for a wide range of future needs - whether your child goes to college, starts a business, attends a trade school, or takes a nontraditional path altogether.

How UNest Helps Future-Ready Families

UNest makes it simple to open and manage a UTMA account built for modern families. You can:

  • Start investing with as little as $25/month
  • Choose a diversified portfolio based on your risk comfort level
  • Set up automated contributions that help you stay consistent

The result? A smarter, more flexible way to invest for a future that won’t always follow the traditional script.

A Small Step Today Can Build Big Possibilities Tomorrow

Raising a child in the AI age means thinking ahead - about values, skills, and financial habits. It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about creating a strong, adaptable foundation for whatever path your child chooses.

You don’t need a perfect plan to begin. Just a willingness to start.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice. All investing involves risk, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

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Don't just take our word for it

Hear what trusted money experts say about why UTMA and UGMA accounts can be a smart way to invest for a child’s future.

There are some tax advantages to using UGMA and UTMA accounts… Since they’re in your child’s name, the accounts will be taxed according to their tax bracket… There are no contribution limits on UGMA and UTMA accounts.

Dave Ramsey

Personal Finance Expert

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Investing for your kid’s future

Dave Ramsey

Personal Finance Expert

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...you could consider opening an account where you can dive deeper with the kids by your side. The easiest way to do so is to open a custodial account, known as an UGMA ... or UTMA ... account.

Jill Schlesinger

Emmy winning Business Analyst

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Straightforward “starter” investing account for kids

JILL SCHLESINGER

Emmy winning Business Analyst

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You can give children money that can accumulate somewhat tax-free over time... I love them (UTMAs) because they were like, trusts that you didn't need lawyers to create.... I think it's one of the better tax breaks around though. I know hunting for tax breaks may not sound very exciting, but that's how you take care of your family.

Jim Cramer

CNBC Host

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Give children money that can accumulate over time

Jim Cramer

CNBC Host

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