what are some good education investments for my 4 and 7 year old?

Answer 1

Your question is ambiguous, so I'll answer both questions. If you mean what investments would be good for saving for the college expenses of your children, think about a 529 Plan that offers low costs and diversified mutual funds as investment options. Or else, consider a low cost index or lifecycle mutual fund. Even if the latter are in taxable accounts, as long as they have low management fees and expenses, they will often provide returns comparable to many 529 Plans. See the webpages listed below for more information.

If your question is about what educational steps or measures can you take now, then think about two things. One, encourage them to read. Limit their access to TV and other video entertainment if necessary to get them to read. Reading allows a person to absorb information--and, especially, detailed information--much faster than anything that's broadcast or played on a video screen. Today's economy requires people to be technically well-versed specialists, and a person's ability to read quickly and comprehensively will pay big dividends.

The other thing is to have them learn to play a musical instrument. Playing an instrument promotes eye-hand coordination and self-discipline. Most importantly, it allows a person to sing, and to sing from his or her heart. Teaching a child to make music will give him or her fulfillment in a way that neither classroom lessons nor sports offers.

Answer 2

First start with a prepaid college education fund which is usually done through the state if your state has it. Secondly I would consider safe investments like utility companies, gas and electric companies stock are just blowing up, but they do provide safe investments cause you know those companies are gonna be around in 10-20 years.

Answer 3

One of the best gifts my parents ever got me was a set of World Book encyclopedia. They're of course only one company that makes encyclopedias, but I still enjoy having them.
You might also find an encyclopedia on cd or dvd.

Another thing i like is all the scrapbooks and notebooks of good papers and art I did. My mom saved them for me and they're so fun to look at.
A library card is about the cheapest investment, and even though computers are great and necessary, do all you can to develop a love of books and reading by making lots of books accessible to them and reading with them and talking together about things you read.

Answer 4

If your state has a prepaid college fund program, it's a good way to go. When your child is ready for college, he or she will have to attend a school within your state to gain the maximum benefit, but you lock in at today's tuition rates. In most cases, if your child chooses an out-of-state school, your initial investment is returned.

Answer 5

If you are saving for college expenses, you should take advantage of federal tax breaks aimed at families saving and paying for college. These include the following:

Qualified Tuition Programs (529 plans)—Earnings grow tax-deferred and distributions are tax-free when used for qualified post-secondary education costs.

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts— Earnings grow tax-deferred and distributions are tax-free when used for qualified post-secondary education costs. May also be withdrawn tax-free for primary and secondary school expenses.

You can read about these at
http://www.savingforcollege.com/