In Jamaica, I have seen financial institutions encourage parents to prepare for their children’s education from an early age. That conversation often begins while the child is still young.

It made me wonder how that conversation unfolds in the United States.

American families have access to 529 education savings plans. They also have access to student loans, which become especially visible as students prepare to enter college. A loan may appear in a financial aid offer at the very moment a family is trying to work out how to pay the bill. (irs.gov⁠, studentaid.gov⁠)

By the end of June 2026, outstanding U.S. student loan balances stood at approximately $1.65 trillion, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. That figure represents millions of individual decisions, made by students and families hoping education will open doors. (newyorkfed.org⁠)

Loans have a place. For many students, they help make further education possible. Still, I find myself asking: How many families had a meaningful conversation about saving years before they had to discuss borrowing?

Starting early does not mean a parent must cover every dollar of tuition. Many cannot. It means looking ahead, deciding what is manageable, and giving savings time to grow. Even a modest amount set aside consistently can reduce the pressure a family faces later.

This is where thoughtful financial advice can make a difference. An advisor can help parents consider education alongside their other responsibilities, review the plan as circumstances change, and prepare for the kind of education their child may eventually choose.

The goal is to give young people a strong start and more room to make choices after graduation.

We know how to help families arrange a loan when college is near. Let us also make it easier for them to start planning while their children are young.

#EducationPlanning #StudentLoans #529Plans #FinancialPlanning #PlanForPurpose