• Home
  • About Us
  • Archives
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy

Kids Ain't Cheap

But They Sure Are Worth It

  • Home
  • Toolkit
  • Parenting
    • Baby Stuff
    • Books and Reading
      • Aesops Fables
      • Comic Books
    • Education
    • Family Time
    • Green Living
    • Growing Up
    • Healthy Living & Eating
    • Holidays
    • Parenting
    • Random Musings
    • Shopping
    • Stuff to Do
  • Money
  • Product Reviews
    • Books and Magazines
    • Discount Sites
    • Furniture
    • House Keeping
    • Reviews News
    • Toys and Games

Costly Errors: 12 Estate Planning Errors Affecting Your Kids’ Inheritance

July 6, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Costly Errors 12 Estate Planning Errors Affecting Your Kids Inheritance

123rf.com

No one likes thinking about worst-case scenarios, but preparing for the future is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your children. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for any parent who wants to protect what they’ve built and ensure it benefits the next generation. Unfortunately, even with the best intentions, estate planning errors happen all the time, and they can have serious financial and emotional consequences for your family. From overlooked details to outdated documents, these common mistakes can cause delays, taxes, disputes, or even the complete loss of assets. If you’re serious about your child’s future, here are 12 estate planning errors to avoid at all costs.

1. Not Having a Will at All

The most basic of all estate planning errors is not having a will in place. Without one, state laws decide who gets what, and your children may not be provided for as you intended. A court-appointed guardian might also make major life decisions for your minor children. Drafting a simple will is better than having none at all. It’s the foundation of any solid estate plan.

2. Forgetting to Name a Guardian for Your Kids

If you have minor children and haven’t named a legal guardian, you’re leaving their care up to the court system. This can lead to custody battles or unwanted placements. Make sure the guardian you name is someone who shares your values, is willing to take on the responsibility, and is financially and emotionally stable. Review this choice regularly to reflect changes in relationships or circumstances. A guardian should always be part of your estate plan if you have young children.

3. Failing to Update Beneficiaries

Outdated beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance, or investment accounts can override the wishes in your will. That means your ex-spouse, estranged relatives, or unintended parties could inherit your assets. Review and update beneficiaries after major life events like divorce, remarriage, or births. Double-check that your beneficiary choices match your estate planning goals. This small step can prevent massive legal headaches later.

4. Not Using a Trust When Needed

A will alone doesn’t always provide the flexibility and protection your kids might need. If you want to manage how and when your children receive assets, especially while they’re still young, a trust can help. Trusts also bypass probate, offering more privacy and speed in transferring wealth. They’re especially useful for families with complex financial situations or special needs. Don’t assume a trust is only for the wealthy—it might be one of your best tools.

5. Leaving Assets Directly to Minors

Minor children cannot legally manage inherited money, which means the court will appoint someone to do it, possibly not who you’d choose. This process can delay access and involve ongoing court supervision. Instead, set up a trust or name a custodian through a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) account. These options provide structure while still protecting your child’s future. Direct gifts to minors are rarely the best route.

6. Ignoring Potential Taxes

Some assets may come with hidden tax consequences for your kids, especially if your estate is large or includes retirement accounts. Without planning, a significant portion of their inheritance could be lost to federal or state taxes. Working with a tax advisor or estate planner can help reduce tax exposure through strategies like charitable giving, trusts, or Roth conversions. Smart planning ensures more of your legacy stays with your family. Don’t overlook taxes until it’s too late.

7. Not Planning for Special Needs

If your child has special needs, leaving assets directly to them could disqualify them from government benefits. Special needs trusts allow you to provide support without interfering with eligibility for programs like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. This requires careful planning and should be reviewed with an experienced attorney. Every child deserves a plan that supports their unique needs and circumstances. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work here.

8. Keeping Everything a Secret

You may want to protect your kids from financial stress, but never telling them anything about your estate plan is a mistake. Clear communication prevents confusion, mistrust, and family disputes. Age-appropriate conversations about your values and goals can also teach your children how to handle money responsibly. If your plan is a complete mystery, it’s harder for them to carry out your wishes. Transparency can make things much smoother when the time comes.

9. Forgetting Digital Assets

In today’s world, your estate includes more than just bank accounts and real estate. Think about online accounts, digital subscriptions, social media profiles, and even cryptocurrency. Without access or documentation, these assets could be lost forever. Include instructions for accessing digital files and accounts in your estate plan. A digital inventory is just as important as your physical inventory.

10. Assuming All Assets Go Through the Will

Some assets, like jointly owned property or accounts with named beneficiaries, bypass the will entirely. That’s why it’s important to coordinate all aspects of your estate plan. A great will won’t fix a misaligned retirement account or a jointly titled house. Review how each asset is owned and titled. An estate planner can help ensure everything flows according to your intentions.

11. Relying Too Heavily on DIY Templates

Online templates and DIY kits might seem convenient, but estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Mistakes in legal language or state-specific rules can lead to your plan being challenged or invalidated. A licensed attorney can help create a customized plan that meets your family’s unique needs. Saving a little money now can cost your kids a lot later. This is one area where professional guidance is worth it.

12. Never Reviewing Your Plan

Life changes, and so should your estate plan. What worked five years ago may be completely outdated today. Experts recommend reviewing your plan every three to five years or after major life events. A regular check-in helps you stay aligned with your family’s needs and goals. Your children’s future is too important to leave on autopilot.

Planning Smart Today Protects Their Tomorrow

Avoiding these common estate planning errors is one of the best ways to ensure your kids are supported and secure after you’re gone. Taking the time to plan carefully not only preserves your legacy but spares your children from confusion, conflict, and unexpected costs. Estate planning isn’t about preparing for death—it’s about preparing your family for life. And there’s no better time to start than now.

Which of these estate planning errors surprised you most? Have you reviewed your plan recently? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Read More:

8 Risks We Never Think About When Leaving Trusts For Children

Your Estate Planning Should Not Depend On Your Favorite Child, Stick With the Smartest

Catherine Reed
Catherine Reed

Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.

Filed Under: Money and Finances Tagged With: estate planning, family finances, family protection, financial planning, inheritance, kids and money, legacy planning, legal planning, parenting tips, wills and trusts

7 Terrifying Late Night Knocks Parents Should Never Ignore

May 8, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Image source: Unsplash

It’s the kind of sound that yanks you from sleep: a knock at the door. Your heart jumps. Your mind races. Who’s there? And why now?

While most late-night knocks turn out to be false alarms—a neighbor with a package mix-up or a teen pulling a prank—there are times when they signal something more dangerous. Parents, especially, have every right to pause before answering. Because protecting your home and your children often starts with trusting your gut and staying calm under pressure.

Here are seven nighttime knocks that no parent should ignore and what you should do when they happen.

1. The Knock with No One There (and It Keeps Happening)

A single knock, then silence. You peek through the window and see no one. Minutes later, another knock. Still no one.

This isn’t a ghost story. Criminals sometimes use this tactic to see if anyone’s home. If no one answers after repeated tries, it can signal an opportunity to break in.

Parents should avoid flinging open the door in panic or frustration. Instead, turn on exterior lights, stay inside, and check security cameras if available. Call local authorities if the knocking continues or feels methodical.

2. A Knock Paired with a Cry for Help

A panicked voice pleads, “Help! I’ve been hurt!” or “Someone’s after me!” While your instincts may scream to help, this could be a setup. Criminals sometimes use fake distress calls to lure people out of their homes.

Instead of opening the door, speak through it. Ask for a name. Offer to call 911 for them, but never unlock or open the door until help arrives and the situation is verified. Your compassion can coexist with caution.

3. The “Delivery” Knock That Doesn’t Make Sense

A knock at 10 p.m. followed by someone claiming to be a delivery driver without a uniform, badge, or vehicle in sight. Delivery scams are on the rise, especially after dark. Some are casing homes; others aim to get you to unlock your door under false pretenses.

If you didn’t order anything or weren’t expecting a drop-off, don’t open up. Ask them to leave the package on the porch. Check for identification through a peephole or camera, and verify with the delivery service app if needed.

4. The Silent Knock That Triggers Your Dog

Dogs don’t lie about fear. If your normally mellow pup growls low after a quiet knock, take it seriously. Pets can sense body language, tone, and intention in ways we can’t. A protective dog reacting to an unspoken presence might be your first and only warning.

In these cases, secure your family in a safe room, turn on outside lights, and monitor the situation. Don’t ignore your dog’s instincts—sometimes, they’re the earliest alarm system you have.

5. The Knock You Hear After Suspicious Activity Online

Did your teen have a heated online gaming session earlier? Did someone in the house post a controversial video or reveal a home address?

Unfortunately, online spats can spill into real life. “Swatting,” a dangerous prank involving fake emergency calls, is still happening. Or, someone may show up looking to settle an online score.

If you hear a knock after something questionable online, take it seriously. Secure your home. Avoid opening the door and alert authorities if anything feels off.

6. The Knock from Someone “Looking for a Lost Dog”

It’s late. A stranger knocks and asks if you’ve seen their missing pet. Their eyes scan your home, not your street. While some people genuinely lose pets, criminals have used this line to justify knocking at odd hours—and to scope out who’s home and who isn’t.

Politely decline interaction. Let them know you’ll keep an eye out, but don’t invite them in or step outside. If the situation feels suspicious, report it.

7. The Banging Knock That Comes Right After You Lock Up

You’ve just turned off the porch light, locked the door, and climbed into bed. Then bang bang bang. That timing isn’t a coincidence. Criminals may watch homes and wait for visible signs that everyone is down for the night. It’s a test to see who might answer in a groggy, unguarded state.

Instead of scrambling toward the noise, pause. Flip on every exterior light. Speak through a closed door or use a smart doorbell if you have one. Never ignore your instincts. That timing could be everything.

How to Prepare Without Living in Fear

It’s easy to brush these scenarios off as rare or overly paranoid, but the truth is that preparedness doesn’t require panic. The safest families aren’t the ones who live in fear. They’re the ones who build habits, teach awareness, and trust their gut without dismissing it.

Simple actions like installing a peephole, adding floodlights, teaching kids not to open the door, and having a nighttime family safety plan can make all the difference. Even one late-night knock deserves a response rooted in calm, not chaos.

What would you do if someone knocked on your door in the middle of the night and your kids were sleeping just down the hall?

5 Easy Safety Drills You Can Practice at Home With Kids

8 Safety Measures Parents Often Overlook at Home

Riley Schnepf
Riley Schnepf

Riley is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.

Filed Under: Parenting, Safety Tagged With: emergency preparedness, family protection, home security for families, late night knock, parenting instincts, parenting safety, suspicious activity

7 Strange Clues That Someone Might Be Watching Your Children

March 28, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Suspicious adult man spying on kids at playground, space for text. Child in danger

Image Source: 123rf.com

It’s every parent’s worst nightmare: the feeling that something—or someone—isn’t quite right. We live in a world where we teach kids about stranger danger and internet safety, but what if the threat feels invisible? Sometimes the signs are subtle, even strange, but your gut tells you to pay attention. If you’ve ever had a weird feeling about someone hanging around or watching your child, trust it.

Here are seven unusual but serious clues that someone might be watching your kids—and why they should never be ignored.

1. They Show Up Too Often—Without a Reason

It’s one thing to bump into someone once or twice. But if the same person is constantly near your child’s school, playground, or sports practice—without any clear connection—that’s a red flag. Do they have no children with them? Are they just “around” but never actively involved? People who linger repeatedly in kid-heavy areas without reason deserve a second look. Consistent presence without purpose could indicate surveillance or intent.

2. They Know Your Child’s Name Without You Telling Them

If a stranger or acquaintance refers to your child by name—and you never introduced them—ask questions immediately. Children are often more open than adults, and someone may have learned their name from online posts, overheard conversations, or direct interaction without your consent. This knowledge can be used to create false familiarity with your child. It may seem innocent, but it’s often how grooming starts.

3. They Engage with Your Child—Not You

Watch how adults interact. A safe, respectful adult will typically address a parent first, especially around young children. If someone skips you and talks directly to your child, trying to build rapport or gain trust, take it seriously. Predators often bypass parental authority to create emotional connections with kids. That “friendly” behavior might actually be manipulation.

4. You Notice Someone Taking Photos or Videos

Young photographer taking picture with professional camera on green grass. Space for text

Image Source: 123rf.com

In public spaces, photos happen—but if someone is pointing their camera toward your child without permission, that’s a serious violation. Some people may disguise it as snapping general shots, but you can usually tell when it’s deliberate. Always confront the situation calmly but firmly. It’s your right to protect your child’s image and privacy.

5. Your Child Mentions a “New Friend” You’ve Never Heard Of

Children sometimes open up casually. If your child mentions someone you’ve never met—whether it’s an adult online or in real life—ask more. Kids may not realize when attention feels suspicious or inappropriate. They could say something like, “He always watches me skate,” or “She told me not to tell you.” That’s your cue to lean in. Listen carefully and avoid overreacting so they keep communicating.

6. Your Child Is Suddenly Nervous About Certain Places

Pay attention to behavioral changes. If your child used to love the park but now avoids it, or gets quiet near a certain building, ask why. Young kids may struggle to explain their feelings, but fear always has a root. It might not mean someone is watching—but it definitely means something needs exploring. Avoid dismissing their discomfort; it could be a protective instinct.

7. They Ask Specific Questions About Your Child’s Routine

It may sound casual—“What time does your daughter get out of school?” or “Is your son always at the library on Fridays?”—but these questions cross a line. If someone is asking about your child’s schedule without a valid reason, don’t answer. These details can be used to track, follow, or find moments when your child is alone. Respond with, “Why do you ask?” and trust your gut from there.

It’s Not Paranoia—It’s Protection

You don’t have to live in fear to be alert. Being proactive doesn’t make you overprotective—it makes you aware. If something feels off, take it seriously. Talk to your child often, check in with other parents, and report suspicious behavior when necessary. It’s better to feel silly for being cautious than devastated for missing the signs.

Have you ever had a strange encounter that made your “parent radar” go off? Share your story in the comments. Your awareness might help another family stay safe.

Read More: 

9 Reasons Your Children Don’t Respect You and How to Fix It

Is It Appropriate to Bribe Children for Good Behavior?

Latrice Perez

Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.
As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.

Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: child safety, child surveillance, children, family protection, parenting tips, safety awareness, stranger danger, suspicious behavior

  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Basic Principles Of Good Parenting

Here some basic principles for good parenting:

  1. What You Do Matters: Your kids are watching you. So, be purposeful about what you want to accomplish.
  2. You Can’t be Too Loving: Don’t replace love with material possessions, lowered expectations or leniency.
  3. Be Involved Your Kids Life: Arrange your priorities to focus on what your kid’s needs. Be there mentally and physically.
  4. Adapt Your Parenting: Children grow quickly, so keep pace with your child’s development.
  5. Establish and Set Rules: The rules you set for children will establish the rules they set for themselves later.  Avoid harsh discipline and be consistent.
  6. Explain Your Decisions: What is obvious to you may not be evident to your child. They don’t have the experience you do.
  7. Be Respectful To Your Child: How you treat your child is how they will treat others.  Be polite, respectful and make an effort to pay attention.
Best Parenting Blogs

Copyright © 2025 Runway Pro Theme by Viva la Violette