Gift money given at birth, at a baptism, and on birthdays has the most impact when you pool it and put it somewhere fixed rather than letting it disappear into everyday life. Over the years, that turns into something real.
An envelope at the birth, another at the baptism, the godmother adds something for the birthday. Money for your child comes in small portions and with good intentions. The only question is: what becomes of it?
In many families, this money ends up in everyday spending. Sometimes it covers the weekly shop, sometimes an unexpected purchase comes up, and in the end nothing is left over, without anyone having done anything wrong. It is a shame all the same, because this gift money in particular could really help your child later on.
Pool it rather than scatter it
The first step is straightforward: give the gift money a fixed home instead of letting it trickle away between accounts and wallets. Once everything comes together in one place, it starts to grow.
A sense of scale: if on average 200 euros a year in gifts accumulates over the years, that is 3,600 euros by the 18th birthday, from gifts alone, without you adding anything yourself. Spread across many small occasions you barely notice it; pooled together, it becomes something real.
The fifth stuffed animal never becomes a driver's license. Pooled gift money over 18 years just might.
It is fine to give relatives a hint
Many grandparents and godparents prefer to give something lasting when they know it will make a difference. You are allowed to bring it up, gently and without pressure. A sentence like "We would welcome a small contribution to the future more than another toy" takes the pressure off everyone and gives the gift a direction.
Gifts and regular saving belong together
Gift money is a nice addition, but not a replacement for a small, regular contribution. The two work best together: the monthly amount as a reliable foundation, with gifts as a boost on top. How much the monthly part should be is covered in the article How much should you save each month for your child?.
Where should the money go? We can work that out together
That leaves the question of where the pooled money is best kept. It depends on when your child should be able to use it, how much accumulates, and what matters to you. A one-size answer would be dishonest. Which path suits your family is something we would rather look at together, calmly and without any ulterior motive. For an independent overview of how to save for children, the Verbraucherzentrale also offers guidance.
You have something set aside and are not sure what to do with it?
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This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute individual advice, and no statements are made about future performance. Which path fits your family is something we work out together in a personal conversation.