We are very fortunate/lucky that we have already opened 529 accounts for both of our kids, contribute regularly to them, but still have extra funds we would like to invest for them and/or have received as gifts from family members. We aren't talking about enough money to make them FI before they even start working or anything, but more money than I feel comfortable sitting in a savings account for them (and slightly above the minimums needed to open Vanguard accounts/etc.). My thoughts are that these funds can sit in investments for 18+ years, and then help them out for house downpayments, weddings, any extra college expenses the 529's don't cover, etc., etc. as life happens.