Mutual Funds for Children
Children’s goals are perfect for long-horizon compounding via mutual fund SIPs. Equity allocation dominates early years; shift gradually to safety as college approaches.
Use simple, diversified funds (index/large & mid/multi-cap) plus a debt bucket for stability. Avoid frequent churn; automate and review yearly.
For minors, investments are held in the child’s name with the guardian operating; KYC and documentation apply.
Some AMCs offer dedicated “children’s funds” with optional lock-ins aligned to education goals.
Children’s Fund Details:
Lock‑in: ≥ 5 years or till the child attains majority (whichever is earlier)
Goal‑based scheme for a child’s future needs — education, milestones, and other long‑term expenses.
Live examples
Ways to Invest
- Equity SIPs: Index funds (Nifty/Sensex/Next50), large & mid/multi-cap for growth; suitable for 7y+ horizons.
- Hybrid Funds: Balanced Advantage/Aggressive Hybrid to dampen volatility for 3–7y goals.
- Short-term Debt Funds: For near-term expenses or last-mile glide (≤3y).
- Children’s Gift Funds: AMC-specific schemes with goal-lock features; review costs and lock-ins.
Documentation & Operations
- Minor KYC with guardian; investments mapped to minor’s PAN where applicable.
- Bank mandate/auto-debit for SIPs; nomination and folio updates after majority.
- Set a step-up SIP (annual increase) to match income growth.
- Shift to safer assets 24–36 months before fees fall due.
Education only; not investment advice. Please verify current rules, interest rates, and taxation before investing.