Strategic Money Moves Through the Seasons of Motherhood
As a financial advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many incredible women—particularly mothers navigating the financial decisions that come with raising children, building a family, and thinking long-term about their legacy.
I’ve seen firsthand the balancing act that motherhood demands—and how that role continues to evolve with each passing year. Whether you're caring for toddlers, supporting teens through high school and college, or cheering on your adult children as they raise families of their own, one thing remains consistent: the impact you have on your family’s financial wellbeing is profound and lasting.
So in honor of Mother’s Day this year, I’m sharing five strategic money moves I often walk through with clients in every stage of motherhood. These are practical steps, yes—but more than that, they’re about giving yourself permission to plan, prioritize, and protect what matters most.
1. Early Motherhood: Plan + Prepare
New moms are often focused on the next feeding, the next nap, or just staying afloat—and understandably so. But this stage is also foundational for long-term planning.
Start with protection. Life insurance and basic estate documents may feel premature, but they’re important tools to protect your growing family—especially when someone else now depends on you.
Adjust for new expenses. Diapers, daycare, healthcare… the costs add up quickly. Building a fresh budget (with some flexibility) is a game-changer.
Plant seeds for education. I often recommend 529 plans or other education savings tools early—even if the initial contributions are small. Time is your greatest asset.
2. The School Years: Model + Teach
As children grow, so does their curiosity—and their awareness of how money works (or doesn't).
Normalize money conversations. Moms who introduce saving, spending, and giving early help raise kids who are financially literate and confident.
Lead by example. Even during financial stress, modeling thoughtful decision-making and open dialogue makes a lasting impression.
Don’t forget retirement. Many mothers I work with naturally shift focus to their kids—but we always revisit retirement contributions to ensure their future is secure, too.
3. The College & Launch Years: Support Strategically
This stage is filled with pride, transition—and a lot of financial decisions.
Balance generosity with boundaries. Supporting college or early adult life is noble, but not at the expense of your financial independence. I am constantly talking to clients about how to define how much support is healthy and sustainable.
Teach adult money skills. Budgeting, credit cards, student loans—these conversations may not be fun, but they’re crucial at this stage.
Use your wealth wisely. We often walk through FAFSA strategies, annual gifting rules, or tax-smart support for tuition. Every situation is different, but planning ahead always helps.
4. Empty Nest: Refocus + Rebuild
When kids leave home, many moms finally have the chance to refocus on their own goals—and that’s something worth celebrating.
Revisit your plan. Whether it’s downsizing, traveling, or launching a new career chapter, this is the time to realign your finances with your vision.
Maximize retirement savings. Catch-up contributions can make a big impact here—especially for those who paused saving during the high-cost years of parenting.
Support with clarity. Many moms still provide financial help to adult children or grandkids. That’s generous—but we also talk about what’s realistic and what boundaries protect both sides.
5. Grandparent Years: Guide with Grace
The role shifts again—but the impact doesn’t diminish.
Mentor, don’t rescue. Your wisdom is invaluable. I often encourage clients to offer guidance and perspective rather than stepping in financially every time.
Get intentional with legacy. Whether it’s creating a trust, revisiting your estate plan, or aligning your giving with your values, this is where legacy planning becomes deeply personal.
Simplify where possible. A thoughtful plan helps avoid confusion or conflict down the road and keeps your family united and secure.
Final Thoughts
Motherhood may look different for everyone—but one common thread I see, at least with my clients, is the fierce desire to protect, provide, and prepare.
Your role in shaping your family’s future—financially and otherwise—is unmatched. Whether you’re just starting out or mentoring the next generation, thoughtful planning helps you continue leading with strength, clarity, and love.
And if you're looking for a trusted advisor to walk this road with you, I’d be honored to help.