Hypothetical and Kids

There are certain things in life I don't quite understand. People who are expecting and wanting the very best for their kids that they become blind of their own financial situation. I was browsing through a message board and the topic was putting away money for your children's education.

I'm all for putting away money for your kids' education as long as you've taken care of yourself. Meaning, if you have the excess funds, of course put money towards your kids' education. The problem I see is that many of these soon to be parents do not even have their current financial situation in order and they are already concerned about their kids (who's not even born yet or under 2 years old). So....you are willing to be a renter forever and possibly forgo your retirement just so kids have the best in life? Um.....have you heard of grants and student loans? I just don't get it! It's as if these soon-to-be or new parents have their priorities incorrect or maybe my methodology is wrong.

Soon to be parents are living on the hypothetical factor that his/her child will get into the best college, become a doctor, lawyer, engineer or whatever. That's, like, more than 18 years from NOW!! Eighteen years can bring a lot of changes. Your child may not want to go to the college that you want him or her to attend. You might have more than one child...then what happens? To be honest, if I have kids, I would expect that they work part-time while they are in college. Some parents may not agree with me on this but the experience young adults receive while working cannot be compared to being in a classroom. It's the interpersonal skills that are developed while on the job that kids nowadays lack because their parents want them to stay home, focus on school and stay out of trouble. Parents - quit sheltering your children!!