Children's stocks and shares isa

[user1471238641]

Hi all,

Looking to open two stocks and shares isa's - I have googled and can't find one that appeals.

Really want to be able to buy shares and funds.

Any advice appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

What have you looked at, and why don't they appeal?
Your post is a bit vague!
Could be you don't like the online interface, or the fund choices!
When you say you want to be able to buy funds and shares - do you mean you're looking for a product you can manage yourself?

Look at Hargreaves Lansdown, they have hundreds of funds that you can choose from, including a top 250 list, all have a high level of detailed research as to what they comprise, risk, costs etc.

Both my DC have ISAs through them, as do DH and I, we drip feed money monthly into a variety of funds, kids have 5 each, DH and I more. By drip feeding, you will ensure that the ups and downs of stock market are smoothed out.

I am the opposite of an expert on this, but I did a lot of research when setting up a JISA for my dd:

Most platforms have hundreds of funds to choose from. Some charge higher fees than others - I looked at Hargreaves Lansdown but went with Fidelity because their fees were less, and I didn't feel needed the "extras" HL offered. Definitely go for a reputable platform, of course. Once you've chosen a platform, decide whether you want a passive or actively managed fund, and then decide what sort of risk/diversification you want. You will want a fund which re-invests any dividends rather than an income fund. Remember that fees and charges eat into how well your fund performs, so consider these when making your choice.
There is a lot of good info out there, but it takes a lot of research. I found the whole process rather terrifying as I've never invested in the stock market before, but it is definitely worth it!

The sheer choice available is rather daunting too. In the end, I had to reconcile myself that, out of the thousands of funds available, I probably wouldn't pick the best fund, but I could pick a good fund, iyswim.
Money Saving expert has advice on the basics, and I found that a lot of newspapers (Telegraph etc) have useful articles. www.moneysavingexpert.com/investments/

www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/diyinvesting/article-1718291/Pick-best-cheapest-investment-Isa-platform.html

I agree with Kath about paying in regularly, even if its just small amounts. And if it goes down one year, try not to panic. Its all about the long term trend.

squishy - great post that - I usually do say that there are alternatives to HL, but currently on holiday so less time for posts!

But I agree with all you say, especially the not panicking, some of our funds haven't done as well as others, some do drop, but overall I think the total will beat any bank account, especially at present, which is what matters. And a long term view is definitely necessary.

We are totally self taught, just bumbled along in early years, learning from experiences eg not putting all eggs in one basket (or 1yrs allowance in one fund which then bombs in dot-com bubble - fortunately a v small portion of my portfolio now).

Good luck Op, S&S ISA definitely the way to go for kids at moment, your DC will thank you when older I am sure, whatever you choose.

My DC already had a healthy pot at 15/17, then got an inheritence, which is being drip fed in. Eldest over 18 so has full allowance, his pot is now growing at an alarming rate.