If you have not met with a financial planner, I would suggest you do so, quickly.  The estimations of how much it will cost to put your child(ren) through 4 years of college is just down right alarming.  We had our planner run some numbers for local private universities.  In 17 years when she will be attending, the 4 year cost is projected to be in the $400,000 range based on what it costs today.  There are so many options and combinations out there for parents, that meeting with a professional is probably a good idea.  I know the Missouri 509 gives you a state tax break.