Crypto For Kids: What You Need to Know (2024)

With the rise of trading apps, young people are beginning their investing journey significantly earlier than prior generations. Simple user interfaces and gamified features are an enticing and familiar onramp for digitally native generations. It’s a pretty different experience from the days of having to call a stockbroker to make a trade (and pay a commission!). And that’s a good thing!

The combination of more accessible tools, the media’s fawning over every dip and rally the stock market has to offer, and the frenzied rise of crypto has created a keen interest amongst people under the age of 18 to seek the opportunity to start investing now and reap the benefits of a longer period of compounding.

The good news: parents have the ability to open custodial accounts for their children. Their children own the assets, but the account is managed by the parent (a common custodial account is the UGMA — which is offered by EarlyBird through our app).

The bad news: unless you’re exclusively interested in stocks, bonds, and funds, finding a roundabout way to own crypto can be pretty tricky if you’re a kid, or a parent interested in buying crypto on behalf of your child.

Translation: if kids want to invest in crypto, an adult has to help them out.

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Why can't kids buy crypto?

As an adult, when you head to a crypto exchange to convert some dollars into crypto, you'd create an account, provide some information, transfer funds, and boom - you're ready to buy crypto. But when it comes to children, this option is not available. In order to remain in compliance with KYC laws, all reputable exchanges in the United States require users to be at least 18 years old.(For the record, kids also can't buy their own stocks without the support of a parent).

“Know Your Customer” laws are SEC-enforced regulatory guardrails against fraud and money laundering. When you open an account with a bank, you have to give them your social security number. Same thing when you open an account with any legitimate crypto exchange. And same thing with EarlyBird... it’s just kinda the rules of the game.

Gifting crypto to kids can be complicated (or easy)

Your first solution is to buy crypto (like Bitcoin or Ethereum) and then store it in a “cold wallet.” Before we go any further, here's a quick primer on wallets...

A crypto “wallet” is an interface with the blockchain. Wallets create addresses to which crypto can be sent, and secret keys, which enable YOU to send your crypto somewhere else. Wallets are either hot (i.e. always connected to the internet) or cold (i.e. only occasionally connected to the internet). Being “offline” makes cold wallets a bit less convenient than hot wallets, but the tradeoff is that they are more secure — basically impenetrable to web-based attacks. Cold wallets look like fancy USB sticks (it’s literally a piece of hardware). And get this: you can lose that device but as long as you remember your seed phrase, you’ll be able to recover your crypto.

And just to close the loop here... A "seed phrase" is a mnemonic device that is connected to your wallet. The seed phrase generates your private key which gives you the ability to send your crypto somewhere else AND is basically a “backup” if you ever lose your cold (or hot) wallet. The phrase itself is usually a combination of 12 (sometimes 24) words pulled from a pool of 2,048 words. How secure is a seed phrase? Well, if you do the math you’ll quickly realize that it’d take someone like 1000 years to guess your seed phrase. It’s a lot easier for them just to trick you into telling them. So the rule of thumb is: never tell anyone your seed phrase.

When your child turns 18, they can set up their own wallet, transfer the crypto you bought for them, and either cash out or continue to hold the crypto in the new wallet. This sort of transaction wouldn't be without it's tax consequences and it also requires that the child (or parent) take good care to keep track of the wallet's seed phrase -- otherwise there is a risk that the little piece of metal gets misplaced and the crypto is gone forever.

Fortunately, there's a simpler option that doesn't skimp on security, makes it easy to set up recurring investments, and simplifies the process of receiving financial gifts in crypto (from a birthday or baby shower, for example). We've made it easy for parents to invest in crypto—currently limited to Bitcoin and Ethereum—on behalf of their kids. Get signed up for EarlyBird Crypto today.

There are a lot of crypto-curious parents out there

They wish they knew more and they’re wondering whether they should incorporate crypto into their child’s portfolio (or their own). We think it’s worth the addition (in moderation) for three reasons:

First, regarding Bitcoin and Ethereum’s performance, two things are true: (1) their prices are highly volatile (prices go up and down unexpectedly and in big swings); and (2) anyone who has held these assets for more than 3 years has made money. So if your child has more than a 3-year investing time horizon, crypto has a pretty good track record of rewarding patience and persistence.

Second, the future is uncertain, but it is clear that new economies and opportunities are emerging around the crypto space. We’re not saying definitively that this or that is going to happen, but there is a chance that crypto plays a much bigger role in the future. An investment in crypto is a bet that crypto and crypto-ecosystems don’t disappear (and so far, Bitcoin and Ethereum have been pretty darn resilient against hacks, regulation, and media criticism).

And last, when it comes to personal finance, education and exposure go hand in hand. Dipping a toe in is a great way to kickstart a learning journey. We’ve got a great intro series on crypto’s history, performance, technology, challenges, and culture for the folks who get signed up.


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This page contains general information and does not contain financial advice. All investments involve risk. Any hypothetical performance shown is for illustrative purposes only. Actual investment performance may be different for many reasons, including, but not limited to, market fluctuations, time horizon, taxes, and fees. Please consult a qualified financial advisor and/or tax professional for investment guidance.

Crypto For Kids: What You Need to Know (2024)

FAQs

What a beginner needs to know about cryptocurrency? ›

A cryptocurrency is a digital currency, which is an alternative form of payment created using encryption algorithms. The use of encryption technologies means that cryptocurrencies function both as a currency and as a virtual accounting system. To use cryptocurrencies, you need a cryptocurrency wallet.

How do you explain crypto to a 5 year old? ›

Cryptocurrencies are just like money tokens in monopoly, but the difference is they're digital. That means you can see them, use them, but you can't touch them, unlike those physical tokens/currency(bills or coins). Also, they don't have a “fixed value” set by law.

Why should kids learn about crypto? ›

And teaching your child about cryptocurrency—and the technology it's built on—can give them the tools they need to navigate this financial asset and make smart decisions about their finances in the future.

What is crypto Short answer? ›

Cryptocurrency, sometimes called crypto-currency or crypto, is any form of currency that exists digitally or virtually and uses cryptography to secure transactions. Cryptocurrencies don't have a central issuing or regulating authority, instead using a decentralized system to record transactions and issue new units.

How do you explain crypto to your mom? ›

Don't mention the word 'bitcoin'

Your parents will likely think you are trying to scam them or trick them into losing their money. Instead, talk about how cryptocurrency is revolutionising the financial sector. Also, tell them that this is the future of money and that it is here to stay.

What are the 4 types of cryptocurrency? ›

They all depend on blockchain technology, but there are many differences. Broadly speaking, we will classify them into four categories: Payment Cryptocurrencies, Tokens, Stablecoins, and Central Bank Digital Currencies.

How do I start learning crypto? ›

To get started, follow these steps:
  1. Understand what crypto trading is.
  2. Learn why people trade cryptos.
  3. Pick a cryptocurrency to trade.
  4. Open a CFD trading account.
  5. Identify a crypto trading opportunity.
  6. Decide whether to go long or short.
  7. Take steps to manage your risk and place your trade.
  8. Monitor and close your position.

Is crypto hard to learn? ›

Cryptocurrency by its very nature is incredibly complicated. For one, you'll need to get to grips with the minefield that is blockchain technology to even begin to process the intricacies of this asset.

What are the Top 5 reasons you're into crypto? ›

That's why we're going to focus on the top 5 factors that make it worthwhile to invest in crypto with this blog.
  • #1. Earn Potentially Lucrative Returns. ...
  • #2. Protect Your Wealth From Inflation. ...
  • #3. Have Total Control Over Your Investment. ...
  • #4. Add Diversification To Your Portfolio. ...
  • #5. ...
  • Conclusion.

Can kids start crypto? ›

All reputable securities exchanges in the U.S. require investors to be at least 18 years or older to invest; crypto is no different. Children are not allowed to buy, sell or trade securities of any kind until they reach the age of maturity.

How do you explain ethereum to a child? ›

To understand what Ethereum is, let's break down each key term in the one-sentence definition above. Ethereum is the name of the technology itself. You can think of the term like the word “internet.” It's a network, a technology, and a platform for a huge variety of different applications.

What are 3 benefits of cryptocurrency? ›

Advantages of Cryptocurrency :
  • Protection from inflation – Inflation has caused many currencies to get their value declined with time. ...
  • Self-governed and managed – ...
  • Secure and private – ...
  • Currency exchanges can be done easily – ...
  • Decentralized – ...
  • Cost-effective mode of transaction – ...
  • A fast way to transfer funds –
Sep 30, 2022

Can a 13 year old do crypto? ›

There's no legal minimum age to own cryptocurrency, meaning teens can technically start investing at any age. That said, most popular cryptocurrency exchanges, such as traditional brokerage firms, prevent anyone under 18 years of age from opening a trading account.

Why is it called crypto? ›

"Crypto" refers to the various encryption algorithms and cryptographic techniques that safeguard these entries, such as elliptical curve encryption, public-private key pairs, and hashing functions. Cryptocurrencies can be mined or purchased from cryptocurrency exchanges.

How crypto works? ›

Cryptocurrency (or “crypto”) is a class of digital assets created using cryptographic techniques that enable people to buy, sell or trade them securely. Unlike traditional fiat currencies controlled by national governments, cryptocurrencies can circulate without a monetary authority such as a central bank.

What do you actually own with crypto? ›

When you buy your crypto through an exchange and just leave them on it, rely on the exchange to give it back to you when you ask for it. You wouldn't have full control over them either. It's actually the exchange that effectively is in control of your crypto because it owns the private keys to your funds.

How can I be smart about crypto? ›

Investing in cryptocurrency is one of many options for investing your money today.
...
  1. Carry out a deep study before you invest in any cryptocurrency. ...
  2. Don't invest based on hype and noise. ...
  3. Understand your risk strength and invest what you're willing to lose. ...
  4. Proportioning your money on more than one coin.
Jan 27, 2020

Who owns cryptocurrency? ›

This concludes that cryptocurrencies are largely owned by young, tech savvy and wealthy Americans. Highly educated Americans are more likely to own cryptocurrencies, 17% of them hold a doctorate education and equivalent, while 9% with a secondary education.

How do I start crypto with no money? ›

How to earn free cryptocurrency: 11 easy ways
  1. Sign up with an exchange. ...
  2. Crypto staking. ...
  3. Free NFTs. ...
  4. Learn and earn. ...
  5. Crypto savings account. ...
  6. Crypto lending. ...
  7. Get cash from a brokerage. ...
  8. Participate in an airdrop.
Apr 20, 2022

Does crypto pay you to learn? ›

You can earn crypto while learning about them from popular centralized exchanges. The concept of a learn and earn program is pretty much what the name suggests. You must first watch videos or read articles, then take quizzes, and if you qualify, you will be rewarded with a set amount of crypto assets.

How do you get into crypto step by step? ›

How to Buy Cryptocurrency from an Exchange
  1. Choose which cryptocurrency exchange you want to use. ...
  2. Establish an account with the cryptocurrency exchange. ...
  3. Fund your account with fiat money. ...
  4. Decide which cryptocurrency you want to buy. ...
  5. Place a buy order for your chosen cryptocurrency.

Do you need to know math for crypto? ›

Analytical Skills Cryptography professionals need to have a strong understanding of mathematical principles, such as linear algebra, number theory, and combinatorics. Professionals apply these principles when they are designing and deciphering strong encryption systems.

Can crypto make you rich? ›

Getting rich with cryptocurrency is certainly not an impossible endeavor. In fact, there are many crypto enthusiasts who have made millions of dollars out of their investments. However, it is always important to understand that investing in crypto is highly risky.

Can a crypto fail? ›

Many cryptos from humble beginnings will fail, simply because they lack the resources to compete with financial giants. In order for a cryptocurrency to be successful, in fact, two conditions are necessary: ​​there must be a great demand for these currencies for transactional reasons and users must trust them.

Why is it important to understand crypto? ›

Cryptocurrencies are important because they hold the potential to revolutionize how we interact with the digital world. They could do away with central authorities and enable peer-to-peer transactions, which would bring about a new era of transparency and security.

Why crypto knowledge is important? ›

The cryptocurrency market is volatile and risky. Crypto trading may not be suitable for all our users. Without proper guidance, obtaining crypto knowledge can be a daunting challenge. Regardless of how you get involved with cryptocurrencies, crypto education is a critical component of your journey.

Should students learn about cryptocurrency? ›

Though cryptocurrency is volatile as an investment, schools should teach lessons on it so students can learn how to make their own decisions, said Yanely Espinal, an educator and director of educational outreach with Next Gen Personal Finance. “Whether we teach it or not, they will hear about it,” Espinal said.

Is crypto good for students? ›

The benefits of making crypto investments are plenty, and everyone should make the best use of them. Students can buy this new currency for long-term investment purposes. It is highly beneficial for them as they can increase their earnings too by adding extra cash.

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