COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Christmas has passed and it's time to think about gifts we gave and gifts we received.

Was it a really good gift?

Money Coach Bill Stanley says it involves good financial advice through a lifetime.

"Zero is the baby shower gift," says Stanley. "The absolute best investment is an investment in education, so give the mom-to-be cash for the baby's college education."

Until Age 18:

* Again education is the best gift.

* Cash, bonds, money for a 529 plan - these are all great gifts which will last a lifetime.

"This age group covers the part of life parents and children should understand that college is a privilege," says Stanley. "The responsibility for success lies primarily with the child, not the parents. Kids should be inspired both to attend college and to accept part of the burden for their education."

Age 18:

* The best ever high school graduation present is one hour with a financial advisor.

* How to use a credit card properly.

Stanley says, "Please understand that a true financial advisor is one who provides advice for a fee, not one who sells financial products and makes a commission on his/her recommendation."

Age 22:

* The best ever college graduation gift, you guessed it, is one hour with a financial advisor.

* Emphasize the 401(k) and the IRA as well as continued accountability on spending.

"Our graduate should learn that the secret to a successful money life is limited spending with a large chuck of savings," says Stanley. Emphasize the 401(k) and the IRA as well as continued accountability on spending.

Age 25-35:

* One hour with the financial advisor.

* Saving for retirement takes top priority.

Age 55-65: 

* One more hour with that life long friend and advisor.

* Plan Your Legacy

"Before retirement, reduce expenditures to a reasonable level; after retirement, make plans for your money to last a lifetime (two if you are married)," says Stanley. "And, don't forget, it is time to plan your legacy which consists of material things as well as values."

Age 90: 

Stanley says, "This time the financial advisor pays you to tell him how you have survived this long working within your lifetime budget!"

Contact Bill Stanley at MoneyCoachBill@aol.com.