STOCKS FOR KIDS

If you want to introduce yourchild to the stock market, buyingsome stock as a gift will have moreimpact if you let the child make thechoice. Steer them toward dividend payingstocks, which can help drivehome the value of investing to theyounger set, and to name brandcompanies. Kids usually think it'scool to own a piece of a companythat has big-name recognitionamong their friends. Also look forcompanies that have direct stockpurchase plans (DSPs) or dividendreimbursement plans (DRiPs). ContactNetStockDirect (888-638-7865;www.netstockdirect.com) for a listof such companies. Some householdname stocks you and your child maywant to consider include: Coca-Cola, Hershey, Heinz, 7-Eleven,Mattel, and Wrigley. All have eithera DSP or DRiP.