Just thinking about the cost of college could be enough for you to decide not to have children. However, even with the cost of college increasing, a well designed plan can help you achieve this goal.

For starters, one of the most important things you can do is use time to your advantage. In most instances, you'll have at least 18 years to save for this expense. Use this time wisely and invest appropriately. Set aside a certain amount of money each month in an investment that is specifically marked for education. Remember, the sooner you start, the less you have to set aside.

Another thing you can do is think about creative ways to fund your child's education. Rather than have a baby shower in which your guest purchase gifts and items which may eventually be disposed of, tell them the greatest gift they can provide is support for your child's future education. Set up a college fund and let them know how to make deposits.