Beyond Money: Key Values to Consider When Naming Guardians for Your Children

When we sit down to help parents name guardians who can raise their minor kids if something happens to them, we often have to work through one sticking point: how much money plays into the factor of “what makes a good guardian.”

It’s natural to worry about whether your chosen guardians have the financial resources to provide for your children. But here’s what we’ve learned after years of helping Manitoba families with their wills and powers of attorney: the most important qualities in a guardian often have nothing to do with their bank account.

What Really Matters When Choosing Guardians

Shared Values and Parenting Style: Think about the people who share your core beliefs about education, discipline, faith, and how children should be raised. A guardian who aligns with your values will help maintain consistency in your children’s lives during an already difficult transition.

Genuine Love and Connection: Choose someone who already has a meaningful relationship with your children – someone your kids feel comfortable with and who genuinely cares about their well-being. This emotional bond is far more valuable than any financial advantage.

Stability and Commitment: Look for guardians who demonstrate reliability in their own lives and have the emotional capacity to take on such a significant responsibility. Stability isn’t measured in dollars – it’s about consistency, dependability, and being present.

Age and Health Considerations: Consider whether your chosen guardians are young and healthy enough to care for your children until they reach adulthood. Sometimes the grandparents we love dearly may not be the most practical choice for long-term care.

The Money Question – Here’s How to Handle It

If your ideal guardians aren’t financially equipped to raise your children, you have options. Through proper planning in your will, you can designate funds specifically for your children’s care, education, and daily expenses. You can also name a separate person to manage these funds if your chosen guardians aren’t comfortable handling large sums of money.

This way, you’re not forcing a choice between the people who would love and raise your children best and those who might have more financial resources.

Don’t Let Perfect Be the Enemy of Good

Many parents get paralyzed trying to find the “perfect” guardian. The truth is, no one will raise your children exactly as you would. But choosing loving, committed people who share your values and have your children’s best interests at heart is what truly matters.

If you’ve been putting off creating your will because you can’t decide on guardians, we’d be happy to help you work through these considerations. Sometimes talking it through with someone who understands the legal and practical aspects can provide the clarity you need.

Ready to get your family’s protection in place? Give us a call at (204) 925-1900 or click here to schedule an appointment online; we’re here to help you make these important decisions with confidence.