Earnings on distributions not used to pay for the beneficiary's qualified education expenses are included in the beneficiary's taxable income and subject to a 10% tax penalty.

Qualified education expenses are for primary, secondary, and postsecondary education expenses, including tuition, fees, tutoring, books, supplies, related equipment, room and board, uniforms, transportation and computers. 

The balance of the account must be distributed within 30 days after the beneficiary reaches the age of 30.

One option is to take advantage of the rollover provision for Coverdell ESAs.  Distributed amounts are not subject to federal income tax if they are rolled-over to another Coverdell ESA for the benefit of the same beneficiary or a member of the beneficiary's family that is under the age of 30.

You can always move your contributions over to a 529 as well.