How to be a Hip Parent

Being a hip parent doesn't mean wearing a low cut t-shirt (moms) or tight Levi's (dads). Being hip means staying in touch with reality--youthful reality. Follow these steps and you'll be the coolest parent on the block.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Cool music
• An iPhone or iPod
• Updated wardrobe
• A cool car (or at least a clean one)

How to be Hip

1. No more Elvis or Paul Simon in the car--at least until your kids are past the "I'm too cool" stage. For now, play fun, hip music such as Mika, Alicia Keys, Regina Spektor or Chris Brown. Make sure, however, that there are no explicit lyrics.
2. Stay on top of the technology phone. Having a cell phone like Zack Morris from Saved by the Bell is not cool. A razor phone (you can get these free with you cell phone company upgrade), Blackberry or iphone will have the kids in awe.
3. Update your wardrobe every year, or at least every other year. When the kids go back-to-school shopping, so should you. Wear tactful, tasteful clothing, even if you are a plumber, doctor or a stay-at-home mom. A nice pair of jeans and an updated blouse or sweater or black pants with a nice button down blouse/dress shirt will do the trick.
4. Drive a cool car. OK: that is not in everyone's budget; but when you pick up the kids, the first impression you will give them and their friends is by the care you drive. It is sad, but true. This does not have to be a fancy car, but make sure it is clean and that there is not junk in the backseat (where friends of your kids will sit).

Tips & Warnings

• Always make a personal budget for your expenditures.
• Being cool is a mind frame--not the thing you have. Being up-to-date will help you communicate and stay on the same level as your children.
• Be sure to check for parental advisory on your CD's. While you're at it, check to make sure your kids aren't listening to songs with explicit lyrics. Even if you allow this in your household, you have to keep in mind other kids.
• Stick to your budget. If a new car (or a new iPod) is not in the budget, don't put it on credit. You'll keep your cool staying debt-free.