Have you always dreamed of being one of those 'cool mums'? Love the idea of being friends with your child or being told you look more like sisters than mother and daughter? Or, best of all, overhearing your child tell their friends that they have a 'cool mum'?
Being a ‘cool mum’ doesn’t mean letting your child go to parties that you don’t approve of or allowing them to drink at the dinner table before they reach 18. Here are five simple ways to be the cool mum while still being a parent at the same time.
Take an interest in them
Take an interest in your little one’s hobbies and interests. Get involved in their sporting activities, learn an instrument at the same time as them, or become interested in their movies or books that they are reading. This way you and your child will have something in common which will not only bring you closer together, it will also help you to gain their respect.
Take them to cool places
Take your little one to cool places. Instead of a trip to the park, head up the mountains, or hop on your bike and cycle to the beach, even when it’s raining. Places like the Natural History Museum or art galleries are trendy spots to go with kids and most even have special activities aimed at children.
Have mummy/daughter or mummy/son days
Have days where just you and your child spend time together. Go out for lunch or dinner, go to the cinema and share some popcorn. Having one-on-one time will help you connect with your child, creating a mutual respect which will turn into an air of coolness.
Understand technology
Understand technology but don’t add your child as a friend on Facebook. They won’t appreciate it but will see you through different eyes if you at least have some idea of what it is all about.
Be friends with their friends
Talk to your child’s friends and be welcoming when they come over. Offer them juice or tea and have a chat with them while they are waiting for your child but don’t overwhelm them by hoovering around and frantically trying to gain their approval. Be their friend by being nice and not by trying to hang out with them.
