How To Not Be a Soccer Mom

Make your MP3 and DVD collection into a punk rock primer. Ban the Wiggles from your car, and teach your kids about the joys of the Clash, the Ramones, and Black Flag.

You don’t have to wear the soccer mom uniform to fit in. Keep scrunchies, Keds, and “mom jeans” far away from your closet. You can be just as comfortable in a mix of tailored jeans, cute blouses, fitted blazers, and comfortable, stylish flats or boots.

Soccer moms watch from the sidelines, but cool moms bring their cleats and join in the game.

Since parents of active kids keep a hectic schedule, it’s easy to get into a soccer mom rut. Keep things fresh by incorporating fun, original games into your routine, like the get-ready-for-practice Olympics or “making up songs about homework.”

Don’t wait until you get home to have dinner. Bring a hibachi and some side dishes, and turn the soccer game into an excuse to tailgate.

Conduct high-powered business dealings on the go! Turn your driver’s seat into a portable workstation by setting up a wireless network in your car. Videoconference, email, and close that big sale all while you keep an eye on the game.