Outrageous Parenting Trends

From “come in when the streetlights are on” to early Fisher Price leashes, our generation has endured countless parenting trends. But now that parenting is getting increasingly chic, 2012’s were in for a dose of eccentricity. Here are the most outrageous parenting trends and what they’ll mean for you.

Babyccinos

Evidently, some parents think it unfair that they can waltz into a Starbucks and order a coffee, so instead of giving their child milk, water or juice, they treat them to a children’s cappuccino. Especially popular in Brooklyn, the “Babyccino” is a “macchiato-like” drink, with a shot of decaf espresso “topped with steam milk and froth.” (Just nobody tell these parents that most of us were raised drinking Ovaltine.)

Aiden-esque Names

According to name experts at Babynamewizard.com, “41 names that rhymed with Aiden made the U.S.’s top 1000 names list” last year. And they’re not gender specific: with more and more androgynous names climbing the popularity charts, names like “Jayden” go either way and create a uniqueness in a time when that seems impossible. This trend will also explain the “original” spelling: while you may hear “Aiden” a few dozen times at your child’s school, you probably won’t see it spelled the same way. Good luck to teachers everywhere.

Tough Spirit Animals

Last year, the “Tiger Mom” became a beacon of hope for micro-managers everywhere, as the tiger’s strict parenting style drew attention from parents worldwide. However, the tide soon changed after the “Eagle Mom” debuted, with over 70% of U.S. mothers believing that children should be taught to fly (albeit strictly), and be set free. What will 2012 have in store? Likely just as much tough love. And with so many wolf movies out, we may have winner – provided nobody actually watches The Grey.

Technology Overload

Most of us grew up with our parents shooing us outside, but thanks to increasing technological advancements, running around has been replaced by video games. Learning tablets that range from $100 to $200 are already available for kids learning to read, write and do math, while programs like Wii Fit bring exercise indoors. Naturally (or not so much), fresh air can’t be replaced by even the most strenuous gaming system, so remember that hide-and-go seek never hurt anyone (usually).

“Dadchelor” Parties

As the number of stay-at-home-dads rises, it’s no surprise that a new father and his friends opt to celebrate one last night of freedom before the baby is born. Cue: “Dadchelor” parties that will treat dad to a wonderful hangover – just in time for his partner to endure the greatest pain known to womankind. (She, on the other hand, gets to sip decaffeinated tea and use the bathroom every ten minutes.)

Gender Reveal Cupcakes

Anyone can drape pink or blue streamers around a room or pick up the phone and call a friend, but it takes a creative person to bake a baby’s gender into cupcakes. Now, baby shower guests are treated to plain cupcakes with a question mark on the top, only to have the baby’s gender revealed when they bite into the treat and see pink or blue frosting. No word on how this will work with fraternal trends.

The Bounce-Back

It’s going to be tough when your little one grows up and moves on into the real world, but what about if they came back? With an increasingly closed job market, 2012 is the year of the boomerang, as young adults (aged 25 – 30) move back home to save money or, well, avoid homelessness. Best start your newborn on a savings plan today.