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Decoding Gen Z & Alpha Slang:
A Parent’s Guide to “Cook,” “Rizz,” and How to Avoid the Ultimate Cringe Moment
Have you ever been mid-sentence, trying to relate to your child, only for them to stare at you like you just declared war on coolness itself? If you’ve ever dared to say, “That outfit has mad drip” or “I totally rizzed up that parking spot,” and immediately regretted it, you’re not alone.
Slang changes faster than we can keep up, and sometimes, it feels like kids are speaking in code just to keep us guessing. (Spoiler alert: they are.) But as parents, caregivers, and well-meaning humans who just want to connect, we can learn this ever-evolving language—without completely mortifying our children.
Let’s break down the latest slang, how to use it (or not), and what to do if your kid looks at you like you just ruined their entire social existence.
Common Slang and What It Actually Means
Here’s a quick rundown of what your kids are saying and how not to use it in a way that will get you uninvited from family game night.
- Cook – No, it’s not about dinner. This means doing something exceptionally well. (Example: “Dad, you cooked that karaoke song!”)
- Rizz – Short for “charisma,” usually used for someone with smooth flirting skills. (Example: “He’s got that rizz.”)
- Rizzer – A person with top-tier charm. (Example: “Mom, don’t say ‘rizzer.’ Ever.”)
- Bet – Translation: “Sure,” “okay,” or “I agree.” (Example: “Can you clean your room?” “Bet.”)
- Slay – To succeed or do something impressively. (Example: “Grandma, you slayed that crossword puzzle!”)
- Cap / No Cap – “Cap” means a lie, and “no cap” means truth. (Example: “You made dinner? No cap?”)
- Drip – Someone’s outfit or style. (Example: “Grandpa’s got that classic drip.”)
- Gyat – A dramatic way of expressing shock or excitement. (Example: “GYAT, that was a big sneeze!”)
- Skibidi – A random internet meme phrase with no clear meaning. If your kid says this, just nod and move on.
How to Use Slang Without Making Your Kid Question Their Existence
Look, we know you just want to bond with your child. Maybe even impress them. But the reality is, kids have a built-in radar for parental attempts at coolness, and it’s set to maximum cringe sensitivity.
Here’s how to play it smart:
- Choose Your Moments Wisely – Dropping a casual “bet” might pass, but calling yourself a “rizzer” at the dinner table? That’s a no-go.
- Less is More – If you start peppering your speech with slang like it’s a ‘90s sitcom catchphrase, your child will vanish into their hoodie.
- Stay In Your Lane – Some words are simply off-limits for parents. If you’re unsure, try saying it in a sentence. If it makes you laugh at yourself, don’t say it.
- Make It a Joke – If you must use slang, do it with full self-awareness. “Oh, I totally slayed this grocery list. No cap.” Your kid might roll their eyes, but at least you’ll get a laugh.
What to Do If Your Child Cringes at Your Slang Use
First of all, congratulations! If your child cringes at something you say, it means you’re officially a parent. Here’s how to handle it:
- Acknowledge It – “I see that my use of ‘rizz’ was unacceptable. I will reflect on my choices.”
- Respect Their Boundaries – If they beg you to never say “gyat” in public, honor that sacred request.
- Use It as a Learning Moment – Slang is an ever-evolving part of language. Ask them what the new words mean and how they’re used. You might even bond over it.
Teaching Slang to Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Kid
For neurotypical kids, slang is often picked up naturally, but for neurodivergent children, it can be confusing, especially if they take language literally. Here’s how to introduce it in a way that makes sense:
- Explain Context – “Saying ‘that’s cap’ means someone is lying, but you wouldn’t say that to a teacher.”
- Model Social Cues – Help them understand when and where certain words are appropriate.
- Encourage Observation – Watching how peers use slang can help them understand tone, timing, and intention.
- Keep It Fun – If slang seems stressful, don’t force it. Language is meant to be a bridge, not a barrier.
Final Thoughts
Slang isn’t just about words—it’s about connection. While we may never master the art of Gen Z and Gen Alpha lingo, showing an interest in our kids’ world speaks volumes. Whether you choose to use these words or just decode them from a safe distance, being engaged is what truly matters.
And if your kid ever gives you “the look” after you say something like, “I cooked that parallel parking—no cap,” just smile. One day, they’ll be the confused parent trying to understand the slang of the next generation.
And that, is the ultimate full-circle moment.
You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help
Keeping up with Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang isn’t just about words—it’s about building stronger connections with your kids. At Love 2 Learn, we believe communication is key to fostering understanding and trust between parents and children.
Want more tips on bridging the generational gap and supporting your child’s growth? Contact Love 2 Learn today and let’s navigate this journey together.
