Money-saving parenting skills: Buy a used hybrid

Fathers who have read the recent reports about the Cash for Clunkers program and fear they missed a great opportunity shouldn’t worry. They can still save money if they need to buy a car.

Though the government program that had people trade in their old "gas-guzzling" vehicle for a new energy-saving car was a huge hit, there may be a hidden cost associated with the federal initiative.

It’s been reported that car insurance rates for 2009 are 12.25 percent higher than they were in 2008. This means that buying a new car, even with a government program providing some financial help, may not be the best idea.

Instead, fathers may be able to save more, now and in the future, by looking at used hybrid vehicles. Many of these cars are still fairly new to the market and even the oldest cars are still receiving high markets in car magazines.

Furthermore, a hybrid will also save on future gas bills for the car, which may come in handy if the price and the pump rises.

Finally, showing fiscal and environmental responsibility may be a good way for a father to inspire their son or daughter to act accordingly.