How to teach a teen to drive is NOT something I thought I would be searching for so soon. However, there are three ways to make teaching your teenager to drive easier.
This is me and my 15-year-old son on a Saturday morning driving around the empty school parking lot.
I’m terrified! In Virginia, kids can get their learner’s permit at age 15 and seven months. (Which is now for my son!)
It can be very scary to know that your teenager is about to be out and about on the road driving by themselves soon. I am very thankful to live in Virginia and not have to deal with the most dangerous roads in Alabama.
It is every parent’s nightmare that they will get a call one day telling them their child has been in a car accident.
However, most teenagers will end up in at least one accident in their lives. If they do get in an accident, you should consult a reputable attorney such as the ones at Sutliff & Stout law firm found at mytexasinjurylawyers.com.
Parents can look through a good teenage car accident guide to learn more about the following tips for teaching their teens to drive safely.
Tips for Parents Teaching Teenagers to Drive
Before Driving Sessions
When teaching your teen how to drive, there are certain things to do before each driving session. To start, you should map out a route for them to take. This is a better option for new drivers than having them take a random drive.
This will lead to more confidence with driving before venturing out to unexplored areas. Before leaving the driveway, make sure the mirrors and seat are adjusted for the best views and seated position for driving.
On the Road
It can be difficult for some parents to remain calm while out on the road with their new teenage driver. However, to stay safe and give your teen the confidence they need to learn better driving skills, it is important that you stay calm and not yell at them.
If your teen makes a mistake, have them pull over so that you can explain it to them in a safe and calm manner. It is not effective to scold them and it can add unnecessary tension.
If your teen starts getting too frustrated, it is best to stop the lesson for the day and start fresh another day when they are feeling better about it.
After Each Lesson
It is just as important to discuss each driving lesson afterward. This is a great time to give them advice on how to improve. It is also good to remember to give them praise for all of the good driving they did as well.
Do not only point out the things they did wrong. Doing so can hurt their confidence and stall their learning. Ask them each time if they have questions about anything and discuss it further.
Teaching your teenager to drive can be a long and stressful event. However, you want to take time to do it right because they will be able to drive safer when they are out on their own. Also, don’t forget to be a good example while they are riding in the vehicle with you.
Follow all of the rules of the road so they will learn to do the same.
Additional resources on how to teach a teen to drive:
- Tips to Reduce Distracted Driving
- 6 Things You Need To Monitor On Your Child’s Cell Phone
- Things to Consider When Giving Your Child His Or Her First Mobile Phone
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