Kids grow up so fast. It feels like only yesterday you were changing their diapers, and today, they’re
learning how to drive and become more independent. Now, it may seem like they are ready to leave the nest, but you have to know that they may be old enough to drive, but they still have a lot of growing up to do before then.
And as their parent, you must teach them the proper techniques in driving to avoid getting into accidents, and for them to become better drivers overall.
To help you, we have put together this short guide on how you can help make your child a safe driver.
Teach them to Focus
Driving is a task that requires your undivided attention. When teaching your child to drive, make sure that their phones are stored away, and that the radio is either turned off or at a low volume to ensure that they don’t get distracted and that they keep their eyes on the road.
Be Patient
As the instructor, don’t raise your voice as it will only cause him to panic. As much as possible, use a soft, stern tone when giving them instructions while driving.
It’s also important to note that you should be patient with your student. After all, they are still learning the ropes. Do your best to teach them everything you possibly can. Whether it’s parallel parking, turning corners, making U-turns, and so much more.
Recognize Road Hazards
It will be your teen’s first time behind the wheel. He will have a lot on his plate as he starts to learn how to drive a vehicle. Because of the anxiousness he feels, he may only focus on nothing but the road in front of him.
Teach and show him how to check his surroundings properly without taking the focus out from the road in front of him. Tell him to slow down when they approach a crosswalk, and to check either direction twice before driving forward.
It’s also important at this stage to teach him all about defensive driving and how he can save himself from potential road hazards and reckless drivers.
The Importance of Car Safety
The best time to teach your teen about road and car safety is right now. Make them understand that seatbelts are more than just an accessory. It can make the difference between life and death.
Always remind them to put on their seatbelts as soon as they get behind the wheel to make sure that they don’t forget it.
What’s more, prevent drunk driving incidents by making your children feel that they can approach you about anything. If they happen to get their hands on some alcohol and are intoxicated, encourage them to give you a call at any time of the day and you will assist them no questions asked.
Be a Role Model
Of course, your teen will most likely follow by example. So, make it a point to be the driver you’re telling your teen to become.
Show them how it’s done: follow traffic signs, demonstrate defensive driving, slow down when driving down busy streets and approaching crosswalks and more.
Leading by example when your children are young, can lay the groundwork for them when they are old enough to learn how to drive.
Once your teen learns the fundamentals of driving, getting their license should be a piece of cake. After they reach this milestone, the next thing you can teach them is about car loans and how they work. For their first car, choose to apply for a car loan online and help them pick out a car for themselves. You can then decide to let them pay off the car themselves or help them with it.
Doing this can teach your teen everything they need to know about cars and loans and will even show them responsibility in the long run.