Teaching Your Teen to Drive

What’s the most exciting time of a teen’s life is often the most terrifying for you, the parent. It’s especially troublesome when your kid has been used to riding in a horsepower-laden speed machine. Maybe you’re thinking back to those times when you revved the engine with Junior in the backseat and wishing you’d opted for a mini-van.

Well, it’s too late for that now. Your teen is at the age when it’s time to put him or her behind the wheel (with hands at 10 and 2, of course). It’s scary and frustrating but there are some key tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible for both of you. Hopefully you won’t need to hire a contractor to build you a new garage!

Bring in the Pros

Depending on the state you’re in and the school your child’s attending, driver’s ed might be required. If it’s not, it’s wise to invest in some professional driving courses. There are a number of private companies that offer these services. If your teen is fully in the surly stage, it might be better to let a professional handle things (and your teen might pay more attention to a “real” teacher).

How much schooling does your teen need? Only you can answer that. Even if you do have your kid in a class, it’s important to get as much behind-the-wheel experience as possible while your teen has a learner’s permit. Even if you know it will take twice as long to let your teen drive to the store, every second with you in the passenger seat counts.

Sharing the Love

This can also be a great bonding time. If you have a muscle car let your teen test out his or her skills on a high performance automatic machine. It instills confidence and trust (and besides, you’re right beside your new driver).

Maybe you’ve passed on the love of the Pony to your progeny. There aren’t many chances for a parent to bond with a teenager, so make the most of it.

The DIY Approach

It’s best to practice often in short time increments (15 to 20 minutes). Begin in a deserted parking lot where you’re behind the wheel and let your teen give directions like “stop,” “turn left” or “park here.” The most important thing you can do is keep your cool in the passenger seat and remember that your teen is probably nervous and uncomfortable.

Too much time in one stretch is counterproductive. Initially, ask your new driver to point out traffic observations such as “There’s a stop sign coming up,” which can help improve observation skills. Another tactic is asking questions like “Is there a car in your blind spot?” so that it’s more of a conversation than a series of commands.