Whether it is from a language barrier or the fact that you have been driving so long you've forgotten what it was like to learn, teaching your teen to drive can be quite challenging. If you are a good teacher, the chances are high that your teen will be a better driver. Follow these tips as you instruct your teen on the rules of driving.
Go Beyond the Basics
Many parents focus on basic driving skills. When teens master these, there is no more instruction. Instead, they should teach more complex things such as recognizing road hazards and anticipating other drivers based on their actions. These skills help teens learn how to avoid accidents when they are on their own.
For instance, many drivers know when a car is about to move into their lane even without a signal light. Teens don't naturally have that instinct, so explain what you are seeing and why you expect the driver to switch lanes.
Vary the Routes
Parents often choose the same routes when letting their teens drive. When it comes time to go to a new location or take a different route, the parent takes the wheel. This is counterproductive because the teen will have no experience when he or she faces these situations alone.
Instead, begin with simple routes and then try a new one. Let them merge onto major highways when they are ready. Have them drive at night and even during rush hour. While you want to avoid accidents, it is even more important that they learn how to handle different situations to avoid those collisions when they don't have you beside them.
Deal with Hazardous Conditions
One of the scariest driving experiences for adults is driving in hazardous road conditions. Even with years of experience, your hands hold the steering wheel in a death grip. If you have this reaction, imagine the first time your teen drives in rain or snow. Let them practice this skill with you in the car.
If you are afraid to have them out on the highway, take them to an empty parking lot or a country road. Let them feel the difference in driving on dry pavement and ice or in mud.
Other Tips
To make your practice drives positive and beneficial, have a game plan. Know why you are going somewhere and what you want your teen to learn. This is much better than just mindlessly logging hours so he or she can get a license.
Avoid unpleasant subjects and keep the focus on the road. Now is not the time to ask about a bad grade or missed curfew. Keep the atmosphere light. When you direct your teen's driving, avoid freaking out or criticizing. When he or she does something wrong, explain why it isn't right instead of just jumping onto him or her.
Remember that your teen is nervous, too. Just having you supervising instead of an instructor from their driving school is going to make him or her jumpy. You may get yelled at, but take it in stride. With a game plan, a lot of time and patience, and a positive attitude, you can teach your teen to drive. It just might end up being a great bonding experience as well.