Learning to drive is one of the most exciting things that your teen will ever do. As a parent, you will naturally want to provide a helping hand throughout this process. After all, you want to stay safe while gaining their independence. Likewise, you don’t want them to fall into the pitfalls that many people do.
So, what are the most effective ways to support your teen at this important moment? Here’s all you need to know.
Teach Your Child About Driving
Learning to drive is an immensely exciting time in your teen’s life, but it is also filled with stress and confusion. After all, it’s not only about learning how to use the pedals or steer a vehicle. Driving is a huge responsibility. As a parent, you must ensure that your teen knows this.
You can achieve this by teaching them valuable lessons about insurance, maintenance, and how to avoid distractions. They are valuable lessons that will help your son or daughter stay safe behind the wheel. Moreover, it should result in significant financial savings. The benefits can last a lifetime.
Besides, this is a great way to keep an eye on your child’s progress. If you don’t think that they are taking road safety and related matters seriously, you must address it ASAP.
But Let An Instructor Teach Them
As a parent, your teachings can go a long way to preparing your child for life on the road. However, if your child asks for driving lessons, it’s probably best to politely reject the request. Even if you are a great driver, you will have picked up bad habits. Passing them on is far from ideal.
Working with a driving instructor ensures that your teen gets a comprehensive driving education. This means understanding the latest regulations while they also get a chance to drive an automatic or manual. In most cases, students respond better to lessons from a stranger too.
You can help your teen learn about different road signs and driving laws. When it comes to the practical aspects, though, leaving it to the experts is advised.
Help Them Find A Car
Buying your first car is a core memory that you never forget. While you want your teen to take control of the situation, you should also be willing to provide some support. You do not want them to get ripped off or fall into the trap of buying an impractical car that won’t suit their needs.
In most cases, opting for a used vehicle is the best option. Finding one that needs a little work could help the driver save even more money. Meanwhile, installing performance camshafts can make the car feel brand new. Making an upgrade like this can also encourage your child to take better care of the vehicle.
There are many great cars for first-time drivers available. For most teens, a compact city vehicle will suffice. Even if local surroundings mean an SUV is needed, value can be found.
Encourage Them To Enjoy Trips
The excitement felt after acquiring a license means that the first few months of driving are particularly memorable. However, this excitement does soon fade if they only use their car for impressing friends on the drive to school. There is a world of adventures waiting to be explored. Help your kid embrace this.
Of course, your teen might not be ready to take a cross-country road trip. However, if you add each other to your vehicle insurance coverage, the driving duties can be shared. Track days are another exciting option. This lets them try driving in unfamiliar settings, which can grow their confidence.
You don’t want your child to take on too much too soon. Still, if they become too comfortable with only driving in the local area, it may become difficult for them to go elsewhere.
Consider Any Accessories They May Need
After buying a vehicle and making any necessary performance upgrades, you’ll then look to maintenance such as tire pressure. Nonetheless, the job isn’t over at this stage. You must also think about the accessories that could be used to promote a safer and more comfortable ride.
Many teens want the big sound system. In truth, it’s probably not needed, although a good infotainment system is still desired. Parking sensors, sat-nav, Bluetooth speakers, and anti-sleep devices are usually more useful. Get them from the start, and your teen driver will be familiar with using them right away.
Other items like bike roof racks may be needed if your teen loves cycling, for example. As long as the setup matches your child’s needs, they won’t go far wrong.
Listen
Finally, the best thing you can do is listen to your teen. If they have concerns or questions, your support will make a world of difference. Better still, it’ll bring you closer together.
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