Most teenagers are keen to learn to drive as soon as possible. It gives them a little more freedom, but also more options when it comes to looking for work and higher education opportunities. As a parent, knowing that your child can drive safely can give you peace of mind, and make letting them go out into the world a little easier, as you know it will be easy for them to come home. But, learning to drive is more expensive than it has ever been before. Few teens can afford a comprehensive set of lessons, and even if you are helping with the costs, you’ll want to increase their chances of passing first time. A great way to do this is by taking them out for some practice outside of their lessons. But this can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you.
Get Professional Lessons Too
You might be tempted to teach them on your own without paying for any professional lessons, but in most cases, this is a mistake. Professional driving instructors are trained and qualified, they’ve dealt with all situations, and they come with a dual control and fully insured car. Your help could reduce the amount of paid-for lessons they need, but it shouldn’t replace them.
Help them Find a Car
One of the most significant advantages of going out with mum or dad is that your teen can practise in the car that they will be driving. This can make driving alone for the first time far less daunting. So, help them to find a vehicle, considering budget, insurance, and safety. Then, add some pressed aluminium plates. These are far more durable and look great, so why not try pressed aluminium plates from Number 1 Plates on your teen’s car? You can even generate personalised plates via their site, and they’re guaranteed to be road legal.
Brush Up on Your Own Skills
The main reason not to teach your teen on your own is that you are bound to have picked up some bad habits and may not be up to date on the latest rules of the road or instructor guidance. Brush up on your own skills, and take a fresh look at the highway code, to make sure you are actually helping.
Drive a Familiar Route
This isn’t the time to venture out on to new routes or to get adventurous. Take your teen out on routes that you are very familiar with, so that there aren’t any nasty surprises.
Don’t Say Too Much
Parents are often guilty of over teaching. Give them time and let them drive. The main advantage here is that you can help them to become more comfortable on the road, so don’t overwhelm them with advice or information.
Be Patient
One thing that many parents struggle with is patience. You might have been driving for that long that it comes easily without thought. Your teen hasn’t. Take your time, be patient, and if you can feel yourself growing frustrated, take a break.
Don’t Try to Teach Them New Things
Leave teaching new things to the instructor. Use your practice time either to practise the skills that they have already learned or to practise basic open road driving.
Helping your teen learn to drive can save them money, but it can also help them to become a more confident driver. It’s a great thing to do, but that doesn’t mean it will always be easy. Be prepared for some frustration, but try to enjoy yourself.
