Just Breath - It will be Okay! 6 Tips for Parents of New Drivers

May 5th, 2014  |  Auto Insurance

Take a deep breath! Yes, there is no doubt that seeing your teen behind the wheel for the first time can be stressful – especially if you are in the passenger seat beside them. The good news is that things will get better – if you take the right approach to teaching your teenager how to drive.

6 Tips for Parents of New Drivers

Teens aren’t the only ones who need a few lessons when they get their drivers license. Parents also need some direction how to best help their new teen driver be successful and develop their skills behind the wheel.

1. Get your teen on your auto insurance policy: The first thing that you need to do when your teen is ready to get their driver’s license is to call your insurance broker and have them added onto your car insurance policy.
2. Sign the up for driving school: If you want your teen to learn how to drive the right way and be a safe and effective driver, sign them up for driving school. It is the best way for them to learn how to drive from a theoretical and practical perspective.
3. Remember that you are not a perfect driver: You are not a perfect driver and neither is your teen. Cut them some slack and be there for them when they need help. Answer their questions and be willing to take them out for a drive so they can practice their driving skills.
4. Understand that they are going to make mistakes: Your new teen driver will make mistakes! Rather than getting mad, talk with them about what they did wrong and how to better approach the situation next time around – it’s about positive reinforcement so they can build confidence as a driver.
5. Be patient:You did not learn how to drive in one day and neither will your teenager. Be patient with your new teen driver be as supportive as possible.
6. Practice, practice, practice: Practice makes perfect, right? Remember that the more they have a chance to get behind the wheel and drive, the better they will become, and the less scary it will be for you as a parent.

When your teenager is learning how to drive, there is no doubt that it can be a stressful time for parents. However, it’s very important for you to be supportive and help them build the confidence to become a safe driver.

How did you approach things when your teenager started driving? What tips can you offer to other parents that may be stressed out by the situation?