Logan Voss
Letting your kid get behind the wheel for the first time is both heartwarming and anxiety-inducing. No matter how excited you are to see your child embrace this newfound independence and continue to grow into the amazing adult you know they’ll be, you’re always going to be worried about them. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to prepare your teen and help them become a cautious and responsible driver. Preserve your sanity and their well-being with these ways to keep your teen driver safe on the road.
Lead by Example
You can teach good driving habits all you want, but if you don’t follow them yourself, your kid probably won’t, either. Make sure you lead by example in the driver’s seat. Follow all the rules you want your teen to follow when it’s their turn to hit the road. Wear your seatbelt, don’t answer texts, obey the speed limit, and practice defensive driving. When you prioritize these habits, your teen driver will prioritize them, too.
Keep Their Car Stocked With Essentials
No matter how long you’ve been driving, it’s important to keep a few essential items in your car at all times. Set your young driver up for success by stocking their car with everything they need to stay safe on the road.
Maintenance tools like jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, and a spare tire can make all the difference if your child breaks down somewhere. It’s also essential to have a few safety items, such as a first aid kit and blankets, on hand.
Practice With Them
Driving classes are helpful, but they can only do so much. The best teacher is experience. That’s why one of the best ways to keep your teen driver safe on the road is to let them drive in various settings and situations while they’re learning. Take them out and let them have a turn in the driver’s seat, even if it’s raining, dark, or during rush hour.
By encouraging your kid to practice in new situations, you help them grow more comfortable in the driver’s seat. This means they’ll be more confident—and much safer—when they’re driving on their own.
