We feel many strong and mixed emotions about responsible driving when our teenagers start to learn to drive. First, we feel excited about them. This is a huge step in the right direction for their independence, and achieving a driving license may be one of the first major steps to adulthood they can boast. However, the idea of your teen driving on public roads alone can also be a worrying one, one we have to accept.
The gift and curse of the parent are that over time; they have to let go of everything they do for their child and allow them to fly the nest with strength. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t help them gain that strength, nor prepare them in the best manner possible. Not only will teaching them to be their best driving self help them stay safe on the roads, but it can help your peace of mind to no small degree.
With the following advice, we believe you’ll make some real progress:
Help them understand finances
The whole process of owning and operating a vehicle is hardly just time spent on the road. It’s also important for your child to gain a mature and responsible understanding of the investments they need to make and what costs are involved. From a deep dive into road tax to likely maintenance costs to the valuation of cars and the waste of money involved with buying new are all lessons they need to learn. This may also translate to teaching them about your own experience in car repair shops to help them avoid being taken advantage of. When they feel secure in financial management, they’ll be in a better place.
It is important to understand that people are entitled to help finance their cars in some cases. So if you have ever wondered, ‘can I get a car on PIP‘? Or, if there is other help available to help cover the cost of your car, then check the link for more information.
Teach them to set ground rules
Perhaps one of the most exciting parts of owning a vehicle as a teen is driving your friends and enjoying that freedom. However, this can also lead them to tense social situations. Teach them to set ground rules in the car such as no rides without fuel money being offered, no smoking within the car, no loud music. Additionally, teach them the importance of care if accepting the designated driver role for nights out. This way, you can give them the most reasoned and rational perspective in the future.
Learning car maintenance
Teach them the practical measures related to everyday car maintenance. If you’re not so sure of this yourself, learn together. Learning how to change a tyre, check the oil, what the engine lights mean or how to speak to a mechanic is important. It can save them plenty of money and may even prevent them from encountering issues on the road. It’s simply not acceptable to be ignorant of these maintenance habits when they can be learned with a little elbow grease and attention. This, in itself, will help sustain the sense of personal driving responsibility you wish them to adopt.
With this advice, we hope you can teach your teenager to become their most responsible driving self.
Road Safety Tips
- 5 Types Of Car Service You Need To Avail On A Proper Schedule
- Tips For Staying Safe On The Road
- Teaching Your Child About Safe Driving This Winter
