As a parent of a newly licensed driver, you might be feeling a mix of emotions. On the one hand, you don’t need to play chauffeur anymore.
However, you also have new worries to think about like distracted driving and other dangers on the road. As soon as your teen starts driving and before they begin driving alone, it’s a good idea to set some rules.
Setting rules and sticking to them can be difficult. However, here are some ways to make rules for your new driver and keep them.
Make Your Expectations Clear
Even though every parent of a newly licensed driver wants the same thing for their teen (to stay safe behind the wheel), you can’t assume your teen knows what you want. If you expect your son or daughter to take on some of the driving responsibilities, such as taking younger siblings to school, make that clear before you hand over the keys.
Let Your Teen Help Make Decisions
While you should have the final say in setting up rules with your teen, you may want to consider letting him or her be part of the decision making process. Have an open and honest discussion, ask for feedback, and see what his or her expectations are when it comes to driving.
If you forgo asking your new driver what he or she thinks or feels, you may end up having a disinterested driver.
The Law Is On Your Side
It’s not uncommon for adolescents to challenge expectations and questions rules set by their parents. An excellent way to avoid resistance or an unnecessary argument is to discuss state driving laws.
State driving laws can also be helpful when discussing consequences of poor driving decisions. For example, if your teen breaks the law, you can talk about how to handle the fines and other things associated with driving rules.
Have A Little Fun
Setting rules can be a little stressful, and you might even end up feeling like the bad guy (even if you’re looking out for the best interest of your teen). Want a way to break up the serious discussion but still stress the importance of being a safe and responsible driver?
“Cards of Distractibility” is a free online game that simulates distracted driving and allows you to see how well you drive while distracted in a safe and fun way. The “driver” receives texts while driving and there are signs on the side of the road that flash and change.
At the end of the session, the driver plays a game of memory to see how difficult it is to “multitask” while driving. This online tool is a great way to connect with your teen and even have a little friendly competition.
Taking the drivers’ test is a rite of passage for most teenagers. Though, for some teens, it can be a stressful event.
If your teenager fails their driving test, it can be a massive blow to their confidence and even a source of embarrassment. Learn what you can do when you find out your son or daughter failed the test?
