Turning sixteen is the exciting first step into the adult world of possibility, independence, college, careers, and a life of one’s own – but it’s not magic. Hitting that 16th birthday doesn’t transform the adolescent who couldn’t remember to take out the garbage yesterday into a bastion of maturity. However, maturity is what’s needed for your teen to safely drive a car. So what’s a parent to do?
Start by thinking of the law as the minimum driving age.
Next, size up your teen’s readiness to be responsible for the lives of others – as well as for an expensive automobile. Does he or she:
· Accept and consistently follow through on household chores, school and job responsibilities?
· Take care of valuable property – whether it’s making sure to lock the doors of the house or taking care of his expensive cello?
· Think things through rather than acting impulsively, especially when excited or angry?
· Demonstrate a commitment to the safety of self and others – and recognize and correct unsafe conditions?
No teen is perfect, but a consistent record of thoughtful, responsible behavior is an important indicator of driving readiness.
According to the experts, becoming a competent driver takes at least two years. While a professional driving school can start that process, new drivers need many more hours of supervised driving than a driving course can provide. It’s essential to plan with your teen how that supervised practice will occur.
Even if teaching is your strength, teaching a teen to drive can be stressful for both parent and student. Check yourself against this list, and if your temperament and relationship with your teen would make driving lessons tough, it’s a winning choice to find another trusted adult who is willing to step in.
You’ll need:
· The ability to break down a task into tiny steps and patiently teach each one
· The ability to stay cool under pressure – or, as your teen might say, “Don’t freak out!!!” That’s not easy when the passenger side of the car is close to scraping a guard rail.
· Caution, but not fear. Both are contagious, but generating anxiety in your teen is not helpful.
· A collaborative relationship with your teen so that he or she can comfortably accept direction from you.