At some point in our lives, we may have to teach a teenager how to drive. As a parent, older sibling, older relative, or someone familiar to the teenager, it’s good to provide the guidance they will need as they prepare to take the driver’s test and earn their license. Here are a few tips that will guide you as you teach a teen how to drive.
Give a Tour of the Vehicle
Before you start using any machine or device, you need to know what it is and how it works — the same principle applies to cars. Begin your driving lessons by giving your teen a tour of the vehicle. Show them some of the essential parts under the hood such as the engine which powers the car, the radiator which keeps the engine cool, the battery which powers all the electrical components, and the different oil receptacles which lubricate the moving parts.
Also take them through the interior of the car — the hand brake and the foot brake for stopping the vehicle, the gas pedal for accelerating, the clutch if you’re driving a manual transmission, and the gear stick. In doing so, your teen will have a basic understanding of how the car works and what they need in different driving situations.
Start Slow
Don’t rush out onto the highway on your first lesson. Start in a spot with zero vehicular traffic like an empty parking lot or a deserted street. This is a good time for the teenager to learn how to control the steering and manage their speed. They can also learn how to come to a smooth stop and stay in their lane. Once they have mastered these skills, you can move them onto a busier street with a few cars and pedestrians.
Build Good Driving Habits
Good driving requires practice and it’s important to build those habits early on. Teach your teenager to use the driving mirrors — one on each side of the car and the rearview mirror above the dashboard — when making a turn or backing into or out of a tight spot. They should also check the mirrors periodically to monitor oncoming traffic. Ensure that the teenager is driving with both hands on the wheel. Keep all phones out of sight and refrain from eating or drinking while driving. In addition, encourage the use of turn signals.
Teach Them Road Signs
New drivers need to learn to recognize road signs. It’s good practice to take the time to point them out. The shape and color of each sign have specific meanings. Common signs include stop, yield, one way, pedestrian crossing, speed limits, and left or right exits. Explain these carefully so your teen can avoid violating traffic rules.
Use Constructive Criticism
Learning to drive is not very easy, therefore it’s important to go easy on your teenage learner. Don’t be harsh when correcting them, but provide constructive feedback. It also helps to deliver your warnings in a calm and measured tone to avoid startling them into an accident.
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