When you have a teen in your life, you know that there will be milestones they will come across over the years.
One such milestone is of course learning how to drive.
That milestone is one that millions of teenagers celebrate on a regular basis. But while they’re likely happy about reaching that point in life, what about the parents?
For parents of a teen now being able to drive, there can be times fraught with anxiety and stress.
Knowing their son or daughter will be out there sharing the road with others can prove tough for parents. It is hard enough for many teens to deal with these years and some of the pressures that come with being a teen.
Are You Ready for a New Driver in the Home?
Like the different milestones your teenager will notch in life, being behind the wheel is a big one.
In getting a learner’s permit and then a license, your teen has done something everyone should be proud of. Now, what he or she does with that driver’s license and that milestone can be a whole other thing.
So that your teen understands the importance of this milestone, keep in mind:
- Responsibility – As adults must be responsible when out on the roads, the same holds true for teens. You could even argue that teens have more responsibility facing them when driving. Unlike adults who’ve often been driving for a couple of decades or more, the driving experience is new to teens. As a result, they don’t have experience with how to prevent accidents and what to do if the vehicle breaks down.
- Vehicle – Whether buying a new or used vehicle or they will use the family one, they’re also responsible for its care. As an example, if they’re going out in the vehicle with or to meet friends, is there enough gas? Have the tires gotten a check so they are at the proper inflation level? Are all the lights working for driving in the evening hours? Your teen will need to take responsibility in making sure the vehicle is operating in top shape.
- Accidents – Last, if your teen is in an accident, their physical well-being is most important. After that, it is important to sit down and discuss the accident. Could they have done anything different to avoid being in a collision? Were they at fault or in the wrong place at the wrong time and someone else caused the accident? Will your teen feel comfortable in driving sooner than later? For some teens, one accident can cause them some delays in wanting to get back behind the wheel. By talking through this event, you are more likely to comfort your teen and let them know things will be alright.
In your teen taking the time to learn how to drive, he or she is reaching a key milestone in their life.
Now, all you have to do is not worry about what time they will be home tonight.