When the time comes, teaching your kid to drive can be a great (if not a bit scary) experience. Driving is an important life skill to have that can provide an enormous sense of independence, so it is a great feeling to help them achieve this and should bring you closer together. So, what can you do to help them to learn how to drive?
Help Them Study for the Theory Test
You should not overlook the importance of theory when teaching your kid how to drive. You might find it helpful to quiz them on theory so that they can prepare for their test as well as discuss it while you are driving and they are sitting in the passenger seat.
Make Sure Your Own Knowledge & Skills Are Up to Scratch
If you want to teach your kid how to drive, you want to make sure that you are teaching them right and not pass on any bad habits that you might have. This is why it is a good idea to familiarize yourself and to always make sure that you are driving responsibly when behind the wheel.
Let Them Practice in Your Car
Practice makes perfect when it comes to driving and it is important that your child is able to practice between lessons to work on what they learn but also to build confidence. You can let them practice in your car and supervise them, but be sure to arrange learner insurance for a day so that they are covered while driving.
Take Them Out at Different Times
When they are just getting started, it is a good idea to take them out when it is quiet and the weather is nice. As they start to learn and progress, you should take them out when the roads are busier and in different weather conditions. They will feel more comfortable with you in the car and driving in different conditions will help to build their confidence levels behind the wheel.
Stay Calm & Encouraging
It is very easy to feel stressed when teaching your child to drive, but you must remember how you felt at this time. It is important to try and stay calm, put your trust in them and be encouraging. Explain any mistakes that they make in a calm and clear manner so that they can learn and improve.
Consider Extra Lessons
For some youngsters, it can take some time to learn to drive and build confidence. In these situations, you might find it helpful to pay for extra lessons – this is also useful if you do not have the skills or patience to be in the passenger seat.
This post should be useful and help you to teach your child how to drive so that they can then become more independent and free.
