Supporting your child as they learn to drive

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Manual
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Last updated: 11 Nov 2019

Has their 17th birthday rolled around in the blink of an eye? Does the thought of your child getting behind the wheel of a car fill you with fear? If the answer is yes, and if they have driving lessons at the top of their wish list, we have all the information you need to help put you at ease.

Think back to your own driving lessons

Do you remember the first time you sat in the driver’s seat? Were you excited? Nervous? A bit of both? The important thing to remember is that getting your license is part of gaining your independence, and something that millions of people – including us – have already been through. Think back to your own lessons. What did you struggle with? How many times did you take your test? What was the most embarrassing thing you ever did whilst learning?

Not only will this help them with their nerves, but it may also ease your own. By assuring them that they’re not alone in making mistakes at the wheel, you can also remind yourself that there is a qualified and experienced instructor beside them just incase they do make a mistake.

Help them learn

After they’ve had a few lessons, why not jump in the car with them to see how they’re progressing? The role reversal may feel a bit strange at first (for both of you), but once you get used to it, seeing how their driving skills are developing can really help. Remember, if you’re going to give them a few lessons yourself, staying patient is vital.

You could also help them study for their theory test to get them used to all the signs and their meanings. This will also give you a good chance to refresh your own memory!

Teach them how to drive defensively

There is always going to be a certain element of danger – for everyone – when it comes to driving, but you can minimise the risk of being involved in an accident by driving defensively. Ensuring that you’re safe on the road involves foresight and concentration.

Supporting your child as they learn to drive involves teaching them to expect the unexpected, and to be aware of other road users. Driving defensively is something that everyone must do in order to minimise risk; whether you’ve been driving for one year or for forty years.

Learning to drive is a right of passage, and in making sure that your child has the right guidance and tuition, they will be a safe road-user in no time. Once they’ve passed their test, ensure that they don’t slip into any bad habits, and remind them of the importance of maintaining their car. In the meantime, put your feet up, because your days of being a personal taxi service are over!