Helping Teens Learn to Drive

The most important thing parents can teach teens when learning how to drive is how they can stay safe on the road. As featured in an article ‘Driving Lessons and Road Safety Tips for Teen Driving’ for NSW Compensation Lawyers on driving safety tips for teens, our expert psychologists at Oracle Psychology know how to work with teens, to help ensure safe practices develop. 
 
As Principal Psychologist and Director of Oracle Psychology, Mr Daniel Wendt, along with our team of qualified child and adolescent psychologists, offers expertise to assist with children and young people. We work closely with families in the Newcastle, Hunter and Central Coast regions of New South Wales to ensure wellbeing and successful outcomes.
 
Mr Wendt advises that teaching teens how to drive can be a daunting experience, not just for teens but for parents as well. However, this step towards independence marks a rite of passage, whereby parents should encourage and share in their child’s excitement while promoting road safety.
 
Leading by example is at the top of these safety tips, as education by experience is a strong method for learning new skills and responsibilities. When you demonstrate road safety every day, you show your child the importance of being calm, in control and alert while driving.
 
It’s suggested that you take the time to praise successes throughout the learning process, with emphasis on your teen's ability to accept responsibility. You can enhance this by pointing out things that you look for when driving and encouraging discussions around this.
 
Young drivers should imagine they’re in someone else’s shoes when driving and picture everyone on the road as a loved one. No one wants their mother, father, brother or sister to be in danger on the roads, therefore driving in this way increases an overall sense of responsibility and alertness.
 
Finally, one of the most important tips is to always plan ahead, especially as teens generally reach drinking age at the same time as receiving a license. Though it’s perfectly normal to have fun with friends, it’s vital to ensure teens are prepared to leave the car at home, if the activity involves drinking.
 
When you lead by example and offer positive encouragement, your teen will start their driving career fully equipped with the knowledge necessary to stay safe on the roads.

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