How to Survive a Teen's First Driving Lesson

Just the thought of giving your teenager her first driving lesson might encourage you to hide the car key. But keeping a few ̶0;key̶1; points in mind will help make the experience one you both will survive with your nerves -- and car -- intact.

Instructions

    • 1

      Schedule your first lesson during the daytime and when driving conditions are optimal. Don̵7;t go when you are tired or jittery from too much coffee. Also don̵7;t go when your teen is not as alert as he could be, such as before noon.

    • 2

      Choose an empty parking lot with plenty of space, preferably one with painted parking spots as well. If you don̵7;t have a parking lot available, try to find a quiet nearby neighborhood with wide roads and few walkers.

    • 3

      Have your teen sit in the driver̵7;s seat, without the car running, and buckle her seat belt. Talk her through adjusting the mirrors, seat and headrest. Review the controls on the dashboard. Be sure the radio and all cell phones are turned off to avoid distractions. Now, take a deep breath and have her start the car. Remember to keep your hands to yourself and both feet still on the floorboard in front of you. This helps you resist trying to take over the car when you get scared.

    • 4

      Begin with simple forward movements and gentle braking, then add left or right turns -- with signals -- and parking within two lines. Practice more gentle braking. Next, have her try a three-point turn: reverse from the parking spot while turning the wheel right or left, come to a complete stop, put the car in drive, and move forward in the direction the car is facing. Continue to practice gentle braking.

    • 5

      Communicate with your teen throughout the practice session to let her know she is doing well or to have her make adjustments. Try to maintain a calm voice. Have your teen continue to practice each skill until you are both comfortable.

    • 6

      Move on to more public roads when your teen is ready. Keep this first lesson to 45 minutes or less. Save busy roads or highways, nighttime driving and driving in inclement weather for later lessons.

    • 7

      Talk to your teen about how you think it went and how she thinks it went. Work together to solve any issues, but don̵7;t forget to praise her efforts too. After all, you and your teen -- and your car -- made it through in one piece.

    2. Previous:

    Next: