Do as I drive. “Parents need to drive responsibly with their kids,” says Jim Vondale, director of the Automotive Safety Office for Ford Motor Co. It’s absolutely imperative that you set a good example. Whenever Junior’s in the car, that means obeying all traffic signs and speed limits, and keeping your road rage in check. Of course, you do that all the time. Right?
Don’t lose your cool. Sure, your kid will make mistakes, but don’t scream corrections. That’ll only cause panic. “It’s tough enough as it is. Parents have to remain reasonably calm,” says Joe Picchi, spokesperson for the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
Stay positive. Break up the necessary critical feedback with compliments for good driving. For example: “You didn’t hit that old lady. Way to go!”
Steer clear of freeways–initially. You want to ease into driving. Start off in areas with few obstacles and minimal traffic.
Mandate belt use. It’s the law in most states anyway.
Driver distractions. For a couple of months, consider limiting the number of friends allowed in the car with your teen. And keep the radio to a dull roar.
