TIPS FOR PARENTS

The information below was developed to help parents with their newly licensed driver.

1.SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
"Do As I Say, Not As I Do" Doesn't Work!

• Complete stops
• Seatbelts
• Head checks
• Acceleration
• Right-of-way
• Discuss what is happening in the traffic safety education course
• Be alert for discussion opportunities (without lecturing)
• Pick up a current driver’s guide from your License office. Study it with your teen and point out when they are obeying these rules on the road. If they aren’t, gently point that out to correct them.
• Set the example you want your teens to follow.. Never use your cell phone while driving - whether it’s a text or just a quick call. It only Takes a second of distraction to result in an accident.
• It is essential that we model good driving behavior and follow the rules of the road. Instructing them to drive properly and then not following those Rules ourselves is hypocritical.
• Washington State has an excellent graduated drivers licensing program, consider implementing your own set of rules until you're comfortable with your offspring's driving skills.

2. SET GROUND RULES:  in order to provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate maturity and responsibility.

• Teach your teen to use seatbelts
• Know your teenager's friends and their driving habits
• Insist that your teen controls the speed of the vehicle
• Prohibit your teen from drinking and driving
• Require your teen to observe curfews

 

3. MAKE SURE THE STUDENT IS FAMILIAR WITH ALL CONTROLS AND SAFETY DEVICES WITHIN THE VEHICLE

4. EXPECT YOUR STUDENT TO MAKE MISTAKES

• Separate physical errors (turning the wheel too soon) from mental errors
• Look for positive situations to make positive compliments

5. REFRAIN FROM TALKING TOO MUCH
• Discuss driving route prior to driving
• Give proper advance warnings for maneuvers
• Keep the directions simple

6. REMAIN CALM
• keep a sense of humor
• Give your teen gentle, constructive critiques of their driving, and keep your temper in check.
Parent - Teen Agreement : This guide was designed as a teaching tool and it contains valuable advice, checklists, a driving log,
(Click Here) to Download.. No more holding that phone while driving under new law in Washington State. (Click Here) to Download.
• Video on the Dangers of Cell Phone & Protective (Click Here) to Download.

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