*Also published on FamiliesofMultiples.com
There's so much more to your kids getting a driver's licence than them just taking a test. You really need to prepare them for the entire experience. This means making sure they are aware of your expectations of them as someone who people will be sharing the road with. Being safe and responsible while behind the wheel of a car is just a part of it. These 5 steps will set your children on a track of not only being safe on the road, but being responsible adults, as well.
OWNERSHIP
Whose vehicle will they be driving? Will they have to share a car with the family? Or will they have a car of their own?
If they are looking to purchase their first car, Who's footing the bill? It is best if they have some financial stake in this purchase. Some families make their children save up on their own. Others match the amount they've saved 50/50. Whatever the plan, these options far outweigh just buying them a car out of your own pocket. Children respect property much more when it's something that they have worked hard for and saved to possess.
If they are to share a car with the entire family or just their sibling(s), it is still a good idea to make them financially responsible for something. There are many costs associated with having a vehicle.
Who will be paying for things like:
Insurance?
Routine Maintenance (oil changes)?
More Serious Maintenance?
Gas?
Letting them know your expectations and agreeing to them now will take any surprises away later when you tell them it's time for that first oil change.
Remember - You're the adult. If you decide that purchasing a car with them is the right move, help them find a vehicle that is not only going to be reliable, but safe, as well.
Many cars are being equipped with standard safety measures perfect for beginning drivers. Things like back up cameras, extra airbags, and crash sensors are becoming the norm. For a few dollars more, it may also be wise to look for cars with new technology, like lane departure warning systems. and adaptive cruise control that adapts a car's speed based on distance from the vehicle in front of you.
These safety measures will help lessen the pressure your children will undoubtedly be feeling about making mistakes. Also, insurance companies have begun giving cost breaks based on these safety innovations.
DRIVING IS A PRIVILEGE
A look at any bus stop will remind most that driving is a privilege, not a guarantee. Usage of the vehicle by your children can be based on grades, attitude, getting a job, helping around the house, etc. Again, setting expectations is important. If certain goals you've set with your child are not met, how will you punish them? Will it be a total loss of driving privileges where they have no access to the keys, or you can simply implement a curfew?
RESPONSIBILITY
Talking about responsibility with your children is important, especially as it pertains to driving. A 4000 lb piece of metal rolling down the street at any speed is an ingredient for disaster when mixed with someone inexperienced behind the wheel. They must pay attention to their own driving and other drivers they encounter. They must not text and drive, speed, or drink while driving. A car is dangerous when misused. Children need to understand that their own life is at stake, as well as other drivers, pedestrians, and anyone in the car with them.
They need to understand distractions can be dangerous. Texting. Loud music. Loud and rowdy friends. All can cause a wreck.
Poor decisions can also lead to increased insurance. Higher premiums should mean more money out of their pocket, not yours!
Driving isn’t to be taken lightly.
YOU ARE A PHONE CALL AWAY
Drinking and driving is serious. One beer can still impair judgement. Let your children know if they are out and have a drink, you expect a phone call. Let them know there will be no yelling. No judging, No consequences. Personally, I don't want a phone call, I NEED one. Even just a DUI ticket can hurt them for life.
Tell them, “If you drink - call me to come get you. DO NOT Drive.”
This will show you care and let them know that it is safe to call you. Safer than any alternative.
PUT THEM TO WORK!
The license in their wallet isn’t just a ticket to freedom. Your kids still live with you. That license is a great asset that lets your children pitch in and help you out.
They can make grocery runs. Drive siblings to practices. Drive you to your eye exams and colonoscopies!
Who knows, the possibilities are endless. Get those kids to be helpful for once!
Your goal as parents is to raise good, responsible, caring adults. After all, you don’t want them turning out to be self-entitled little weasels. Getting your kids in line with each item in this list will go a long way towards that goal.
Plus, during the process of training your kids to be responsible, hardworking, and caring, hopefully you will have provided them with the tools they need to stay safe while out on the road.
Be sure to check out our other parenting advice.
* Also published on FamiliesofMultiples.com