Driving Lessons Before They’re Behind the Wheel

Considering all the trips to and from school and activities, you might think Mom’s Taxi Service should be the sign on your car. But what about Mom’s Driving School? Sure, drivers ed classes teach about following distance and turn signals, but you can sneak in some other safe-driving lessons while you’re still a shuttle service. It might be best to spread some of these ideas out over many car trips, so you don’t come off as preachy.

The first lesson begins even before you leave the house. When your child tells you what time he needs to be somewhere, let him help figure out when you’ll need to be in the car. You can provide the usual driving time, but mention that car trips often take 10 to 15% longer than you think. Suggest figuring out the time you need to leave with a cushion in mind. That way, you’ll be a more relaxed driver and less tempted to speed to make up time.

After you turn on the car, make it a point to flip the radio to news, sports, or something beside fast, blaring music. Studies show you’re more likely to speed and have an accident when the music is loud and fast. So keep the background noise light.

Before you pull out on a daytime trip, say, “Whoops! I almost forgot to put on my lights.” If your child asks why you’re putting on headlights during the day, share that you just heard the other day that switching your headlights on during the day increases the chances you’ll be seen. In fact, it can reduce the risk of multivehicle crashes by as much as 11%.

Once you’re on the road, try to help your child see how you’re not just looking at the bumper in front of you but also cars on down the road, which allows you to react even before the driver in front of you does. To help train your child to look around and be aware, ask questions about the colors or rim styles of cars ahead of you.

If you run into a traffic jam, say something about how traffic moves more smoothly when everyone moves at a constant speed, not suddenly speeding up or slowing down. That’ll help discourage peeling out at lights and driving fast only to have to slam on the brakes. You might also mention how a steady speed can help conserve gas and save money—that could really hit home if your child will be expected to pay for the gas he uses.

What About the Car-Seat Crowd?
Before they even learn to speak, children absorb the attitudes of adults they ride with. They witness the yelling, the cursing, the gestures. So learn to turn around those behaviors. Say something like: “Mommy just yelled at that other person. I really shouldn’t do that.” Also ask for your children’s help. They might remind you to put on your seat belt, for example.