Even in the Age of COVID, teenagers are learning to drive. At McHenry Community High School, 15-year olds are entering the ‘Permit Phase’ of their driver’s education. By the time they hit 16 and 17, they’re entering the ‘Initial Licensing Phase.’ From 18 to 20, they should be ready for the ‘Full Licensing Phase.’

If you are a parent of one of these newbies to the roads, this can prove a nerve-wracking experience. Someone you care very deeply about is joining drivers on the roads. Some of those drivers are good and courteous. Others, as you surely know, are … well, less so. And then there’s the question of your child’s aptitude for driving.

Will they take to driving like a fish to water? Or will they experience a longer learning curve? Some students are chomping at the bit to get behind the wheel. Others are less enthusiastic. You may even have to give your child a helpful nudge to get them going. They may have a case of the jitters.

Can you help them get over the jitters about driving? Here are some ideas you might try:

• Stay calm yourself. If you appear anxious, they’re more likely to have a sense that they should be anxious, too. Leading by example, a calm demeanor can help get your nervous young driver off on the right foot.
• Take them out on familiar roads for a while. With the Permit Phase, they’re required to have a licensed driver over the age of 21 in the car while they’re out driving. Plan a route with them before you leave the home. Have them drive on roads they’re familiar with. If they know the roads, they can concentrate on driving more while getting started.
• Encourage them while recognizing the serious nature of driving. It may help to point out that you were once a newbie behind the wheel. Point out other things they’ve learned to do. But, of course, remind them that driving is a serious business. Safe driving is essential.

Safety includes proper automotive maintenance

You don’t want to send your new driver out on the road in a vehicle that has mechanical issues that could cause hazardous situations on the road. Remember, you’ve been driving for a while. You’re more likely to know what to do in an emergency. You’re more likely to keep your cool if something goes wrong.

Your young driver is apt to freeze in a crisis, such as a tire that blows out at higher speeds. Soon, the leaves will start to fall. With a damp fall, those leaves will create slippery surfaces that could cause your child to lose control of the car while learning to drive. Tires that are in good condition can help avoid either of these problems.

Of course, there are other things that could go wrong while a student driver is behind the wheel. Having your vehicle checked out before an inexperienced driver takes to the road will help avoid any mechanical issues. That automotive check up will probably help set your mind at ease, too.