You can not just hand your teen the keys when it is time to leave for college. You must help your teen become a safe and experienced driver before he leaves the nest. Below are some tips to get started.

Save yourself the effort. One way to help your teen become an experienced driver is to let him run your errands – even if it is just a quick trip to the grocery store. Wouldn’t you rather kick off your shoes before starting dinner than stand in line for bread and milk?

Take advantage of the weather. Do not refuse to let your teen drive if it is snowing or raining. The seasons won’t stop changing when you’re no longer around to shelter your teen, so you may as well prepare him for all driving conditions.

Go cruising. Let your teen take you for a Saturday spin once in a while. He will benefit from the relaxed driving atmosphere.

Watch your teen’s driving habits. Each time you and your teen are in the car together, pay close attention to your teen’s driving habits. Do not scrutinize or criticize your teen – that will only make him nervous. Praise the good moves, and correct the errors.

By Elizabeth Newberry