Defensive driving isn’t just a skill—it’s a mindset. For new drivers, it can be the difference between avoiding a crash and becoming part of one. The goal is to anticipate hazards, adjust early, and maintain control—without overreacting or escalating tense situations. Start with the 3–4 second rule for following distance. Teach your teen to watch the car…
When you’re in the passenger seat teaching your teen to drive, you’re not just a parent—you’re their coach. And just like in sports, coaching requires patience, clear communication, and the ability to give constructive feedback without crushing confidence. Before the car even moves, hold a pre-drive briefing. Review the planned route, the skill focus for that…
Teaching a teen to drive is less about throwing them into every possible scenario quickly and more about gradually building competence and confidence. Jumping straight from empty parking lots to rush-hour traffic can overwhelm them—and increase risk. Instead, think of the permit period as a step-by-step ladder of skill development. Here’s a proven six-month skill progression:…
For many families, logging 50+ hours of driving practice during the permit period feels impossible. Between work, school, sports, and everything else, it’s easy for weeks to pass without a single practice drive. But those hours are not just a legal requirement—they’re your teen’s safety net for the day they start driving alone. The good…
In most states, teens are required to log at least 50 hours of supervised driving before they can take their driver’s license test, including a portion at night. But here’s the thing—this number is a minimum, not a guarantee of readiness. Real safety comes from mastering a wide variety of skills in different driving environments, not…