Admit it: putting your 16 year-old kid behind the wheel of a car is one of the most nerve-wracking things you can do as a parent. After all, you remember the first time he rode a tricycle—how can you let him steer a two-ton machine?
Most kids do their best to stay safe when they’re driving, but some have a hard time keeping their fingers off their phones. If you’re concerned about your child texting while driving, there are a few steps that you can take.
Some parents like to make sure their kids aren’t texting by blocking texts. Many apps for smart phones can make sure that your child’s phone is locked while they’re driving, ensuring they keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. But a simpler solution may be to just set a good example when you drive. Do you keep all your attention on the road? Do you wait until you’re parked to answer that call or respond to that text? If so, your child is more likely to resist those impulses too.
For more information and resources on how to help your child learn to be a safe driver, look at Erie’s Teenage Safety driving program. You and your teen will find great resources on every aspect of safe driving. Or talk to us. We work with families like yours every day to keep drivers safe on the road.
