It’s scary to watch your children grow up and drive away. To keep your kids safe on the road when you can’t be by their side, every small lesson counts.
Educating your children about safe driving habits now will set them up for a lifetime of smart decisions as drivers and passengers in their friends’ cars. No matter your children’s ages, discover five things to teach them about car safety.
Always Buckle Up
Seat belts are extremely important because they reduce the risk of injury in the event of a car wreck. Whether the car jolts forward from a rear-end accident or flips onto its side in a more severe crash, the person’s body remains in the seat because of the seat belt.
Make it a rule that everyone in the car must buckle up before the car moves. Leading by example will show your kids that you’re diligent about wearing your seat belt. They’ll grow up following suit without a second thought.
Reduce Wear and Tear on the Car
Cars are machines that do a lot of heavy lifting every time they operate. The best way to make your vehicle last longer and perform better is by caring for it. Teach your kids small lessons that can help reduce wear and tear on the vehicle, increasing the complexity of each task as they age.
For example, when they’re little, encourage gentle door handling when getting in and out of the car. Teach them to keep toys or sharp objects away from the car’s interior and upholstery.
Once your kids are teenagers, start educating them about oil changes, changing windshield wiper blades, and checking the tire pressure. These habits might seem minor now, but they can keep your car in good shape and help your kids prepare for owning a car in the future.
Stay Calm During Emergencies
Emergencies on the road are rare, but they do happen. Before your kids get behind the wheel, make sure to discuss how to approach emergency situations safely. Some of the most important lessons to go over include what to do if the windshield cracks while driving, how to handle a flat tire, and who to call for help.
While you’re at it, consider walking them through the car’s emergency kit. The kit should include a flashlight, jumper cables, reflective triangles, bandages, antiseptics, and a phone charger.
Be a Good Passenger
Even if your kids are years away from holding a driver’s license, teaching them how to be respectful passengers will benefit everyone in the car. Simple things like avoiding loud outbursts or distracting the driver are important lessons that lead to safer drives.
Learn About Road Signs and Landmarks
Furthermore, encourage kids to pay attention to their surroundings. Spotting road signs, landmarks, or hazards is a good skill for future drivers to develop early.
If they’re old enough, try getting your kids involved with navigation during family road trips. This is an excellent way to keep them engaged, but it also helps them develop spatial awareness while learning the basics of the road.
Teach Safe and Happy Habits
Now that you’re aware of these five things to teach your children about car safety, you’ll protect your kids today while preparing them to be confident, capable drivers and thoughtful passengers in the future. Start small and incorporate these lessons into your daily routine so they become a lasting habit.
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