Parents play a pivotal role in teaching their children to drive. However, this exciting rite of passage also comes with a lot of fear. New drivers have a lot to learn, but parents need not be certified driving experts to provide their child with valuable opportunities to practice their driving skills.

The driving instructors at Sure-Drive Driver's Training know about the importance of driving lessons and practice. Here are some tips for parents teaching teen drivers via the Department of Motor Vehicles:

• Start slow to alleviate anxiety: New drivers are very anxious, so starting in a calm environment will build skills and confidence. Begin working on simple maneuvers, such as turning on side streets, and then work your way up to driving on streets with more traffic. It's best to start in the daytime too.
• Choose the right environment for each skill: Once basic skills have been mastered, your teen must practice in real scenarios. In order to learn how to maintain a safe driving distance, your child needs to practice with other cars on the road. Start parallel parking practice in a 25-foot space at first. Work on the turnabout maneuver in a parking lot during non-business hours, then move onto real world experience.
• Use the correct terminology: While practicing, using correct language is essential for learning drivers. For example, use the term "traffic light" instead of "stop light" so your driver doesn't get confused at green lights. Before you begin, make sure you and your teen use "yes" instead of "right" to confirm driving instructions, so as not to be confused with the directional "right" instruction.
• Talk to your teenager about drinking and driving: Share with your teen the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Explain your feelings and back them up with statistics to illuminate the devastating consequences of driving while impaired.
• Be a good role model: Perhaps one of the most powerful tools at parents' disposal is setting a good example. Always obey the law: fasten your seat belt, use your turn signal, and never drink and drive. While he or she might not admit it, your teen will follow your lead.

Additionally, enrolling your teen in a driver's education class will give them the advantage of more practice and thorough training. The highly trained driving instructors at Sure-Drive Driver's Training are ready to help your teen driver learn the rules of the road. Visit them online and call (859) 331-0007 for more information.