Helping DD17 To Learn To Drive

[HelpingDD17ToLearnToDrive]

DD had her first 5 (10 hours total) driving lessons at the beginning of the year. She had waited a few months after her birthday because I hadn't realised how booked up instructors get so that lost a few months. The instructor was good however she stopped lessons because college changed DD's timetable. DD then had another 2 lessons in April with another instructor who said a slot was becoming available however that never materialised. DD has a lesson next week with instructor 3 who says he can offer a regular slot in September. DD is booked to take her driving theory test in 18 days time. I took her out to practice yesterday and today and she was fine. Forgot to put her seatbelt on and drove off - luckily the car reminded us and she pulled over! And today she clipped a wheelie bin. Other than that she is not a total beginner and needs more practice. However I was absolutely terrified. I found it really stressful. I really do want to support her as best as I can and take her out to practice over the summer holidays. Lots of her friends have passed their driving tests and I feel bad/guilty I messed up by not organising lessons sooner (today she said I did and that is true!).I told her we have started now. My questions are: Is 18 days enough time for her to learn the theory to pass the theory test? (she does learn things quickly). And does anyone have any tips for helping me feel less anxious so I can help her feel more confident. Any advice gratefully received x

Get the 4 in 1 theory test app. But whether she can learn it all in 18 days I don't know - surely she's been looking at it since she started learning?

My DD passed her driving test with very little practice. I knew I couldn't take her out as I am a very bad passenger. DH took her out a few times, mainly to practice moves. She probably had a few more lessons than most though. If your DD is hitting wheelie bins and not putting in her seat belt I would query whether she is ready to out without the dual control though.

Don't blame yourself for not getting lessons sorted - your DD should have been capable of doing it if she'd really wanted to. My DD organised it all herself.

Theory - I'd say 18 days was fine, especially during the holidays (assuming Yr 12?).
Both my ds's got an app and just did practice tests over and over.
I would recommend practicing the perception tests on a computer (not an app), as ds said it "felt" different.

Practice - I was terrified (had to sit on my hands), the more practice they have the better.

Also agree with this
Don't blame yourself for not getting lessons sorted - your DD should have been capable of doing it if she'd really wanted to. My DD organised it all herself.

Thank you both very much for your messages - that's really encouraging. I am determined to help her as best as I can despite feeling uncomfotable in the passenger seat!

It's terrifying for the parent / car owner, I agree. And equally terrible when they pass and you are torn between wanting them to get out and get confident but also want to protect them from stressful situations and accidents!

I'm currently going through the same. DD18 has her driving test next week. We have her on the insurance on our 2nd car for practice and DH has been taking her out. However, he is busy with work this week and can't take her so she has asked me. I am a terrible passenger. Full of anxiety and really not the best person to go out with her. However, I am having to do it because I don't want to knock her confidence and I know she is desperate for the practice. But its so damned stressful!! I am due to go out with her again tomorrow and I am already stressing about it. We live in Wales, lots of nasty long hills, country roads and tight bends, all of which she wants practice on, but I have to try so hard not to look and sound terrified when I am with her. To be fair she is a good driver and I know the problem is mine. I just wish I could learn to relax. I feel your pain!!!

Agree with not feeling too guilty about arranging driving lessons. Both of my DC have sorted it themselves, they know when they're free and if they like the Instructor.