Devon driving instructor, Pete Austen of Austen's School Of Motoring provides information on some important do's and don'ts if you plan to practice driving with a parent or friend between lessons.

If you do intend to practice between driving lessons with a parent or friend then please get them to read through the important tips I have provided, as learning with a family member can be particularly stressful for both of you for a number of reasons.

Practicing with a family member or friend between lessons.

DO make sure your teen knows where and what the day's driving lesson will be. Having (and knowing) a plan of the lesson will help to reduce anxiety for both you and your child.

DON'T use the time spent behind the wheel to nag about unrelated issues. A new driver needs to be able to concentrate on, what gear am i meant o be in? ... Pedestrian!! ... Do I have right of way here? .... and not distracted by arguing about the fact they have not tidied their bedroom. Try to keep all talk casual until the lesson has finished.

DO point out when the learner driver is doing well and improving and offer encouragement for areas that still need some work, but do so without shaming or critisising

DO try to stay calm and collected during all driving lessons. It is completely natural to be anxious when your child is behind the wheel, but if you are shouting, grabbing the seat or thrusting your foot on an imaginary brake pedal, your anxiety and visible nervousness will be highly contagious, leaving your teen too nervous to make quick, confident decisions and will distract them from the situation.

If you cannot control your anxiety and each driving lesson ends up causing both of you stress and upset then it might be time to admit that professional driving tuition should only be used.

As a DSA approved driving instructor based in Tiverton, Devon with years of experience in driving tuition I have understanding and ability to gauge when a student is ready to take their practical driving test, which is way I have a high pass rate.

For more information on the professional driving tuition that I provide in the Tiverton and surrounding Devon area, please contact me, Pete Austen of Austen's School Of Motoring.

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