Raising teens
Most young people and their families experience some ups and downs during the early teen years. The child in your care needs you now more than ever, even if it isn’t obvious in the way they behave. The compassion you show and the way you advocate for your teen in these first few years at high school and in their community are hugely important. It helps restore their optimism and pride, and gives them the strength and self-belief they need to think differently about their future.
Learning to be a good driver
Learning to drive is a big milestone for many teenagers. Most carers feel some anxiety when teens start driving, and with good reason. Young drivers make up around 15 per cent of all drivers in NSW, but account for more than a third of all road fatalities. Lack of experience is a factor, but accidents involving teenage drivers are often linked to risky behaviours such as speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, getting distracted, and driving when tired.
Be a driving role model
Drive safely and follow the rules of the road at all times, including drinking responsibly when you’re driving. Kids are more likely to be involved in car accidents or break road laws when the adults around them have a history of crashes or traffic violations.
Organise driving lessons
In NSW, teenagers can apply for a licence to drive a car at the age of 16 (for motorbikes, the age is 16 and nine months). Helping kids get on the road safely is a positive step. Learning to drive can be included in a young person's Leaving Care Plan. In cases where the young person doesn’t have regular access to a car, DCJ may also consider paying for additional lessons. Ask your caseworker for more information on what sort of support is available for the teen in your care who is learning to drive.
Get out on the road with your teen
Professional driving courses are valuable, but your teen can also get experience driving with you. Try to stay calm. If you feel like they’re not listening to you or that they’re making mistakes, ask them to pull over and come to a stop, and then talk to them calmly about what they need to be doing.
Think about a safe driving course
Young people in statutory out-of-home care and young people up to the age of 25 who have left care may be eligible to complete the Safer Drivers Course for free (usually $140). The course teaches young drives how to reduce road risks and cope with distractions.
Your caseworker will have more information about the free Safer Drivers Course. Talk to your caseworker about the steps to enrolling with a Roads and Maritime Services accredited Safer Drivers Course provider today.
Lay down the law
Teens must make sure everyone is wearing a seatbelt, music is at a reasonable volume, and that they don’t use phones or other electronic devices, even hands-free. In NSW, L-plate and P-plate drivers must have a zero blood alcohol reading. Other restrictions also apply: check details with Roads and Maritime Services.
Check your insurance
Even good drivers have accidents. If your child will be using your car, make sure that your insurance covers teenage drivers. If it doesn’t, and something goes wrong, you could end up with a very large bill.