Hi, I'm Deb James, the owner of Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training. I am dedicated to empowering parents with the tools and knowledge to confidently guide their teens on the journey to becoming skilled and safe drivers. Our mission is to ensure that learner drivers develop strong, confident driving abilities by experiencing a wide range of driving situations—led by parents who are equipped with the same techniques and insights as professional instructors. In addition, we offer one-on-one driving lessons reinforcing the entire driving journey.
The #1 Mistake Even the Most Caring Parents Make
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Hi Reader Have you ever jumped in the car with the best of intentions—only to leave the drive feeling frustrated, snappy, or disconnected from your teen? You’re not alone. In fact, one of the most common mistakes I see loving, well-meaning parents make is this:
Focusing only on what to teach—rather than how to teach it.
When we’re trying to get through the basics (mirror checks, roundabouts, speed control...), it’s easy to fall into "directive mode":
The intention is to keep them safe. And that’s when conflict sneaks in—turning what could’ve been a bonding moment into a silent or snappy drive home. But here’s the good news: In my course The Confident Coach, I teach simple communication tools that help you: Because this isn’t just about driving—it’s about growing your teen’s confidence, and building trust that lasts long after the L-plates come off. 💭 This Week’s Thought to Take Into the Car:“Am I coaching, or correcting?” You’ve got this, |
Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training
Hi, I'm Deb James, the owner of Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training. I am dedicated to empowering parents with the tools and knowledge to confidently guide their teens on the journey to becoming skilled and safe drivers. Our mission is to ensure that learner drivers develop strong, confident driving abilities by experiencing a wide range of driving situations—led by parents who are equipped with the same techniques and insights as professional instructors. In addition, we offer one-on-one driving lessons reinforcing the entire driving journey.
Hi Reader Emergencies on the road; they’re the moments we hope never happen… but the truth is, they’re part of being a licensed driver and that’s exactly why preparing your teen before something goes wrong is one of the most powerful lessons you can give them. This week is all about helping you feel calm and equipped to walk your teen through those “what if” scenarios, so they’re not left panicking or worse, freezing when something unexpected happens. 🛑 Parent Tip: Teach Calm Before the Chaos...
Hello there Confident Driving Coach Reader Let’s be real for a moment.Teaching your teen to drive can feel like a lot. Between juggling work, family, and life’s curveballs; it’s no wonder that even with the best intentions, driving time can get pushed to the side. So if you've been thinking: “We just don’t have time” “It’s too overwhelming” “They’re not ready... and maybe I’m not either” Please know—you’re not alone. These are normal, valid feelings. But they don’t have to be the end of the...
Hi there Confident Driving Coach Reader How are your drives going lately? I hope you've been able to hit the road and soak up some valuable lesson time, especially if you're fortunate enough to be enjoying this glorious Queensland sunshine! There’s something about a blue-sky day that makes even the trickiest roundabout feel a little more manageable, right? Whether you’re steadily building up those logbook hours or just easing into your first few drives, I’m so proud of the intention you're...