😬 What If You're Teaching Your Teen the Wrong Thing?


Hey Reader

If you’ve ever sat in the passenger seat with your heart racing and your hand hovering over the imaginary brake, you’re not the only one.

Most parents want to support their teen, build their confidence, and maybe even save on a few professional lessons — but they also tell me they’re not always sure they’re doing it “right.”

Here are 5 of the most common questions I hear from parents (just like you!):

  1. What if I’m teaching them the wrong thing? Worried your habits might be outdated or not what the Examiners want? Totally normal! Most parents haven’t studied the road rules since they got their licence. But good news... road rule know-how can be brushed up quickly (and I’ve got tools to help).
  2. How do I stay calm when my teen isn’t listening or keeps making mistakes? Deep breaths, friend. You’re human. Staying calm takes practice, but it starts with having a plan for what you’ll teach and how you’ll say it; that’s what transforms tension into trust.
  3. When should I actually start teaching them? You don’t need to wait until they’ve got the L plates. In fact, starting the coaching mindset before they even touch the steering wheel is a game-changer.
  4. How do I give feedback without sounding like I’m nagging? It’s all about coaching, not correcting. Using calm, clear prompts that guide rather than scold. Teens are way more open when they feel respected and understood.
  5. How many lessons do they need before going solo? It’s not just about ticking the hours. It’s about the quality of their practice; variety of driving conditions, confident decision-making, and good habits that stick.

Ready to feel more calm and confident behind the wheel?

💙 Download my FREE guide: 👉 Coach, Don’t Correct It’s a super helpful resource filled with the simple language and mindset shifts that can make your teaching time more effective and a lot less stressful.

Your Free Guide is Here

You’ve got this and I’m here to help, every step (and drive) of the way.

Warmly,

Deb James

Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training

Safer Roads, Stronger Families

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.

Read more from Hills 2 Ocean Driver Training
Emergency Driving; What to do when things go wrong

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...

How to Teach your Teen to Drive like a Pro

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...

Why How You Teach Shapes How They Drive

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...