Will your kid be learning to drive soon? Time to take notes now
Recently, a friend of The Kid asked if he had his driver's permit yet.
Needless to say, the question gave me pause - and I did everything in my power not to slam on the breaks - not out of anger or anything - more out of worry and shear horror.

I was driving the children at the time.
Gosh - these kids are younger than the blades of grass in our yard for cryin' out loud!
And what's the rush anyway?
Isn't it kind of nice to be chauffeured? Sure, our "passengers" are a captive audience as we adults drive them everywhere--the service comes complete with lectures and conditions.
And we get to spend time together. I get to meet his cohorts - in person no less!
But at some point, kids-my son included, are going to be in the driver's seat. And the best we can do, short of never, ever letting them out of our site, is to empower them with the right tools, starting with good driving instruction.
You can download AAA's Choosing a Driving School pamphlet here.
It's a guide for parents of beginning drivers. There is a check list of questions to ask, things to look for in a driving school. There are tips on how you can supplement what they'll be learning with additional information and experience.
It seems like only last year, I let him ride his bike - as long as he's wearing the helmet, knee pads, has reflectors, lights....
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