RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

January 14, 2004
HELP NEEDED FROM PARENTS WHO TEACH THEIR CHILDREN TO DRIVE

RoSPA has developed a new booklet for parents teaching their children to drive. But the Society needs help from mothers and fathers who have already given lessons so that it can be sure it provides the best practical advice.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA Head of Road Safety, said: “We need parents who have been through this experience to look at what we have come up with and give us their views.

“The best way to learn to drive is to take lessons with an approved driving instructor, supported by private practice supervised by a parent or friend. The more driving experience learners obtain, the safer they are likely to be when they start to drive on their own. Private practice will help them to pass the driving test.

“But many parents may not appreciate some of the basic things they need to be aware of to give their children safe driving lessons. If they get things wrong from the start, it will only add to the pressure of what can be a stressful experience for all concerned.

“RoSPA’s booklet, Helping Your Kids Learn to Drive Safely, gives practical tips and advice. We hope parents will look at the draft copy on the internet at http://www.rospa.com/roadsafety/info/learners.pdf and tell us what they think. Comments on content and style will be gratefully received.”

The free booklet has been funded by the Department for Transport and includes the legal requirements for learner and accompanying drivers, the importance of taking professional lessons, the benefits of extra supervised practice and how to give a safe and positive lesson.

It is estimated that about half of learners take some private practice.

Feedback on RoSPA’s booklet would be appreciated by January 30.