4 Things You Should Teach Your Kids About Cars
When your child sees a car, they may think about the eventual day they will get to drive one. You might think their automotive education will begin when they finally take a driver’s ed course, but it can start much sooner. Here are four things you should teach your kids about cars.
Respect for Emergency Vehicles
One lesson your child can learn while you are on the road with them is the importance of respecting emergency vehicles. If your kid asks you why you pull to the side of the road whenever an ambulance, fire engine, or police officer’s vehicle rushes by, explain that is an essential rule of the road.
They will appreciate that, in some small way, you are helping first responders save lives and protect others by pulling over. This early teaching will ensure they follow this rule when they’re old enough to get behind the wheel.
The Importance of Car Maintenance
Another thing you should teach your kids about cars is the importance of vehicle maintenance. Although they may not be of an age yet where they can use tools, you can explain that sometimes cars break or parts wear down, and they need to get repaired. They can sit nearby with safety goggles on and watch as car repair takes place.
Another great way to teach your child about car maintenance is with their toy electric vehicle. You can pretend to perform auto maintenance on their car, and they will better understand the concepts.
The Value of Being Cautious While Driving
You should also take the time to explain to your child the value of being cautious while driving. They need to know that the road is not always safe and that other drivers can be reckless. If you teach them how to be careful and avoid dangers, they will have a better chance of avoiding an accident when they finally get to drive.
The Rules of the Road
Finally, you should also start teaching them the rules of the road, such as the meaning behind every traffic light or the signs you encounter while driving, such as stop or speed limit signs. It’s never too early for them to learn that breaking these rules can result in a police officer giving them a citation or even worse.
Your kids look up to you as a role model, so take the time to impart lessons about the road that you have learned. That will put them in a better position when they finally take driver’s ed and drive independently after earning their license.
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