Norwegian driving schools support parents with meetings to aid learner drivers

Learning to drive can be a challenging experience for both the learners and their instructors. To aid in this, some driving schools in Norway have started hosting parent meetings to support parents during this process, an initiative endorsed by the Norwegian Driving School Association. Driving instructor Geir Cato Kristiansen emphasizes the importance of taking one step at a time, providing positive feedback, avoiding criticism during driving, and having a plan before hitting the road. He also offers courses aimed at helping parents feel more comfortable teaching their children to drive.

Many parents express uncertainty regarding roundabout rules, according to Oda Berger Engelstad from the Driving School Association. Through practice, both parents and teenagers can develop their skills, leading to calmer parents and more confident teenagers behind the wheel.

For many families, the experience of learner driving can lead to tension. Kristiansen notes that some parents expect their children to master driving immediately, which can create confusion and frustration when introducing complex maneuvers like changing lanes and navigating roundabouts.

He advises parents to collaborate with driving schools from the beginning and to highlight what learners do correctly, making it easier to provide constructive criticism later. With practice, parents often become more comfortable in their roles, as demonstrated by the story of Helene, a 17-year-old learner driver, who shares positive feedback about her mother’s calm approach to teaching.

The course for parents, labeled as “parent meetings,” has been popular, aiming to create a supportive environment. Engelstad highlights the impact of confident parents on their learners. Overall, patience and planning are key ingredients for a successful learner driving experience.