The Parent’s Guide to Teaching Kids Safe Winter Driving

A young woman in a car holds the steering wheel with both hands while the passenger touches the wheel.

Winter driving can present a unique set of challenges, especially in states like Pennsylvania, where icy roads and unpredictable weather are a yearly occurrence. For many parents, having kids who can drive is scary enough—and winter weather introduces a whole set of dangers for drivers. Our guide below will show parents how to teach their kids to drive safely in the winter by understanding the challenges, preparing the vehicle, and practicing safe driving.

Understanding Winter Conditions

First, instill in your new driver the perils that winter conditions bring to driving. Winter roads mean icy patches, snow drifts, and reduced visibility. Help your kids prepare by explaining hazards such as black ice, which forms in shaded areas or on bridges, and emphasizing how stopping distances increase on snow or ice.

Practice winter driving together in a safe, controlled environment like an empty, snowy parking lot, allowing them to gain hands-on experience with braking and turning on slippery surfaces. This preparation can help them build confidence and stay safe in winter conditions.

Preparing the Vehicle

Before tackling winter conditions, teach your kids to ensure the family car is ready for the season. First, you need to prepare your tires for winter driving, as their traction and control are even more vital in adverse winter conditions. Show them how to check tire pressure regularly, as cold temperatures can decrease it and affect performance.

Make sure they understand the importance of keeping the car’s fluids topped off, particularly antifreeze and windshield washer fluid for freezing temperatures. Discuss the need for functional wipers and a fully charged battery, as cold weather can drain batteries more quickly.

Driver Safety

Teaching new drivers safe winter driving habits is essential. Start by emphasizing the importance of reducing speed, as slower speeds give tires more time to grip the road. Show them how to brake gently and allow plenty of distance to stop, avoiding sudden braking that can lead to loss of control.

If their car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), explain how it prevents skidding when they apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. Another crucial skill is handling skids. Teach them to stay calm, ease off the gas, and steer into the skid to help the tires regain traction.

Emergency Preparedness

Just as important as avoiding accidents and collisions is being prepared when things go wrong. For parents teaching kids safe winter driving, our guide includes a helpful list of items every new driver should keep in their car during winter.

  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Blanket and gloves
  • Snacks and water
  • First-aid kit
  • Snow scraper
  • Jumper cables
  • Bag of cat litter or sand for traction

Ensure they know to stay calm, remain in the car if it’s unsafe outside, call for help when needed, and charge their phone before driving in winter conditions.

Build Confidence for the Road Ahead

Teaching kids safe winter driving is about building their confidence and skills over time. By reviewing hazards, prepping their vehicle, practicing techniques, and teaching them to handle emergencies, you can prepare them for winter roads in Pennsylvania and beyond. Keep the conversation about road safety ongoing, share your experiences, and encourage regular practice—because safe driving is a habit, not just a skill.

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