Driving a car is one of the most difficult tasks a person will participate in daily. Teens need to develop critical driving skills including scanning, attention, working memory, problem solving, and sequencing in order to drive safely.
They also need to increase their safety and judgement for monitoring speeding and avoiding/limiting distractions.
When teaching a teen with learning challenges whether the challenges are physical, emotional or cognitive; it is important to choose the proper teacher and teaching environment to help you teen have a positive and successful experience.
Consider what motor challenges your teen may face. If your teen needs equipment to operate
the gas/brake/steering wheel, they may need a specialist.
It is important to consider learning differences, executive functioning skills, visual processing skills, & social skills that may impact your teens ability to drive.
Attention to task, navigation skills, problem solving, sequencing, following directions
Looking around environment for hazards, reacting to dangers, recognizing turns
Classroom vs. 1:1
Reading vs. Practicing
Short vs. Extended Sessions
Listening vs. Doing
Ability to interact with other drivers, handle frustration/road rage, handle stress (i.e. traffic)
Many diagnosis may benefit from specialized intervention and driving training from an OT DRS including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD/ADD, Non-Verbal Learning Disorders, Dyslexia, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Cord Injuries, Traumatic Brain Injury and many others.
Dyslexia, Learning Disability & Driving
Teaching a new driver can be a stressful time for any parent or guardian. New drivers with cognitive or physical
challenges can add extra stress to the process. Contact us today and we can help answer any questions you may have!
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