How do I deal with my son who has Aspergers and his driving? He's just passed his test and has some quite negative driving habits.

While it may be uncomfortable to think of your teen with Asperger's driving, it is not uncommon.  Actually, it is quite normal.   Driving is a much-anticipated rite of passage.  It marks the movement from child to adult, and many teens take driving as a right instead of a privilege.  Your son has accomplished this step towards adulthood by passing his driving test.  However, as you know, passing that test does not necessarily make a safe driver.

Negative driving habits are a major problem associated with all teens, not just teens with Asperger‘s.  Driving requires the use of multiple skills at once.  This can be difficult for all teens, but especially for those with Asperger's.  Here are a few things to think about.

• Sensory sensitivities like noises and bright lights can cause problems on the road.
• The ability to think quickly and make snap decisions is much needed for driving.
• Driving takes intense focus and the ability to block out distractions constantly.
• A driver must be able to coordinate the timing of physical actions, such as using both feet, both hands, eyes, and ears all at once.

Some positives come with Asperger's.  Rules and laws control driving, and most teens with Asperger's are very good at following rules.  As a parent, you have the right to add a few rules of your own to those that are covered by a driver's license.  Your son may not be happy about it, but safety is too important to dismiss.  Here are some suggested family driving rules.

• New driver must log a certain number of driving hours accompanied by a licensed adult.
• No passengers for a certain number of driving hours.
• No added distractions for a certain number of driving hours. (No radio, no cell phone calls other than emergency, etc.)
• Guided practice on various driving conditions for a certain number of driving hours. (Driving in the rain, driving at night and in bright sunlight, driving in a construction zone, etc.)
• Guided practice on driving rules for a certain number of driving hours. (When and where to pull over in an emergency, changing lanes, passing others, etc.)
• Guided practice using a map and/or directions for a certain number of driving hours. Organizational skills come into play in this area, making this a very important family driving rule!

If he follows the family driving rules, you will be able to have faith in your teen with Asperger's.  Driving is a big step in your son‘s life.  Work with him to make the experience safe and enjoyable for your family.