How Not To Embarrass Your Kids When You’re Out In Your Car
Do your kids cringe at your behaviour?
It might be when you show off your dance moves when their friends are in your house. Or it could be when you try the latest ‘teen speak’ to prove how cool are you. If your kids go red-faced and tell you off for your behaviour, you know you have done something to embarrass them!
There might also be times when you embarrass them when out in your car. Consider these examples and then do what you can to avoid embarrassing your younger passengers.
Embarrassment #1: The car itself
Why would your car be embarrassing? Well, if it tends to clunk and clang when you’re driving along, your kids will probably be embarrassed by the noise, especially when you pull up near the school gates. They might also be embarrassed if you have pimped your ride in ways that cause your car to stand out awkwardly when near others. In terms of the latter, your car is yours so you can do what you want with it of course. But if it is noisy and is clearly past its prime, now might be the time to head to your local car showroom or use a car leasing site such as Vavoom. Your kids will thank you for it!
Embarrassment #2: Dad: The Road Warrior
You probably advocate peace and love to your kids, as this is one way to keep them out of trouble. As a dad, you might display such qualities when attempting to be a good role model. But what about when you get behind the wheel? If you suddenly transform into Mad Max, unleashing your wrath and fury at other road users when they do something that annoys you, your kids are probably going to hide their heads in shame. Shield them from embarrassment and be a safer driver by reigning in your need to holler from your window (and other road rage behaviours) when out on the roads!
Embarrassment #3: The school drop-off
Having to go to school is bad enough for some kids and the school drop-off can add to their woes. If you insist on shouting “I love you” from your seat as they pass through the gates or if you display other forms of affection in front of their friends, your kids are probably going to wilt inside! They might also be embarrassed if you talk to their friends, sing loudly as you drive away, or show off your car to any nearby parents!
Embarrassment #4: Parking woes
We aren’t all expert drivers so you can be forgiven for making the occasional mistake. However, some mistakes might cause your kids to cringe, especially if other people start to take notice. This is especially true if you have problems with parking, be that in a car park space or between two cars. This will be especially embarrassing for your kids if you’re trying to park at their school, as their peers might suddenly take out their mobile phones to record your failed efforts. Check out these parking fails and if you relate to them, consider practising your manoeuvres when your kids aren’t in the car.
These aren’t the only embarrassing things parents do when out in the car, as this survey shows! Have a read, and then be mindful of your younger passengers the next time you’re in the driver’s seat!
