Children Learn from Parents' Actions

Many parents are concerned about how safe their little boy or girl is when they are away from the family. Whether it's at school, playground or at a friend's house, parents are concerned. 

So I ask: why do so many parents show little concern when they put the kids in the car? Wait one minute, I am not talking to all parents – just a portion of parents who are seen around Port Washington doing very dangerous things while driving. 

Drive up and down Main Street or Shore Road, and you will not have to look far to see what I am talking about.

I wonder if the kids are thinking:

"Mommy how come you did not stop at the red light like we were taught you have to do?"

"Daddy, why didn't you stop for the person crossing the street?"

"Mom, yesterday I was taught that it is not safe to use your phone while driving. Do you want to get into an accident?"

"Dad, can I sit on your lap while you drive? Oh come on you let the dog sit there!"

Just the other day I spoke to a woman who was almost rear-ended along Main Street. The woman was almost rear-ended because she failed to signal, and abruptly slowed down as she looked for a parking space. Suddenly backing up did not make matters any better.

Look at the rules of the road from a child's point of view – the very same child you will be teaching to drive.