More freedom behind the wheel can be a milestone for teens, but the summer months call for structure, practice, and steady parental involvement Matthew Kayser Contributor June 24, 2026, 2:10 p.m. CT The first summer after a teenager gets a license can feel different for the entire household. Suddenly, a parent is no longer driving every trip to work, practice, a friend’s house, or a weekend event. The keys sit on the counter. The teen asks to go.