First Flights

#2040

Ever watch a baby bird leave the nest for the first time?

Hi, I’m Mark Gregston … with Parenting Today’s Teens.

Baby humans go through a similar process… though you wouldn’t recognize it at first. It typically involves things like staying out late, pushing boundaries, or hanging out with the wrong crowd.

So if your teen is making some poor choices with their newfound freedom … take comfort in knowing that it’s sort of a good thing. It means they’re stretching their wings and preparing to fly.

Sometimes these “first flights” are painful for parents to watch, especially when they make several failed attempts. Just be sure you’re there to offer encouragement for a better flight next time … whenever your wounded teen wobbles back to the nest.