As teens strike out on their own, it’s easy for them to get lost in bad decisions. And unless parents reach out in a loving and nonjudgmental way, they may never find their way back home.

The reality is that many of our sons and daughters will get lost. They’ll make a wrong turn. It’ll get too dark out. Or they’ll get curious about what’s down another road. Chances are, you remember what it’s like to get lost, too.

So when your teen calls for help, what will you say? “What do you mean you’re lost?!” … Or, “Sit tight and I’ll come get you?”

Don’t turn your back on your teen in their time of greatest need. Instead, reach out with love and compassion … and be willing to do whatever it takes to bring them home.

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