Recently, I read a fascinating story about a mom who never left her son’s side.

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

Travis loved to jump from the swings at the playground. And that was fine, ‘cause his mom was always there to catch him before he hit the ground.

Then came the first day of kindergarten. And when it was time for recess, Travis climbed onto the swing set, got up as high as he could, and took a big leap into the air. Only this time, mommy wasn’t around … so he fell and broke his arm.

When Travis’s mom got the phone call, she was absolutely furious, and shouted, “This whole thing happened because I wasn’t there!” His teacher replied, “No, it happened because you were always there.”

Mom, Dad … don’t shield your teen from the consequences of their actions! The later they learn, the more painful the lesson will be.