Question: My son, a third-grader, has difficulty spelling. However, he does great on his weekly spelling tests—all “A” grades. Can you explain this? How can I help him? – No Speller

Question: My fifth-grader has never found school to be easy. In the past, he has kept his head above water because I have worked with him a lot. This year, my son’s teacher doesn’t want parents to help with homework. He can’t always handle it on his own, so I’ve had to explain some of the work to him. My son was so afraid that the teacher would think that I’m helping him with his homework that he asked me to write a note. The teacher did not believe the note. Why does she want to stop parents from helping their kids? — Frustrated

So many of you lament that your children are not motivated to do well in school. You may even brand your children as lazy. This usually is not true. However as children get older, their passion for learning often seems to shrink. It happens for some because they have failed repeatedly at school tasks and no longer see any sense in trying. And it happens for many young teens because of the distractions of biological changes, emotional concerns, and social and peer pressures. Plus, some unmotivated children may never have learned that school success takes time and effort. The loss of motivation can also be fueled by insufficient support in a new school or by an increased workload and expectations to which students haven’t yet adjusted.

Question: My 3-year-old son is not doing well at his current preschool. Two of his teachers are very stern and strict—not too friendly either (I’ve visited the classroom). My son is afraid of them and is always crying and unhappy. They don’t help him join in activities either. The lead teacher doesn’t think he is afraid of them, but rather that he’s afraid of everything. She has suggested counseling. I wanted my son moved to another class, but the director refused. At a different preschool last year, the teachers were gentle, and he had no problems. Unfortunately, there is no room for him at that school. Should I keep him in this school or look for another where he’d have to adjust to a new environment? And how can I tell what kind of teachers he’ll get? – Unhappy Child

Question: My son, a fourth grader, does a terrible job of bringing his books and assignments back and forth between home and school. His bedroom and desks at home and school are always in total disarray, and he usually forgets test dates. What can I do to help him before he gets in the later grades?

Question: My two children are both preschoolers. I am constantly talking to them and reading them books. Still I’m worried about their being ready to read when they get to school. Are there signs that indicate the possibility of future reading problems? – Avid Reader