Q I am a single mother with a nine-year-old boy who constantly wants to do nothing but play. He is extremely playful, up to the point that he does no work in class. I am a very strict parent and schoolwork is always encouraged but, no matter how many times I talk, beat or punish him, he comes home with little or no work done. I am highly frustrated and I am willing to get the necessary help. He is a very quick learner hence he was promoted from second to third grade. However, there are times when he is asked to do his work and he will just do something totally different, even though he knows how to do it. It is important to note that there are occasions when all the work is done. I have decided to cease punishment, by means of the strap, but still prohibit him from watching television or going swimming (two things he loves).

A I am happy that you have decided to stop using the strap and use other means to have your son understand that you are serious. He was seeking your attention and he got it. What is going to be important is that you ensure that his teachers and close family members all know the behaviour management plan that you have put in place, so your son does not try to outsmart others.

Please try your best to be as patient as you watch the plan unfold. It will take some time and you may lose some of your precious personal time but it will be worth it in the end. If it does not work, please take him to a child psychologist who will be able to help you.

Q My 11-year-old daughter does not want to go to visit her grandfather anymore. He has Alzheimer's and she is uncomfortable being around him. She is upset that he is like this now. What can I do to make her understand?

A The best thing to do is to explain what the disease is and what it does, so that she, hopefully, will be understanding of what is happening to her grandfather. Alzheimer's is a progressive and fatal brain disease and many Jamaicans are living with it. Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behaviour, severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Alzheimer's gets worse over time, and it is fatal. Be honest and have her understand that there is no cure and that Grandpa will get worse. Right now, Grandpa needs strong family support and prayer.

Q I am overseas and have been reading your column. It is interesting. I am in Canada. I have two children in Clarendon who are not reading well. I am afraid that when it is time for them to come up here, they will not get through. Can you help me get them some help?

A It is great that you plan for your children to be with you. Families must stay together, as much as possible. You need to contact the guidance counsellor at their school and ask if there is a reading teacher there. Let the guidance counsellor know your concerns and I am sure that the counsellor will ensure that your children get professional help.

If there is no reading specialist at the school, ask the guidance counsellor if you can be referred to one. If you are not satisfied with the responses you receive, email us and we will find other professionals who will be able to help you and your children.

Dr Orlean Brown-Earle is a child psychologist and family therapist.