Q My 10-year-old is horrified at the horrible rape that occurred last week. I heard her telling a neighbour's daughter that the men should be killed. When I asked her where she got that from, she said from the vendors in the canteen at school. How can we let persons who work at schools know that they can make strong statements that can lead young children astray?

A You can share with the principal that you are concerned about statements that members of the workforce make that can affect the way children respond to traumatic situations and ask him or her to encourage the workers to be more responsible with their statements when children are close by.

You must remember though that the principal has little control over what a member of staff may say during a conversation. It is important that you guide your daughter to think correctly and act appropriately when she hears statements that may be contrary to what you teach at home.

Q My children who are nine, eight and four will be in Jamaica for one year starting January as I complete some contractual work. Can you guide me to the best schools on the island for them to attend. We will be about one hour from Kingston. My eight-year-old son has special learning problems.

A I recommend that you ask the human resources department of the organisation that you will be working with to guide you to schools that will be close to where you will live and work. The schools will let you know what information they will need to register your children. You should take with you all the documents that identify your son as an individual with special needs. The school that he will attend will need these documents to ensure that they will help him maximise his potential.

Q My 15-year-old daughter loves to sing. Everyone says she has an opera-type voice, but I cannot find any voice school for her in northern Jamaica. Can you guide me to a professional?

A You should contact the music teacher at your daughter's school or at a school close by. Music professionals usually know each other and can guide you to a professional who will be able to help your daughter make the best use of her talent.

Orlean Brown-Earle, PhD, is a child psychologist and family therapist. Dr Brown-Earle works with children with learning and behaviour problems throughout the island and in the Caribbean. Email questions to helpline@gleanerjm.com or send to Ask the Doc, c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston. Responses to concerns are to be considered as general, as cases shared with psychologists privately would be queried more deeply. Pray always!