Wedding blues

Q. My son's father has decided to remarry. At 14, my son is angry about this, especially since his father has only been active in his life in the last two years.

I have spoken to my son and he does not even want to participate in the wedding.

How do I console him?

A. Ask your son's father to share with him that he is not abandoning him. You may share with his father recommendations such as special time together, for example, twice a month they could hang out together, depending on where Dad lives, and also phone, email or Skype contact when possible.

School daze

Q. My six-year-old will be starting grade one in September.

I have no problems sending him to a small primary school in our community. My husband, however, wishes to send him to a preparatory school 12 miles away.

I am a housewife with a small family business while my husband is a professional. My husband thinks that primary school will not challenge my son enough. I think we need to supplement school with activities at home. What do you think?

A. I do not believe that young children should commute long distances to school. If you choose to have your child go to the local school, monitor him carefully and be very active in the parent-teachers association so you can be a proactive parent in the academic and non-academic activities.

GSAT move

Q. I have decided to send my child to a new school in September so he can have a better chance at the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT).

The teachers at his current school are not encouraging this move and are saying he would be affected emotionally.

Is this so?

A. Your child's personality and how he transitions will be key aspects of how well he will do.

Consider the real reason for moving your child and include your son in the planning. Find out how he would feel if this move was to take place.

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