Q: Although my daughter does well in all her other subjects, my daughter really hates Math and always does poorly in it. Does this mean she can never be a Superstar?

Ann B.

A: Not at all! Attitude is much more important than numbers on a report card. It’s more important that your daughter becomes a well-rounded person who enjoys learning. Of course, I wouldn’t give her permission (directly or indirectly) to do poorly on any subject. With the subjects she doesn’t enjoy or struggle with, explain to her why it is important for her to work on it and do her best. Encourage her to take the initiative to get extra help and teach her to learn from her failures. You then have to help your child to focus on her strength and put most her energy in those areas that she enjoys and can succeed in.

Q: My children already have so many activities. I don’t think they could handle all the activities they’d need to be a Superstar. Plus I don’t have the time to go to all those practices, games and programs. Can my children be superstars without all those extracurricular activities?                                 

Jean V.

A: Maybe it’s time for you and your children to rethink their after school activities. They should be participating because they enjoy an activity, not because they think it would look good on a college resume or you are cheering from the sidelines. Separate beloved activities from ones they participate in out of habit, because everyone else does, or because you think it would be a great activity for them. Don’t allow them to bounce from activity to activity without devoting a fair amount of time to trying out a new activity but do allow them the option of trying new activities.

Q: Can I help bring out the Superstar in my son? His dad and I are divorced and I see him every other week.                                           

Pat M.

A: Do you love your child? Love is the main ingredient for creating a superstar so if you have that you are halfway there. Now make sure your child knows you love him. Remember, it is called “quality time,” not “quantity time.” When you’re with your child pay total attention to what he has to say. Along with encouraging him to live joyfully make sure he is secure in your love everyday. In your situation you need to make sure your son feels safe and stable in both homes. Never talk negative about his father and encourage him to maintain a good relationship with both of you.