Leanna Landsmann

Q: My daughter’s fifth-grade teacher has students keep a “gratitude” journal. She says it’s part of their “social-emotional learning” curriculum. Isn’t that more for Sunday school?A: Not really. There’s no one place to express gratitude or learn its power. Being grateful helps kids maintain perspective about what is going right in their lives.“Writing in a journal is an easy avenue for self-expression for preteens,” says Carol Lloyd, the executive editor of GreatSchools.org.

Q: My third-grader is an impatient learner. He’s smart enough, but if he doesn’t get something right away, he gets upset and gives up. How can I help him?A: Talk to your son about how we learn. A third-grader is old enough for that conversation.“It’s important for kids to realize that learning something new doesn’t happen immediately,” says Matt Frahm, superintendent of the Naples (N.Y.) Central School District. “It’s a process that can be broken down into simple steps.

Q: My son used to devour book series like “Big Nate” and “Captain Underpants” when he was younger. Now in sixth grade, he never reads for fun anymore. He seems to have lost interest in books. Should I worry?A: Don’t waste effort worrying. But do take a few steps to re-engage him.