Kids often get frustrated if they can’t find the answers right away. They want to give up. Here are some ways to help your child stick with a problem:

• Reread the directions. It’s the oldest advice in the world, but it works.

• Set a timer. Tell your child, “Keep at it until the timer rings. Then you can take a little break.”

• Talk it out. If your child is stuck, ask her to tell you what she’s done. Sometimes, just by talking it out she can figure out what she has to do.

• Work on something else. If your child is stuck on a math problem, have her practice the piano. The answer may come to her while she’s thinking about something different.

• Learn some relaxation techniques with your child. Stress levels become high when we get frustrated. Closing your eyes, taking deep breaths, and slowly counting to 10 are a few that work well.

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