Many parents think their kids are lazy. But few kids are truly lazy. Everyone is born with a basic desire to produce.

If a child isn’t “living up to her potential,” she might have “output failure” caused by subtle breakdowns in neuro-development. This affects memory, language, motor function and organization skills.

Kids with “output failure” can be smart but have poor verbal skills.

They have trouble writing their ideas down on paper. Punctuation, spelling and making oral presentations can be hard for them. The physical act of writing can be difficult. They may be challenged by planning, concentrating, remembering and finishing tasks.

If you suspect your child has a problem with language or motor functions, talk with a teacher. Get your child evaluated by a pediatrician or other professional.

Also, do what you can to nurture your child’s work ethic. These things can help all children be more productive:

• Encourage self-expression. Ask your child lots of questions about things she loves. Ask her to answer in full sentences.
• Show interest in what your child learns at school.
• Schedule set times for reading and writing.
• Be available to help with homework. But never hover or do homework for her.
• Don’t over-schedule your child. Limit after-school activities to three days a week.
• Praise your child’s efforts, not her grades. She can control her output more than the results.

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