P.K.
Hi K.,
This sounds a lot like my son at that age. He definitely sounds bored. My son wasn't too good at athletics and needed another outlet besides math, science and computers. We got him into martial arts. It was really good for him to channel his energy into something positive and I liked that he did it with other kids. There was a lot of self-discipline involve. A good instructor can make it or break it for them though. Maybe meet them first and go watch a class first to see how the instructor is with the kids if you decide to go that route. You or your husband could do it with him. Great self esteem boost. I had to get creative in challenging my son at home. My husband got an old boat and the 2 of them researched how to refinish it. It gave them something to do together during formative years. The project lasted about a year, then they began fishing together. I think it helps to expose him to a lot of different types of things in order to find his passion. Then get in there as a family and get involved. There may be local acedemic clubs he can get involved in. Or a church youth group. They can be really great. Even if you don't go, he can be part of that. My son liked the youth group at a different church then we went to so we let him go. It was great for him. He still went to church with us, but made a lot of friends there too. Dad can be key here at this age. Just a few ideas. Good luck. As far as the homework goes, maybe for a while you can help him get organized with a check list the night before and reward on the weekend for remembering. Simple rewards like sonic drinks or movie rental. Nothing big. Just a little positive reinforcement. Maybe even ask him to be part of helping to get him better organized. Ask him what you can do to help his days go better. If none of these suggestions seem like they are for him, don't discount the idea of him talking to a professional. Sometimes a few sessions with a good therapist can get them back on track. They can hone in quickly on what the problem/solution is and be really helpful. Good luck.