Q: I have an 11-year-old son who is in the fifth grade at a private parochial school. Approximately one month ago, he attended space camp with his father. They had a terrific time. The problem came when he had to go to school the following Monday. He cried and said he didn't know the cause. He missed the rest of the family and had such a good time, it was a letdown to come home. He cried again the next day and the teacher called home. She couldn't figure out the problem, and neither could he.

Since that time, these Monday morning blues have become a problem. He explains that he doesn't like school anymore and that he doesn't like the kids. Some of these children are growing up faster than he is, even though he is one of the oldest in the class. They like music and I'm sure there is some talk of girls liking boys and vice versa but he isn't ready for this and is having a hard time being around this. Again he stayed home this Monday, and even though he knows it can't go on, he says he can't help these crying jags.

A: Your observations of your son are very astute. His depression may well be related to the disappointment that comes after a very positive experience, especially if it feels to him that he no longer fits in with his peers. Although you should take him to a psychologist for further guidance, I have some suggestions, which may be helpful.

To help ease your son's loneliness, encourage him to stay in touch with some of his friends at camp by either e-mail or telephone. Your son's teacher can also help by getting him involved in a project related to science or his space experience and partnering him with another child in the class who shares his interest.

A special Monday responsibility might ease your son's transition from the weekend. Tutoring a younger child on Mondays might be a good example of how he can help others and develop confidence. If nothing else seems to work, a behavioral reward system for attending school without tears could help him get back into the swing of things.

Dr. Sylvia Rimm, Phd

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