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Q: My daughter generally gets high grades in every subject except math. We're having a hard time understanding why. Could her problems with math be linked to some kind of learning disability?

Jim: This is a complex question. Some learning disabilities do involve difficulty understanding mathematical terms or concepts, decoding written word problems, recognizing numerical symbols or arithmetic signs, etc. To at least investigate this as a possibility, I think it's worth asking school officials to consider a formal evaluation.

If the issue isn't a learning disability, but simply a matter of needing additional help, I'd suggest finding a tutor or enrolling your daughter in a specialized math learning program. Situations like this can put a great deal of stress on everyone at home -- so outside help can provide a good buffer versus trying to tutor your child yourself.

Meanwhile, remember that math isn't everything -- and no child can be expected to excel in every academic area. But we're all gifted in some way. I highly recommend my friend Dr. Kathy Koch's insightful little book "8 Great Smarts: Discover and Nurture Your Child's Intelligences."

In that vein, affirm your child's strengths rather than focus on her weaknesses. Spotlight the things she's good at; encourage her to get deeply involved in the subject fields she really enjoys. The confidence she gains in doing this can transfer to areas where she has to work harder.

Specifically where math is concerned, help your daughter to see assignments as positive challenges rather than frustrating obstacles. Go out of your way to cooperate closely with her math teacher. Praise your child for her effort rather than simply her achievement, and don't criticize or express disappointment if she falls short. Remind her that her self-worth is not based on grades or accomplishments. Above all, affirm your unconditional love for her.

Q: I'm a woman in my early 20s just starting my career. I'm falling for a guy at work, but I'm not certain about his feelings for me. Can you give me any advice about romantic relationships between co-workers?

Dr. Greg Smalley, Vice President, Marriage & Family Formation: Honestly, I would suggest you tread VERY carefully. Many office romances end in disaster. A typical scenario: A couple begins dating, the relationship doesn't work out, they break up. If there are hard feelings, the working environment can then become a nightmare -- not only for the ex-couple but also co-workers who may feel pressured to choose sides. That's why many companies have "non-fraternization" policies.

Of course, some office romances do work out fine, especially when they involve two mature and thoughtful individuals. Generally speaking, it's a bad idea to date a supervisor or a subordinate. The best case is when two people work in separate departments; if the relationship sours, there's not the awkwardness of interacting with each other every day.

I would also be wary of jumping to conclusions. Don't read too much into the possibility that you've had some good conversations with this guy or feel a sense of chemistry. Guard your heart and avoid building up a romantic fantasy in your mind. You'll know soon enough if his feelings for you are "more than friendly." Use the time to get to know him before allowing your emotions to escalate. Watch him on the job; get input from other people who have known him for a while. See how he interacts with fellow employees -- especially other women. As you do, keep reevaluating if he displays the true character that you want in a dating and marriage partner.

Finally, I'd encourage you to grab a copy of an excellent book written by my good friend Lisa Anderson: "The Dating Manifesto." I wish you the best.

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Jim Daly is a husband and father, an author, and president of Focus on the Family and host of the Focus on the Family radio program. Catch up with him at jimdalyblog.focusonthefamily.com or at Facebook.com/JimDalyFocus.

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