Dear Family Coach: My 11-year-old son attends an expensive private school. We're not as wealthy as many of his classmates' families. My son feels lacking by comparison. How do I help him appreciate what he has and give him some perspective? — Discouraged Dad

Dear Dad: Perspective comes with distance and time. It is impossible for your son to fully understand the complexities of wealth at his age. However, the lessons you teach now about money and your values will set in when he is older.

It is normal for someone who sees all the world has to offer but can't have it to feel some disappointment. Don't take it personally or get angry with him. Empathize with his finding it hard to behold others enjoying stuff he doesn't have.

Focus your energy on teaching your son about living within your means. Talk to him about your financial situation. You don't have to disclose salaries, but do let him know more about how much your life costs. For example, I doubt he understands the student loans, car payments, mortgage, gas expenses, phone bill and electricity bill that need to be paid every month. For that matter, I'm sure he has no clue how much his school costs. Let him know. If it is a sacrifice for you to afford his school, tell him so without laying on a guilt trip. Simply explain that you care deeply about providing him with the best education possible and because of that choice, you have had to make other difficult decisions.

Maybe you can't summer in the Hamptons or winter in Vail like his friends' parents. Maybe you don't have a Porsche. But the lesson of staying within your budget is far more important than impressing people with fancy automobiles and luxurious trips. Your son will learn eventually that having money isn't everything and that he can be happy with much less than his friends.

Dear Family Coach: I just found out that my son is kissing girls. He's in sixth grade. I'm freaking out. If he is already kissing, sex could be close behind. I'm not sure whether I should talk to him about it or what to say. Help! — Not Ready Mom

Dear Not Ready: Woah, slow down. Kissing isn't a gateway drug. Just because he might be involved with a girl at this stage does not mean he will be hopping in the sack and making babies before seventh grade. In order to help your son navigate puberty and usher him into adulthood with maximum support, you need to get ahold of yourself. Take some deep breaths.

Now that you are calm, the next step is to get educated. Go to the bookstore or search the internet for some assistance in talking to teens about sex. There's loads of information out there. Find something that fits your style and personal beliefs, and then take the time to talk to your son.

Here are a few highlights you need to make sure to address: Discuss consent. Explain that girls don't play games. No is no, and he must explicitly ask to kiss or touch a girl. Always . Discuss how babies are made, as well as sexually transmitted diseases and safe sex. This might be awkward for you, but do it clearly and concisely. Don't beat around the bush or use euphemisms. Just get the information out there. Lastly, discuss what healthy relationships look like and why mutual respect is important.

Above all else, create an environment in which your son can talk to you about his relationships. Listen carefully without jumping to conclusions or telling him what to do.

Dr. Catherine Pearlman, the founder of The Family Coach, LLC, advises parents on all matters of child rearing. To write to Dr. Pearlman, send her an email at [email protected]. To find out more about Dr. Catherine Pearlman and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.