My 14 year old son will NOT stop talking in class. He'll either answer every question the teacher asks, or interrupt with funny remarks. I don't know WHAT to do short of sending him to school with a roll of duct tape and requiring that he strap on a piece before each class. Any ideas? This has been a problem throughout the years, but middle school teachers cannot be as tolerant as grade school teachers.

has he been tested for things like aspergers syndrome or mild hyperactivity? i know it sounds drastic but its worth ruling out the more serious things! good luck

Disruptive pupils may be very bright and the lessons are not challenging enough for them.

A friend of mine has a son who would disrupt every lesson. The school claimed that he had ADHD and treated him as special needs. My friend did not accept this and moved him to another school. They found that he was a gifted child and are working with him at the level he needs. He is no longer disruptive in school and is doing very well.

I think the lesson for us all is challenge these people who think they know best.

My daughter is also 14 and gets into minor trouble for being chatty and 'loud' and giggly in class. However she is a bright and able pupil who is quite simply high spirited and happy. When she gets in to trouble she simply bounces straight back, it is her personality and I can not nor would not want to change her. That said I understand fully how you feel, but I think both your son and my daughter have a lot of growing up to do yet, there is plenty of time for them to take life seriously, it is impossible for you to control this side of your son, so just encourage him every day to work hard and try to listen without pressurising him too much. Celebrate his sense of humour, children like him will breeze through life. After all our main aim as parents is for our children to become happy and independent adults. Try not to worry, I bet he has been like this since he was a toddler! If so you most definitely will not change him now. Good luck.

Angela, I think your reply was awesome, and does reflect him well. Thank you so much for your insight. I really appreciate you all taking the time to reply. Thanks!!!

Your very welcome!

All the replies are very hartening! This is a good place. I'm glad I found it.

The comment about the lesson not being challenging enough is probably right on. This is more of a tip for a teacher, but if the child is physically tired, there will be less resistance. Jogging or swimming in the morning might help accomplish this. Often the teachers at my children's school have the kids run team races in the mornings right down the sidewalk.