CHANGING TIMES: To change or not to...

CHANGING TIMES: To change or not to change . . . that’s often a key question facing parents whose children are experiencing trouble in school. Occasionally, the answer is to transfer the child to a new campus. But not always. One school psychologist says that “children are unhappy for many reasons” and that “changing the school doesn’t necessarily take away the problem.” This and other issues are explored in today’s edition of Valley Parenting, Page 3.

EASY CHORE: Want your children to do their chores? Try pitching. . . . Many child experts say adding a personal touch or a sense of accomplishment does more to motivate children than any allowance. “Don’t just send the child to their room and say, ‘Tidy up,’ ” says Tarzana child care provider Luise Strauss. “You have to be in there with them.” See Parenting, Page 4.

GOOD SNOOP: Diane Wilkinson and daughter Genevieve, above, weren’t always this close. . . . The Agoura teen hid a drug habit that nearly consumed her before mom realized the problem and helped Genevieve clean up her act. Now Wilkinson, who never considered snooping into her daughter’s life, wishes she had. And Genevieve now wants to lend a helping hand: “I like to help young people who are trying to get sober.” Exploring a teen’s right to privacy and a parent’s right to know in Parenting, Page 8.

PHONE HOME: From beepers to cell phones, teens have pushed telephone technology to the limits. Around the house--where chores and homework are often interrupted by phone calls--parents are learning to cope. . . . Many are successfully setting limits that keep phone bills down and school grades up. See Parenting, Page 9.

STYLE: Matt Bordofsky had a dark side that troubled his parents. . . . Ever since the eighth grade, Matt has worn only black. “I was tired of looking like everyone else,” says the Agoura High youth. Teen-age fashion continues to spark plenty of arguments around the family dinner table. See Parenting, Page 9.