I think that you CAN'T light a fire under anyone; they're motivated or they're not. It is definitely hard for go-getter parents to watch their child sit and do nothing. Unmotivated students usually have some kind of learning issues that render schoolwork difficulty or tedious or both. The child might have undiagnosed learning disabilities, attention deficitis or even giftedness. Whatever the cause, schoolwork is not rewarding enough for the child to apply himself to it. There's not much you can do apart from offering external rewards, as you have done. You say your son is pleasant and good-hearted. Be careful not to reject him because of his lack of motivation because even his good points may turn sour. Try to accept him as he is. When he gets out of school one day, he'll look for work that meets his needs and he'll probably do better at applying himself. Meanwhile, if you want to try giving him Bach Flower Therapy, you could. The remedy "hornbeam" might be helpful - consult a book or Bach Flower Practitioner to match your son's emotional state with the remedies. You could also have him assessed to help determine the possible reasons and remedies for his lack of motivation. However, don't be too surprised if nothing turns up. Sometimes, a child just isn't interested in the academic side of life. Punishing him certainly isn't going to help with that and it may worsen the situation.  Sarah Chana

My son was a poor student till he got into university (which he barely got into). Then he came into his own and started getting A's. He got a higher degree and is very successful now in his field. Someitmes children bloom late or sometimes they just need to find their niche. Don't get discouraged. Be patient.