Parents Advised on Their Roles During the Long December Holidays
As the holiday season draws near, there’s an undeniable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. In Kenya, schools are on the verge of closing for the extended Christmas break, marking a time when both parents and students can embrace a different pace of life. The holiday season is truly a time for treasured moments with family, joyful celebrations, and a well-deserved break.
However, it can also present challenges in terms of keeping young learners engaged and ensuring they make the most of this prolonged school hiatus.
As parents, it’s crucial to strike a harmonious balance. Craft a daily schedule that encourages structured activities, moments of free play, and relaxation.
This approach not only guards against excessive screen time but also keeps children actively engaged in constructive pursuits. While the holidays are a time for rest, they are also a golden opportunity for continual learning. Encourage your children to dive into books, embark on creative projects, and explore their personal interests. Enrolling them in holiday programs or camps that combine education with fun experiences can be a fantastic way to enrich their break.
Moreover, this holiday season provides the perfect occasion to strengthen family bonds. Plan exciting outings, evenings dedicated to board games, and activities that foster togetherness, all of which create enduring memories. In addition, parents should carefully monitor their children’s screen time, ensuring a healthy equilibrium between online and offline activities.
Encourage physical activity and social interactions. Don’t forget to maintain attention to your child’s nutrition and well-being during the holidays to ensure they sustain a balanced diet and stay active and healthy.
For young learners, setting goals can be a remarkable motivator during the holidays. Consider objectives related to reading a specific number of books, acquiring a new skill, or completing a personal project. Goals can help learners stay productive and focused on self-improvement. The holiday season provides an excellent opportunity to explore personal interests and hobbies, whether it’s painting, writing, music, or a sport. It’s the perfect time to discover new passions or hone existing skills.
To keep the flame of curiosity alive, young learners can continue their love for learning. Visits to museums, science centers, or historical sites can be both enjoyable and enriching. Effective time management is crucial, and learners can practice allocating specific time slots for study, leisure, and physical activity. This approach ensures a balance between relaxation and learning. Additionally, they might contemplate volunteering or contributing to their community, gaining insights into empathy and social responsibility.
Let’s remember that the holiday season isn’t just about academic achievements; it’s also about personal growth and strengthening family bonds. As Dr. Wanjohi eloquently expressed during the launch of The Sharp Education Centre Youth Empowerment Solution on October 19, 2023, in Kayole, Nairobi: “The holiday season is a time of transformation and unity. It’s our chance to inspire and be inspired, to connect and grow.” This program, which has already enrolled over 186 out-of-school youth aged between 13 and 35, aims to empower these young individuals through mentoring and training, striving to bring equity and inclusivity to the education sector.
In the spirit of the holiday season, let’s cherish the opportunities for growth, togetherness, and learning, and make the most of this special time of the year.
Dr. Paul Wanjohi Director, Sharp Education Center Email: paulwanjohi63@gmail.com
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