Beyond the traditional relaxation and family time pattern, many parents and guardians are carefully pondering and developing strategize on ways to keep their children engaged, entertained and intellectually stimulated during the break. A good chunk of parents and guardians set sight beyond formal education, prioritizing extracurricular activities that promote creativity and informal intellectual enrichment.
With the school year drawing to a close, parents and guardians across Cameroon are busily planning how to make the most of the forthcoming holiday for their children. Beyond the usual relaxation and family time, many parents are carefully considering ways to keep their children engaged, entertained, and intellectually stimulated during the break. As the long holiday approaches, many families face a dual challenge keeping their children safe and engaged while ensuring they don’t fall behind.
Some parents, like Ako Therese, a mother of two, rely on school for safety and protection. “School was a way of protection for my kids. I think I will send them to my mom in Buea she will be teaching them our dialect. I know it will be funny but I will exploit this opportunity,” This concern has led to varied approaches, from organized holiday programs to creative home-based activities.
Holiday classes are a popular option for some parents seeking to provide continued academic enrichment. These programs, often offered by schools, private tutors, or specialized learning centers, provide opportunities for children to reinforce key concepts, catch up on areas where they may be struggling, or even get a head start on the next school year’s curriculum like Agnes Nsagah.
Beyond formal education, many parents are prioritizing extracurricular activities that promote creativity, carpentry, computer knowledge classes, music lessons, and dance classes are all in high demand, providing children with opportunities to explore new interests, develop their talents, and make new friends. These activities also offer a welcome break from screens and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.
The holiday preparation also extends to ensuring children’s safety and well-being. Parents are taking extra precautions to supervise their children’s activities, especially when they are spending time outdoors or engaging in potentially risky activities. Open communication about safety guidelines, responsible internet usage, and stranger danger is also a priority. The goal for most parents is to strike a balance between providing their children with a fun and enriching holiday experience while also ensuring their safety and well-being.
By carefully planning activities, fostering creativity, and prioritizing family time, they hope to create a memorable and positive holiday season for their children.
