How to keep your children engaged and happy during school holidays
In the UAE, school holidays offer a welcome break from academics, with half-term breaks, winter and spring holidays, and the long summer vacation providing ample time for children to relax and recharge. However, keeping children entertained while ensuring their time off is both fun and enriching can sometimes be a challenge.
At Swiss International Scientific School Dubai (SISD), we understand the importance of maintaining a balance between relaxation, activity, and learning during the holidays. Whether you’re staying in the UAE or travelling abroad, here are some creative and engaging ways to make the most of your child’s school break.
Discover the UAE’s rich culture and heritage
School holidays provide the perfect opportunity to explore the UAE’s diverse cultural and historical attractions. Museums such as the Etihad Museum and Louvre Abu Dhabi offer immersive experiences that spark curiosity and deepen children’s understanding of both local heritage and global history. Visits to these iconic locations can make learning outside the classroom fun and memorable.
Join holiday camps and fun-filled activities
Many schools, sports academies, and recreational centres in Dubai offer structured holiday camps, providing children with a mix of sports, creative arts, and problem-solving activities. These camps are designed to foster teamwork, develop new skills, and keep children actively engaged while having fun. From STEM workshops to adventure-based programmes, there’s something for every child’s interests.
Embrace outdoor adventures
The UAE’s climate plays a big role in shaping holiday activities, and (during the cooler months), outdoor exploration is a great way to keep children active. Take advantage of the pleasant weather with beach outings, desert adventures or nature walks in parks. Not only do these experiences provide fresh air and exercise, but they also promote physical and mental well-being.
Create fun experiences at home
Not every day needs to be packed with outings – and certainly over summer – staying in can be just as exciting. Encourage your child’s creativity with hands-on activities such as arts and crafts, DIY projects, or even simple home science experiments. Crafting with recyclable materials, painting, or sculpting with clay helps develop fine motor skills and imaginative thinking, for example.
Cooking together is another fun and educational way to spend time at home. Get your child involved in selecting recipes, measuring ingredients, and baking homemade treats. This not only teaches them practical skills but also strengthens family bonds.
For a quieter yet equally enriching activity, reading is a great way to keep children engaged. Create a cosy reading nook at home and let them choose books that spark their interest. Whether it’s an adventure novel, a science book, or a picture story, reading fosters language development and a lifelong love for books.
Balancing fun, learning, and relaxation
School holidays are a time for children to unwind, but ensuring they have a mix of educational, physical, and creative activities can make their break more fulfilling. By exploring cultural sites, engaging in holiday camps, spending time outdoors, and encouraging creativity at home, you can create a holiday experience that is both fun and meaningful.
At SISD, we encourage families to make the most of these breaks by embracing a mix of learning, adventure and relaxation, ensuring that every holiday is an opportunity for growth, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
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