Normally the holidays are a time for rest, relaxation and family time. But learning doesn’t have to stop just because it’s the holidays. It’s important to keep children informed by helping them engage in different activities that can keep them curious and excited about learning. Below are some of them; Reading Claudine Uwamahoro, a physiologist and a mother-of-two says that making reading a routine is still an important daily ritual through school holidays. “I used to take my children at the library almost every day when they were in holidays, but after the pandemic took over, I had to bring books closer to them so that they keep on updating themselves. Children always develop skills, improve literacy and put their imagination to good use through this exercise,’’ she says. She goes on to say that children who access books at their homes had significantly better reading and writing skills than those who don’t. There are various books like historical books, languages, mathematical books, science books and story books- all of these are vital in helping your child grow academically. Practice critical thinking exercises A critical thinking exercise involves rational, clear and logical thoughts. Children always improve their way of thinking by assessing, analysing, evaluating, and solving simple equations. Alex Mugenzi, a father-of-four says, whether you are employed in finance, education, engineering, law, research or management, critical thinking is paramount. “Children need to practice critical thinking exercise as they grow up. It is our duty to help them especially when they are in school holidays,” he told the New Times. Critical thinking is not restricted to one domain, and the ability to think on a diverse issue may be a valuable asset in every career. When it comes to children, it strengthens their capacity of problem solving, expression of their ideas, enhance creativity, and they develop lifetime skills as well, Mugenzi explains. Debates and discussions Debate is a valuable activity for learners at all skill levels. Debate teaches useful life skills as well as other academic pursuits and life more generally. Most obviously, debates build confidence speaking in public and expressing ideas eloquently. Dialogues and discussions are powerful and often an opportunity for teaching and learning. Allen Mukunzi a lower secondary student at Lycee Notre Dame d’ Afrique told The New Times that debates with her family members is one of the best part of the holiday she enjoys greatly. “My parents are cool with it, we make debates about different subjects like what we saw on television, news or relevant events and sometimes on social media too,’’ she says. Esther Mugabekazi, a mother-of-three and resident of Kicukiro says she always practices this exercise while her children are in holidays because she found it important. “It helps them to develop their critical thinking skills, to become responsible and empathetic. It also encourages them to be aware of issues in the world, to analyse and to consider things from different angles.’’ Keep them away of electronic devices During the holidays, it can be hard to find new and interesting things to keep children entertained, but it’s still not a good idea to let them be glued on their electronic gadgets. “Children need time to themselves; to switch off the bombardment of the outside world especially social media and pursue their own thoughts and occupations, as well as discover personal interests and talents,’’ Yves Izere, a communication specialist and a father-of-two explains. “Children of the digital era are used to having constant entertainment, drama and instant gratifications. Removing these distractions allows some much-needed time for quiet reflection, a wandering mind, and developing creative strategies to keep them entertained,’’ he adds. Visit historical places Despite the pandemic, such places remain a great option to keep children learning during holidays. This different experience of learning fosters more active engagement with topics and ideas that will transfer into children’s curriculum at school. Children also love the interactive, tactile and experience of learning at historical places. “Historical places offer a dynamic opportunity to expose children to experiences and explore new things in a rich and educational environment. Through historical places and arts exhibitions, children also have the ability to learn and explore their own curiosities, and this unique exposure provides the foundation of creativity, critical thinking, and connection to the world around them,’’ Donald Shema Munezero, a visual artist observes.
