SUHAR, JUNE 21
As the summer arrives, families are wondering how their children will spend the long break. Hence, parents have various options to manage their free time, where some of them are enrolling them in courses, camps and training programmes.
For these families, the summer break is an opportunity to invest in children’s skills, talents, and personal growth. However, they usually face difficulties choosing the best programme or activity due to the countless available options.
Moreover, the confusion in households is originated from the challenge to establish a balance between parental guidance and the freedom of children that allows them to explore their interests.
Fatma al Balushi, a mother of three, says, “I believe parents should lead the decision, especially for younger children, they do not always understand what will benefit them in the future. We need to help them choose activities that develop their skills.”
On the other hand, other families see a substantial benefit in giving their children the freedom to enjoy the summer break and join any activity or programme that interests them.
Mohammed al Omairi, a father of two teenagers, argues that giving children the choice is essential. “When children choose activities they genuinely enjoy, they become more committed and motivated. Forcing them into programmes often leads to frustration and boredom,” he says. Likewise, teenagers feel appreciated when they are involved in the decision-making.
Turki Ali, a 15 years old teenager, expressed, “I like it when my parents suggest options and then let me decide, it makes me feel responsible and respected.”
However, it is critical to note that complete freedom may not always be the healthiest option. Some children tend to spend much of their summer on screens browsing through social media or playing video games. Accordingly, it comes a concern for many parents, which leads them to restricting their activities during the long break.
Perhaps the real issue is not who gets to decide but how the decision is made. In other words, gaining the ultimate benefits of summer programmes and activities relies on partnership than control. Parents can provide guidance, opportunities, and set limits, based on their children’s interests, passions and goals.
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