With summer fast approaching and the days getting hotter, it is now a good time to start thinking about how you are going to keep your child engaged and entertained over the long summer months.
A summer programme or camp can be a great opportunity for your child to have fun whilst trying something new. There are camps ranging from the academic to the dramatic, whether your child dreams of directing their own musical or coding the next big in the tech world, from going back to nature and learning about sustainable living, to improving their skills on the football pitch.
But with so many options, both in the UAE and abroad, finding the right summer camp can be a challenge.
Fiona McKenzie, Director of Gabbitas Education, shares her 5 top tips for choosing the right summer programme for each child.
1. Choose something they will enjoy
It sounds simple but it can be easy for parents to focus on what they may think is the perfect coding summer course to get their child ahead, when in fact, the child would actually much rather be immersed in putting on a drama production or learning about how to create fashion blog. Talk to them about what they would enjoy and then it will turn into a valuable learning and life experience. Plus, if the camp is abroad, much less chance of them being homesick if they are having fun and loving what they are doing!
2. Get the right balance between work and play
Yes – a summer camp can be an ideal opportunity to improve some academic skills but remember, it is still meant to be a holiday! Make sure you pick a programme that is fun and engaging and that has plenty of exciting and stimulating activities alongside the ‘work’ aspects. Look out for cultural trips to places of interest and for activities that offer development in different skill sets such as presentation skills or learning a new sport.
3. Think about location
There are lots of great options available to families in the UAE ranging from STEM to Parkour or Hip Hop to Theatre skills. However, if you are considering something further afield then this can also be an extremely positive experience. For some children a few weeks away from the “bubble” of the UAE can provide a very different range of opportunities and experiences. For example there are some great camps which have a focus on healthy living and outdoor activities or have a specific focus on an activity such assailing or circus skills.
4. Make sure it is age appropriate
Before applying, make sure you are clear about the age groups for the courses. There is nothing worse than if your child feels like they are too old or too young to fit in, aim for the sweet spot right in the middle of the age bracket to ensure your child gets a more rounded experience. Also double check to see if there are any entrance criteria to be sure your child is eligible to take part in the camp.
5. Make it a family event
There are plenty of summer programmes which offer something for all the family, whether it is brushing up on computer skills for the parents, or taking an art class whist the children are off exploring and building camps in the woods or learning tennis. Make it a family affair can be a great way of entertaining everyone and bonding over the shared experiences.
What are the top 5 benefits of going to a residential summer camp?
- Your child will make new friends
- They might discover a new skill or talent
- It’s an opportunity to build resilience and gain independence
- They’ll have fun and experience a real adventure
- It’s a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture
Summer programmes and camps are a fantastic way for children and teenagers to have fun, learn new skills not covered at school, meet interesting new people and broaden their minds. For help finding the perfect summer camp for your child, contact Gabbitas Education on admin@gabbitas.ae or +971 (0) 445 16933.
