How to keep kids engaged during the holiday

The holidays are a time of joy, relaxation, and family bonding. For parents, however, it can also be a period of stress as they scramble to find ways to keep their children entertained and engaged.

The Nigerian holiday season, with its blend of traditional celebrations and modern festivities, offers a unique opportunity to create memorable experiences for kids.

The long vacation in most states begins in July and lasts until the end of August. Schools resume around the first week of September, and pupils will have spent at least six weeks at home.

Educationist and Child Psychologist, Mercy Chepaka, said it can be a time of restlessness as kids often need creative and engaging activities to stay entertained during the holidays. Meanwhile, below are six ways to keep your kids engaged during the long vacation:

Explore local culture and traditions

Nigeria is a country rich in culture and traditions. The holidays provide an excellent opportunity to introduce children to these cultural practices.

Chepaka said, “Take them to local festivals, cultural centres, or heritage sites. Engage them in traditional crafts, dances, and music. For example, attending the Calabar Carnival or the Argungu Fishing Festival can be both educational and entertaining.”

Holiday craft projects

An educationist and Head of International Marketing at 16 Plus Schools, Mr. Aniedi Akpan, noted that craft projects are a great way to keep kids busy and stimulate their creativity.

He said, “Encourage them to make holiday decorations, greeting cards, or gifts. Use materials that are easily available at home, such as paper, glue, scissors, and markers. Websites like Pinterest offer countless ideas for holiday-themed crafts that are both simple and fun.”

Akpan also suggested getting children involved in the kitchen by preparing holiday treats together.

“Cooking is not only a useful skill but also a fun and interactive way to spend time. You can bake cookies, cakes, or cook traditional Nigerian dishes like Jollof rice, and fry puff-puff. Allowing kids to measure ingredients, mix, and decorate the food gives them a sense of accomplishment and teaches them about culinary traditions.”

Reading and storytelling

Encourage a love for reading by setting up a cozy reading nook with a selection of books.

Children’s book illustrator, Mr. Onams Okene, said children should visit local libraries or bookstores to pick out holiday-themed story books that reflect Nigerian heritage.

“Storytelling sessions can also be a wonderful way to bond. Share folktales and stories from Nigerian history and culture. Websites like BookTrust and Goodreads provide excellent book recommendations for children of all ages.”

Okene also advised parents to take advantage of Nigeria’s beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather during the holidays. He added, “Plan outdoor activities such as picnics, hiking, or trips to the beach. Parks and nature reserves, like the Lekki Conservation Centre or Yankari National Park, offer a chance to explore nature and wildlife. Outdoor play not only keeps kids physically active but also helps them connect with the natural world.”

Educational outings

Museums, science centres, and historical sites can be both educational and entertaining.

Nigeria has numerous museums – the National Museum in Lagos, or the Benin City National Museum, where children can learn about the country’s history and culture.

Science centres offer interactive exhibits that make learning fun. Such outings can spark curiosity and a love for learning.

Akpan further said that in the digital age, there are many educational apps and websites that can keep kids engaged.

He added, “Platforms like Khan Academy, ABCmouse, and Duolingo offer a variety of learning activities in subjects ranging from math and science to languages and art. While screen time should be monitored, these resources can provide valuable learning experiences.”

Sports and physical activities

Enrol children in sports camps or classes to keep them active. Whether it is football, basketball, swimming, or martial arts, physical activities are essential for healthy development.

Sports also teach teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Many communities offer holiday sports programmes that cater to various age groups and skill levels.

Chepaka said families can organise board games, card games, and puzzles for family bonding.

“They encourage critical thinking, strategy, and healthy competition. Set aside regular family game nights where everyone can participate. Games like monopoly, scrabble, or Nigerian-themed games can be both educational and fun,” she noted.

Akpan also suggested introducing children to the joys of gardening, adding, “Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony, planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables can be a rewarding experience.

“Gardening teaches patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for nature. Plus, kids can enjoy the fruits of their labour, literally, when the plants start to grow.”

Music, dance, and movies

Music and dance are integral parts of Nigerian culture. Encourage kids to learn a musical instrument or take dance lessons.

Traditional Nigerian dances or contemporary styles like hip-hop can be both fun and a great form of exercise.

Music also helps in developing coordination and rhythm. Plan regular movie nights with a selection of family-friendly films.

Introduce children to Nigerian cinema by watching Nollywood movies that reflect local stories and culture.

Alternatively, attend local theatre productions or puppet shows, which can be both entertaining and culturally enriching.

Okene noted that keeping children engaged during the holidays requires creativity and planning, but it is also an opportunity to create lasting memories and foster growth in various areas.

“From exploring local culture and engaging in crafts to outdoor adventures and educational outings, there are countless ways to keep kids entertained and stimulated. The key is to balance fun with learning, ensuring that children have a holiday that is both enjoyable and enriching. By providing a diverse range of activities, parents can help their children develop new skills, discover new interests, and deepen their connection to Nigerian culture and traditions,” he said.