IN another month, some parents’ worse nightmare will be realised — their children will be on summer holidays.

Young people at home twiddling their thumbs is usually a sure recipe for disaster. But there is hope yet for parental sanity during this break; there is a variety of activities that children and youth can engage in during the summer months. Let us look at some of the activities that parents can consider.

Activities for children

* Summer school.

In summer school, kids can be involved in artistic endeavours, such as art and craft, games, music, and other such activities.

* Vacation Bible School (VBS).

At VBS they can engage in religious education along with elements of the creative arts.

* Swimming classe.

They can either learn to swim or improve on their swimming skills.

* Music classes.

They can begin or continue piano lessons or learn to play other instruments.

* Dance classes.

They can spend considerable time sharpening their dance techniques.

* Summer camps.

They can engage in structured Bible-based activities, as well as artistic and sporting activities.

Activities for teenagers

* Summer school.

In summer school, they can focus on their weak subjects in a relaxed setting.

* Pre high school classes.

Pre high school classes, primarily for those who will be first-time entrants in high school in the Christmas term. This will give them an advantage over their peers.

* Summer school .

In summer school, they can participate in activities in the visual and performing arts.

* Driving lessons in order to obtain driver’s licence.

A driver’s licence will allow the more privileged among them to drive themselves to and from classes and/or work in the new academic year.

* Summer jobs.

A job will allow them to obtain work experience and earn some money to help shoulder the cost of school in September.

* Self-defence classes.

They can learn self-defence techniques. Given the realities of today’s Jamaica, self-defence classes could prove especially beneficial. It also presents the opportunity for youths to channel their energies into a positive and rewarding activity.

* Computer classes.

They can gain some hands-on IT skills in preparation for school in September.

Parents should strive to make the summer experience enjoyable, but also purposeful for their children and teenagers. Try to balance the serious work with some fun time. Don’t forget to visit, if at all possible, some fun spots across Jamaica. One option is the beach.

Wayne Powell is a human resources professional. He may be reached at crisscounellor@yahoo.com