The excitement of having no classes will vanish fast as the vacation progresses. Sitting glued to television can be unhealthy. The challenge is to find ways to spend time productively and engagingly during the holidays.
Fun, one should have, since the summer vacation comes after a spell of gruelling preparations for final examinations. But, it should also be a time to think imaginatively, to explore new possibilities, and to hone one’s creative skills, say organisers of different vacation programmes.
Kaliyattom
Both government and private agencies conduct such programmes for students of different age groups. There are also certain cultural institutions such as the Pookkad Kalalayam, near Koyilandi, which conduct week-long vacation camps with a dash of creativity.
The week-long camp, scheduled to begin on April 23, is titled Kaliyattom. “Ours is a highly interactive camp comprising different modules such as theatre workshop, personal skill development programmes, and short excursions to villages,” said Kashi Sivadasan, joint convener of the camp. As many as 480 students had participated in the event last year. The camp will also have interactive sessions with high achievers, Mr. Sivadasan said.
RSC programmes
The Regional Science Centre and Planetarium (RSC)’s programmes will begin with a ‘Fun science’ camp on April 6.
The six-day camp is meant for high school students and comprises sessions to help participants understand science in a highly enjoyable and easy way, says Jayanth Ganguly of RSC.
Another six-day programme, ‘Creativity, Innovation and Change,’ is scheduled to begin on April 16. The centre also has other programmes such as Chemistry camp and Electronics camp.
Another event named Mazhavillu is meant for upper primary students and includes origami, folksong, and clay-modelling sessions. “Ours is a completely informal affair with no room for judgements,” says Justin Joseph of RSC.
Career guidance
The Centre for Information and Career Guidance India (CIGI) will have sessions covering career guidance, personality development, time management, and communication. The contact numbers are, Pookkad Kalalayam: 94467 32728; RSC: 0495-277 0571; and CIGI: 0495-2351366.
