To all the parents out there, how are you managing the holiday with the kids at home? I trust you’re handling their constant requests and lively energy. Time seems to be flying by, with half of August already gone, and in just two weeks, we’ll be back to school routines.
Earlier in the holiday, this column began a series to guide parents on how to engage their children meaningfully during the break. We discussed the importance of introducing children to vocational skills, emphasizing that practical skills are becoming as valuable as academic qualifications. We suggested various skills such as painting, drawing, tailoring, cooking, graphic design, hairdressing, carpentry, and others. While some of these might be challenging depending on the child’s age, we encouraged parents to start with simpler skills. The key takeaway was that parents should focus on discovering and nurturing their children’s talents.
We then turned our attention to teaching teenagers about money. We concluded that financial education is crucial, especially during the teenage years when they are transitioning into adulthood. Understanding money helps teenagers manage spending, saving, and giving. We recommended that parents teach kids about contentment, help them find ways to earn money in their free time, set up a bank account for them, and start saving for their future education. By doing this, teenagers learn the importance of financial planning early on.
We also covered strategies for teaching younger children about money. These included guiding them in making smart spending choices, turning savings into a fun activity like counting coins into a piggy bank, and involving them in simple financial tasks like calculating shopping costs. Having ongoing conversations about money helps children become more financially confident and responsible.
As for managing the household during this lengthy holiday period amid the challenging economic climate, we offered some practical advice. We encouraged parents to revisit their Home Economics knowledge and set up a visible meal plan for the family, ensuring that everyone knows what’s for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We also suggested varying meals to keep things interesting, purchasing bulk items like refill packs to save costs, trying out new recipes like bread and doughnut making, and minimizing food waste by serving appropriate portions.
Parents, we recognize that some of these suggestions may require effort, but have you tried implementing any of them? What has worked for you so far? If you haven’t yet, which ideas do you think you’d like to try before the holiday ends?
There is still time. With three weeks left in the holiday season, there’s plenty of opportunity to introduce your child to a new vocational skill or explore their interests. And if you haven’t yet identified your child’s passion, now is the time to do so, setting the stage for future skill development. As the saying goes, “It’s never too late to start.”
A special shout-out to every parent who is doing their best to help their children become the best versions of themselves, especially those who’ve taken the initiative to enroll their children in vocational training during this holiday season despite the challenges facing Nigeria. May all your efforts bear fruit, and may we enjoy the rewards of our hard work in good health. Amen.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
