- Astiba Kebongo urges parents to use the half-term break to nurture discipline, strengthen family relationships and support the emotional well-being of their children.
- The half-term break provides an opportunity for parents to reconnect with their children beyond academics.
- Character formation, discipline and mental well-being are as important as examination performance.
There is a wise African proverb that says, “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” While not every act of indiscipline stems from neglect, the proverb reminds us that children need guidance, belonging, mentorship and understanding from the family, school and society.
Another timeless saying observes that “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” The values, attitudes and habits we nurture in our children today will determine the adults they become tomorrow.
Recent cases of unrest witnessed in some Kenyan schools have challenged parents, teachers and communities to reflect deeply on the kind of support, discipline and role modelling we are providing to our young people.
As schools close for the half-term break, we are presented with a golden opportunity to reconnect with our children. This break should not merely be a pause from academic work; it should be a season of restoration, reflection and character formation.
It is a time to listen to our children, understand their challenges, strengthen family bonds, nurture their mental well-being and guide them towards responsible citizenship.
Parenting, as many have observed, does not come with an instruction manual. Yet it remains one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to us.
The future of our families, communities and nation depends on the values we instil in our children today.
As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Every conversation, example and lesson taught during this break has the potential to shape a better citizen for tomorrow.
The recent cases of unrest in schools remind us that discipline is not merely about punishment.
True discipline is about self-control, responsibility, respect for others and making wise choices even when no one is watching.
ALSO READ:
Parents to pay more as principals propose new fee structure for public schools
Parents should create time during the break to have honest conversations with their children. Rather than speaking at them, they should speak with them.
They should listen to their concerns, fears, pressures and aspirations.
Children should understand that:
- Actions have consequences.
- Respect for authority is essential.
- Differences should be resolved through dialogue, not violence.
- School rules exist to create a safe and productive learning environment.
- Good character is more valuable than temporary popularity.
The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 22:6:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Children learn more from what adults do than from what adults say.
A parent is a child’s first teacher and the home is a child’s first classroom.
Parents who demonstrate honesty, respect, patience, hard work and self-control are more likely to raise children who embrace the same values.
If we expect our children to communicate respectfully, we must communicate respectfully. If we expect them to be responsible, we must model responsibility ourselves.
Leadership expert John C. Maxwell observed:
“A child who is allowed to be disrespectful to his parents will not have true respect for anyone.”
Similarly, Stephen R. Covey reminds us that:
“What you do has far greater impact than what you say.”
Parents, teachers, religious leaders and community members must therefore become positive examples worth emulating.
Supporting children’s mental well-being
Many learners today face academic pressure, peer influence, social media pressures and uncertainty about their future.
Some struggle silently while appearing perfectly fine.
The half-term break should be a period of emotional renewal.
Parents should:
- Spend quality time with their children.
- Encourage open conversations.
- Listen without judgment.
- Help children manage stress.
- Limit excessive screen time.
- Encourage physical exercise and outdoor activities.
- Promote healthy sleeping habits.
Psychologist Carl Rogers emphasized that one of the deepest human needs is to be understood.
Many young people simply need someone willing to listen.
A child who feels valued, heard and supported is more likely to develop confidence, resilience and emotional stability.
The saying “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop” remains relevant today.
While learners deserve rest after a demanding school term, they should also engage in meaningful activities that build character, skills and responsibility.
Academic growth
- Revising classwork and completing assignments.
- Reading books beyond the school curriculum.
- Improving areas where they may be struggling academically.
Life skills development
- Learning household responsibilities.
- Developing problem-solving skills.
- Learning basic financial literacy.
- Participating in community service where possible.
Talent development
- Participating in sports and physical activities.
- Exploring music, art, drama and creative writing.
- Pursuing hobbies that build confidence and creativity.
Education is not only about passing examinations; it is about preparing children for life.
The role of children at home
The break should remind learners that they are important members of the family and society.
ALSO READ:
Children should:
- Respect parents and elders.
- Assist with household chores.
- Take responsibility for their belongings.
- Show kindness to siblings and neighbours.
- Use technology responsibly.
- Maintain healthy study habits.
Learning responsibility at home prepares young people for responsibility in school and later in life.
As the proverb says, “Charity begins at home.”
Balancing work and parenting
Many parents face the challenge of balancing work commitments and caring for children during school breaks.
While economic demands may limit the amount of time available, quality often matters more than quantity.
Parents can:
- Schedule family time intentionally.
- Share meals together whenever possible.
- Monitor children’s activities and friendships.
- Maintain regular communication even when away at work.
- Create clear expectations and routines.
Family therapist Virginia Satir noted:
“Children learn who they are from the messages they receive from the people around them.”
A few meaningful conversations can leave footprints that last a lifetime.
A collective responsibility
Raising disciplined and responsible children is not the work of parents alone.
Schools, religious institutions, communities and government agencies all have a role to play.
However, the home remains the first school and parents remain the first teachers.
If we desire peaceful schools, responsible citizens and ethical leaders tomorrow, we must invest in character formation today.
We cannot expect to reap where we have not sown.
The seeds of discipline, respect, resilience and integrity planted today will determine the harvest of tomorrow.
As learners enjoy their half-term break, let us remember that education is not only about grades and certificates.
It is also about nurturing values, discipline, emotional well-being and responsible citizenship.
This break presents an opportunity to strengthen family bonds, restore emotional health, develop talents and reinforce positive values.
Let us use this time wisely to guide, mentor and encourage our children.
Frederick Douglass wisely observed:
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”
The best inheritance a parent can give a child is not wealth, but character.
Kenya’s future is sitting in our homes during this half-term break.
The doctors, teachers, engineers, clergy, entrepreneurs, leaders and parents of tomorrow are under our care today.
If we sow discipline, we shall reap responsibility.
If we sow values, we shall reap integrity.
If we sow love, guidance and wisdom, we shall reap a generation capable of transforming our nation for the better.
Let us therefore embrace this half-term break not merely as a holiday, but as an opportunity to mould character, nurture dreams and build a generation that will make Kenya proud.
These sentiments have also featured prominently during the ongoing KESSHA conference in Mombasa.
By Astiba Kebongo
jackiekebongo@gmail.com
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
