As schools close for the holidays, an education stakeholder is urging parents to rethink how children spend their time away from the classroom.
Rather than allowing weeks to drift by in unstructured routines dominated by screens and late mornings, experts are encouraging families to turn the break into a season of intentional growth.
A parenting guide by teacher and mentor Owen Bosire is sparking conversation among educators and parents alike. The message is simple but firm: Holidays should build discipline, skills, and character.
According to the Bosire, the absence of school structure often leads to learning loss and weakened routines.
Many children return to class having forgotten key concepts, struggled with disrupted sleep schedules, and developed excessive screen habits.
He argued that this pattern can be avoided if parents take a more active role in shaping daily routines during school breaks.
Bosire emphasizes that structure does not mean turning homes into classrooms, but rather creating balance.
“Simple measures such as setting regular wake-up and bedtime hours, limiting screen time and establishing a daily timetable can help children maintain focus and stability. When combined with dedicated reading time and structured revision hours, such routines keep young minds active without overwhelming them,” he said.
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Beyond academics, the guide shifts attention to life skills that are often overlooked during school terms. Assigning meaningful household responsibilities, teaching basic cooking or cleaning skills and involving children in simple budgeting decisions can strengthen independence and accountability.
The teacher says these experiences prepare children for adulthood just as much as exam preparation does.
Physical activity is also highlighted as critical. With many children increasingly confined indoors, parents are encouraged to promote outdoor play, sports, gardening and walking. Such activities not only improve physical health but also enhance mental well-being.
Equally important, the teacher underscores the role of values and character formation. Regular family conversations, participation in community or faith-based programs and active parental modeling of discipline are seen as foundational in shaping responsible citizens.
As families settle into the holiday season, educator says the responsibility now shifts from teachers to parents. The weeks ahead, argue, present a powerful opportunity.
With guidance and intention, the holiday break can become more than a pause from school — it can be a building season for the whole child.
By Philip Koech
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