How to Engage Your Child During Summer Vacation — Beyond Just Coding and AI Classes

Summer vacation is here, and with it comes a big question for many parents: “What should my child do during the break?” Scroll through social media or WhatsApp groups, and you’ll find tons of suggestions — from coding camps to AI workshops, from robotics classes to creative art sessions. It feels like everyone is enrolling their child in some tech-related course. But is that really the best path for every child?

The short answer: Not necessarily.

Yes, technology is important. Coding and AI are part of our future. But that doesn’t mean every child has to be an expert programmer. What every child does need is the ability to think critically, solve problems, ask questions, and be creative — and that can come from a wide variety of summer experiences.

Unfortunately, most schools still focus heavily on exams and memorization. There’s little time for hands-on learning, discovery, or real-world application. That’s where summer can become a turning point. It’s the perfect time to give your child the freedom to explore new interests and build real skills — outside of textbooks.

So what are some smart, future-focused ways to engage children during the summer holidays?

1. Real STEM Learning

STEM isn’t just about computers — it’s about science, technology, engineering, and math coming to life through fun and meaningful projects. Think: building a robot, making a solar-powered car, using Arduino to create smart systems, or experimenting with simple electronics. These hands-on activities spark curiosity and teach real-world skills — all while having fun.

2. Nature and Outdoor Science

Not all science needs to happen indoors. Children can learn so much just by interacting with nature. Let them grow a plant, observe birds, build a rain gauge, or try solar experiments. These activities boost observation, patience, and environmental awareness.

3. Creative Thinking and Design

Creative play is just as important as logic and math. Activities like storytelling, sketching inventions, building with LEGO, or trying 3D design help kids express ideas and think outside the box — a skill highly valued even in tech careers.

4. Soft Skills and Communication

The future will belong to those who can work in teams, express their ideas clearly, and adapt to change. Encourage your child to take part in group challenges, presentations, debates, or simple home projects where they explain their ideas. These small exercises build leadership and confidence.

5. Physical Play and Free Exploration

Let’s not forget the value of movement and unstructured play. Whether it’s sports, pretend play, crafts, or building something with their hands, free time helps children explore their interests and recharge.

So… Should You Enroll in Coding or AI Classes?

Sure — if your child shows genuine interest. But don’t feel pressured just because it’s trending. The best summer activities are those that match your child’s personality, curiosity, and learning style. Some kids love screens, others love wires and gears, while some just want to explore the outdoors.

Every child is different — and that’s okay.

Final Thoughts: Make This Summer Count

Summer break isn’t just a break from school — it’s a chance to grow, explore, and learn in new ways. Whether it’s through robotics, gardening, art, or science experiments, the goal is the same: to help children become curious, confident, and capable individuals.

This summer, don’t follow the crowd — follow your child. Give them opportunities to think, build, create, and discover the world in their own way. That’s the kind of learning that lasts a lifetime.

One great way to make summer meaningful is by enrolling kids in the PSC STEM Summer Camp 2025, happening in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Abbottabad. Designed for ages 7 to 16, and 2025 Theme is “Innovate for Impact – Solving Real World Challenges” the camp offers hands-on activities like robotics, engineering challenges, and fun science experiments—no prior coding experience needed. It encourages creativity, problem-solving, and real-world learning through locally developed STEM kits. Certificates are awarded in collaboration with the Pakistan Science Club, ECO Science Foundation, and AIOU. Learn more and register at paksc.org/camp.