Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Families and schoolchildren have reached the halfway mark of summer break — and many are using the time to build new skills and make core memories.
Parents across Abu Dhabi have planned a range of activities to keep their kids engaged, striking a balance between leisure and personal growth through educational programmes, camps, family trips, and creative pursuits.
Ali Al Sadi, a mother of two, enrolled her children in a sports camp to keep them active over the break. "Sports help children maintain their health and boost their self-esteem," she said. "Now my kids spend more time moving, learning teamwork, and forming new friendships — away from screens."
Khalfan Al Ali, another parent, chose a different route, taking the family abroad for hands-on cultural learning.
"Lessons that can't always be learned in a classroom can be learned through travel," Al Ali said, adding that exposing the children to different cultures and historical sites was the goal.
Other parents turned their children's summer toward creative endeavours. Fahad Alhammadi enrolled his daughter in coding and painting classes.
"We want her to try different things and discover her talents," he said. "These programmes let kids explore while having fun, and might even point them toward a future hobby."
Meanwhile, some families have leaned on free options available across the emirate. Zhoor Al Ameri, a mother of four, said community events at the Cultural Foundation — including art workshops and storytelling sessions — have kept her kids busy.
"These activities keep the children engaged," she said, adding that the best part is that they are free.
Not every family has followed a packed calendar of programmes and outings, though. Some have chosen to focus on life skills, family bonding, and quiet but meaningful moments.
"We've built a summer routine at home," said Fahad Obaid, a 32-year-old father of three. "We swim together in the evenings in a small pool I set up in the garden, and every few weeks we go to the movies, do puzzles, build with blocks, or cook simple meals together."
His goal, he said, is less screen time and more hands-on learning.
Mariam Al Ali, a 38-year-old mother of three, has taken a similar approach. "We read stories, play educational games and make treats together. For my kids, these moments hold equal significance,” she said.
For Umm Wasaif, another mother, the priority has simply been togetherness. "The school year is often very busy, so summer gives us the chance to spend quality time together."
