Sahil Manzoor Bhatti
Winter vacations have begun from 1st December for students up to Class 8. As we know, the Kashmir Valley experiences a harsh and prolonged cold wave starting from November every year. Due to this extreme weather, it becomes difficult to conduct regular classes in schools. For decades, educational institutions in Kashmir have remained closed throughout winter, reopening only at the end of February.
These months, however, offer parents an excellent opportunity to contribute to their children’s overall growth. Winter is a time when children stay indoors, and parents can provide them with the right environment, support, and motivation to strengthen their educational goals. With ample time at home, students can overcome their academic weaknesses and refine their skills.
Children are the foundation of every nation. They are the future teachers, doctors, engineers, scientists, leaders, businesspeople, and innovators. Children are naturally kind, gentle, smart, innocent, and sometimes stubborn. They do not differentiate between rich and poor or between religions. Their world is full of imagination, possibilities, and dreams. Most children prefer to live in their own creative space, governed by their own simple rules.
Like many others, I, too, miss my childhood—those carefree days that will never return. If life allowed us to start again, many of us would walk the path more seriously. But destiny lies in the hands of the Almighty. We should never regret what we could not achieve or what we lost. Our presence in the present moment is what truly matters; everything else is beyond our control.
Childhood is a priceless period that no one forgets. Childhood memories bring joy, excitement, and sometimes a touch of sadness when we realise they can never be relived. Every small moment stays with us forever. Time moves forward, and wise are those who value it and use it meaningfully.
We all get 24 hours a day, but it is impossible to study, work, play, and rest all at once. Every activity has its time, and maintaining a healthy balance is essential. When we feel tired, we rest; when fresh, we learn and grow. This article aims to guide students on how they can spend their winter break productively without boredom and make learning enjoyable.
With the shift of the final examination session to March under the New Education Policy (NEP-2020), a new academic cycle begins earlier. Most schools complete the syllabus before winter vacations, which means students do not necessarily need to attend tuitions. They can revise at home comfortably. If they face difficulties, they can consult their teachers through WhatsApp groups, online classes, or previously discussed learning methods. Travelling long distances for tuition in winter only wastes precious time.
Students should prepare a timetable. Even if they cannot follow it strictly, dividing time for all activities ensures balance. More time should be dedicated to weaker subjects. Winter is a great opportunity to develop new interests such as drawing, art, or other creative pursuits.
Offering Salah (Namaz) five times a day is obligatory and keeps the mind peaceful and focused. Learning and reciting the Holy Quran during winter improves concentration and strengthens moral character. Strong Quranic knowledge protects children from harmful influences, including drugs, and teaches respect for parents, elders, and teachers.
Students can also expand their vocabulary and reading habits. Reading storybooks, general knowledge books, or biographies builds confidence and knowledge. Every day should bring a new word, a new thought, or a new lesson. Parents should encourage children who show interest in sports, as physical activity keeps them mentally and physically fit.
A common misconception among some parents is that children must stay with books 24 hours a day to excel. This is incorrect. Academic excellence is important, but sports and co-curricular activities are equally essential for healthy growth and happiness.
What to Do During Bad Weather
Today’s world is full of technology. Children can be allowed limited screen time for productive purposes. Watching news channels helps them stay updated with current affairs. Students in higher grades may join gyms or play indoor games during winter, after consulting a doctor if needed. Gyms are easily accessible and help keep young people away from drugs and unhealthy habits. A student who becomes interested in fitness naturally avoids junk food and harmful substances.
Children should work on developing their personalities from an early age—learn to apologise when wrong, stay away from stress, and embrace a positive attitude.
