“Now that school is over, how can we keep our children engaged and busy? Are there any summer camps you recommend?” This was a common question I heard on the last day of school. I understand that summer can be particularly challenging for parents of children of determination (POD), especially for those remaining in the country.
We are lucky to live in a city like Dubai that offers a variety of activities to keep POD children engaged, happy, and stimulated. Parents can engage in numerous activities with their children without sending them to a summer camp. This time can be used as an opportunity to bond by creating their own summer camp and designing a scheduled plan based on activities their child enjoys or could benefit from learning.
Since it’s too hot for outdoor activities, let’s focus on indoor activities to help you plan a fun and enriching summer for your child. Consider taking your children to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo or the Dubai Science Park, both of which offer educational and entertaining experiences.
In Dubai, you’ll find many sensory rooms designed to provide a calming environment for your children to enjoy. Some of the sensory rooms you can check out include the SNF Development Center, Sensation Station, KidsFirst Medical Center, The Developing Child Centre (TDCC), and Little Stars Early Intervention Center. These facilities offer specialized environments to help children relax and engage in therapeutic activities.
Children love cooking, and there are many options for them to explore this interest. Check out culinary schools and community centers that offer cooking classes specifically designed for kids, such as Mamalu Kitchen, Carluccio’s Pizza-Making Classes, and Pursueit. These programs provide both fun and educational experiences. Alternatively, you can create your own cooking classes at home and introduce your child to a new recipe each day.
Engaging your child in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects at home or attending art workshops at places like Thejamjar or Dubai International Art Centre can be both therapeutic and a great way to express creativity. Additionally, consider enrolling your child in music and dance sessions that focus on rhythm and movement, which can be highly beneficial. StepUp Academy and F.A.M.E. offer excellent programs in these areas. Sports and physical activities are also crucial for your child’s development. Options include swimming, horse riding at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, and adapted sports programs like the ones at Skilldeer. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also enhance overall well-being.
Technology can play a key role in enhancing your children’s learning journey. Interactive educational apps like Match It Up (1,2, &3), Kidloland, Listen And Learn, Eda Play Toby, Pepi Bath Lite, Peek A Zoo, ABC Kids, and Endless Alphabet offer engaging and enjoyable ways to meet children’s unique learning needs. In addition, virtual experiences from various museums and attractions, including Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the Museum of the Future, Etihad Museum, The Green Planet, AYA Universe, and Play DXB Virtual Reality Theme Park, offer immersive and interactive environments that enrich traditional learning experiences.
Remember, the key is to keep your child engaged with a variety of fun and educational activities, ensuring they have a summer that is both fulfilling and beneficial for developing new skills and knowledge.
Here are some options for summer camps in Dubai that cater to people of determination:
- Dubai Club for People of Determination
- Kids Summer Camps
- Dubai Sports Camp
Have an amazing summer vacation!
By: Lina Abbas – Head Teacher
Rashid Centre for People of Determination