When I was a child, I remember I am always excited for summer vacation because that means: unlimited play outdoors and swimming at the beach in the province.

This may still be applicable to children of this generation. Or may not.

Alex has not yet gone to the beach nor the pool. The closest she has gone so far was their inflatable pool which we setup in our garage late last month and their swimming in the batya during their bath time. I can say that it is partly our fault as we have not brought them outside the Metro like what our parents used to do. Actually, Alex’s ballet recital is something that sort of prevents us from doing so. The recital will be at the end of this month and she has practices thrice a week.

I can say that that is another aspect that differs the summer of this generation to ours. This generation has so many activities lined up for summer. Some they probably chose and some, their parents chose for them. Arts and Crafts, all sorts of workshops (acting, dancing. modelling and singing), tutorials for the next school year, swimming lessons, and many more. Alex is into ballet as I mentioned. Maxyn is too young to be engaged in something else but I have been thinking of enrolling her to swimming classes. Then again, that could prevent us from going on a summer vacation.

I know, we parents, only want the best for our children. I know we want to hone whatever skills they have so they may grow as holistic individuals. Actually, admit it or not, some of the things we want for them are things we cannot pursue for ourselves. But let us not forget that summer should mean vacation. Vacation from months of studying for school. I personally equate vacation with OUTDOOR play. Don’t you just love to hear your children squealing due to excitement of running after a playmate as they play habulan (chase me)?

Alex loves ballet and the outdoors too. So after the recital, hopefully we can teach her how to play patintero and luksong tinik.