Midterm Break Should Be a Nice Break

The midterm break, eagerly awaited by students and parents receiving formal education from primary to high school, is approaching.

Low grades can be a source of tension during report card time for students, and this situation is observed in parents as well. In fact, for some parents, the positive feelings created by the holiday can turn into anxiety and worry due to both their child's low grades and thinking about how to keep their children occupied during this holiday period.

Dr. Ayşegül Güner Algan, a lecturer at Altınbaş University, points out that the break given for rest and fun in education can sometimes become a source of anxiety for some families and says, "Some teachers or courses wanting to evaluate this holiday break as a study marathon also increases the stress that the family is already experiencing."

Algan stated, "While it should be a nice break and motivate, for some families, it causes stress and anxiety. This negatively affects all family relationships. Don't make the holiday a time where you yell at your child to do their homework or leave them in front of the screen," she said.

Dr. Ayşegül Güner Algan emphasized the importance of not forgetting the positive effects of breaks given at necessary times in the learning process. Algan, who stated that the quality time spent with children during the holiday break has a positive effect on their lessons in the next period, made recommendations such as, "Nature-related programs including physical activities have great benefits for both cognitive and emotional development. Depending on the family's social and economic situation, this can vary from skiing to walking on the beach and collecting stones or going to the village and taking care of chickens."

Emphasizing the importance of activities that include mental relaxation and increase concentration, Algan said, "You can read books with your family with light music, do puzzles, or involve them in repair or handicraft activities. You can even do breathing exercises in front of a beautiful view. Social games like board games, card games, or silent cinema will both entertain your child and strengthen your relationship. Just want to spend time with your child."

Pointing out that as children get older, they will want to spend time with their peers rather than their families, Algan also recommended to families to ensure that their children socialize with their friends during a part of this holiday.

Highlighting the drawbacks of punishment or threat methods given in the face of low grades, Algan said, "Punishments given during the holiday according to the grades in children's report cards negatively affect the relationship with them rather than motivating them to study. In addition, a gift or reward set for a good report card at the beginning of the term is a more valid method than punishment and threat." She also evaluated.

According to Algan, it should not be forgotten that if the child cannot reach the set goal, no reward should be given. Therefore, Algan drew attention to the importance of considering the child's capacity when setting goals.

Algan also drew attention to the importance of parents meeting the needs of their children both emotionally and physically, saying, "While our parents expect their children to be successful in their lessons, they should not forget to provide the support they need. This support is not only about creating a good study environment, but also about the parent being emotionally and physically present when the child needs it. At this point, no matter how many extra courses you have your child take, if they do not feel you are with them, you will not have provided the necessary support."