…between term time and holiday season. Your child deserves a break from constant formal learning after giving so much effort. Just as a change in routine is good for you, it’ll also benefit your seven-year-old.

For the first few days at least, let him enjoy his holiday the way he wants. And if that means playing full-time without looking at books or learning activities, then go ahead. It won’t do him any harm.

Whatever you agree with him about the amount and frequency of his study during this period, make sure he sticks to it. And when he does, resist any temptation to increase the amount of time he spends doing so.

…in his holiday routine, even when he’s not studying. Help him plan out each day to some extent, so he has a rough idea of what he’ll be doing each day when he wakes up.

Explain that you think six weeks is a long time for him not to look at his school books, so you want him to study for, say, half an hour a couple of times a week. Keep such periods short, realistic and manageable.

If Junior shows interest, then going to one or two could be enjoyable. And, remember, enrichment is more than just academic classes. Check out your neighbourhood community club for affordable and fun courses.

You run the risk of crushing all enthusiasm if you simply cram him with too many enrichment classes or activities.

Make a point of chatting with him regularly about his break and how he spends his time. That’s the best way to ensure he has a good balance between work and play. Amend his schedule if you think there’s too much of one or the other.

It really doesn’t matter what the parents next door do with their child during the holiday. Yours is a unique individual, and your task is to find a range of learning and play activities that suits him.

In the last week of the holiday, perhaps have an extra study session just to get him right back into the homework habit. Re-establish a good sleeping routine so that he’s well rested when the next school term starts.

(Text: Dr Richard C. Woolfson, Young Parents / Additional reporting: Natalya Molok)

If you’re looking for hands-on exercises that teach your kids to apply academic concepts at home, Learning Lab has you covered. Click here to find out more.