USE OF A VACATION

Students heave a sigh of relief and are very happy when the final examinations are over and the vacation begins. A heavy load of studies leaves them practically little or no time to play or pursue the activities of their interests. All the while they are engaged in some mental activity of one type or the other.

But then they are faced with the problem: 'What should 1 do in the vacation?' One thing is very clear. Students should not be burdened with any form of studies during the holidays. They should say good-bye to their books of studies and utilise the entire vacation in pursuing other activities. The nature of these activities would depend upon the surroundings in which a student lives, the facilities available to him and the student's own aptitude and interests. Whatever be the activities pursued, they should invariably contribute to his physical development, and equip him to live a better life as a useful member of society. They should be voluntary, chosen by the student himself and should provide him the most needed diversion, rest and recreation.

A number of such activities may be suggested. First come games-both indoor and outdoor but preferably outdoor. Games like cricket, football, volleyball, badminton, hockey and table tennis as well as Indian games provide recreation with physical exercise. Swimming, bicycle-riding, horse-riding and trekking form another group of activities which provide rigorous physical exercise along with recreation.

Some time may be devoted daily to acquiring some skills like handling a computer, typewriting, shorthand, public speaking, cooking, tailoring, washing, wiring, carpentry or some repair work. Vacation is the best period for pursuing hobbies like reading, writing, music, dancing, painting, stamp-collection, photography, gardening, etc. These hobbies provide necessary diversion from the mental work and are excellent sources of relaxation, recreation, fun and useful knowledge.

For those who want some social activities there are activities like trips and excursions, sports competitions and staging of dramas. Students may offer their services to hospitals, public libraries or the Red Cross. If a student wants to earn as well as to learn, he may take up a part-time vacation job in some store or bank or such other institution.

They will feel fit and ready to pursue their study with renewed vigour when the school or the college reopens after the vacation.