Half-term camps with TUS - a recipe for a successful and worthwhile summer
For many parents, summer is a time of logistical challenges - balancing work and childcare can be quite a task. More and more families are therefore choosing half-day camps in Warsaw. A form of recreation that combines care with valuable developmental activities. As a child psychologist, I view this with a great deal of enthusiasm, especially when the half-day programme includes Social skills training (TUS). It is what gives these holiday gatherings a deeper meaning.
Children need contact with their peers
In a world where the screen often replaces conversation, peer relationships become even more important. For pre-school and early school-age children, playing together is more than just a way of spending time - it is key to emotional and social development.
As a school psychologist, I observe how many children today have difficulty in starting a conversation, maintaining eye contact or simply... having fun together without a tablet at hand. I often hear from teachers: "he's great at games, but he can't get along with his colleagues in real life". These are not individual cases - this is the new reality.
The half-school is a space where these relationships have the chance to resonate to the full. Daily meetings, shared meals, games, minor conflicts and compromises all create a natural environment for learning social skills. And while there is not always time to work on them in depth at school, the half-term camps with TUS give real space for this.
What exactly is TUS?
Social Skills Training (TUS) is a method that supports children in learning how to function in a group, express emotions, resolve conflicts or deal with difficult social situations. It is particularly helpful for neuroatypical childrenbut it also works successfully with children who are not on the spectrum - as a prevention of difficulties and to build healthy communication patterns.
In the context of TUS semi-colonies can be implemented in the form of daily blocks of activities, workshops, but also 'smuggled in' through games. It is in action that children learn the most - and if this action takes place under the guidance of a specialist, it gains enormous value.
Why are half-term camps more than just 'free time'?
Although holidays are associated with ease and relaxation (and rightly so!), it is worth remembering that children also need structure. A stable schedule gives them sense of security, facilitates the regulation of emotions and promotes predictability.
In my work with children, I often come across situations where, after returning from holidays without a day plan, children find it difficult to get back into the school rhythm - they are irritable, get frustrated more quickly and have difficulty concentrating. Therefore, a well-planned half-day camps in Warsaw (or another city) can be not only attractive, but also helps to maintain the child's emotional balance.
Half-schools Warsaw - how to choose wisely?
Warsaw today offers a huge selection of half-day camps for children - From sports to art to therapy. What is worth looking out for as a parent?
Above all, whether there are activities in the programme to support emotional and social development - precisely such as TUS activities. It is also important who teaches the classes: do the staff have psychological, pedagogical or therapeutic experience?
From a psychologist's point of view, proportions are also important: time for activity and play should be interspersed with moments of rest and free expression. Only then do children have the chance not only to 'survive' a week without school, but to make real use of it - emotionally and socially.
Half-day camps in Warsaw with TUS - what does the child gain?
Children returning from semi-semi-colonies with TUS are often more open, bolder and better able to understand emotions - both their own and those of others. This is the result of daily contact with the group and experiencing different situations together. Even if the child is not yet able to name it, the effects can quickly be seen in his or her behaviour: better group coping, easier conflict resolution, greater empathy.
For many children it is also the first a step towards empowerment - because in a group you can be important, heard and liked, even if things don't always go perfectly.
During the school year, I have students who, after participating in TUS summer activities, find their way around the classroom faster, build friendships more easily and get into conflicts less often. One boy once said to me, "I learned at the semi-college that if I get upset, I can go to the side and calm down, rather than shouting straight away." Seemingly a small thing, yet a huge change.
If you are looking for a half-school in Warsaw which, in addition to having fun, offers children real support in their development, it is worth looking at the following offer Kids Medic. It is not only a carefully planned day full of activities, but above all a professional approach to emotions and human relations. TUS activities led by professionals, the children leave these meetings richer in important experiences that will pay off in school and everyday life. Because holidays can be not only carefree, but also wise - you just have to choose the right place.
Don't waste time and sign your child up for half-day camps for children in Warsaw run by Kids Medic!
Monika Maćkowska
Child psychologist
Photo source: Freepik.com
