Are Winter Camps Worth the High Costs?

How Worthwhile Are They? UAE Parents Worry Over Costly Winter Camps

Schools in the United Arab Emirates are soon closing their doors for a three-week winter break, lasting from December 16, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This period poses challenges for many families, particularly concerning the supervision of children, as many parents continue to work during the break. Consequently, an increasing number of parents are turning to winter camps to keep their children engaged and entertained over the festive period. However, the high costs of these camps are causing significant concern.

Winter Camps: A Costly Option?

The range of winter camps available in the UAE is extremely diverse. Programs centering on sports, arts, and technology offer excellent opportunities for children's development. However, the prices can be extremely high: some camps charge as much as 1,100 dirhams per week, even though the programs often last only a few hours a day. This equates to approximately $300 per week, which can place a significant financial burden on families over a three-week period.

Parental Reactions: Balancing Value and Time

Many parents feel that the cost of the camps is not proportionate to the services offered, particularly if the programs are of short duration. Some families prefer to manage their children's supervision themselves, such as taking leave from work or arranging alternative activities at home. Others, however, believe that the camps provide valuable opportunities for children to learn and socialize, which is an important consideration during the break.

Alternative Solutions

Parents who do not wish or cannot afford to spend such amounts are looking for other options. Free or low-cost community programs, such as library events or outdoor activities, are popular alternatives. Additionally, more families are organizing their own "mini-camps" with friends and relatives to share the responsibility of supervision.

The Long-term Value of Camps

Educational experts believe that winter camps not only offer fun but also develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork. Therefore, parents should weigh the long-term advantages these programs might offer their children against the financial investment.

Is Our Own Time More Valuable?

When making a decision, many parents consider whether spending the money on camps is worth it or if it would be better to spend more time with their children themselves. This can not only be more cost-effective but also strengthen family bonds.

Conclusion

While winter camps offer great opportunities for children, the high costs present a significant challenge. For UAE parents, finding a balance between financial expenditure and the experiences provided for their children is crucial. Whether through camps, home programs, or community events, the most important thing is for the children to be happy and have a fulfilling holiday time.