long hot — long hot — With the long, hot summer approaching, parents are preparing for nearly 12 weeks of managing their often restless children. As schools close across the country, many parents express frustration over the lengthy breaks, particularly during the summer months.
Long hot: School Holidays and Parental Struggles
Parents frequently voice concerns that schools close far too often and for prolonged periods. This sentiment is echoed by Anna, a full-time working mother of two, who states, “It is so frustrating that schools close so often. Twelve weeks over summer plus all the additional days the kids get for special religious days, while we parents are struggling to find care for them while we are at work.”
In Cyprus, primary schools typically shut for more than 18 weeks a year, including breaks for Christmas, Easter, and a variety of national and religious holidays. The summer break in particular stretches from mid-June to mid-September, with schools closing on June 18 this year and reopening on September 11.
Challenges for Working Parents
The disconnect between the school calendar and the working year can prove challenging for parents, especially those without nearby family support. Antonis, a father of three, faces a similar dilemma. While his in-laws are available to help, their age limits the extent of childcare they can provide. “Granny is not a fulltime carer,” he remarked, highlighting the difficulties many families encounter.
Nina, another mother, raises concerns about the expectations placed on grandparents to step in as caregivers. “With respect, it is not my elderly mother-in-law’s responsibility to become my childcare provider. Grandparents should not be expected to carry the burden created by the lack of childcare support,” she asserted. Nina believes this issue contributes to the emotional exhaustion of many grandparents.
As parents navigate these challenges, some are even forced to leave their children at home alone if they cannot find care. “Where is the state to help out in these situations?” Nina questioned, underscoring a growing concern among parents about the adequacy of childcare provisions.
Debate on School Breaks
While many parents express frustration over the lengthy school holidays, not all share the same viewpoint. Rafaella, a single parent working from home, finds the school holidays a welcome break from the daily grind. Lellos, who juggles a morning office job and a side hustle, agrees, noting that children need time off to recharge.
However, Marios, another single parent working two jobs to make ends meet, believes schools should remain open longer. He suggested a reevaluation of the current system, proposing that the state expand affordable summer programmes and increase childcare subsidies to support working families.
Childcare Legislation and Safety Concerns
There is no specific law in place regarding the age at which a child can be left alone at home, but authorities stipulate that children under 12 should not be left unsupervised for extended periods. Generally, children aged 10 may be left alone for about half an hour during the day, while those aged 11 to 12 can manage a couple of hours. Children aged 14 can stay alone for longer durations, but overnight supervision is discouraged for anyone under 16.
Authorities emphasise that parental responsibility must factor in the maturity of the child and the safety measures in place at home. This raises questions about the adequacy of support systems for families during school closures.
Teachers’ Perspectives on School Holidays
Teachers, too, have strong opinions regarding school holidays. Magda, a primary school teacher, pointed out that these breaks are essential for both students and staff alike. “Children work hard at school and these holidays in between, even for just one day, are a welcome break,” she said.
Vasilis, another teacher, offered a more pointed view, stating, “If they can’t look after their children, they shouldn’t have them.” He expressed concerns about children being raised by others rather than their parents and noted that many children are not receiving the necessary guidance at home.
Teachers agree on the detrimental impact of excessive screen time on children, warning that it leads to behavioural issues and hinders social development. “Their brain is fried,” Chara remarked, explaining that many children lack the skills needed to interact appropriately with peers.
The Call for Change
As the summer break approaches, many parents are left grappling with the reality of limited childcare options. Marios’ suggestion to lessen the school closure periods or improve summer programmes could be a step toward alleviating some of these pressures. With the right measures, it may be possible to strike a balance that serves both educational needs and parental responsibilities.
As the debate continues, the need for a collaborative approach among parents, educators, and policymakers becomes increasingly clear. Finding solutions to support families during prolonged school holidays is essential for the wellbeing of both parents and children alike.
