Until cities and towns go to an all-year-long school year (and some have), there is going to be a significant emphasis put on school breaks, especially for your nephews and nieces.
 
Getting a break from school signifies freedom, fun, and hopefully time with their favorite uncle. But on your side of the coin—as the best uncle—there are a few things to remember about school breaks and vacation time.
 
Let’s take a quick look at a few things you’ve got to be aware of when it’s vacation time. Follow these and you’ll make your family and your nieces and nephews very happy. Oh, and you’ll maintain your favored-uncle status.
 
1. Calendar breaks don’t necessarily mean breaks from school work.
As most teachers will emphasize, keeping some semblance of learning throughout the school year—breaks included—helps children learn. For your role in helping your niece or nephew, some of the activities you plan should be brain-building, not just fun.
 
Think about having your nephew read his favorite book to you. Better still, have a niece or nephew choose books that relate to any activity you have planned. Going skiing or sledding? Have them choose a winter- or snow-themed book. Read the book before you go to keep kids well-balanced.
 
2. Some families have house rules that transcend vacation time.
While you might think that vacations mean sleeping in and letting chores languish, that might not be the case with nieces and nephews. Check with your sister or brother to see what house rules are in place before you pop by to whisk your niece or nephew off to the beach, to a cool lunch together, or even to the arcade.
 
In fact, chore time can be a nice time to bond with your niece or nephew. Help them finish their chores and there’s more time for both of you to enjoy some downtime during vacation.
 
3. Finally, be aware that nieces and nephews might also need a break.
While a school break might seem like a logical time to set big plans in motion and go do lots of stuff, some kids just want to veg out on vacation. Try to respect these feelings by spending time just hanging out with nephews or nieces. You can play video games, board games, or just watch TV together.
 
Parents will welcome the additional supervision—especially during vacations where they might still have to work. And kids will enjoy sharing their fun time with you, free of the pressure that comes from having a fully planned itinerary.
 
When it comes to school breaks, you don’t need to take a vacation from uncling. Just be aware that your niece or nephew might see vacations differently than you.

Photo: David Castillo Dominici
Published: February 26, 2013