The end of the year is on its way, and with it comes the holiday season: a well-deserved period for rest and relaxation, and an opportune time to prepare for the New Year.
Studying may be the last thing on many people’s minds now, but the holidays actually offer an opportunity for one to improve oneself. After all, there’s more to learning than books and classes.
Here are some fun ways you can sharpen your mind while still having fun during these times of cheer.
1. Visit a museum
The holidays means school’s out, or you may have taken leave from work. So, why not leave the house and visit a museum? They are ideal places to have fun while learning.
Many are furnished with cool displays or interactive exhibits to make your educational experience really come to life. Examine ancient artefacts and pick up useful facts about history, science, geography, culture, and much more.
Malaysia has no shortage of museums, exhibitions, and centres of learning; try Muzium Negara, the Islamic Arts Museum, or Petrosains for a start. Plus, many of these places have special holiday programmes for kids.
2. Learn to cook
For many, the festive season means food, glorious food! As everyone gathers for Christmas and New Year, what better time to learn how to prepare popular holiday dishes?
Baking enthusiasts can try Christmas cakes and cookies, while aspiring chefs can try their hand at delights such as mashed potatoes or baked ham. The more adventurous among you may even want to try roasting a turkey!
Whatever you make, it will definitely be welcome at a festive potluck.
3. Learn more about your family
This season is also a time for reunions, as everyone comes together for Christmas. How much do you really know about your family members, especially those you rarely see?
Take some time to really talk to your relatives when you meet them, particularly those of the older generation. Many have invaluable stories and lessons to share: learn more about what they do, or the experiences they’ve been through. You just might pick up fascinating tales about life in days gone by.
Most importantly, this brings the family closer and helps you discover more about yourself – and that is the best kind of learning.
4. Engage in arts and crafts
Instead of buying decorations from the mall this year, why not create your own? This is not only more cost-effective (depending, of course, on what you use) but will add a sweet, personal touch to your home.
The internet is full of information on how to make all sorts of seasonal ornaments and displays. Making your own decorations not only engages your creativity, but also trains valuable motor skills.
5. Have fun with educational media
Maybe you just want to sit down and relax these holidays. This is perfectly fine! The good news is, there are plenty of fun and educational activities you can enjoy from the comfort of your couch.
Most streaming services have documentaries or biopics that will educate and entertain you in delightful ways. Alternatively, do a jigsaw puzzle, or play a board game like Scrabble, chess or Monopoly, and have fun with your friends.
These all train important skills such as critical thinking, vocabulary, and strategy.
6. Give to others
Learning is not only for the brain, it can be for the heart as well. One should not forget to learn how to be a better person – and there is no better time than at Christmas.
Bond with your loved ones, or go out and help others. Volunteer with a religious institution or charity group, or make a donation to the less fortunate.
Learn how to practise small acts of kindness, showing love, generosity and gratitude, and you’ll have the best Christmas ever.
This article was written by Terence Toh of ReSkills.com, a local online education platform aiming to make education affordable and accessible for all.