Bhopal, May 6: With changing of times the tastes of children have also changed. Earlier, during summer vacations, they used to visit their native places or some other places of interest along with their parents. Now, the parents want their children to learn 'something' during the summer vacations also. They want their children be ahead of others in every field. Moreover, the children too insist going to the camps as it has become a sort of fashion. Taking advantage of the mentality of the parents and children, the schools decided to earn some money during summer vacation also. If one school starts dancing and music classes, the other goes for painting, skating, yoga, cricket etc. This way most of the important schools are 'busy' this summer.

The idea of 'Summer Camp' is a modern concept. The name itself excites children. It is because they can have fun while learning something special which are not in their regular studies. The Hindi film 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hain' released about a few years back has spread the concept of summer camp. The whole of second part of the film was shot in a Summer Camp and those who had seen the film were impressed with the idea of Summer Camp.

The Summer Camps now provide the children a chance to learn while having fun. This way the children are having a better time than sitting at home and playing computer games. This also helps to inculcate healthy competition among them. Children like these camps more than their regular schooling. Most of the studies in schools pertain to remembering of the lessons. Here they get a chance to learn by doing practically also. They can make new friends. All these activities which are not in their school curriculum helps them to grow mentally and physically.

The Jawahar Bal Bhavan is well known for organising summer camps. Children from different schools attend the camp here to learn something new. Let's see what is going on in the Summer Camp.

Drawing, painting classes

There are several sections in Jawahar Bal Bhavan where children learn according to their taste. Here drawing, painting classes are also conducted.

Handicraft and sculpture classes

Handicraft and sculpture are being taught here. The students learn how to make sculptures with soil.

Aero-modelling

There is a class for aero-modelling where the students learn technique to make model of aircraft.

Acting, music, & dance classes

Two classes are engaged in teaching acting, music and dance. Most of the children are interested in these items.

There are classes to teach how to prepare fruit jam, pickles, and the like.

Bhopal Today Team talked to some teachers and students in the camp to know how they are faring there.

According to Jyoti Sapre, craft teacher, the students are taking part in the classes with enthusiasm. 'Because they like the camp and if they are given right direction, we can make them do great things', she said.

Nasreen Khan, sculpture teacher is confident that if the children learn for three months at least, they will never forget it. The child's mind can be changed to the way you like. We are trying to give them more in a short period to justify our efforts, she said.

Ankit is enjoying the camp. He is thinking of entering into the field of fine arts in future. Our teachers are giving us good advice.

Poonam Parihar: I am utilising the Summer Camp for training myself and am enjoying it too. I have decided to make my career in the field of fine arts when I grow up. I wanted to learn dance and acting since I was a small child.

Shema Qureshi says she is interested in writing. 'Here we are getting a chance to do something new' she said.