Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) has launched an awareness campaign encouraging parents to make informed choices when enrolling their children in summer programmes, emphasising that such activities play an important role in shaping children’s character, values and identity.

The campaign highlights that summer programmes should be viewed as an extension of the family’s role in raising children rather than simply a source of entertainment.

As part of the initiative, the ministry urges parents to ask key questions before registration, including the objectives and content of the programme, the individuals who will supervise and interact with children, and whether the activities are consistent with the family’s values and Omanis’ cultural identity.

MoSD noted that while many summer activities provide valuable educational and recreational experiences, parents should also ensure that the messages and behaviours promoted during these programmes support positive moral and social development.

The ministry stressed that childhood is a formative stage in which children develop not only their skills but also their way of thinking, communication style and understanding of acceptable behaviour.

It warned that environments that weaken family values, diminish cultural identity or encourage inappropriate practices may have lasting effects that extend well beyond the summer break.

The campaign also reminds families that not every activity or environment is suitable for children and encourages parents to choose programmes that foster creativity, build self-confidence and strengthen children’s sense of belonging while preserving their values and identity.

MoSD reaffirmed that providing children with safe, nurturing and value-based environments is a shared responsibility and called on parents to make the summer holiday an opportunity to support their children’s balanced personal development.