How to prevent the Summer Slide

Dr Marina Hakimiam

Summer has officially arrived! A time of joy for kids, but it can be a challenge for parents. As children take a break from school, parents face the dilemma of keeping them engaged and entertained while also allowing them to unwind and relax. But what about the Summer Slide? Is it a genuine concern? There are two contrasting perspectives to explore. One suggests that what is learned remains stored for future retrieval, creating a solid foundation for continued growth. On the other hand, some argue that without regular rehearsal and practice, knowledge may fade away, leading to a potential setback when the new school year begins. As parents, it’s natural to feel a sense of responsibility to ensure our children’s educational progress is nurtured throughout the summer months. j fied version of an e-reader, such as a child-friendly Kindle. Rest assured that such devices can enhance their reading journey without any negative impact.

Turn errands into adventures

Involve your children in running errands with you and transform routine tasks into valuable learning experiences. Hand them the shopping list and empower them to assist you in locating items. Grocery shopping provides an excellent opportunity to exercise cognitive skills. Encourage them to compare and contrast products, examine the country of origin, check quantity and nutrition details, and inspire their curiosity to ask questions. This engaging activity not only enhances their maths abilities but also enriches their vocabulary and language skills. Make every outing a chance for education and exploration!

Create meaningful memories

These games not only offer endless fun but also teach valuable life skills like turn-taking, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Strengthen your family bond as you embark on these enjoyable and enriching experiences together.

Nurture meaningful conversations

Engage in mindful and attentive conversations with your child to enhance their vocabulary skills. Recognise their need for relaxation and create opportunities for dialogue when they are receptive. Respect their boundaries and readiness to communicate, ensuring that conversations are enjoyable and engaging. By fostering a supportive environment, you can effectively cultivate their language development while respecting their individual preferences and comfort levels.

Read, read and read!

Encouraging a love for reading starts at home. Embrace the power of literature by making reading a regular part of your family’s routine. Foster your child’s curiosity by selecting books that align with their interests and are appropriate for their reading level. Providing materials that are neither too challenging nor too easy ensures an engaging and confidence-boosting reading experience. If your child prefers reading on a device, consider introducing them to a simpli-

Connect with your children by involving them in decision-making. Ask them about their desires for the summer and inquire about their preferences. Do they crave some alone time or desire exciting travel adventures? Engaging them in conversations with your partner makes them feel valued and important.

Game on!

Unleash the laughter and excitement by playing classic games such as Trivial Pursuit, Snakes and Ladders, or Uno.

By seamlessly blending learning and fun, we can reinvent these everyday activities, such as engaging educational activities, reading challenges, and interactive experiences. In doing so, we can help children embrace academic success upon their return to school, all while cherishing moments of pure enjoyment and fun.

For additional information and resources, please visit www.thrive.ae https://www.mycakeschool.com/lemon-pound-cake/#recipe

Ingredients

• 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened 339 g unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups (600g) sugar

• 5 large eggs, room temperature (you can warm them in a bowl of warm water if you are in a hurry)

• 3 cups (342g) cake flour (not self rising)

• ½ teaspoon (2g) baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• Zest of 2 Lemons approximately 2 Tablespoons

• 2 ½ teaspoons Lemon Extract 10g- We used McCormick- See Notes Below

• 3 Tablespoons (42g) Lemon Juice (approximate amount of juice in one lemon)

• 1 cup (235g) Buttermilk

For The Lemon Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar sifted

• ½ teaspoon lemon extract you could also use lemon juice

• Pinch of salt

• Milk to reach desired consistency. (Start with 1-2 teaspoons and increase a teaspoon at a time. Ours was fairly thick because we used it with a stencil. But a thinner glaze can be piped as a drip, or drizzled over the cake.) GARNISH

Instructions

• Grease and flour a tube pan or bundt pan. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F

• In a separate bowl whisk the cake flour, salt, and baking powder for 30 seconds to combine. Set aside for later.

• Cream the softened butter with the paddle attachment in your mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix until lightened in color and fluffy 3 to 5 minutes.

• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each until the yellow of the yolk blends in.

• Add the buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon extract, and lemon zest to a measuring cup or bowl.

• With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. We do three additions of the flour mixture and two of the buttermilk mixture. Mix just until blended.

• Scoop/spoon the batter into a prepared tube pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth over the top to level.

• Bake at 325 degrees for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs attached.) Baking times can vary and so peek in as it approaches the 1 hour mark. If the top of the cake begins to get too dark, cover loosely with a piece of aluminum foil.

• This recipe makes approximately 8 cups of batter.

• Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning out onto serving plate.

For The Easy Lemon Glaze

• Combine sugar, extract, and salt in a bowl and stir until smooth.

• Adjust consistency to your liking. If using a stencil, you’ll want a thicker (but spreadable) consistency that doesn’t run . If you are applying a drip or drizzle, it will be slightly softer (additional milk in small amounts).

Escape to paradise at Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi for a sun-kissed summer staycation

‘Travel without Traveling’ this summer to Middle East’s best beach destination.

With summer fast approaching, a day spent enjoying white sandy beaches with bottlenose dolphins, tranquil turquoise waters and luxurious resorts, is just what the doctor ordered. Whether you are in search of the best beach in the Middle East, sustainable gastronomic delights, museum and architecture akin to their international counterparts, wellness led spas, or an Audubon sanctuary with Arabian Gazelles, on a worldclass golf course, here is your guide to a well-earned summer staycation on Saadiyat Island:

Situated on a majestic prime beach location, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort offers sophisticated interiors amidst a backdrop of refined island life, with a side of quiet understated luxury. As the destination’s sustainable resort, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort takes strides to protect its environment, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a turtle release during nesting season as you make your way for an hour (or two) of relaxation at the in-house spa.

For the perfect summer escape, avail up to 15% discounted offers including access to worldclass dining, spa treatments and access to the Kid’s Club.

If you’ve never checked into the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, now is your chance. Guaranteed to be a luxurious family getaway, the palatial resort marries Mediterranean design, with centuries-old Arab culture, complete with oriental court gardens and extensive water features. Select from one of the many fine dining options available, from L’Olivio, People’s, Turquoise or glasses of chilled grape at Mermaid as you soak in the glorious sunset –save us a seat!

Families looking to book the ultimate summer getaway can check-into the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island with site rates from AED 2,950, including complimentary stay for two children below 12 years, discounted tickets to

Yas Theme Parks, access to Qasr al Watan and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Children can spend a day at the Rixy Kids Club, Teen Club or the Exclusive Sports Club.

Luxury beachfront resort, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas features uniquely designed rooms, suites and beach villas that are a stone’s throw away from the Cultural District. Post museum hopping, tuck into Italian cuisine at Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar or classic British-American fare at Hamilton’s Gastropub. If you’re in search of relaxation, book a private beach cabana at the resort’s suites and villas while the little ones seek adventures at Aladdin’s Cave Kids Club summer camp.

Located on the untouched shores of Saadiyat Island, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is steeped in tradition and offers guests the ultimate luxurious getaway. The five-star destination resort is a serene escape for city dwellers looking to ‘travel without travelling’ as they are spoilt for choice with an indoor lap pool and three outdoor pools or the option of an afternoon at the private beach. For the sports inclined, stop by the St. Regis Athletic Club for a state-of-the-art workout session like no other.

If an exclusive sanctuary is on the list, look no further than Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. The stylish resort offers rooms, suites and private villas where guests can enjoy an exceptional dining experience with a wide selection of renowned international cuisines. This summer, the resort is offering guests a ‘Playcation’ offer – two-day unlimited access to Yas Island’s theme parks. A summer to remember, indeed.

Often compared to a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, once at Nurai Island resort, ditch your car and rent a bicycle to navigate around the powder-white sands of the boutique private island resort. Located a 10-minute boat ride from Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi, the resort features a worldclass ocean-side spa, five fine dining and casual restaurants, a beach club and an array of activities across land and sea. Pack your bags and escape the hustle and bustle of the city to what truly is, paradise.

The perfect accompaniment to a staycation is a stroll through the Cultural District. Located in the heart of Saadiyat Island, start your visit at Manarat Al Saadiyat, to marvel at the interactive exhibitions, art classes and community events and performances all year around. If you can’t make it to Paris, stop by the next best thing. The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi featuring magnificent architecture, and an expansive collection of artworks and galleries of exhibitions open to the public.

While at Saadiyat Island, hop over to the elegant Saadiyat Beach Club for the perfect afternoon of sophisticated beachside luxury. Don’t forget to pack a beach hat and cool linens as you groove to the beats of the in-house DJ and sip on chilled glasses of grape. For those looking to perfect their swing, neighbouring Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is par for the course. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the native Arabian Gazelles roaming the course.

If you’re looking for your next meal, look no further than expansive beachfront community, Mamsha Al Saadiyat. The beachfront promenade overlooks Soul Beach, the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, and has quickly become a hotspot for homegrown and international dining concepts. For more information on Saadiyat Island, please visit https://saadiyatisland.ae/