Interview. For children, why “breaking the routine” is essential during the holidays

How do children react when they are deprived of a real break during the holidays?

"It all depends on the environment the child has been immersed in. If it's something habitual, the consequences won't be the same as if the child has been accustomed to going away from a very young age. In any case, it's always good for the child to be able to go away for a little while, even if it's not very far, because it's part of the societal norm. They may wonder why they don't go on vacation compared to children their age, looking at the media or even social networks to which they are exposed at an increasingly early age."

What would you recommend to parents whose child compares themselves to their peers who are going on vacation?

"A child sees much more than we can imagine, so we have to be transparent, with terms that are appropriate for him. We have to explain and give him reasons because if we tell him that's how it is, he won't understand.

What I would recommend is to turn to social centers that offer activities for children at lower prices. In addition, they are often grouped according to their age group. Then, if you can afford it, take the car and go 30 minutes away, to another city, at least to get your head out of the house. Even for parents, it's beneficial because very often, they too have their heads down all year long. It allows you to spend some time together as a family.

How can we alleviate a child's feeling of social exclusion, despite his or her family's financial difficulties?

“I recommend doing activities that take them out of their daily routine a little. It could be running, playing sports… It’s important because children really need to exercise and have fun. It could also be with dolls, figurines, reading… Activities that they don’t normally do. I also think about taking them to their grandparents’ house, when possible, to play pétanque or do some knitting, for example. Something out of the ordinary to break the routine.”