PW invited parents of Johnson Grammar School ICSE, Kuntloor, Hyderabad to share how they make weekends meaningful for their children

“For most families, weekends are a welcome pause from the weekday rush. Yet they can be far more than mere rest days — they can shape a child’s confidence, values, and lifelong learning. Children learn best at home in a safe, relaxed space without pressure or competition. We involve our daughter Shresta (class IX) in simple real-life tasks including cooking, arranging groceries, watering plants, or visiting the market, turning chores into joyful learning adventures. Weekends also mean playing together — badminton, board games, or pretend play — where winning and losing teach resilience. Shared routines like family meals, reading, walks, or visiting grandparents strengthen family bonds. By learning new skills ourselves and practicing kindness, empathy and respect daily, we demonstrate that learning and values continue for life.” — Dr. Srinivas Murki, neonatologist

“When we tell our children that we will be available to communicate in 10 minutes after completing a task, it’s a sign we need to pause and rethink our priorities. Time with our children is precious and irreplaceable. Being available shows them they matter. In our family, weekends are sacred — a chance to rest, reconnect, and create memories. With our twins — Vainavi Shriyadita and Amogha Samanvita — in class X, we focus on helping them to unwind after a busy week. We meditate, cook, bake, and share leisurely meals that spark conversations about school, friends, and dreams. We also enjoy pottery and texture art together with the children. Regular digital detoxes and shared activities strengthen family bonds and nurture mental well-being. — Dr. Sandhya Basavaraju, Content strategist

“Weekends are not just breaks but precious time to create wonder for my child Leera Karthika (class IX). As the weekend unfurls, our loyal canine sits by, a quiet guardian of our small adventures. I have realized meaningful weekends don’t need grand plans — just moments that spark imagination and stay in the heart. Most weekends we often wander into nature, collecting pebbles or chasing the breeze. At home, we cook, paint, and build together, embracing messy, heartfelt rituals that teach my child to shape life actively. Sometimes we explore museums, festivals, or historic forts, discovering stories that widen our world. We also cherish quiet hours of reading and rest. Above all, our weekends are about love, laughter, and undistracted presence — memories woven gently to last a lifetime.”
— Sirisha Ponnaganti, homemaker

“Weekends play a vital role in childhood, offering time for rest, recreation and family bonding. On weekdays, our son Sai Vedhang Rathod (class VI) begins his day at the crack of dawn. with badminton practice and ends his day around 8.30 p.m, making weekends essential for relaxation. We ensure Sai does not engage in school activities after Saturday evening and enjoys family screen time together. Sunday is our “No Book Day,” allowing time with friends and participation in household chores. We visit cultural places, prepare his favourite meals at home, and make trips to our village, where he enjoys farming, fishing, and nature. He bonds with grandparents, cousins, and relatives, strengthening family values” — Dr. Aruna Kumari, Commercial Tax Officer, Mahabubabad