School holidays are a time for students to learn something different from what they study at school. They can learn some practical skills, or learn about subjects that interest them. By continually learning, children grow into adults who are aware of their environment and are open to learning more. They can adapt to the changing environment and "roll with the flow". Baby boomers, in particular, like to boast about their ability to change jobs and lifestyles easily when things don't go their way. Sadly, school holidays are not seen as a learning opportunity but rather a period of relaxation (for some) and enforced babysitting for others. This is confusing, especially when with shortening innovation cycles, continuous learning is now more important than ever.
The main Thai school holidays occur from mid-March to mid-May. This also corresponds to the hottest time of the year and harvest time. Thus, school holidays, in Thailand as in many parts of the world, coincide with major agricultural events (planting or harvesting). Holidays were seen as a time when schoolchildren would join in the work going on in their community. Rich families may have been able to afford trips to cooler climes but for the majority, it was a time for learning about farming and other associated practices. It was a time for communal learning.
