Studycation: A new way for Gen Alpha to spend their summer

At the end of each school year, many urban Vietnamese children typically find themselves stuck between demanding extra classes or spending too much time on electronic devices.

Generation Alpha, the first generation born entirely in the digital age, has grown up with constant access to technology, such as the internet, smart devices, and tablets. However, this constant connectivity can paradoxically limit real-world interaction. For example, children might communicate frequently online but find face-to-face conversations challenging. They might have easy access to vast amounts of information, yet lack the direct experiences needed to develop independent thinking skills.

Academic pressures, technological dependence, and limited interaction with the outside world have led Generation Alpha to become increasingly "connected yet isolated." Without intervention, this generation risks becoming proficient with technology yet lacking essential life skills, intelligent yet socially isolated, knowledgeable yet unprepared for practical realities.

Generation Alpha is the first cohort born entirely in the digital age but also is easily limited in connectivity. Photo courtesy of ILA

Millennial parents' concerns

The Vietnamese academic year lasts approximately 35 weeks (175 school days) characterized by intense workloads and high academic expectations. Many students continue their studies into evenings and weekends, accumulating 50-60 hours per week, higher than averages in many developed countries.

For these children, summer often means continued academic pressures rather than relaxation, resulting in mental fatigue and reduced time for holistic development.

Furthermore, digital exposure has significantly altered children's interactions with the world. According to a UNICEF survey, 82% of Vietnamese children aged 12-13 access the internet daily, rising to 93% for those aged 14-15. Vietnamese children spend around 5-7 hours daily on social media, potentially impacting physical health and increasing psychological challenges like anxiety, depression, and reduced interpersonal skills.

Millennial parents tend to want their kids to thrive not only for academic excellence but also for real-life experiences, along with the development of soft skills. Photo courtesy of ILA

Responding to these issues, many millennial (generation Y) parents are reconsidering traditional approaches.

They prefer an educational strategy that balances academic achievement with practical experiences and soft skills development, rather than pushing children toward excessive academics or screen time.

Many parents said that summer is the best time for their kids to relax but also not to stay away from academics for too long. Photo courtesy of ILA

Studycation: A new educational approach

Families are increasingly adopting summer programs that blend academic learning with real-world experience to support children's intellectual, social, and emotional growth.

For instance, a 12-year-old girl from Hanoi attended an international summer program, that combined play with learning. "My daughter had what she described as an 'absolutely amazing' summer," said Nhung, a parent from Hoan Kiem District. "She gained practical knowledge, explored her artistic talents, and became more confident. She proudly presented her project to a large audience. I could clearly see her positive energy and happiness."

The concept behind "Studycation" integrates study with vacation, emphasizing practical application of knowledge in real-life settings. It offers Generation Alpha a meaningful way to experience summer through both play and discovery.

ILA Summer Never Ends 2025 offers an engaging journey where children learn, explore, and cultivate a global mindset. Photo courtesy of ILA

Unlike many traditional summer camps that focus mainly on entertainment or limited extracurricular activities, the experiential learning approach of the ILA Summer Never Ends 2025 program provides a more comprehensive experience. Children engage in practical projects, build a global mindset, and develop key skills such as communication and adaptability.

With over 30 years of experience in education, ILA emphasizes that today's children need practical skills and experiences beyond textbook knowledge. The summer program emphasizes core skills, particularly English communication, enabling children to effectively connect with international peers and access global resources.

Participants also engage in multicultural team projects, which helps improve their collaborative skills. Real-world, hands-on projects within the program foster proactive learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Artistic, athletic, and performance activities are included to encourage creativity and self-expression.

Though academic foundations are important, ILA stresses that critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and effective communication are essential skills for long-term success.

"Generation Alpha cannot grow up solely behind screens and textbooks; they need opportunities to experience, fail, challenge themselves, and step beyond their comfort zones," stated an ILA representative.

The program comes with early registration scholarships worth up to VND14 million (US$547.52).