Is the trend of taking children to 'shagz' during school holidays dying?

When we were younger, holidays meant being sent to the village, where we would spend a month surrounded by the entire extended family. It was a time to bond with our grandparents and cousins, with days filled with endless adventures.

Children raised in the city had the opportunity to learn how to plough fields and care for animals. They discovered alternative ways of cooking without gas or electricity and drank cold water that didn’t come from a fridge. 

Most importantly, they learnt the virtue of sharing and not feeling entitled to personal space, as being in the village meant constantly being in each other’s business, literally.

However, this tradition has changed. School holidays now often involve family staycations in places like the Masai Mara, beach trips to Zanzibar, or simply staying at home with parents. 

It has become increasingly common for parents to keep their children at home rather than sending them to their grandparents.

Rahab Wanjiru explains that while economic hardships have prevented her from taking her children to the village, it has also allowed her to strengthen her relationship with her sons.

“When my eldest son was growing up, he spent a lot of time at his grandmother’s place, which strained our relationship,” she notes.

Now, with two younger sons, Wanjiru is determined to do things differently.

“With my two younger sons, I want to be more present in their lives, especially during the holidays. It allows me to see how they behave outside of school,” she adds.

She also ensures that her sons are never away for more than a week.

Rahab Kahuria, a mother of three, still takes her children to their grandparents, though for a shorter time than the full school break.

“My kids usually want to go, but I make sure to spend time with them first. It gives me a chance to interact with them more, especially when they’re out of school, and to help with their holiday assignments,” she says.

Mrs. Kahuria also emphasizes the importance of not overburdening grandparents.

“When I send my children to the village, I make sure they’re accompanied by my house manager. Since my children are still young, she helps with cleaning their clothes and feeding them, so my parents aren’t overwhelmed,” she explains.

Elizabeth Wambui, a mother of one, shares that she discusses going upcountry with her daughter.

“My parents always ask when I’ll bring my daughter, but sometimes she wants to go immediately, and other times she prefers to stay with me first. It’s important to listen to your children and consider their wishes before making decisions,” she says.

Wambui adds that her daughter usually splits her time between staying at home and spending time upcountry, as being in the village gives her a sense of belonging and connection to a larger family when she spends time with her cousins.