The exams are fast approaching an end and a solid three moths of pure relaxation is stretching out in front of you. It doesn’t get much better than that. Until, a month in, you have done those couple of things that you have been putting off till summer, you have met up with all your friends and have drunk all your beer fund in record time. Now what?
Now you need something to fill those long days of inactivity and general slovenliness. Complaining to your parents is no good, all they suggest is back-breaking labor and general cleaning jobs. Well, Eimear comes to the rescue with a few different ideas to keep yourselves occupied over those long summer months.
1. CoderDojo
Now it may not sound like a typical summer activity to sit inside in front of a computer screen for a couple of hours and try to talk some sense into a random bunch of numbers and letters,however, with our Irish summers it may not be a bad idea.
CodorDojo is a group which teaches young people (students included) how to code, design websites, computer programs, apps, games and whatever else you’re able for. It is done in big classes and the group is taught as a whole with extra help if you need it. The classes are generally focused on children but there is no restriction on age or ability. All you need is a laptop and a bit of lunch to keep you focused. It is worth keeping in mind that CoderDojo is not yet nationwide and the local one may be a bit of a distance away. To find your local Dojo and to see its times long on to http://coderdojo.com/
Many of the sessions are free but you need to book most in advance. Who knows, you could be the next Mark Zuckerberg in the making and not even know it.
2. Sip n’ Stitch
If computers isn’t your thing and this summer you want to get some of your more creative juices flowing, Om Diva on Drury St do a day workshop on a Saturday where you come home with your very own pillow case made under the influence of a couple of glasses of wine included in the price. There are courses suited to all abilities and do a variety of things from learning how to use a sewing machine (tea, coffee and cake substituted for the wine for obvious reasons), how to make a dress from pattern and millinery (hat making) workshops. The courses also vary in length from day classes to 8 week evening classes. An eight week beginners Sip and Stitch course including wine along with buttons, bows and trimmings costs €120. More information and bookings can be made through their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sip-and-Stitch-Academy/141429145946031
3. Kendo
If your goal for the summer is to shed those few pounds or just to feel a little healthier Kendo may be something you would like to take up. Kendo is the traditional Japanese art of sword fighting. It is fought with sticks and all the protective armor is provided.
Kendo is a great cardio exercise and is suitable for both the young and the old. In the classes you are shown how to wear the armor, footwork, how to use the shinai, etiquette and kata. There is no set starting day so you are free to turn up any Saturday or Tuesday. Classes are held at Ballybough Community & Youth at 12 on Saturdays and in Firhouse Community College Sports Complex at 8pm on Tuesdays. The beginners course lasts 10 weeks and costs €40. After that you “graduate” and can join any of the intermediate classes. If you want any further details all information is on their website http://www.dublinkendo.com/index.php
Have you got any other Summer activities to add to Eimear’s list?
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