The holiday season has alleviated traffic congestion for many residents and commuters in Dubai, prompting suggestions for schools to adopt staggered timings to sustain this smoother flow when classes resume.
Long-time resident Ferdinand Fraga advocates for staggered school entries to minimize traffic congestion, emphasizing the cumulative impact of parental drop-offs and pick-ups causing significant delays around schools.
Successful Implementation at Bloom World Academy:
John Bell, the founding principal of Bloom World Academy, highlights the success of initiating a 9 am school start, reducing stress and traffic congestion.
This change has garnered positive family feedback, providing flexibility and easing morning routines.
Impact on Family Dynamics and Well-being:
Flexible school timings have notably enhanced family routines, creating a calmer start to the day and fostering more bonding time.
Parents and students appreciate the relaxed morning pace and reduced anxiety associated with rushed mornings.
Medical experts underscore the importance of adequate sleep for children’s physical and cognitive development. They advocate for later school starts to prevent sleep deprivation and enhance focus, behavior, and overall well-being.
Balancing Academic Needs and Real-world Application:
While educators express concerns about practical implementation due to varied school structures, supporters like Bell emphasize that learning remains robust with supplementary activities offered before and after official school hours.
A road safety advocate, Thomas Edelmann, emphasizes reducing school-related traffic during rush hours. Strategies include:
- Promoting school bus usage.
- Encouraging carpooling.
- Advocating for staggered school timings in densely populated school areas.
