At the Youth Activities Center in the province, the “Mầm Xòe” dance class led by teacher Lành Thị Linh Hương is sowing the seeds of artistic passion in the hearts of young children. There are no blackboards, no chalk; instead, the class begins with folk music blending with joyful laughter, starting with hesitant steps that gradually become more graceful with each beat. Teacher Linh Hương shares that the class is divided into three time slots suitable for different age groups: one on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons for children aged 3-7, introducing them to dance through simple, playful movements; another on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings for children aged 7-12, who begin to understand dance as a combination of physical and emotional expression; and a final one for older children, focusing on technique.

“We started this dance class with the goal of passing on and preserving the cultural artistry of Điện Biên and other regions. We want the children to understand that dance not only satisfies their passion but also helps them connect with the cultural values inherent in the art,” said Linh Hương.

What makes the “Mầm Xòe” dance class special is its meticulous teaching method. Everything is done slowly and carefully, encouraging the children to not only memorize the moves but also feel the spirit and essence of the dance. Nguyễn Huyền Anh, a student of the class, shared: “Every lesson, we’re guided through stretching and flexibility exercises to prepare our bodies. Teacher Hương and the assistants always guide us patiently, adjusting our movements gently but firmly. I really love this class because it fulfills my passion for the arts, teaches me new skills, and helps me make new friends!”

Also this summer, at the artificial grass field of the Điện Biên Water Supply Joint Stock Company, small feet can be seen running after a ball with bright eyes full of passion. These are the young learners in the football training class, led by coach Nguyễn Công Hoàn. With a flexible schedule for different age groups, the football class has attracted many children who love sports. Under Coach Hoàn’s guidance - a teacher with vast experience - the children practice fundamental techniques such as dribbling, passing, shooting, team coordination, and discipline. The football field becomes a place where they can release their energy after months of study, and most importantly, it’s where they get to live out their true passion.

Among the children in the football class, Đoàn Đặng Gia Bảo from Thanh Minh commune, Điện Biên Phủ city is a standout. Gia Bảo told: “I’ve loved football since I was very small, and my dream has always been to become a professional player. I’ve watched the Vietnam national team play since I was young, and I’ve always dreamed of playing football like them. This summer, I asked my parents to let me train so I can improve my skills, learn how to coordinate with teammates, and play in a real team.”

Observing the many children on the field, Gia Bảo is not the only one with potential. Many have already shown clear talent and significant progress after each lesson. More importantly, they now have a healthy environment where they can exercise, socialize, and develop.

From the “Mầm Xòe” dance class to the lively football field, this summer has truly become a special term, equipping children with valuable experiences that will help them confidently face the future. Not only here, but also in many other places like swimming pools, sports fields, community centers, and libraries, children have their own unique ways of enjoying a meaningful summer break. In reality, when children are able to truly live out their summer - without screens and isolation - that summer becomes a beautiful, lasting memory and a solid stepping stone toward future dreams.

For parents, enrolling children in extracurricular classes during the summer is not just a temporary solution to “manage time.” It is a profound and meaningful investment. These classes not only bring a vibrant and fun-filled summer, away from the inertia of electronic devices, but also help shape character, develop physical health, and nurture dreams.