IELTS Speaking · 15

I grew up in a small town near the coast, so I have lots of happy memories of the seaside. As a kid I loved playing simple games like hide-and-seek and tag with the neighbourhood children. I still remember my first school fairly clearly, especially the noisy playground and my kind first teacher. Honestly, I spent far more time outdoors back then. We didn't have many gadgets, so we were always running around, climbing trees or cycling until it got dark and our parents called us home for dinner.

One of the happiest memories from my childhood is a summer holiday I spent at my grandparents' farm in the countryside. I think I was around eight years old, and it happened during the long summer break from school. My older cousin and my younger sister were with me, along with my grandparents, who absolutely spoiled us. Every morning we would wake up early to collect eggs from the chickens, and afterwards my grandmother would cook a huge breakfast with fresh bread and homemade jam. During the day we explored the fields, built little dams in the stream and helped feed the animals, though we probably caused more trouble than help. In the evenings, my grandfather told us old stories on the porch while the sky turned orange. What made it so special was the sense of complete freedom. Back home life was busy and structured, but on the farm there were no schedules and no pressure. It was also one of the last summers when the whole family was together, because my grandparents are no longer with us now. So whenever I think about it, I feel both happy and a little nostalgic. That memory reminds me of how simple things, like nature and family, can bring real joy.

People remember childhood fondly partly because they had fewer worries back then, so the good times stand out. Childhood today is quite different, mainly because technology has replaced a lot of outdoor play, which has both advantages and drawbacks. I strongly believe early experiences shape us deeply; for instance, children who feel loved and supported usually grow into more confident adults. As for recording memories, I think it's a wonderful idea within reason. Photos and videos help families look back later, but parents shouldn't be so busy filming that they forget to actually enjoy the moment with their kids.