THE BEST CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES IN GENEVA

THE BEST CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES IN GENEVA

The holiday season in Geneva offers many enchanting activities and destinations for families, kids, and everybody else to immerse themselves in festive cheer. Here’s a curated selection of the best Christmas activities in Geneva and around!

Ready? Let’s do it!

1. Sending a Letter to Santa

When and Where: Throughout December, Swiss Post offices and Christmas markets in Lancy and Carouge.
Details: Swiss Post Santa Letters

Swiss Post invites children to send letters to Santa in any of Switzerland’s four official languages: English, French, German, or Italian. Each child receives a personalized reply. Special mailboxes are also set up at the Christmas markets in Lancy and Carouge.

2. Hameau du Père Noël and Grand Parc d’Andilly

When and Where: November 18, 2024 – January 7, 2025, Andilly, France.
Details: Hameau du Père Noël

The Hameau du Père Noël is a magical village across the border in France, where families can explore Santa’s house, the elves’ workshop, and reindeer stables. Nearby, the Grand Parc d’Andilly transforms into a winter wonderland!

3. Santa’s Magic Castle near Annecy

When and Where: November 15, 2024 – January 4, 2025, Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
Details: Château du Père Noël

This enchanting castle near Annecy invites families to visit Santa’s residence, decorated with festive flair. Children can meet Santa, share their wishes, and enjoy seasonal activities.

4. Schilliger Garden Center Christmas Display

When and Where: November 16 – December 31, 2024, Gland and Plan-les-Ouates, Switzerland.
Details: Schilliger Garden Center

Schilliger’s Christmas theme for 2024, « La Fabrique de Jouets du Père Noël, » features enchanting displays, a Christmas train ride in Gland, and visits from Santa Claus.

5. Noël au Quai in Geneva

When and Where: till December 24, 2024, Geneva, Switzerland.
Details: Noël au Quai

Located along Geneva’s quays, this festive market offers artisanal goods, delicious food, and live entertainment. The charming atmosphere and lake views make it a favorite family destination.

6. Neighborhood Christmas Markets

When and Where: December, various neighborhoods in Geneva.

Geneva’s local Christmas markets bring festive cheer to every corner of the city. Check your neighborhood for cozy markets with crafts, seasonal treats, and activities.

7. « Christmas Wish » at Simply Theatre

When and Where: December 10 – December 24, 2024, Versoix, Switzerland.
Details: Simply Theatre

Simply Theatre in Versoix presents Christmas Wish, a heartwarming play for all ages. Enjoy the magic of Christmas through storytelling and theatre.

8. Cirque de Noël

When and Where: till January 7, 2025, Geneva, Switzerland.
Details: Cirque de Noël

The Cirque de Noël dazzles audiences with acrobatics, clowns, and festive performances. It’s an unforgettable holiday event for the entire family.

9. Chaplin’s World Christmas Giant Bubbles

When and Where: December 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025, Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland.
Details: Chaplin’s World

Visit Chaplin’s World for giant snow globes, Christmas cookie workshops, and Santa visits. The park’s festive decorations create a magical experience for visitors.

10. Château de Chillon Christmas Festivities

When and Where: December 16–17, 2024, Montreux, Switzerland.
Details: Château de Chillon

This historic castle celebrates Christmas with reenactments, decorations, and a glimpse into medieval holiday traditions.

11. Luna Park d’Hiver at Plainpalais

When and Where: December 7, 2024 – January 5, 2025, Plainpalais, Geneva.
Details: Luna Park Geneva

Geneva’s Luna Park brings thrilling rides, games, and family attractions to Plainpalais. It’s the perfect winter amusement park for a day of festive fun.

Geneva and its surroundings offer countless magical activities for families during the holidays. Enjoy exploring these delightful destinations!

December with kids in Geneva Museums

December with kids in Geneva Museums

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns chilly, finding engaging indoor activities for children becomes essential. Museums offer a treasure trove of experiences that captivate young minds, making them ideal destinations during the colder months. From interactive exhibits to creative workshops, Geneva’s museums provide a warm and educational refuge for families.

Since my daughter was little, we’ve explored various museums together, discovering that these cultural spaces are not only educational but also incredibly fun for children. The collective known as Musées de Genève encompasses 14 institutions, each offering unique activities and workshops tailored for families and children.

Below you will find a selection of family-friendly events happening in December 2024.

To view all family-friendly activities happening in Musees de Geneve in December, check this link.

Musée Ariana
L’art pour tous, tous pour l’art (Art for All, All for Art)

Dates: November 30 and December 1.
Admission: free, no reservations required.

Following the success of its inaugural edition, this festive weekend returns to Musée Ariana, celebrating inclusion and diversity. Activities include dance, theater, tactile tours, singing, and immersive workshops, inviting everyone to explore the museum’s collections through various sensory experiences.

You can see the whole program of this festival here.

Musée de la Réforme (MIR)
La Mère Royaume à l’honneur (La Mère Royaume Highlight)

Thematic Visits:
– Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM
– Saturday, December 14 at 3:30 PM
– Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM

Delve into the story of La Mère Royaume, a key figure in Geneva’s history, through engaging thematic tours suitable for families.

The guided tour is included in the museum entry fee (standard rates apply). Each session is limited to 20 participants, so early registration is highly recommended. You can sign up for your preferred date directly on the museum’s website.

Fondation Baur
Baur en famille – Visite contée (Storytelling Tour)

Date: Sunday, December 15 at 3:00 PM

Discover the origins of silk and the world’s most skilled weaving animal through captivating stories told by a guide. This 45-minute session is designed for children aged 5 to 8, accompanied by an adult.

Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can secure your spot by signing up on the museum’s website.

Maison Tavel
Où se cache le griffon? (Where is the Griffin Hiding?)

Date: Wednesday, December 4 at 3:00 PM

Description: Embark on a journey through two Old Town museums, Maison Tavel and Musée Tatiana Zoubov, uncovering the secrets of legendary creatures like the griffin. This guided tour is suitable for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.

Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. You can register directly on the museum’s website.

Musée d’Art et d’Histoire

Ce fut en 1602 (It Happened in 1602)
Date: Wednesday, December 11 at 3:00 PM

Relive the events of 1602 when Charles Emmanuel, Duke of Savoy, attempted to invade Geneva. Join this interactive session at Maison Tavel, designed for children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.

Première neige (First Snow)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM

Engage in a gentle exploration of the museum’s halls, perfect for curious little ones aged 3 to 5, accompanied by an adult. Each month offers a new adventure tailored for young explorers.

Musée d’Ethnographie de Genève (MEG)

Mémoire chocolatée (Chocolate Memories)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 10:15 AM and 11:15 AM
Dive into the rich history of chocolate through interactive sessions suitable for families with kids ages 2-7. This event is free and does require reservations.

Des histoires qui prennent soin de l’environnement (Stories That Care for the Environment)
Date: Sunday, December 1 at 11:00 AM
Enjoy storytelling sessions focused on our relationship with the environment, fostering ecological awareness among listeners of all ages. This event is free and does require reservations.

Atelier en famille : semelle au vent (Family Workshop: Wind Soles)
Date: Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 AM
Participate in a creative workshop designed for families to explore cultural themes together.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but registration is required. Sign up here reserve your spot.

Un objet, un son, une histoire (An Object, a Sound, a Story)
Date: Wednesday, December 18 at 3:00 PM
Engage with unique objects and their stories through interactive sessions that blend sound and narrative, suitable for all ages.
Practical Info: The activity is free, but spaces are limited, and reservations are required. To register, email [email protected] with your name, phone number, and the number of participants.

These activities not only provide educational value but also create lasting memories for families. Before attending, it’s advisable to visit the respective museum websites to confirm event details, registration requirements, and any associated costs. Embrace the warmth and wonder of Geneva’s museums this December, and let your family’s curiosity lead the way.

SUMMER IN GENEVA FOR KIDS

SUMMER IN GENEVA FOR KIDS

Summer is here to prove Geneva is not boring! The canton, the city, and other municipalities organize a lot of events, including fun things for kids. If we add the lake, paddling pools, and swimming pools on hot days, and all the fun summer trips and hikes to do – summer in Geneva can be awesome on every budget!

Here’s a list of several summer-only events in Geneva for kids or kids-friendly.

LUDOBUS & AMUSEBUS
July, August, September

The toy libraries aka ludotheques take to the streets and parks in spring and summer. They pack games, balls, costumes, bikes, and what not into trucks and visit different locations every week. In Ville de Geneve this is called a Ludobus (there are two), in Ville de Vernier it is called an Amusebus.

They are in different places every week, so it is best if you consult their schedules online: here for the Ludobus and here for the Amusebus.

CHAPITEAUX ENCHANTES
July 3 – September 8

A wonderful festival in Geneva for kidsages 0-4 with free activities every week. The festival takes place in different parks in the canton, every week from Wednesday till Sunday. This year it will take place in Vernier, Carouge, Thonex, Onex, Meyrin, and Lancy. What to expects? Instruments, shows, storytimes, movement, psychomotricite, and more! You can check the detailed schedule on the official website of Chapiteaux Enchantés.

THEATRE DE L’ORANGERIE
Till August 18

Another year, another great program by the Theatre de l’Orangerie, located in Parc La Grange in Eaux-Vives. They have a very nice program for adults, but also a lot for kids – performances and workshops for kids as young as 2 years old. Tickets for the shows are rather cheap, and many workshops are completely free. You will find free workshops for different age groups (even for tweens and teens!), but many require reseervations. For the theatre plays check the prgram and find the show adapted to your kid’s age. You can find all the information at the theatre’s website.

DE PARC EN PARC
July 2 – 27

In summer, the municipal library of Geneva takes over the parks! From July 2 till 13 – Parc Baud-Bovy, and From July 16 till 27 – Parc Beaulieu. What to expect? workshops, quizes, karaoke, robotics, creative activities, haiku atelier, and so much more! Every year, BM (Bibliotehue Municipal) goes over and beyond to provide free fun in summer to people in Geneva, including kids in Geneva! You can consult the detailed program here.

LA CANOPE
Wedensdays, all summer

Entirely dedicated to relaxation and getting back into shape, this ephemeral space near Baby Plage offers activities during the sunny days! Also for people with kids. On Wednesdays: ludotheque and yoga for kids with their parents. You can check the program for the hours of all activities here. Psst: everything is completely free!

SALON D’ETE, Parc des Franchises
all summer

Salon d’ete returns in Parc des Franchises to bring snacks, beverages, and fun ativities in Geneva for kids! At the moment the website of Salon d’ete is not working but as soon as it changes, I will update this article with activities they planned for this summer. For the moment you can check this website to see this Salon in super fun Parc des Franchises.

L’ETE AU JARDIN
all summer, Meyrin

This is a place you absolutely need to visit! Not only is the Jardin Alpin in Meyrin one of the most picturesque park in Geneva canton, but the program they prepared for this year is fantastic! Exhibitions, guided tours, shows, concerts, cinema, workshops, food trucks. Everything is free. Check this website for dates and times of each activity (including food trucks).

TOUR DE PLAGE
July 4 – August 18, Carouge

Tour de Plage at the Fountain of Tours de Carouge is a fantastic event for families this summer! From July 4th to August 18th, 2024, families can enjoy a delightful array of activities every Thursday to Sunday afternoon. The event offers something for everyone with a diverse program of cultural, sports, and other entertaining activities. Parents can relax on deck chairs and under parasols while their children engage in fun and enriching experiences. You can see a very detailed program of planned fun here at this website.

LES HALLES DE LA JONCTION
starting date to be announced

A fan new place on Geneva’s summer map will emerge soon! Halles de la Jonction are located in the old TPG hangars near Point de la Jonctio. There will be sports, workshops, food, drinks, and of course space for kids, and kids-oriented events as well! The opening date has not been announced yet, but it should happen in July. Watch this space to know where it happens.

MANY OTHER EVENTS

Sometimes it looks as if municipalities of the canton were trying to win the « best summer events » contest! Vernier with its « Contre Saison » cultural program, Lancy built a website dedicated website for its « Lancy en ete » program, and Plan-les-Ouates comes back with PLO Plage awesomeness! I am sure every municipality in the canton organizes somethimg!

There is much more to do in Geneva with kids in summer! Including 3 completely new places perfect for family fun!

There are so many things to do, and so many of them are free: from walking in amazing forests or by numerous rivers, playing in the parks, and bathing in many fun places! Be sure, to follow Parentville on Instagram to get more ideas for fun summer in Geneva.

TotUP Summer Camps: JOYFUL Adventures for Children of all ages!

TotUP Summer Camps: JOYFUL Adventures for Children of all ages!

You may have heard about TotUp – a private creche chain in several cantons, and also a primary school. But have you heard about TotUp bilingual summer camps and summer childcare for kids under 4 years old? It’s such a game changer for working parents!

Parents in the region often struggle to find engaging summer activities especially for the youngest children. TotUP recognizes this need and proudly offers Bilingual Summer Camps tailored specifically for children ages 3 to 8, and a separate offer for even younger munchkins. It’s a rare opportunity in the region, where summer camps for kids under the age of 4 are hard to come by.

Parentville special discount code: 10% with the secret pass: Parentville2024,

For ages 1-3

TotUP’s commitment to early childhood enrichment extends to its Bilingual Summer Camps, providing a haven of excitement and exploration for toddlers aged 1 to 3. Short-term contracts at daycare prices ensure that even the youngest adventurers can join in the summer fun!

Camps for ages 3-8

For older children aged 3 to 8, TotUP’s summer program is a treasure trove of excitement and discovery. Each week introduces a new theme, from Water Week to Gardening and Wilderness Adventure, promising a diverse array of experiences to captivate young minds. Priced between 350 to 500 CHF per week, the camps offer flexibility and high-quality for families seeking quality summer activities for their children.

Forest camps for ages 6-12

For those yearning for a deeper connection with nature, TotUP introduces the Forest Camp, an exclusive offering available in Petit Lancy from July 1st to 5th. Designed for children aged 6 to 12, this immersive experience provides a rare opportunity to explore the great outdoors under the guidance of professional educators. With only seven places available, the Forest Camp promises an intimate and unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.

All-inclusive

The camp fees encompass everything a child could need for a fulfilling experience – a full program packed with engaging activities, nutritious meals to fuel their adventures, and enriching excursions to broaden their horizons.
In the spirit of inclusivity, TotUP extends discounts to make the camps accessible to all families. Siblings can enjoy a 10% discount on the second child’s camp fees, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared experiences.

Discount code

Moreover, for followers of Parentville, an exclusive 10% discount is offered with the secret pass: Parentville2024, spreading the joy of savings throughout the community.

The Bilingual Summer Camps are available in all TotUp locations across Geneva Vaud, and Fribourg. With its rare offering for children under 4, diverse themes and exclusive experiences like the Forest Camp, TotUP ensures that every summer is filled with wonder and excitement!

Find out more at totup.ch/en/holiday-camps.

The best summer camps in Geneva, 2024

The best summer camps in Geneva, 2024

Discover a fantastic selection of high-quality summer camps in Geneva! Whether you’re looking for camps in English or French, there’s something for everyone—from toddlers and older kids to teenagers. These camps offer a variety of activities, including sports, creative arts, and adventurous language learning. Explore this curated list to make finding the perfect summer camp a breeze.

Disclaimer: Each year, I reach out to highly recommended camps and offer them advertising space on Parentville. The camps featured with photographs and descriptions are paid advertisements, chosen for their quality and suitability. Advertising with Parentville is also a way for camp organizers to support this platform. At the bottom of the list, there is a separate section with camps that are not paid advertisement.

Ready? Let’s do it!

TOTUP

TOTUP, ages 1+
Cantons: Geneva and Vaud

TotUP offers Bilingual Summer Camps with a focus on children’s happiness. Join us for exciting adventures in Geneva, Vaud, and Fribourg. Each week, explore new themes like Water Week, Gardening, and Wilderness Adventure. Prices range from 350 to 500 CHF per week for kids aged 3 to 8. For younger children, short-term contracts are available at daycare prices. Prices include a full program, meals, and excursions. Additionally, a Forest Camp for kids aged 6 to 12 is available in Petit Lancy from July 1st to 5th, with only 7 places. All camps offer a 10% discount for the second child and a 10% discount for Parentville followers with the secret pass: Parentville2024.

More information: at the TotUp website.

GROWING TOGETHER

Growing Together, ages 3-6
Grand-Saconnex

Children will enjoy play and movement on Gymboree’s special equipment, art projects, music, dancing, tactile activities, imaginary play, dress-up, story time, and outdoor fun. There is no nap time. Classes are bilingual in French and English, with languages separated by person. Fun and new friendships are guaranteed! The camp runs from July 1st to August 23rd, Monday to Friday, for children aged 3 to 6 years old. Parents can choose either full days (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM) or half days (8:30 AM – 12 PM or 1 PM – 4:30 PM), with flexible booking options available.

More details at: Growing Together.

BUBBLES

Bubbles, ages 2-10
Belle-Terre, Grand-Lancy, Eaux-Vives

Summer camps are back at Bubbles from July 1st to August 23rd, 2024. Join us for an Olympic adventure full of activities! We offer sports and creative activities, cooking workshops, and cultural outings. We welcome children from 2 to 10 years old at three locations: Bubbles Creches – Belle-Terre (ages 2-4), Bubbles Creches – Grand-Lancy (ages 2-6), and Bubbles Kids Club – Eaux Vives (ages 4-10). Registrations are open, so contact us now at 022 774 55 55 or by email at [email protected]. See you soon at Bubbles.

More information on our websites: Bubbles Creches and Bubbles Club.

 

SPELL LANGUAGES

Spell Languages, ages 4-14
Plainpalais

Immerse your kids in the world of play, creativity, and languages with Spell Languages’ dynamic camps! Their summer programs for ages 4-14 feature exciting themes like « Little Pirates, » « Galactic Quest, » and « Dahl in Geneva. » While learning English, French, German, Italian, or Spanish, your kids will use their imagination as they explore history, space, literature classics, and storytelling adventures with Spell’s passionate team. Each day is filled with music, interactive activities, hands-on experiments, and creative play, ensuring a fun, educational experience. Enrol now for 2 or 3 weeks to secure the best prices and give your child an unforgettable, language-filled summer adventure!
More details at Spell Languages.

For bookings of a minimum of 2 weeks, use the code PARENTVILLE150 to receive a discount of 150 CHF (offer valid until the end of May 2024).

SIMPLY THEATRE

Simply Theatre, ages 4+
Versoix

Simply Summer camps are week-long theatrical camps that offer children from 4 up to 18 years run by Simply Theatre academy in Versoix. Each week has a specific focus, set against a background of fun theatre games and exercises, song and movement. This summer there are half-day camps for 5&6 year olds and musical theatre, acting, movie-making, dance, improv, play-in-a-week for ages 7+. All run 9-4pm at Simply Thetre Studios. All camps feature fresh content every summer. So if your child has a favourite camp from last year, they can attend again with the confidence that all material, songs and choreography will be updated and different with loads of new skills to learn!
Sibling and multiple course booking discounts are available. Find out more at SimplyTheatre.com.

ILL CAMPS

ILL CAMPS, ages 3-15
Lancy

Looking for a fun summer for your kids? IIL Camps offers over 60 camps for ages 3 to 15 in Geneva! Choose from sports, arts, tech, outdoor, water activities, and more. Camps are available in full-day or half-day formats and are open to all children. This year, we’re excited to offer a special hiking camp in the Alps! Most camps are bilingual in French and English. Join us for enriching activities and unforgettable experiences. Camps run from July 1-26 and August 12-27, 2024. Prices start at 275 CHF/week for half days and 525 CHF/week for full days.
More information at  ILL Camps.

JUST BLOOM

JUST BLOOOM SUMMER CAMP GENEVA
JUST BLOOM, ages 4-12
Confederation Centre

RécréARTives camps are designed to provide children with extraordinary experiences, using art as the main element. Explore places in Geneva and around the world with renowned historical artists. This adventure includes traveling, observing, touching, and creating together, allowing both young and old to experience art in all its forms. Additionally, there are opportunities to meet incredible professionals who will reveal the beauty and mysteries of their passions, such as painting, dance, and cooking. Just Bloom is the ideal place for this, offering a magnificent play space, delicious cuisine, and caring people who respect children. Book here.

KNOCK ON WOOD

Knock On Wood, ages 8-18
Nations ares
Building character, reconnecting with manual skills, and having fun through crafting.
From how to use a hammer to the importance of proper planning, patience, and 3D thinking, Knock on Wood’s summer camps are a great way for your child to spend their holiday developing new skills and socializing around woodcraft in a fully-equipped workshop.
The children all start with simple projects and gradually work their way to more complex and personalized projects as their confidence grows. They use primarily hand tools and some of the safer machines under adult supervision. KOW also offers collaborative camps with KlayIt and NEXT Academy.
More information: at Knock On Wood.

ACTIVE BRAIN KIDS ACADEMY

Active Kids Brain Academy, ages 4-8
Eaux-Vives

Have Fun under the Sun: Bilingual Summer Camp with Active Kids Brain Academy! Join us for an enriching bilingual summer adventure, where we dedicate each week to a unique theme that ignites interests and fosters development. Whether it’s the thrill of competition during Sport Week or the joy of artistic expression during Art Week, there’s something for every camper. Delve into the past during Discovery Week, unravel the mysteries of the universe in Science Week, or reconnect with nature in Nature Week.
Come join us as we explore, learn, and create lasting memories together!

More details at: Active Kids Brain Academy.

ESPACE COLIBRI

Espace Colibri, ages 4-10
Carouge

Your children deserve the best for their holidays, so we invite you to give them an unforgettable and unique experience. We welcome children aged 4 to 10 for a week filled with discovery, personal development, and fun. Throughout the week, our dedicated teachers will offer a diverse range of activities designed to engage and inspire. Children will enjoy yoga sessions to promote relaxation and mindfulness, creative projects to spark their imagination, and sensory exploration activities to enhance their understanding of the world around them. Join us for a week of enriching adventures and unforgettable memories!

More details at: Espace Colibri.

INTERSOCCER

Intersoccer, ages 3-13
Various locations

InterSoccer’s Summer Football Camps 2024 offer a safe, nurturing environment for boys and girls aged 3 to 13 to enhance their football skills and create lasting memories. Tailored for all abilities, the camps range from half-day Mini camps for ages 3-5 to full-day camps for ages 5-13. Experienced bilingual coaches lead interactive games, skill-building exercises, and friendly matches. Full-day campers enjoy hot lunches, and all participants receive a football shirt, certificate, and medals. With a focus on safety, flexible booking options from 1 to 5 days per week, and fun-filled activities, InterSoccer is the perfect choice. Special family discounts are available.

More information: at Intersoccer.ch.

RED WHALE

Red Whale, ages 0+
Bellevue

Intensive swimming lessons at the RedWhale Swim School in Bellevue, Geneva. Discover the joy of swimming in a safe, supportive environment while building confidence and refining technique any week of July! Five lessons, one per day from Monday to Friday, for children from 5 months and up.

You can book for one week, or 2 or all 5! All levels are welcome and the pool is heated to a minimum of 32°. The classes are given in French and English to small groups, maximizing personal attention and enabling faster progress. 

Register directly on our website redwhale.ch.

PLANET CLIMBING

summer camps planet climbing geneva 2024
Planet Climbing, ages 5-8 & 9-12
Lancy & Plan-les-Ouates

Discover the ideal place for your child to have fun, develop sporting skills, and improve creativity while making friends at Planet Climbing HOLIDAY CAMPS! With two locations, Lancy and Plan-les-Ouates, our camps offer a mix of climbing activities and creative play. These week-long camps are not only for “climber-kids”! Every child will love the diverse experiences. Our fully monitored camps ensure safety and enjoyment. Activities include indoor climbing games, outdoor activities, kids yoga, arts and crafts, and more. Small groups of 8 children max. Weekly and daily bookings available from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extra childcare hours on request.

AGE: 5-8 and 9-12years
LOCATIONS: Lancy or Plan-les-Ouates
PRICE: 490 CHF/week or 125 CHF/day. 10% off for 3+ simultaneous bookings
(family/friends).
CONTACT: [email protected]
MORE INFO: planetclimbing.ch / +41 78 201 21 48

 

OTHER CAMPS

Addict Lab – playful and creative take on science and engineering.

Totem Escalade – climbing for all ages in Meyrin and Versoix.

Gravity Park – a parkour camp in the new place in Meyrin (ages 8+).

Herstreet – camps for little ones in Eaux Vives.

Recrecrea – wonderful creative and playful camps.

CPV camps – a vast choice of various camps.

Atelier d’Alice – summer camps in Carouge.

Future Kids – programming and robotics

ASK – All Special Kids – bilingual camps for children with learning differences and special educational needs.

Rollers Geneve – a camp on wheels, recommended by many parents.

1885-ecole – Swimming camps for ages 3+ and teenagers!

Geneva 1P without secrets

Geneva 1P without secrets

Your child enters Geneva’s public school this year? Parentville’s got you covered!

The first thing to know: 1P aka 1st grade stands for the 1st grade in the primary school in Geneve.

Just remember: as everything in Switzerland depends on the canton, the school is even more detailed: everything depends on the teacher. Differences from what is described below may happen.

PREPARE

You’ll need: slippers, basanes, painting apron, a change of clothes. Also in some school: a box of tissues

You don’t need to buy any books, notebooks, crayons, glue, scissors etc. – such equipment is provided by the schools.

Does your child need a backpack?

Yes. But not a big backapack for heavy contents. Any light backpack that can easily hold an a4 folder will do!

Things that they will carry in the backpack are:

  • a snack-box,
  • a water bottle aka “la gourde”,
  • and the a4 sized folder aka “la fourre”.
  • a communication notebook (carnet de l’élève)
  • All books, notebooks, crayons etc. stay at school.

You will get a teacher-parent communication book also called a students book (carnet de l’élève) with all necessary explanations, addresses, and phone numbers. Further pages constitute an agenda. Each day of the school year has its place, where teachers and parents can put important information. At the bottom of the page you’ll find space to request a meeting with the teacher (or teacher’s request to meet with you). You’ll need to sign the book every week. I promise, It will become clear once you get it in your hands.

In the first weeks of the school year you will also receive some forms to fill (mainly asking about address, phone numbers, special health issues, languages spoken etc). Nothing complicated.

INDEPENDENCE

Kids are expected to be diaper-free, and independent when it comes to all toilet-related issues. They should also know how to dress themselves, put on their shoes, etc. Of course, teachers will occasionally help if needed, but the expectation is for kids to be independent. For that reason it’s best to, for example, avoid shoes with laces until the child can tie them without adults’ help.

You may have heard that children in Switzerland are required to walk to school alone from the age of 4. It is not the case in the canton of Geneva. Some teachers may suggest it (but not to 4yo) but nobody will require it ever. You can walk your kid to school till they’re 18yo or more.

IT’S IN FRENCH

Don’t be afraid if your child doesn’t speak French.

Most probably, he/she won’t be the only one in the classroom. Teachers in Geneva are experienced and used to working with allophone children (allophone is french for not speaking French).

Grades 1-3P are very playful year, perfect to learn the language!  Those joining later will be  for half a day in their regular class, and half a day at a French-for-foreigners class.

If you do think your child will do better with some additional help, you can try a kids’ French course in one of the language schools, for example playful Spell Languages (offering both group and private lessons, as well as full weeks during school holidays).

PLAYTIME

1-2P focus on socializing, board games, songs, and as my daughter put it “that damn coloring”. Coloring is boring for many kids but the thought behind it is to master the pincer grasp, to better work with the pencil the following years. They get to learn their abc’s, count to 12, and write their name. But again, everything depends on the teacher. My daughter’s teacher added a bit of German to the mix.

1-2P classrooms are filled with toys, games, and colours. There’s usually a library corner, and a separate space for different kinds of pretend play scenarios.

It’s not really school yet. It’s a kindergarten in school’s building.

LEARNING 101

Don’t expect any reading or proper writing happening in Geneva 1P or even 2P classes. This won’t happen till the 3P. To many of you it might come as a shock, but actually according to a ton of research (example of an article summing it up: here), it is a great advantage of the Swiss system. The same is done in many Northern and Eastern European countries, especially those renown for their educational systems, eg Finland and Sweden.

(By the way, did you know there is a Swedish School in Geneva, offering an English-French language program based on Swedish methods)

They’ll do some math exercises in a form of mazes, solving easy logical tasks. They’ll have basics of geography – starting with their school setting, and maybe naming the streets around. But again, it all depends on the teacher.

They’ll also have science with experiments and learning about plants or animals. There will be a music class with singing. In other words they will be well occupied, and learn a whole bunch of things in a playful and engaging way.

THE DROP OFF: 8h00-8h45

Drop off is from 8:00 till 8:45. Provide your child with a small snack for the morning recess (la recrée): a sandwich, a fruit, dry fruits, a bit of cheese or whatever you want. You’re completely free to choose, unless the school decides otherwise (eg nosweets on certain days).

In some of the schools parents can walk in with their child only for the first 2 months of the school year (upon drop off, and to collect them). Other schools let parents in the full 1P and beyond. But in most, as of 2P you will be asked to stay outside, and your child will enter the school on their own.

THE LUNCH BREAK: 11h30-13h30/14h00

The lunch break is long. It lasts from 11:30, and finishes with an afternoon drop off from 13:30 till 14:00.

During lunch break, children from 1P eat their lunch, have a relax time (they lie down for 20-30 minutes, it is not a nap time). They can bring a cover, a pillow, and something to cuddle.

They can eat lunch at school with « parascolaire » (paid option) or be brought home to eat.

SCHOOL’S OUT

Schools out at 16h:00 every day. There is no school on Wednesdays for 1-4P. From 5P kids go to school on Wednesdays but only till 11:30 (there is no lunch or parascolaire option on Wednesdays).

After-school care, « parascolaire », exists in all schools in canton Geneva. Children are taken care of from 16h till 18h. Parascolaire is managed in most municipalities by GIAP, not by schools. The activities during these two hours vary a lot from one municapility to another, and even between schools in the same municipality in the canton.

HOLIDAYS

Holidays outside the set school breaks? You have to ask the school for approval and it is decided on case by case basis. If it’s less than 4 days of school leave, the teacher will decide, if it’s more the director of the school will make the decision. You should hand it in, ideally, at least 14 days in advance.

Exception: Jeûne genevois, that always happens in the beginning of the school year – you can hand in the request in the first few days of the school year to have a long weekend.

school holidays geneva 2024 2025

I wish you all a great first year of school in Geneva!

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Easter PARTY Extravaganza for kids in Geneva

Easter PARTY Extravaganza for kids in Geneva

Save the date!

On March 28th, at 16:30 Just Bloom is throwing the most entertaining Easter party for kids Geneva has ever seen.

It will be a 2 hours long Easter party extravaganza with egg hunts, workshops, entertainers, make-up, and a paper confetti disco! Not to mention the big surprise held that even Parentville knows nothing about.

You can now win two tickets to the party – one for a child, and one for an adult. Simply drop your email in the field below.

Family Spring Break 2024 in Geneva

Family Spring Break 2024 in Geneva

Geneva’s schools will close for two weeks. If you’re staying in Geneva during that time, this article is for you. It is filled with fun events and propositions of places to visit. If you prefer Easter-themed fun, there’s plenty in this article.

PS: there’s also always a lot in Parentville’s events calendar.

Geneva Grand Theatre
Wednesday, April 10th, ages 6+

Join a magical tour at the Grand Théâtre de Genève on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 10:30 AM. This family-friendly visit, perfect for children over 6, showcases a stunning interior complete with a costume rack and hidden treasures of Place de Neuve. The 75-minute journey costs CHF 15, with a CHF 10 rate for under 12s. Dive into the heart of Geneva’s cultural beauty.

URBAN CHOCOLATE GAME

Urban Events Geneva has a game perfect for the Spring break. A treasure hunt filled with puzzles, mysteries, and chocolate! You can choose one adventure in Carouge, and one in the Old Town. Games are adapted for children aged 6 and older. You can check available dates and details here.

Parc Aventure, Onex

Discover Accrobranche: an adventurous journey through the treetops. With ropes, zip lines, and bridges set in a natural forest, it offers a thrilling yet secure way to explore nature from above. Perfect for anyone seeking a fun and unique outdoor experience. There is a separate space for children 3+ – when they can practice while being close to a parent. To find out more and book a ticket check here.

CHAPLIN CIRCUS SHOW
Vevey, March 29th – April 14th

Dive into the 1920s circus vibe at Chaplin’s World park, featuring skill-based games like can throwing and circus arts such as Chinese plates and juggling. Enjoy the Chaplin Circus Show 2023, and indulge in sweet and savory treats like waffles and popcorn at the « Food & Drink Circus » stand, offering delights for all ages. More information here.

TULIP FESTIVAL
Morges, March 29th – May 12th

If you’re looking for a nice family walk location, look no farther. The beautiful tulip festival is back! During school holidays some activities and workshop will take place as part of this festival: floral workshops, digital egg hunt, circus show, sophrology workshop, and more! You can combine the visit with a boat ride from Geneva, or a visit to the castle in Morges. It’s a gorgeous town – absolutely worth the trip. More info here.

Luna Park, Plainpalais
March 23rd – April 14th

If you’re looking for a thrill this is where you can go. Luna Park has installations for small and big childre, and also for adults! There is everything you would expect of a Luna Park! It is open daily from 14h. You can see more info here.

ARBORETUM
in Aubonne, Vaud

The Arboretum in Aubonne is an enchanting destination for families, offering a serene escape into nature with features that cater to children’s curiosity and energy. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this expansive botanical garden showcases a rich diversity of over 3,000 tree species from around the world. Educational panels along the paths provide fascinating insights into the plant world. Not to mention the special rallye for kids ages 8-14 (details here). Additionally, the open spaces and picnic areas offer perfect spots for family relaxation and play, making the Arboretum a delightful backdrop for a memorable day out with the kids​. More about Arboretum here.

Chateau de Vullierens

One of the best places to observe spring waking up the nature. The castle itself is not open to the public, but its vast, beautiful park is absoltelu worth the trip. The park is filled with fascinating sculptures, beautiful plants, and many cozy corners. For children, there is a special space created in a small forest – the Lizard King’s Kingdom. The opening times and details are available here.

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Easter Fun for kids in geneva 2024

Easter Fun for kids in geneva 2024

Spring break and Easter holidays are here! If you’re planning to be in Geneva around that time, rest assured there will be plenty of things to do and see in the region!

This list below is all about Easter activities.

The spring break propositions (without eggs or bunnies) are gathered in a separate article – here.
You can also, always count on the Parentville’s events calendar.

 

PROCOPE
Chcoclate Bunny workshop

A great activity for kids ages 8+ and the whole family! Create a chocolate bunny from scratch in the chocolate lab of Procope Chocolatier! You’ll also have a great presentation of all the machines in the lab that turn the cocoa bean into liquid chocolate. The activity costs 30 chf per person and lasts 30-40 minutes. Information and registration here. PS: they have other types of workshops too, and if needed they can create one for your needs!

JUST BLOOM
Easter party, March 28th

Easter party at Just Bloo cafe – fun for kids, tasty treats for parents on March 28th, from 16:30 to 18:30! Fun games, chocolate prizes, Easter-themed workshops for children, kiddy makeup, and paper confetti disco! There is also a big surprise waiting for all the guests.
The celebration will take place if minimum of 20 tickets are sold! Refunds will be available in case of cancellation.
Children’s Ticket: 70 CHF, second Child: 50 CHF, adult Ticket: 30 CHF. For details and booking contact Just Bloom.

GRAND THEATRE
EGG HUNT, April 2nd

How about taking advantage of the Easter holidays to discover the Grand Theatre as a family? The Grand Theatre offers children activities to share with their parents, grandparents, or cousins. Would you like to get to know every nook and cranny of the Atrium and the Foyers of the Grand Theatre while having fun? Then, this egg hunt is for you! Details here.

CHATEAU VOLTAIRE
Egg hunt & other fun events!

Chateau Voltaire, in Ferney-Voltaire, is famous for its great workshops and activities. During Easter 2024 their famous egg hunt in the park is back (on March 31st), atelier Fabergé egg for 7+ (April 24th), Golden egg mystery for 7+ (April 24th). The castle is lovely and the parc beautiful – with spectacular view on Mont Blanc and Geneva. You can find more information about it here.

PAKATRAP FESTIVAL
arch 29th – April 1st

The second edition of the PAKATRAP Easter Festival, organized by the Léman Experiences event agency, promises great festive moments! On the occasion of the Easter holidays, the Pakatrap festival offers you unusual egg hunts and many other activities. You can check the full program here.

Festichoc,
March 16-17, Versoix

The biggest chocolate festival in the country! What does it have to do with Easter? Well, chocolate bunnies of course and egg hunt of course! The festival is a great place for families, with carousels, chocolate sculptures and chocolate workshops. You can check the detailed program here.

Easter at Chateau de Vullierens
March 31st – April 1st, Vaud

Chateau de Vullierens will open exactly in time for Easter this year! Every year their Easter events are amazing for kids of all ages and their parents. Children will play searching for  Lindt’s Gold Rabbit and his lost eggs.  The older children will be asked to solve a puzzle by going from post to post gathering clues. A chocolate reward awaits at the end of the trail. All that fun will take place in the magical gardens of the castle.
But that’s not all… pony rides, a small farm, and a new activity provided by some crazy gardeners, while the foodtracks will provide yummy pizza, crepes, and ice creams! Find out more about it and book your tickets here.

SWISS VAPEUR PAQUES

Swiss Vapeur Parc is a magical place for children with miniatures of swiss trains ride along miniature parts of Switzerland, with a view on real Alps, and real Lac Leman. From March 29th till April 28th the parc will be entirely decorated for Easter, and all kids will be invited to take part in egg hunts!

You can find out more here.

Signal de Bougy
March 31st

Join Zack and Signal de Bougy’s mascots on Sunday, March 31, for a joyful Easter celebration filled with children’s activities like face-painting, a mascot parade, and a mini-disco. Capture the fun with an Easter-themed family photo session, where all proceeds support the Zoé4life charity. Don’t miss out on making beautiful memories at Signal de Bougy – book your slots for the makeup workshop and photoshoot online now.

PAKOMUZE
Canton Vaud, March 29th – April 14th

Pakomuze – Easter in museums and cultural institutions! From dinosaurs, through history activities, to science experiments and arts. Paqomuze has something for all ages and tastes. Activities take place in museums, castles, and many other places. Most activities are available only by registration (by email or telephone, only with the institutions that offer them). See the full program here.

Easter Santa
March 30th – April 1st; Andilly

Hameau du Pere Noel is mostly known as a Christmas destination, but isn’t it hilarious to go on an egg hunt with Santa and his pals? The warm-hearted Mrs. Claus and her stories, the Sandman with his sharp eye, Father Fouettard who hates chocolate, and Santa himself of course! Over 20,000 will be scatteres in the garden, chocolate guaranteed for everyone! A ticket office is available online but also on site, online purchase ensures priority access. You can check the detailed information and timetable of egg hunts here.

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Diving Into the World of Aquababies – new in geneva

Diving Into the World of Aquababies – new in geneva

A new wave in children’s swimming education is making a splash in Geneva (and Aubonne)! Let’s welcome Aquababies! Innovative children’s swim lessons for families seeking a blend of safety, fun, and tailored learning for their little ones.

Founded in 1990 by the visionary Julie-Ann James, Aquababies has grown from its single pool in London to a global pioneer in aquatic education for children!

Empowering Young Swimmers with Personalized Lessons

Aquababies has a unique approach to swim education, offering bespoke classes in a cozy, warm hydrotherapy pool in Chambesy. Perfectly suited for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, these classes prioritize small sizes and individual attention, ensuring every child feels comfortable, confident, and engaged.

How it all started

The foundation of Aquababies was born out of a desire to revolutionize infant aquatic education. Julie-Ann observed a stark contrast in the UK’s swimming classes, characterized by outdated techniques and a lack of meaningful engagement. Determined to offer more than just nursery rhymes and forced submersions, she embarked on a mission to provide a comprehensive, nurturing, and enjoyable learning experience.

A Journey Fueled by Passion and Expertise

Julie-Ann James’ story is at the heart of Aquababies’ success. Despite being told she could never have children of her own, she channeled her passion into creating a unique swimming program that catered to the individual learning styles of young swimmers. Her hands-on approach and continuous adaptation of teaching methods based on research quickly set Aquababies apart, leading to the establishment of the brand as a pioneer in the industry.

Swimming: A Gateway to Health and Happiness

Aquababies champions the belief that swimming is essential not just for physical health but also for mental well-being. By making swimming accessible to all, Aquababies in Geneva fosters a supportive environment where children can thrive, build social connections, and enjoy the lifelong benefits of being in the water.

Innovative Programs for Holistic Development

Aquababies stands out not only for its tailored approach to teaching but also for its commitment to innovation. The introduction of programs like PABA (Parent & Baby Aquafit) showcases Aquababies’ dedication to supporting parents – particularly those dealing with postnatal depression, by combining fitness with essential life skills for their children.

Choosing the pool

Selecting the right pools is crucial to the Aquababies ethos. Each pool must meet strict criteria for warmth, cleanliness, and atmosphere, ensuring a tranquil and focused environment conducive to learning and play. This meticulous attention to detail extends to the Aquababies curriculum, developed through rigorous research and tailored to the developmental milestones of different age groups.

Tailored Teaching for Tomorrow’s Swimmers

The Aquababies teaching methodology, with its emphasis on safety, skill development, and fun, ensures that every child receives a holistic swimming education. This commitment to quality and inclusivity makes Aquababies a preferred choice for parents in Geneva and beyond.

Global Standards, Local Impact

Today, Aquababies operates in Cyprus, Malta, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the UK, Switzerland, and Ghana. Maintaining high standards across all locations, Julie-Ann ensures that all Aquababies coaches are thoroughly trained and aligned with the program’s core values of empathy, compassion, and continuous learning.

Aquababies Geneva: Where Every Splash Counts

As Aquababies continues to navigate the waters of children’s aquatic education, its impact extends far beyond the pool. With each stroke and splash, Aquababies is not just teaching swimming; it’s nurturing the next generation of confident, joyful, and skilled swimmers.

PRACTICAL INFO

Aquababies Switzerland
Website: aquababiessuisse.ch

Address:
Chem. William Barbey 20,
1292 Pregny-Chambésy,

In Aubonne:
Chem. de Clamogne 4,
1170 Aubonne,
Switzerland

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