Christmas family starts now! Use this article to plan outings to step into the Christmas season. There is something here for everyone, for all ages. There are shows to see, parks to visit, and places to enjoy!

Ready? Let’s do it!

LE JARDIN SECRET DE LA MERE NOEL
From November 6

Schilliger Garden Center is an absolute champion when it comes to Christmas decorations. Each year, they chose one Christmasy theme and transform their shops into a Christmas paradise – this year Mrs Santa Claus has got all the focus! It’s beautiful, magical, and accompanied by events for small and big (you’ll find them all in Parentville’s calendar). There are also Christmas bauble from Poland (in Gland only) who can personalize your baulb with anything you’d like – it can make for a great gift, and a great souvenir.

Great news: the shop in Gland is open also on Sundays till Christmas!

RECRECREA – Creative kits

You can easily have Christmas fun at home oo, especially if you’re equipped with creative sets from Recrecrea. There are two this year: one strictly Christmasy for 18 CHF – it is a set filled with lots of different things that will allow kids to create Christmas decorations and whatever else they wish. There is also another set with all materials needed to create a beautiful advent calendar. You can check them all here.

HAMEAU DU PERE NOEL & GRAND PARC DE NOEL
Open already

Hameau du Pere Noel is an incredible place. It’s a village in nearby France (a really short drive) in which Santa lives with all his family. The decorations are mindblowing and the whole setup feels as real as it can be. You can read all about it here. But that is not all! The neighboring Grand Parc d’Andilly was transformed into the Grand Parc de Noel! You can get one ticket to visit both places on the same day (a shuttle bus will take you from to the other) or decide to visit just one. Both places have shops by the exit, with all you may need for a magical Christmas.

For Hameau du Pere Noel click here.
For the Grand Parc de Noel it’s here.

CHRISTMAS AT CHILLON CASTLE
All weekends in December

This year, Chateau Chillon partnered up with Montreux Noel to bring us a Christmas with the Middle Ages vibe. Tons of Christmas trees, decorations, workshops, storytelling. Even animals will be present. The program sounds fun! It is best to book tickets asap.

RELATED ARTICLES

October holidays are tricky for staycation planning – it’s only one week, the weather is tricky, and gosh it’s the whole week. For those of you who would like to explore new places and use this week for some fun outings. I compiled a list of resources already available on this website. It should make your research easier.

Ready? Let’s do it!

This button will lead you to an article about zoo’s and farms in and around Geneva. Some are in Geneva, some are far. Some have farm animals, some have lions. There is something for everyone!

This article is a list of several beautiful autumn walks in Geneva and surrounding areas. When the weather is right such a walk can be a great way to occupy the kids! Collect leaves, chestnuts, and other treasures of nature. Prepare a picnic and enjoy the oxygen!

How about a new sport? Something you could all learn and do together? Climbing is perfect – no rain can spoil the fun, it’s not about speed, and it can be done solo. No need to join a class (maybe 1-2 times to understand some rules). It’s perfect!

Not a fan of climbing? Maybe accrbranche will make you happy? An obstacle trail up in the trees with ziplines. Kids can do it alone or with friends, or I dare you – with parents. Are you convinced?

October holidays are just before Halloween! There are many spooky activities taking place. Check out this article to choose the best fun for your kids!

SOme of you have a school aged kid and a baby at the same time. In this article you can find some ideas that will fit all of you, especially pram-friendly walks in pure nature.

This article is dedicated to all Muslim women and girls in the Parentville community and those who want to understand a bit more.

At the bottom of the text, you’ll find propositions of childrens books about on religious tolerance.

OH, THE IRONY.

By now, the whole world knows about the death of Mahsa Amini, hijabs, and the fact that letting your hair blow in the wind is a crime in Iran. But while the Iranian regime forces women to wear hijabs (and the Taliban forcing women to wear burqas, and so on), there are movements in Europe to ban the hijab altogether. Force there, ban here.

Isn’t it ironic?

There are many ironic, absurd and sad nuances in these facts. And it all comes down to choice.

THE STORY OF HIJAB

I recently met with Shaymaa, a follower who became a dear friend, to talk about hijabs and understand a bit more. Let’s start from the beginning.

Women have been covering their hair even before Islam came about. Just check the paintings of Holy Mary (a Jewish woman, as controversial as it may be for some, she was Jewish). Then, Islam came about, and Quran (Surat 24, verse 31) stated that women needed to cover their chests (for lack of a better translation) – it did not say anything about the head as it was a custom already. It also reminded men not to gaze/stare at women. Some treated it literally and only covered their chests. In most Islamic (not to confuse with Arabic) countries, this was a loose rule. It was up to the women to choose if they wanted to wear hijab or not.

Well, up to the point because the Prophet said hijab is obligatory, BUT if women choose not to follow this or other rules it’s between them and God. So it is obligatory but not penalized if not applied.

Shaymaa then told me about another verse from Quran, or rather a part of a verse: « There is no compulsion in religion » Surat 2, verse 256. The rest of the verse explains it well “the truth stands out clearly from falsehood”. What she has always understood from that is that every person has their choices, according to what they know and what they want, and they will be judged by God and no one else.

Back to the historic timeline

In 1979 the Islamic Revolution in Iran changed everything. In the 80s, women were instructed to wear hijabs. You can see photos from before and after the Revolution here. More or less, the same applies to other Islamic countries. With time, the women’s choice of expressing their religiousness and fashion was taken away from them, with Afghanistan having the toughest dress code.

Mahsa Amini died because her hijab was not correctly placed on her head. This started massive riots in Iran: women are putting hijabs on fire, throwing them out, and cutting their hair short. Shaymaa had a spot-on reflection on that: Does it mean these women are fighting Islam? I do not think so. Again, I think it all comes down to choice.

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

At the same time, in Switzerland, there is a discussion about banning hijabs at schools. Argument: public institutions must be free of religious symbols. But what about people who voluntarily choose hijab in a religion that asks them to wear it in public places? Does it mean banning necklaces with crosses? Does it mean also mean banning yarmulkes? Or that orthodox Jewish married women will also be forbidden from covering their heads while attending the PTA meetings?

Some claim that girls and women are forced to wear hijabs. Shaymaa confirmed that some are, but it’s a minority. What about those who aren’t forced and want to wear it? Is banning it for everyone the right way to help those being forced? Or maybe they will not be allowed to leave the house anymore? There must be a different way to help those forced by letting free expression of religion to others. You can check here what Amnesty International has to say about it.

Another argument is that France already did it. There is already a study pointing out, surprise surprise, the adverse effects of this ban. Reading it is eyes opening. But why trust scientists and experts?

DIVERSITY.

What I love about my daughter’s public school is precisely that she will meet and befriend people of different skin colours, religions, cultures, and ethnicities. From an early age, this is her reality. She knows that ethnicity and religion have nothing to do with being a good person, a good friend. I didn’t have that growing up – in my childhood. Everybody looked the same. For my daughter, it is normal for her that some kids don’t celebrate Christmas. She knows what Ramadan is and that the Chinese New Year is different from ours. I love that she knows it just by having various friends.

Letting diversity thrive is, I believe, the way to build a tolerant society.  If they added more disabled kids to public schools, the world would be an even better place.

And why, bloody why, is it always about women and their bodies? Abortions, hijabs. Women had to fight barriers to wear pants and ride horses like men. It seems the fight is not over. Men always come back with new ideas about how and what we should wear or do with our bodies. Will it ever be over?

Women and girls who wear hijabs voluntarily do not hurt anyone with their scarves. Please, let them choose.

BOOKS FOR KIDS

“My Religion, Your Religion” by Lisa Bullard and Holli Conger

“Hats of Faith” by Medeia Cohan-Petrolino & Sarah Walsh

Who Believes What? by Anna Wills and Nora Tomm

The Kids Book of World Religions by Jennifer Glossop

What Do You Believe: Big Questions about Religion from DK Publishing

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Are you looking for fun Halloween activities in Geneva? Then you’re in the right place! Well. Assuming you’re looking for Halloween in Geneva events in 2022, that is.

My Halloween hunt for events will continue, and I will be adding them to the events calendar – check here.

Ready? Let’s do it!

CANDY TREASURE HUNT IN THE OLD TOWN

How about a candy treasure hunt in the mysterious streets of the Geneva’s Old Town? Come wearing your costume, discover the secrets of this beautiful part of the city and stock up on treats!
You’ll receive a spooky game books and stickers to use in the book while you’re hunting for candy. It all involves ugly characters that made the history of Geneva: witches, executioners, bad wolves and tyrants!
This great game is animated by our infernal witches! You will also be in the company of other families and children, for even more fun! You can choose one of three different trails while mkaing your reservation.

INFO & TICKETS HERE.

“Torture and Punishment” candlelight walk

Ages 10+

This event will take you into the dephts of a dark and pitiless city. Torment of the strappado, recourse to questioning, beheadings, judicial drownings… the list of tortures and punishments is as long as it is varied. By candlelight, you will set off on a journey to the heart of horror! You will never see Geneva the same way again!

And to recover from your emotions, a mulled wine with spices (or a hot mango juice) awaits you at Radar de Poche. A seasoned and atypical bartender, Pascal Saiter, is a multi-medal winner! All his cocktails are made to measure, according to your tastes! Unique in Geneva!

MORE INFO HERE.

HALLOWEEN PARTY AT SPELL LANGUAGES

Spell Languages run their first Halloween party last year and kids liked it a lot! There were crafts, candy, and spookiness adapted to different age groups. It is happenning again this year, yey! The party is organized in collaboration with Emys Robot and HB Academie.
The program and registration details will be announced soon – best is to follow Spell on Instagram or Facebook to have the news and quickly book the tickets.

CHAPLIN’S WORLD

The Chaplin’s Museum site will be frightfully decorated till November 6. On top of that the most famous monsters of Hollywood will animate the special Halloween trail. Some of them move/make sounds but everything is well indicated on the map, so you can avoid the interactive monsters if it’s not your kids thing. Special this year: Loup Garou and his cave!

You can purchase a ticket just for the Halloween animations (it does not give access to the Manoir and the Studio). You can find all the necessary information here.

HALLOWEEN AT THE PRANGINS CASTLE

Chateau de Prangins seems to organize more and more rich orogram for Halloween. This year everything starts at 2 pm.  There will be a story time (in French) three times in the afternoon. You can also take a guided tour on the history of witches in the French-speaking Switzerland. They will hold pumpkin curving workshops, activities in the Salle du Potager and in the Kitchen Garden. Oh! And ther is also a possibility of a visit to to the Kitchen Garden to check out the poisonous plants! And that is not all.

CHECK FOR MORE HERE.

HALLOWEEN IN THE VINEYARDS (JUSSY, SATIGNY, DARDAGNY)

Bring your kids to for trick or treating, or rather candy hunting, in the beautiful scenery. These events are great for all families not just kids. The Halloween celebration here includes food, creativity and lots and lots of fun. defeinitely something to check out!

For the Jussy event click here.
For info about Dardagny check here.
All you need to know about Halloween in Satigny is here.

SENSAS

ages 7+

A great place to shiver and laugh at the same time. It’s perfect for Halloween and surely Sensa will prepare their sensory trail in a spooky way for the occasion. Parentville tried it, Parentville loved it, Parentville recommends it. What it is? You’ll be invited to several rooms, each with a different sensory task. You will touch things in the darkness, you will taste things in the darkness, smell them too of course. You will challenge your sight, and all the other senses too! It’s brilliant.

Book fast here.

HALLOWEEN BALL FOR KIDS

For the first time ever Cercle des Bains organizes a special Halloween children’s ball. There will be a dancefloor, there will  be a DJ. But also: candy galore, animations and activitie, bouncy castle, a dress up contest, and not but not least snacks and drinks. To book your place and check more details please check here.

PARC AVENTURE – SPOOKY ACCROBRANCHE

The most adventourous parc in Geneva will be decorated with dreadful witches and terrifying spider webs even before Halloween so a visit there will already put you in the right mood. On 28th and 29th of October you can book your spot for special nightime accrobranche. The whole team will be wearing costumes, you will receive a frontal lamp, there will be prizes, raclette, and more! You have too book your place, and do it fast as for each night only 150 places are available. You can see how it works by clicking here.

SWISS VAPEUR PARC

If you haven’t yet visited the Swiss Vapeur Parc now is the time! If you already have, you  may enjoy the new Halloween-y look of the place. From October 14th the parc will be decorated and uncanny activities will be added to the parc. Some mildly scary characters, pumpkins, and spider nets will make the train journies even more exciting. To get your tickets click here.

CHATEAU CHILLON

What place can have a better scenery for Halloween than an old castle? Chateau Chillon is perfect and their activities are spooktakular! This year Halloween in Chillon will be all about the ghost of Yolande of Montferrat. There is a mystery to solve, ghost’s traces to be found. Cafe Byron will have very Halloweeny menu on the day! Absolutely worth checking out!

More info here.

HALLOWEEN IN YATOULAND

Halloween party at Yatouland will take place on October 29, from 15h30 till 20h30. It will be a fan occassion to dance with kids, with music assured by DJ Mike. « Verity » will perform her songs and give autographs. Make up station, tatoos and photobooth will add to the party atmosphere!

Reservation is mandatory. You cn check the details, prices and book your spot at yatooland.com.

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The first of the summer, the last of the school year – June is a busy and exciting month. Rest assured that between booking the summer camps and hunting for gifts for teachers, there is a lot of fun ahead! I will now spare you a prolonged blah blah blah kind of intro and get straight into listing fun things happening in Geneva in June.

Ready? Let’s do it!

Les Grandes Médiévales d’Andilly, France
June 4, 5, 6, 11 & 12

Les Grandes Medievales is an annual medieval festival that takes place every year in the Grand Parc d’Andilly. It’s filled with great shows (horses, fire, acrobatics, storytelling, magic and more! There’s also food and games. It is a very popular festival, it can get crowded, and prams are not practical in that place. You can book your parking place with your ticket. You can also park in designated parking farther away – shuttles will take you to the festival. You can be there a few hours, the whole day, or if you’re that brave – stay for the night shows! Comfy shoes and water bottles.

More info here.

LES PETITES KANAILLES
June 11, Grand-Saconnex

A day dedicated to children and families at the theater le Douze Dix-Huit and its suroundings! With shows for young and old, music, activities, games and entertainment to keep your children busy before, between and during performances. A great way to kick off the summer for families. It will start at 10 am and finish at 6:30 pm. Snacks and bevargaes will be availble on site.

More info here.

Bol d’Or Mirabaud,
June 10-12, Lac Leman

The worlds’ biggest closed bassin regata is taking place on our beloved Lac Leman. Over 500 sailboats will meet at the start line to compete. It turns the lake into a great scene. You can watch from different places along the lake throughout the day. From Friday (June 10) you can also hang out in the Village du BOM placed by the lake in Geneva on the occasion. Stands, animations, restaurants, bars, concerts! The site doesn’t specify where the Village will be, but we can probably all safely guees it will be Jardin d’Anglais.

More info here.

Le Jeune Homme de Cro-Magnon
June 8, 11, 12; Theatre la Creve Coeur

A playful and wacky show about our ancestor, his relationship with nature and the major discoveries that will forever change his way of existing. Adapted from Rémi Chaurand’s book, this story immerses us in the daily life of an 11-year-old Cro-Magnon and his best friend, at a time of mistrust and fear, of total dependence on nature, where everything is still discover. It is the unknown, the adventure, the horizon that is looming, but also a bit of adolescence.

Show for ages 7+. More info and bookings here.

Fete de la Musique
24-26 June, Bastions

Three days of concerts and musical events in Geneva. This 31st edition is looking great: concerts, workshops and meetings of all styles and flavors. The next Fête de la Musique is once again taking place in the Parc des Bastions and in the Old Town and presents a program of 555 free cultural activities, on thirty stages, almost half of which are outdoors. Nothing like it to kick off the summer! Some municipalities will also organize events for the Fete de la Musqiue – check with your commune.

More info here.

PORTES OUVERTES A L’OBSERVATOIRE
June 18-19, Versoix

A rare occasion to visit the observatory of the University of Geneva as it celebrates its 250th anniversary! It will open to the public this month with cool surprises and activities for kids and adults. How about sun observations, or games teaching about the solar system, or even a planetarium show. There will be special workshops for children ages 12+.  Book your spots fast!

More info here.

CHARITY CONCERT
June 19, Victoria Hall

Charity concert performed by Harmonie Nautique de Genève in the beautiful Victoria Hall in Geneva organized by Ukraine Aid. This organization provides financial support to hosts of Ukrainian families in the European Union countries and in Switzerland. The aid is intended to relieve the families of displaced persons and to make it easier for displaced persons, often difficult ones, to start life in their new countries.

More info here.

DIABOLO FESTIVAL
June 25-26, Morges

The 10th edition of this cool festival for kids will take place in Morges, in a newly renovated theater! As usual, the program gives a special place to magic, theater and puppet shows as well as fun, creative and sporting activities and workshops. It’s a joyful fun festival!

More info here.

JARDIN DES NATIONS – immersive show
All summer

How about chilling in a fun garden, sipping drinks prepared by la Barje? To the fun you can add yoga, gardening, fresh vegies, and… an immersive 360° show about Vermeer and his amazing works. We saw the show few months ago and oh boy, it is really wonderful and relaxing!

More info here.

SCULPTURE GARDEN
June 10 – September 30, Eaux-Vives

A yearly open air exibition organised by Art Geneve. The art works placed in Parc des Eaux-Vives, La Grange and on Quai Gustave-Ador will for sure spice up your walk. Many of the sculptures will fascinate the kids as well, and who knows maybe it will inspire them to create something too?

More info here.

LUDOBUS, AMUSEBUS

The toy libraries on wheels are back to provide fun in various parks from Monday to Thursday every week till auatumn. In the city of Geneva it is called a Ludobus, in the municipality of Vernier it’s name is an Amusebus. You can check the details of places and timings for Geneva here, for Vernier here.

Every year Parentville hand picks the summer camps of excellent quality. Some of them agree to pay for a promotion in this article. Still, these are the camps Parentville fully trusts.

Ready? Let’s do it!

KNOCK ON WOOD

How about woodworking or woodworking mixed with programming? This year’s summer courses at Knock On Wood are exceptional! They have separate camps for kids ages 7+ and a different program for teens with teens-friendly hours. Each day children will design, craft, and learn to operate real badass machinery. Each day will bring new joys from the realization what hands can do! Outdoors outings are included in every day program. A wonderfuly balanced camps that offers new skills, meaningful activity, fun, and relaxation!

AGE: 7+  and Teens
PRICE: from 450/ week
HOURS: 8h30 – 17h30
LOCATION: Nations area
MORE INFO: click here.

SPELL LANGUAGES

Spell is the most adventurous language school for kids. Children come and learn without even noticing, because all they feel is having fun! Their summer camps offer is so rich and wonderful, this paragraph is not big enough to grasp. Different age groups to make kids comfortable (4-6, 4-8, 7-10, 11-14) with age adapted exciting themes. Kids will play with sweet and gentle Emys, learn about forests, or have a Koh Lanta week. They can learn or improve: English, French, German, Italian or Spanish. As you can see, there is something for everyone!

AGE:4+
PRICE: from 460/ week
HOURS: 8h00 – 17h30
LOCATION: Bastions area
MORE INFO: click here.

SIMPLY THEATRE

Simply Theatre has a fabulous lineup of workshops running at their Versoix studios from late June to mid-August. From rock musicals to Disney favourites, horror to Harry Potter, Acting Bootcamps to Movie Making there is something to tempt every young performer. Their fantastic tutors are drawn from across the world of theatre, television and film to deliver exhilarating and unique camps for all ages. Every tutor is passionate about working with young people and are hand-picked for each camp to ensure a first-class experience for students.

Running from 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday each week, fees for Simply Summer 2022 camps courses are 295CHF for Mini Performers (5-6 years/half days) and 595CHF for Young Performers (7-11) and Performers (12-18).

AGE: 5+
PRICE: from 295 CHF/week
LOCATION: Versoix
MORE INFO: here.

PEP ENGLISH

Back by popular demand: Learn English as if you were there! ​Following the huge success of our Interactive Virtual Tour Camps of English-speaking countries, PEP English is thrilled to present our 2022 Summer Camp programme! At our full immersion summer camps, children will discover landscapes and landmarks of different English-speaking countries and experience the local culture, traditions and games through a multi-sensorial experience. Let’s learn English and explore: Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the USA.

All levels are welcome, from beginners to English mother-tongue. One qualified teacher and two assistants per group of 10 children. We split children into mini-groups to maximise progress and participation.

AGE: 5+
PRICE: 600 CHF/week
LOCATION: Veyrier
CONTACT: www.pepenglish.ch/ 022 321 77 31 / [email protected] / Instagram: @pepenglish / FacebooK: @pepenglish

ILL CAMPS

This summer, IIL Camps offers bilingual (French/English) holiday camps open to all children and teenagers from 3 to 17 years old, in half-day or full-day formats, with:

– a wide choice of sports (incl. climbing, canyoning, rugby, horse riding…),

– IT activities (incl. robotics, game development, coding…),

– various artistic activities (musical, hip hop, music, graphic design…)

and many other entertaining activities and cultural outings.

We aim at awaking children’s interest, encouraging learning, developing their creativity and entertaining them, all in a caring and stimulating atmosphere. All camps are organised under the aegis of the Institut International de Lancy, in order to guarantee the quality of the supervision and their safety.

Come and discover our programme for a colourful summer 2022!

CONTACT:
www.iil-camps.ch
Email : [email protected]
Tel No. : 076 410 26 20

FUTURE KIDS

Are you looking for an original, fun and educational activity for your child during the holidays? Futurekids welcome children and teenagers aged 5 to 14 for a morning or a full day around original themes such as video game development, robotics, programming and much more! In our holiday camps, students discover computer science while having fun. They are interacting, sharing, learning and developing their creativity and their sense of logic. They will also have to help each other, collaborate, create an ambitious group project and complete it. Our pedagogy allows children and teenagers to open up to the world of tomorrow and to learn a little more about the professions of the future.

AGE: 5+
HOURS: 9h – 17h
PRICE: 335 CHF/week
LOCATION: Geneva, Nyon, Lausanne, and more.
CONTACT:
https://futurekids.io/
[email protected]
0216011427

LES PETITS BRICOLOS

Have fun and learn excellent skills at the same time!!! Yes it’s possible with Les Petits Bricolos. Children will spend the day building benches, boats, crossbows and many other projects. For part of the day they will have fun at Parc des Bastions: a perfect place for fun and picnics! So, if your kid is very handy, always making things with his two hands and would love to do more, this camp is perfect! Little carpenters will use real tools and build on their own. Knowing how to build and repair is a highly practical skill. Small groups of 6 maximum will assure a joyful atmosphere. Lunch is not included, but drinks and snacks will be provided.

PRICE: 100 CHF/day or 400 CHF/week.
HOURS: 9h00 – 17h00
LOCATION: Bastions area.
MORE INFO: here.

TOTUP

If you’re looking for a camp for your toddler, this is the place to book! TotUp is a well known private nursery and primary school in Geneva and Vaud. They have experience of caring for toddlers, and are also very well equipped to provide them with fun activities. Every week will have a different theme, every week will involve outings, creative time, high quality food, and summer joy! Caring atmosphere adapted to the needs of toddlers guarantees parents’ peace of mind. Don’t wait too long with booking – it is not easy in Geneva to find camps for small children.

AGE: 2+
HOURS: maximum 7am – 7 pm
PRICE: from 350 CHF/week
LOCATION: Lancy (Geneva), Crissier & Epalinges (Vaud)
MORE INFO: click here.

PLANET CLIMBING

During holiday camps at Planet Climbing, your child will enjoy a great mix of sports related to climbing as well as other fun and creative activities. These week-long camps are not only for “climber-kids”! Every child will enjoy the time learning new skills and making friends. All camps are fully guided and ensure a safe and fun time for all. The program includes climbing games at the climbing gym, outdoor climbing day, yoga, arts and crafts, tennis, a visit to the Fluo Sports room and more outdoor games in collaboration with third party providers. Everything is designed to push vertical limits for fun!
Groups of 8 kids max. Weekly and daily booking possible. From 08:30 to 17:00. Extra child-care hours on-demand.

AGE: 5+
PRICE: 490 CHF/week or 125 CHF/day (10% discount for three bookings made at the same time)
HOURS: 8h30 – 17h00.
LOCATION: Lancy.
MORE INFO: here. 

HERSTREET

SCHOOL OF LIFE

This new place is a nonprofit foundation organizing all year courses, trips and summer camps for kids. All profits go to support the Ukrainian refugees. This is their first year of functioning but they are experienced people – the foundation was brought to life by the famous IT STEP Academy. You can choose between adventure camps and IT camps. A noble project indeed. Thanks to your kids having fun, other people will be supported in their needs. Isn’t it a beautiful idea?

AGE: 4+
PRICE: 450 CHF/wekk
HOURS: 8h30-17h00
LOCATION: Nations & Eaux-Vives
MORE INFO: click here.

ESPACE COLIBRI

Gymboree Geneva

Creatorz Academy

OTHER CAMPS

Intersoccer: football in many locations.

BioParc in Versoix: become a zookeeper.

Au Fil des Sens: creative weeks for 6+.

ASK All Special Kids: camps for children with Learning Differences and Special Educational Needs.

Roller Geneve: roller blading camp in Geneva.

CPV: many camps to choose from!

AddictLab: super cool STEAM camps (science mixed with arts).

Recrecrea: pure fun, liberty and creativity at the same time.

Totem: climbing and sports camps.

У школах Женеви звикли мати дітей, які не володіють французькою.

Діти в Женеві ідуть до школи приблизно 20 серпня, коли їм виповнюється чотири роки. Діти, народжені з серпня до грудня, починають навчатися через рік після тих, хто народився з січня до липня. Перший клас початкової школи (французька ecole primaire) – це 1P, і він триває до 8P.

1P–4P – це «менша частина», а 5P–8P – «середня частина».

Від 1P до 4P діти отримують оцінки не у вигляді цифр, а у вигляді словесного оцінювання. Від 5P вони отримують традиційні оцінки з математики та французької мови, з 6P – також з німецької.

Перші два роки (1P–2P) діти здебільшого звикають до школи, спілкування, рукоділля та співів. Це більше схоже на дитячий садок. Вони потроху починають писати літери, свої імена, але без напруженого навчання. Очікується, що до кінця 4P вони мають вміти читати короткі тексти та писати кілька речень. Клас проводить час з одним–двома вчителями (які приходять у різні дні).

У 5P навчання трохи змінюється. Додаються нові предмети (історія, природознавство, географія, німецька мова). У 7P до переліку предметів додається англійська мова.

Наприкінці 4P і 8P діти здають іспити. Перший – це радше для інформації шкіл, щоб оцінити, як навчаються учні. Другий важливий, його бали зараховують до суми балів під час переходу від початкової до середньої школи (так званий Cycle d’Orientation, цикл орієнтації).

Діти, які не розмовляють французькою в 1P–3P, ідуть до звичайного класу та вивчають французьку з рештою учнів. Ті, хто йдуть до швейцарської школи у 4P і пізніше, півдня навчаються зі звичайним класом, а наступну половину проводять у class d’accueil, де вивчають французьку.

Школи надають усі матеріали, від книжок до олівців. Усе це залишається в школі весь час, а наприкінці навчального року діти приносять приладдя додому (олівці, ручки, ножиці тощо).

Найнеобхідніші речі, які сім’я повинна забезпечити дитині:

• домашнє взуття/капці
• спортивний одяг та окреме взуття тільки для спортивного залу
• рюкзак (легкий, але такий, що вміщує файл формату А4)
• коробка для перекусів і пляшка води
• купальник, шапочка, рушник
• фартух для малювання/рукоділля

Найбільша незручність – обідня перерва: з 11:30 до 13:30 діти повинні або йти додому, або записуватися до шкільної їдальні.

Існує можливість доглядати за дітьми після школи (16–18.00) у parascolaire.

І обід, і parascolaire платні.

Цикл орієнтації (Cycle d’Orientation)

На основі оцінок у 8P (останньому класі початкової школи) дітей можуть розподіляти на три різні рівні в CO. R3 – для тих, хто має найкращі оцінки, R2 – для учнів із середньою успішністю, R3 – для тих, хто відчуває труднощі та потребує додаткової підтримки.

До якої початкової та середньої школи ідуть діти, визначають на основі їхньої домашньої адреси.

Після трьох років навчання в CO (9P–11P) діти або йдуть до старших класів (коледжу), а потім до університету, або обирають професійну підготовку (apprentissage), яка підготує їх до ринку праці, коли їм виповниться 16 років.

ПОВ’ЯЗАНІ СТАТТІ

Ludotheques

«Іграшкотеки» – це бібліотеки іграшок з ігровими зонами. Прийти та погратися в будь-якій із цих «іграшкотек» кантону можна цілком безкоштовно. Щоб орендувати іграшки, потрібно сплатити абонентську плату в розмірі 30 швейцарських франків на рік. Можна орендувати найрізноманітніші іграшки, настільні ігри та навіть іграшки для вулиці. На цьому веб-сайті ви знайдете карту з 12 «іграшкотеками» Женеви.

Cerf Volant

Ігрова зона для дітей від 0 до 4 років. Скільки ви хочете або можете заплатити за вхід – вирішувати вам. Батьки мають змогу обговорити певні питання чи проблеми з дитячими вихователями. Всі деталі тут. Деякі інші муніципалітети (наприклад, Carouge, Grand-Saconnex, Lancy) можуть пропонувати схожі розваги. У Vernier є Accueil Adultes-Enfants у всіх районах – ви можете знайти розклад роботи тут.

Бібліотеки

Громадські бібліотеки в Женеві та всіх інших містах кантону безкоштовні. Усі вони мають дитячі куточки із затишними місцями, де можна посидіти та погортати книжки. У більшості з них не буде книжок ані українською, ані російською мовами, але менші діти можуть із задоволенням переглядати книжки з малюнками, а старші – спробувати вивчити деякі французькі слова. Багато з цих бібліотек мають книжки англійською, німецькою, італійською та іспанською мовами. Перелік бібліотек Женеви можна знайти тут. Інші муніципалітети (наприклад, Grand Saconnex, Vernier, Thonex, Carouge також мають публічні бібліотеки з дитячими куточками). Громадські бібліотеки теж пропонують великий вибір DVD (завжди перевіряйте на обкладинці, якими мовами наявні субтитри).

Тварини

1. Bois de la Batie – це найкраще місце просто неба в Женеві для сімейного відпочинку. У лісі Ла-Баті ви знайдете невеликий зоопарк з місцевими тваринами і птахами, чудовий новий ігровий майданчик (з «жабенятником» улітку) і пішохідні доріжки в лісі – вони можуть привести вас до залізничного мосту. І це не звичайний міст, з нього видно диво Женеви – прекрасне видовище злиття двох річок.
2. Garenne – безкоштовно зі статусом S (автобус від залізничного вокзалу Gland). Невеликий, але чарівний зоопарк із веселим ігровим майданчиком у кантоні Во. https://www.facebook.com/groups/354211539939618/posts/374852357875536/
3. BioParc in Versoix – перше відвідування безкоштовне. Це місце, де доглядають за хворими тваринами, тваринами, незаконно завезеними до Швейцарії або тими, яких роздали цирки, тощо. Диких тварин лікують і відпускають назад у природне середовище. Доїхати можна автобусом TPG № 20.

Інші зоопарки Швейцарії з пропозиціями для власників статусу S (джерело – Facebook):

• Zoo alpin des Marécottes Valais (будь-які біженці з чинним статусом)
• Zoologischer Garten Basel (статус S або український паспорт)
• Tierpark Bern (статус S або український паспорт)
• Zoo La Garenne Le Vaud VD (статус S, для великих груп потрібно звертатися телефоном)
• Natur- und Tierpark Goldau (статус S або український паспорт)
• Papiliorama Chietres FR (статус S)
• Walter Zoo Gossau SG (статус S)

Музеї

До більшості музеїв Женеви вхід безкоштовний (винятком можуть бути тимчасові виставки). Більшість із них пропонують інформацію французькою та англійською мовами.

Усі музеї пропонують безплатний вхід у першу неділю кожного місяця (це стосується й тимчасових виставок).

1. Природознавчий музей – це улюблений музей сімей у Женеві. Постійна виставка тварин, скам’янілостей та інших експонатів, пов’язаних з природою. Тимчасові виставки зазвичай дивовижні, але для них потрібно придбати квиток. Музей розташований за адресою route de Malagnou, 1. Їхній веб-сайт лише французькою.
2. Musée d’Arts et d’Histoire de Geneve (MAH): це прекрасна будівля з картинами, артефактами з історії Женеви, а один поверх присвячено археології. Вхід безплатний.
3. Musée Ariana – це музей кераміки, який може здатися не найкращим місцем для дітей, але це так. Розташований у красивому парку Аріана поруч із будівлею Організації Об’єднаних Націй, він має дуже милий ігровий куточок для дітей на першому поверсі та розваги, як-от пошуковий квест, доступні англійською та французькою мовами.
4. MAMCO – музей сучасного мистецтва, який також люблять діти. Деяких творів мистецтва можна торкатися або навіть зайти всередину – наприклад, до темної печери чи вагона поїзда, перетвореного на лабіринт. Вхід платний, тому краще дочекатися першої неділі місяця. У цій самій будівлі ви знайдете Центр сучасного мистецтва.
5. Musée d’histoire des sciences (Музей історії наук) також розташований у красивому парку Perle du Lac біля озера. Це невеликий музей, який представляє історію науки. Також відбуваються гарні тимчасові виставки, і тут вони безплатні. Зараз це виставка, присвячена горам. Усю інформацію наведено французькою та англійською мовами.
6. Музей пожежників (Musée des Sapeurs-Pompiers) – безкоштовний і надзвичайно веселий, до того ж розташований у центрі Женеви. Можна дивитися, торкатися і навіть сидіти всередині пожежних автомобілів та знарядь для пожежників. 
7. Музей етнографії (Musée d’ethnographie) – безкоштовний музей, з масками, костюмами та іншіми артефаками. Чудовий для спеки, завдяки кондіціонеру. На кассі можна попрозати гру для дітей, де треба бути шукати деякі об’якти.

Походи

Якщо ви любите природу та прогулянки лісами, Женева ідеально підходить для цього. Ви можете прогулятися виноградниками, біля однієї з численних річок або в лісах. Мої улюблені – тут.

Тільки навесні та влітку:

Ludobus

Навесні, влітку та на початку осені бібліотеки іграшок організовують два автобуси, які щотижня їздять до різних парків і пропонують іграшки та розваги просто неба! Місця проведення та розклад – тут. Муніципалітет Верньє організовує такі самі розваги під назвою Amusebus; дати та місця можна знайти тут.

Неглибокі дитячі басейни (pateaugoire)

Безкоштовні водні розваги для дітей віком від 0 до 7 років. Ці неглибокі басейни доглянуті, чисті та регулярно перевіряються, тому ви спокійно можете дозволяти дітям тут бавитися. Вони відкриті в багатьох парках та інших місцях з травня до вересня. Інформація про такі басейни в Женеві – тут.

Басейни (piscine)

Місто Женева та всі інші муніципалітети Женеви мають громадські басейни.Вхід зі статусом С наразі безкоштовний, ви можете залишатися скільки завгодно. У кожному є великий басейн, «жабенятник», кафе та ресторани, а також розважальні споруди для дітей. У багатьох є також дитячі майданчики. Чимало з них можна знайти тут.

Найближчий аквапарк, Vitam Parc, розташований у Франції (доїхати громадським транспортом можливо, але довго).

Озеро

На Женевському озері можна годинами приємно проводити час. Plage des Eaux Vives – це безплатний пляж. Поруч з ним розташовано Baby Plage – невеликий піщаний пляж з дуже крутим ігровим майданчиком для дітей.

Інший варіант – Bains des Paquis або Geneve Plage – вхід платний, але не дуже дорогий. 

Протягом року діти дуже люблять кататися на женевських водних поїздах (той самий квиток, що й на автобус). Так весело бачити женевський фонтан Jet d’Eau з води, а не з суші!

Майданчики

Перелік найкращих майданчиків:

1. Bois de la Batie (карта)
2. Jardin Botanique (для малюків) – карта
3. Parc Hentsch (карта)
4. Parc des Copeaux in Carouge (карта)
5. Baby Plage (карта)
6. Plainpalais (карта)
7. Parc des Bastions (карта)
8. Parc la Grange (карта)
9. Новий майданчик у Founex (карта)

ПОВ’ЯЗАНІ СТАТТІ:

Spring is here, it will get hot soon, the sun will shine and hopefully, the viruses will give us a break. As always, spring marks the beginning of fun events in Geneva. But enough of this blah, blah, blah. Let’s see what’s on this month for families in Geneva!

Ready?
Let’s do it!

La Cour des Contes
Plan-Les-Ouates; till May 8,

 A festival of shows dedicated to children of all ages! Grab your tickets as soon as possoble, they disappear quickly every year. There are also workshop, an exhibition and other forms of fun. More info here.

Fete du Printemps
May, 7; Vernier Village

A new small animal parc by Pro Specia Rara is opening up in vernier Village on May 7th. They will have activities or kids, a presentation of the hives in the presence of a beekepeer, food stalls, plants market and more! Music will be assured by The Green Flamingos and the Groove Gang. The whole event will be accompanied by a second-hand bikes sale by ProVelo. Details here.

Revons la ville de demain,
Rue du Lyon; May 5-7

« Let’s dream the city of tomorrow » is a major free event organized by the HES-SO Geneva and the EXPLORE festival to discover, have fun and reflect on urban issues. From May 5 to 7, 2022, events, open-air exhibitions, urban pond (!), round tables and concerts await the public at the La Prairie site, 22 rue de Lyon. All in a scenography and with a visual identity designed by students from Geneva HES schools. Residents will also be able to express their visions and wishes for the Geneva of tomorrow. Workshops for kids included (check the program).

Fete de la Danse
Geneva, 10-15 May

Yey! Fete de la Danse is back! Many dancing and musical events, shows and workshops will take place in the canton. The program is rich in all sorts of events for all ages and tastes, check it out here.

KIDICAL MASS
Geneva Center, May 15

The Kidical mass is a family parade with children pedaling on their bikes, transported, or even on their balance bikes.
This is an authorized and supervised event in complete safety, to demonstrate the importance and advantages of cycling in cities, including for children. It is only by obtaining continuous and safe accommodations that our children will finally be able to move around independently and with their families.

Come and parade in color on a bicycle, cargo bike, balance bike, trailer, cart, tricycle, follow-me… with your family, grandparents and friends to claim these spaces in Geneva! All the details are on ProVelo website.

Salon du Livre
Geneva, May 18-22

The book fair in the city! This time it will take place at the beautiful promenade de la Treille, in the Old Town. A spring festival that brings together writers and readers in an idyllic setting in the heart of the city.
For 5 days, the public will be able to stroll from meeting to meeting in the city’s emblematic places and partner bookstores. La Cave gallery and the promenade de la Treille will be the central space of the show. The Grand Théâtre, the MAH, the Société de Lecture or the Chat Noir, and many other places will participate as well. All details here.

Cirque du Soleil,
Plainpalais, May 28 – July 3

The most famous circus in the world is coming to Geneva with their show « Luzia ». A perfect, mindblowing, beautiful performances without animals (you’ll never see info about circuses that use animals on this website). To book tickets and watch show previews check here.

Printemps Carougeois
Carouge, May 13-22;

This cool yearly celebration of spring this year will be all about cosmos! Immediate take-off! This year, the pride place is given to science and imagination. The public wiill be invited to marvel, reflect, contemplate and interact thanks to the shows, concerts, exhibitions and workshops that make up this 57th edition. All details are here.

EQUATORIAL UTOPIA
Pavillon Sicli, till June 12

EQUATORIAL UTOPIA, an immersive and singular dive into the built and plant environment of Singapore. Through immersive projections, a dynamic map as well as imposing cutting plans, the event will offer a singular dive into the art of Singapore’s construction. Visitors will thus be able to discover selected projects from 1970 to the present day, testifying to the utopian dimension of its architecture. More info here.

The Night of the Museums
Canton Geneva; May 21,

La Nuit Des Musees is back! Many many many institutions join in the fun and prepare special events. Shows, workshops, performances, mapping, behind the scenes. On the website you can choose your favorite events and create a plan. It works great – see for yourself.

KIDS’ WOrkshops at SCHILLLIGER
Wednesdays & Sundays; Gland

Every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon Schilliger Garden Center in Gland offers fun nature-related workshops for kids. Including the May 8 – Fete des Meres. You can see all workshops on this website – just remember to click on the « Gland » store first.

Oksana Petersen from Nutrition Right is back on Parentville with simple, tasty and healthy recipes that can be prepared with kids. Enjoy and bon apetit!

Easter just came and went leaving behind the chocolate egg wrappers. We all enjoyed one or two chocolate eggs, but nutritionally speaking, they may be not the best option to starve off the appetite. Hen eggs, however, are a whole different game. 

Eaten in moderation, eggs are super good for everyone. They are high in choline, an essential nutrient linked to liver and brain health. Eggs are also a great source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and iron which help fuel our energy levels.

We use eggs for baking pastries, but what about creating savoury dishes highlighting the delicious taste of eggs. Easy dishes like tortillas, omelettes, scrambles eggs are great at any time of the day with various vegetables. If you enjoy eggy dishes, you may want to try making the below recipes of Egg Muffins or Baked Eggs for a bit of variety. These recipes are super easy to make with your little ones.

Egg Muffins

Makes 8 

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 150g broccoli , finely chopped
• 1 red pepper , finely chopped 
• 2 spring onions , sliced 
• 6 large eggs
• 1 tbsp milk
• large pinch of smoked paprika
• 50g cheddar or gruyère, grated 

Step 1 (adult) Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 4. Brush half the oil in an 8-hole muffin tin. Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan and add the broccoli, pepper and spring onions. Fry for 5 mins. Set aside to cool. Grate the cheese.

Step 2 (child) Whisk the eggs with milk, smoked paprika and half the cheese in a bowl. Add the cooked veg. Pour the egg mixture into the muffin holes and top each with the remaining cheese. 

Step 3 (adult) Put the muffin tin into the oven & bake for 15-17 mins or until golden brown and cooked through. 

Baked eggs with veggies

Makes 2

Ingredients

• 8 small spinach leaves,
• 8 cherry tomatoes,
• 2 eggs,
• A piece of hard cheese,
• 2 slices of wholewheat bread , toasted, buttered and cut into dippers to eat with them.

Method

Step 1 (adult) Turn the oven on to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Grate the cheese

Step 2 (child) Put 4 ramekins or empty yoghurt glass jars in front of you. Wash the spinach & cut into strips using small scissors. Put some spinach in each ramekin.

Step 3 (child) Using your fingers, squash the cherry tomatoes into a bowl. Spoon 2 tomatoes and some juices into each ramekin.

Step 4 (child) Break an egg into a bowl. Scoop out any pieces of shell with a spoon, then tip the egg carefully into the ramekin. Do the same with another egg.

Step 5 (child) Sprinkle some cheese on top of each egg. 

Step 6 (adult) Put ramekins in the oven on an oven tray for 15-18 minutes or until the egg white has set.

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