Безкоштовні розваги для дітей у Женеві / Fun things to do with kids for free in Geneva

Безкоштовні розваги для дітей у Женеві / Fun things to do with kids for free in Geneva

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:

What’s on – May events for families in Geneva

What’s on – May events for families in Geneva

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.

Post-Easter recipes by Oksana

Post-Easter recipes by Oksana

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.

RELATED ARTICLES

Kids with hammers – woodworking in Geneva

Kids with hammers – woodworking in Geneva

Knock On Wood – remember this name, because sooner or later your kids will want to create with wood. Or you will want them to discover the wooden world from scratch. How cool would it be for them to have a wooden game made with their own hands? The satisfaction that comes with creating something is massively underrated, and daily activities that allow this joy are slowly disappearing. Too bad, because our brains crave this feeling.

Benefits of woodworking

many other benefits. For starters, it’s a great eye-hand coordination practice. Woodworking is the time spent using creative thinking and problem solving in a way that cannot be provided in (most) school environments.

This type of activity contributes to the « can-do » attitude and boosts self-esteem. The pride and satisfaction that comes with seeing the end result of one’s own hands work is hard to grasp with words.

And let’s face it: it is darn useful to know how to use the tools. We all know how much it costs to hire a handyman in Geneva, just imagine that your kid can be trained to do it all instead.

 

KNOCK ON WOOD

Knock on Wood is a company created to promote woodworking among adults and kids. Everybody who tried it, knows that the tales of satisfactory and relaxing components of these workshops are true. You come with nothing but your hands, you leave with something your hands made. And it is the same for kids.

Children come and do everything from A to Z: choosing a project, figuring out how to do it, measuring, cutting, sawing, polishing, painting, putting together.

We went once and a wooden arrow Z made by herself has a proud place on her main shelf. Since then she has been contemplating her next projects, and once she decides between stables or an obstacle course for the cat, we will enroll and build it together.

Knock on Wood organizes family workshops, birthday parties, and summer camps. All these options are great to try woodworking and to, who knows, find a new passion!

 

SUMMER CAMPS

Knock on Wood organizes joyful and exciting camps for children ages 7 and up (teenagers too). The first option is a woodworking camp that combines crafting and using serious machinery with outdoor activities.

Another option is a camp Knock on Wood designed with Future Kids. A week that combines the digital with the manual. It’s when coding, 3-d design and electronics meet the old-school tools and machines.

They also have camps for your teens – a week with Knock on Wood can help them find an off-screen activity and rediscover the abilities of their hands. The best part? It’s not a full day camp, so they can still sleep till noon.

 

PRACTICAL INFO

Knock On Wood
La Voie-Creuse 16,
1202 Geneva

www.kowcraftfactory.com

Facebook: @KnockOnWoodEurope

Instagram: @KnockOnWoodCraft

April & Easter family fun, Geneva 2022

April & Easter family fun, Geneva 2022

A bit of sun, a bit of snow 0 this is how April rolls! Let’s see what’s up this month in Geneva. There are festivals, exhibitions, and fun shows!

It’s a month full of celebrations: Ramadan, Easter, Passover, and Orthodox Easter! What a feast! In this article, I’ll focus on Easter but don’t hesitate to reach out if you know about activities linked to other April holidays.

Ready? Let’s do it!

Cirque Starlight
Plainpalais, till April 20, 2022.

A new tour of the animal-free entitled « Limbes ». The show is long, over two hours with one break. The first part can make smaller kids tiny scared because of the mask and the character of this part, but later the clown and the circus craziness will make up for it! If you miss them in Geneva this month, you can find their shows in whole Suisse Romande till the end of June. More info here.

LA COUR DES CONTES
Plan les Ouates; April 29 – May 8

A yearly festival of theater shows and workshops for kids is back on!  The ticket office will open on April 11 and I advise you to book your tickets on that day, as they tend to disapear fast. Shows for all ages and all tastes. More info here.

Alice, The Darker Side of The Mirror
Vullierens, April 23 – May 1

The most immersive theatre piece for kids that will entertain adults as well! It’s worth the trael, it’s worth every penny. The show that will take you to every corner of the garden, that will make you laugh, that will surprise and leave unforgettable memories! Highly #parentvillerecommended! More info here.

Lunaparc
Plainpalais; till April 24, 2022

For the amateurs of high adrenaline, dizziness and speed – Lunaparc will be present this month at Plainapalais. Lots of carousels for all ages, trampolines, bumping cars, cotton candy and other poisons will ensure top provide the best kind of fun for families (at least those who like this kind of fun). It opens every day at 2pm and closes at 10 pm.

Où est le monstre?
Exhibition, till April 13/May 22

This interactive exhibition was born of a collaboration between researchers from the UNIGE Biology Section and the sculptor Jean Fontaine. It is a journey between art and science, that helps understand how nature manufactures the diversity of living forms that we know today. The exhibition also questions the place of the human species in nature.

It takes place in three different venues:

  • at SEU till April 13, 2022. Here you’ll find a playful and interactive installation with 19 sculptures by Jean Fontaine and 6 scientific modules. The sculptor’s chimerical creatures dialogue with the work of researchers in biology at the University of Geneva around the theme of the monster.
  • Natural History Musuem presents an original installation around 23 works by the artist Jean Fontaine.
  • At Musee Ariana – a sculpture by Jean Fontaine.

More info here.

Sous la lune II – Voyage dans la ville
Meyrin; till April 24.

It’s an interactive and traveling exhibition designed by the Center Pompidou in Paris. Meyrin placed in Cairn – a building in Jardin Alpin. What it is about? A room filled with metal blocks and parts invites children to build cities, buildings, irrigation tunels. There are over thousand metal parts to your disposition! Some kids will build pyramids, some will build tracks or castles, and others will focus on houses, museums, and swimming pools. After playtime a tour of the Jardin Alpin is a must: it’s a beautiful parc, with animasl, playgrounds, secret passages!

Here’s more info about Sous la Lune II.

Espace Musical, Open Day
April 9; Eaux Vives

One of our favorite music school for children holds an open day thismonth! They have wonderful activities for all ages, all levels. I will never forget the classes I took there with Z when she was a baby – we still sing the songs from these classes! Attention: masks will be required to make it a safe space also for vulnerable participants. More info here.

Parc Aventure
Onex

Parc Aventure is open again! It means, that no matter how much snow will fall, it’s spring! Have you ever tried accrobranche? An obstacle course in the trees is one of kids favorite activities! It’s also great as a family outing – you can all climb and ride the ziplines! There are four trails specifically designed for smaller kids. You can find all info here.

EASTER FUN

EASTER EGG HUNT
Vullierens, April 17-18

Chateau des Vullierens organizes egg hunt in their beautiful gardens! You can combine it with their fancy yummy brunch or a pizza from a great food truck. Reserve your tikets here.

TAXI BIKE EGG HUNT
April 15-17

How about Easter egg hunt for kids and wine tasting for adults all at the same time? And all combined with a scenic ride through Geneva’s vineyards in a tuk tuk? All possible with Taxi Bike Geneva. Find out more here.

JEUX DES PISTES
Geneva, April 15 &18 and & 17.

Geneve Pas Chers is back with their urban games, this time all about eggs and Easter. One is for children 6+, the other is for all ages. Check out the descriptions and all the details here.

For more Easter activities propositions be sure to check out Parentville on Instagram in coming days.

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Hosting people from Ukraine in Geneva

Hosting people from Ukraine in Geneva

This Guide, in English and French, is for you whether you would like to host people in need from Ukraine, or if you would like to provide general help, support hosts, or get involved in any way.

Inside you’ll find practical information and more! There are two links to other guides inside: one written by a psychologist specialized in trauma & PTSD, and another one about Geneva by Geneva.

I would kindly ask you to focus especially on the guide written by a psychologist. It will help you decide whether you are really up to hosting, and once you do it will help you prepare for the first day on many levels.

PS: if you think something should be added – let me know.

HELP UKRAINE FROM GENEVA – THE BEST WAYS

HELP UKRAINE FROM GENEVA – THE BEST WAYS

The ongoing help for Ukraine and people escaping the war in this country is extraordinary! Most of the people from Ukraine flee to Poland and citizens of this country have been doing an amazing job – it’s a nationwide humanitarian action on all fronts.

Forgive me for the typos and chaotic writing. I haven’t slept well these past few days.

We all want to help, and we feel like we are helping the most when we donate things – second hand or new. Currently, the villages and towns at the PL-UA border have too much of things of all sorts. There is not enough place to store it if it rains it will be ruined. They have tons of shoes but not enough phone chargers, as an example. People at the site know best what is needed every day. The needs of Non-profits and NGOs working at the site keep changing.

Download this pdf and find out how you can help the best, reasonably, and why this is the way to go.

Please share.

 

help ukraine geneva
February 2022 for families in Geneva

February 2022 for families in Geneva

Hey, hey! How are you? We have just finished with December festivities and boom, February school break is coming up! I prepared a whole other article with propositions for the school holidays (link at the bottom of this page). Here, let’s see what’s up in Geneva in February in general.

Ready? Let’s do it!

Bibliotheque Municipal
all Geneva, all ages

 Did you know that Geneva’s libraries host various events for all ages? Yes, all ages. There’s « Lire avec bebe » (for babies, obviously), there are workshops, shows, movies, exhibitions. Morover, there is a big chance you live close to one of the Geneva City libraries. You can check their program here.

BOLO CLUB
Exhibition, all ages, Lancy

This winter, thirteen illustrators are taking over the Villa Bernasconi in Lancy with their children’s books already published or in the making. From the first sketches to the printed album, the exhibition unfolds colorful stories and tells the diversity of styles through original drawings, a host of large wooden characters, a cardboard bestiary, wallpapers, hangings or frescoes. on the windows, sounds and smells. And to better immerse themselves in the creative process, the artists offer a series of workshops on Sunday afternoons. More info here.

The big screen for kids
Cinema Grütli, till february 27.

By offering films from all over the world, from all eras and all styles, the Cinémas du Grütli offer children the opportunity to discover the pleasure of cinema on the big screen, in all its forms and in all its magic! This winter, children will be able to discover classics, great stories, and non mainstream productions. Wonderful, meaningful and fun movies await! More info here.

BOIS MAGIQUE
till February, 20; Plan-les-Ouates

We’re starting with Plan-les-Ouates’ annual treat for the youngest children (ages 0-4). The exhibition space in the La Julienne has ben transformed into an enchanted forest. It looks wonderful, topped with beautiful sounds creating a magic atmosphere. A place designed to offer relaxation, contemplation, wonder, creativity and sharing. For opening times and more practical details click here.

ANTIGEL 2022

Antigel is a traditional winter festival in Geneva. It’s a compilation of everything artistic. Concerts, shows, exhibitions, perfprmances, unique events. Some of the programmed events can be attractive to your family. Check it here.

LES TEMPS DES DINOSAURS
Palexpo, till April 22

A dino exhibition in Palexpo. It;s not huge, not very interactive and quite expensive but will surely be appreciated by kids who love these extinct creatures. There are many, from Tyrannosaurus to Triceratops,  altogether 50 animated specimens! They come to life, move, make sounds, growl.  This adventure is spread out on over  4,500 m2. Fun experience for all ages. More information on Palexpo’s website.

Solar power pioneers – exhibition
Quartier Libre SIG, till April 10

This exhibition is recommended for kids ages 8 and up. It is all about the story of solar power and its future. From the first mid-20th century prototypes by passionate engineers, to the latest achievements of solar-powered aviation and navigation, an exceptional number of projects have seen the light of day. Their common vision? Environmentally respectful mobility based on solar energy. Discover fabulous stories based on reports from pioneers in the field of the development of solar vehicles.

MUSEUMS

Main museums in Geneva have a rich program for kids and families. It’s not only about the exhibitions. They have kids-special guided tours, workshops, and other events. MEG even has an offer for babies! You can check their events here: MAH, MEG, Natural History Museum, ARIANA.

THEATRES

Winter is one of the best season to experience the warmth of the theatre halls, right? If you agree there is nothing left to do but to check the program and book your tickets. Geneva’s theatres have shows for small munchkins, big kids, and teenagers. Be sure to check their programs. Here’s where to look: TMG, AM STRAM GRAM, Theatre du Loup.

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Family winter day trips from Geneva

Family winter day trips from Geneva

How about getting away for a day? No need to search for a hotel, no need to go very far. One day trip can transform a weekend into a vacation-like time. It has the power to make you feel like the weekend was long and fruitful. Will you try? Below, you’ll find some simple propositions for winter day trips that everyone in the family can enjoy. And no, they are not mainly about snow.

Ready? Let’s do it!

PAPILIORAMA
in Kerzers

A wonderful place made of 3 domes and an outdoors mini zoo. The domes are devoted each to a different animal kingdom: tropics, butterflies (flying freely, hundreds of them!), and bats (flying freely in darkness). It’s a long trip but worth the struggle. Consider taking the CFF train and benefit from an offer that combines the train ticket and entry to Papiliorama. Find out more about Papiliorama here.

LEYSIN TOBOGGANING PARK
Leysin

Any sledging fans here? This is the place for you! This place is all about sledging, or tobogganing. No need to climb the hils, there’s a better way to get back up and start again. No need to search for a perfect spot – the tracks are there. No need to even take your sledge – everything is there. It’s a truly cool place! Find out mroe about it here.

SALT MINE IN BEX
Bex, Valais

How about a train ride into the mountain? Yep, not up the mountain, nor around it but into the mountain, where the salt mine hides! It’s a fascinating train ride and an exciting hike inside the mountain. Kids can try to dig some salt, or try salty water. Don’t forget to bring some alpine salt back home (from the gift shop). Check it here.

DOG SLEDGING

Is this how it is called in English? No idea, but you probably understand what I mean – dogs pulling the sledge! It’s a great experience in the winter wonderland and a day trip is a perfect timeframe to do it. In some cases, half a day will be enough. You can find dog sledging in Saint Cergue, around La Faucille and in many alpine resorts. Just google « chiens de traineau ».

EXPLORIT YVERDON

Have you ever been to Yverdon? In Winter? Here’s a perfect excuse: Explorit. A brand new place for kids. No, not a noisy indoors playground but a place to discover science, have fun and play! There’s also a cinema at the site. It’s on Parentville’s priority list of places to visit. Will you try to head over there too? Check this place out here.

ESPACE DES MONDES POLAIRES

Some love to visit this place in summer, but winter gives a great context to this visit. All about the polar worlds. A very interactive museum and…. ice skating rink! It’s all very pretty, and very fun. Totally #parentvillerecommended! See it for yourself here.

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February Holidays in Geneva, 2022

February Holidays in Geneva, 2022

You can have a great holiday week without leaving the city! What’s more, the week of fun in Geneva is possible for all budgets – just choose activities wisely. Apart from the parks, museums, and playgrounds, there are lots to do and see! Don’t ever believe people who claim Geneva is boring – Parentville is here to debunk this myth.

Ready? Let’s do it!

FREE AND ALMOST FREE

BOIS MAGIQUE
LANCY

A yerly winter exhibition in Lancy designed for children of ages 0-4. In a vast room, filled with calming sounds of nature, and a wonderful decorations, children can come to relax, create, read and discover. Entry: free of charge. More info here.

MAISON DE LA CREATIVITE
CONCHES

Better than any amusemnt park, Maison de la Creativite is a paradise for children and adults. Each room of this Villa is devoted to something else, but in each room children are invited to do what they want. They can use the space and objects however they wish. It unblocks cretaivity and lets the imagination live its best moments. What you can do? Paint, build, dress up, read, play – or best, ask kids. They will have unlimited answers.

Place for children ages 0-8. Free entry for kids 0-1 yo, the rest pays 3 CHF per person. Book your spot here.

CHOCOLATE TOUR BY PACKDSUITCASE
GENEVA CENTRE

Chris from PackdSuitcase invented an awesome way to make a walk through Geneva more adventurous. You simply stop at the best chocolate places and in each buy 1 chocolate piece (it should be around 1 CHF everywhere). Take different types, maybe even ask for recommandations, and at the end sit in a nice place for a degustation. And why not combinig it with a ride on mouette, or playground fun at Plainpalais?

You can see how Chris did it by checking her video here.

ICE SKATING

An ultimate winter sport perfomed in cities, mountains, and at the Olympics! There are many places to skate in the city. One of the most popular ones are the rink in Bastions (free entry, ice skates rental 2 CHF) and Carouge (free entry; skates free for under 6yo and 2 CHF for 6+). Fun guaranteed!

For better ice quality check professional rinks in Vergers (Meyrin) and Vernets (Geneva). The entry is not free but not expensive. To enter the rink in Vergers the prices are as follows: kids 0-6 free, 6-18 2,5 CHF, adults, 6CHF. Skates rental costs 3 CHF.

ANIMAL PARKS

You don’t have to travel farm to see the animals. In Geneva itself, zoo at Bois de la Batie is big enough and free of charge. Moreover, there is a new awesomeplayground next to it, a nice forest, and a possibility to go to the Viaduc de la Jonction to see the rivers meet. You can find more about animals in Geneva in this article.
Free entry, great for all ages.

GENEVA OLD TOWN

With small kids start at the Carousel de la Madelaine, then climb up the cobble stone roads to the old town. Visit Maison Tavel, or climb up the Cathedral and visit the archelogical site of the Cathedral. You can also simply get lost in the old town – make kids choose the way at every intersection. Take a picnic or stop for crepes. You can then stop at the playground here or go down to Bastions to play there or try ice skating!

LITTLE PRICE FOR GREAT FUN

BAINS DE CRESSY
Onex

One of Geneva’s warmest swimming pool, decorated with lots of plants is a great escape from the cold outside. It’s bright, warm, and big enough to make it fun. There are some jets, showers. There is also a hammam, sauna, and aromatherapy rooms.

Cost: Adults 24 CHF, kids 7-15 16 CHF, kids 3-6 yo 6,50 CHF. More information here.

 

AIRLOOP
Lancy

A new awesome place to help kids burn all the energy they accumulate! A trampoline parc with lots of cool jumping activities: spider accrobranche, joust, interactive wall, diving in foam blocks and more! There is even a special space for kids 1-5 years old!

Cost: kids 1-5yo 10CHF, everyone from 6+ 17 CHF. More information here.

 

CLIMBING

All kids go through a climbing phase and it’s definitely btter to let them do it in a specially designed climbing space than on shelves at home. There are several places for kids to climb in Geneva, either on blocks or big walls while using a rope. You can check Parentville’s list of climbing places here.

Cost: from 10 CHF per personbut prices differ between places.

CINEMA

Why not trust the old and good outings consiting a bag of popcorn and a movie? Minstream theatres have some kids and family movies on screens right now (« The Wolf and The Lion » or the « Around The World in 80 Days », and more). But don’t forget to check Cinema Bio, or Cinema Grutli with its special program for kids this winter!

 

BOWLING

A fun family outing indeed. Laugh, compete, eat fast food and enjoy your stressless day. You can bowl in Balexert and LaPraille.

 

ULTIMATE MINI GOLF EXPERIENCE
EAUX-VIVES

Did you know there is a mini golf bar in Geneva? It’s not really designed for families, as it is really is a bar, but if you go in early afternoon, you shouldn’t see to many young adults having their kind of fun ;). There are three different courses to try, one of them is fluo wonderland « fade to Black ».

Cost: 20 CHF per person (plus drinks). More info here.

 

WORTH EVERY PENNY

GAME OVER

Game Over is an Escape Room in Paquis with one game suitable for kids ages 8+ and oh boy – it’s in Harry Potter style with wands that work (sic!), walls that move and even more exciting details. It’s not even about finishhing the game and unravelling the mystery 100%, just playing with make your faces smile! I talked about our experience here. You can check more details and book your session here.

Cost: 150 CHF (for 2-6 players).

SENSA GENEVA

Sensas is not an escape room, it’s a place to experience all senses – some of them in complete darkness. The challenges are completely harmless and utterly exciting. It is so so fun! One of the best experiences we had so far. I wrote about it here.

Cost: from 46 CHF per person (min 4 needed to play). More information here.

FLUO SPORTS

How about trying a well-known sport in a new way or a new sport in a unique way? Well, the best place to do it is Fluo sports in Geneva. Play badminton, or futball, or other games in a fluo environment! It looks awesome and it cool. Some adults may not understand the thrill, but kids will definitely appreciate this experience! You can go as family, or invite your kids’ friends. For some games only 2 players are needed, some games need bigger teams. You can find out more about it here.

CRAZY SCHOOL

Ok, not in Geneva but almost – in Annemasse. A fairly new place like. This place is a combination of escape rooms and sensory challenges. One of the parcours is even adapted to prams and wheelchairs – everyone can join!

Cost: from 20 EUR per person.

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