It took me way too long to discover places that offer spectacles for small children. At first I thought there isn’t much to discover. Then, slowly, we started taking our daughter whenever an age-suitable show appeared. And now, I have a full list of places with shows for children aged 0-16!

In the era of TV-parenting, Peppa Pig, and shows that leave nothing to the imagination, it is more important than ever to expose young children to the theatre. No cartoon, no movie, will ever offer the same amazing experience as the simple theatre show.

Before I start, one more suggestion. When the suggested age is 3, don’t take your 2,5 year old. We learnt it the hard way, when we had to run away from a very good show with a terrified toddler. The age frame is there for a reason.

Back to the theatres. Here is my modest list of kids’ theatres in Geneva (and it’s surroundings):

Simply Theater (Versoix). English-speaking theatre in Geneva. Great shows, ateliers, courses, and a friendly atmosphere. We saw a show there last season and are definitely coming back!

GAOS Geneva is a vibrant, not-for-profit association that brings together people of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities who share a passion for musical theatre in English.

Am Stram Gram (Eaux-Vives). A professional, great looking theatre with a rich program for all ages.

Grand Theatre de Geneve – their cultural program “La Plage” has events for children as young as 6 months.

Theatre de Marrionettes (Plainpalais). A renown puppet theatre in Geneva. Definitely worth visiting. Their website is also available in English.

Theatre du Leman (Paquis). Just check their programme and be amazed.

Theatre du Loup (Les Acacias)

Service culturel de Plan-les-Ouates (surprise, Plan-les-Ouates). Check their website from time to time to discover shows and events.

Libraries in Ville de Geneve and Bibliotheque du Carouge (well, Carouge). A lot of activities/animations for children under the school age. All require reservations, many are free.