TASIS Minnows Summer Day Camp, Montagnola (Lugano), Switzerland

The Minnows language programme uses a child-directed, whole-brain approach with small classes that focus on spoken language. Teachers are encouraged to be as creative as possible, using movement and hands-on activities to engage young learners. Children learn basic vocabulary and practise using words while on trips off-campus. They also practise writing and can even learn to read simple sentences. The curriculum is constantly changing to accommodate how quickly the children are learning, with the aim of building confident language-learners. Students also have a weekly STEAM lesson provided by a STEAM-certified teacher during their language class time and participate in STEAM activities throughout the week.

The programme offers instruction in Italian, French, or English, with classes designed to introduce language through play, music, games, and hands-on activities. Mornings include language classes, singing class, and arts and crafts. After lunch, children have a rest period, then continue learning vocabulary through science classes and special projects, such as preparing for Circus Day and a Renaissance Fair. The small class sizes and creative teaching methodology ensure that each child receives individual attention and support in their language development journey.

The Day Programme tuition includes language classes, all activities, meals (three-course lunch and snacks), and weekly field trips. The Extended Day Programme includes the same plus additional afternoon clubs and activities until 17:30. An acceptance deposit is required to guarantee a space, and this deposit is non-refundable. Optional sports are not offered for Minnows, and there are no optional overnight excursions for this age group. Pocket money of CHF 40–50 per week is recommended. Day students must provide their own health and accident insurance or, if non-Swiss residents, apply for the TASIS Health and Accident Insurance Plan.

The Minnows programme is a day programme only; overnight accommodation is not offered for this age group. Students attend the programme Monday through Friday, with Standard Day students arriving at 8:45 and departing at 15:00, and Extended Day students departing at 17:30. The programme is held at the Early Childhood Center, Al Focolare, a spacious and inviting location just 200 metres down the hill from the main TASIS campus. The facility is designed specifically for young learners with age-appropriate classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a safe, nurturing environment.

Lunch is included in the tuition for all Minnows students. Children enjoy a three-course lunch served in the school dining facilities. Snacks are also provided during the day. For Extended Day students, an additional snack is provided in the afternoon. The meals are nutritious and balanced, designed to support young children's growth and energy needs. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notification.

The Minnows programme offers a rich variety of activities designed to support vocabulary and themes presented in language classes. On campus, children choose from open-ended activities including arts and crafts, group games, singing, cooking, and playing in the outdoor playground. Special events such as Pirate Day, a Renaissance Fair, and a Science Fair are perennial favourites. Off-campus, Minnows take weekly field trips that explore the local area, including visits to an Alpine farm, nature walks in the Montagnola woods, touring downtown Lugano, visiting Swissminiatur Park, seeing the Bellinzona castles, and hosting visits from the Apiary to discover fun facts about bees. The Extended Day programme includes additional afternoon clubs and water games on Wednesdays.

The Minnows programme is based at Al Focolare, the Early Childhood Center located just 200 metres from the main TASIS campus. This facility is spacious and inviting, designed specifically for young learners with age-appropriate classrooms and play areas. Students also have access to the outdoor playground and other campus facilities. The TASIS campus features 25 buildings, including a state-of-the-art Science Center, a library, and cultural centres. The school is located on the Collina d'Oro in Montagnola, with views of snow-capped mountains to the north and Lake Lugano to the south. The campus is just 10 minutes from Lugano Airport and Train Station.

TASIS The American School in Switzerland was founded in 1956 by M. Crist Fleming and has over 70 years of experience in providing exceptional education in an international setting. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), ensuring high standards of education and care. The Minnows programme is delivered by qualified teachers who are encouraged to be creative and engaging, using a child-directed, whole-brain approach to language learning. The programme's philosophy is based on the values of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, inspiring a passion for excellence and a love of learning. With a diverse student body representing many nationalities, children develop cultural awareness and global citizenship from an early age in a safe, nurturing, and beautiful environment.