How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Language Camp

Emotional Preparation: Confidence Starts at Home

Helping your child feel emotionally prepared for camp is just as important as packing the right clothes or toothbrush. Confidence doesn't appear overnight, it grows quietly through familiar routines, conversations, and a sense of safety. Before a child can confidently speak a new language among peers, they need to feel secure in stepping into a new environment. And that process begins at home.

Start Talking About Camp Early

Children process new experiences gradually. Starting the conversation a few weeks before the camp allows them time to imagine, ask questions, and build excitement without pressure. The earlier you begin, the more natural it will feel.

A few weeks before the camp, try this:

• Visit the Filolo Camps website together
• Browse photos, schedules, and activities
• Discuss the fun side of camp: games, excursions, creativity, friendships
  
  

„Mein Sohn konnte es kaum erwarten zu fahren, nachdem wir uns jeden Abend gemeinsam die Fotos angesehen hatten.“
– Maria, Mutter eines 11-jährigen Teilnehmers

Encourage Gradual Independence

Camp might be the first time your child is away for several days. You can prepare by:

• Allowing sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ homes
• Trying a weekend family camping trip
  
  

💡 Practicing daily tasks: packing, brushing teeth, making the bed

Handling Homesickness

Homesickness is completely normal. Help your child by:

• Explaining it’s okay to miss home
• Discussing coping strategies: talking to someone, staying busy, thinking of happy things
• Avoiding statements like “If you don’t like it, we’ll pick you up”
  
  

📖 Our staff at Filolo is trained to recognize and support homesick children. Small groups ensure every child feels seen and cared for.

Language Preparation: It’s Not About Perfection

You don’t need to “prepare” your child to speak fluently - camps are designed to support every level.

Practice Basic Vocabulary Together

Before the camp, practice:

• Greetings & introductions
• Expressing needs (hunger, thirst, tiredness)
• Asking questions or for help
  
  

Build a Positive Mindset

Focus on:

• Encouraging effort over perfection
• Showing interest in the language (even if you don’t speak it!)
• Helping them feel excited about learning
  
  

At Filolo, we divide children by age and language level. Every child is supported 👉 even beginners.

Practical Preparation: Logistics Matter Too

Pack Together

Use the packing process to build excitement:

• Follow our official packing checklist
• Let your child help decide what to bring
• Label everything with their name
  
  

Plan Communication in Advance

Set expectations before departure:

• Discuss mobile phone or device use
• Pack pre-written postcards or notes
• Decide on contact frequency – too much can delay adjustment
  
  

At Filolo, we regularly post photos in a secure online gallery, and provide scheduled phone times and 24/7 emergency contact.

Frequently Asked Questions from Parents

Is My Child Ready?

Look for signs of emotional maturity:

• Has stayed overnight away from home
• Shows curiosity for languages/cultures
• Can express needs independently
• Manages basic daily routines

What If My Child Doesn’t Speak the Language?

No problem! Filolo camps are ideal for complete beginners.

We use:

• Visual aids
• Gestures
• Immersive, play-based teaching
  
  

Children make fast progress even with no prior knowledge.

How Is Safety Ensured?

Safety is our top priority:

• Small groups with constant supervision
• Trained, experienced staff
• Clear safety protocols
• Medical support always available
• Direct communication with parents
  
  

How Often Should We Stay in Touch?

We recommend:

• 1–2 phone calls per week
• Letters or emails
• Checking the photo gallery updates
  
  

Find the right balance: too much contact can disrupt the experience; too little can cause uncertainty.

The Filolo Formula: Support, Joy & Progress

Small Groups – Max. 6 Kids per Class

That means:

• Personal attention
• Quick detection of difficulties
• More interaction
• Stronger friendships
  
  

Language Learning Everywhere

We teach through:

• Play, sports, creative workshops
• Mealtime, music, and cultural activities
• Focus on communication, not grammar
• Structure with plenty of freedom
  
  

Passionate, Multilingual Team

Our team is:

• Trained in working with children
• Skilled at recognizing emotional needs
• Multilingual and culturally aware
• Passionate about language and education
  
  

Final Thoughts: Make It a Positive First Step

Language camps are about much more than language – they build independence, confidence, and life skills.

With proper emotional, linguistic, and practical preparation, your child will not only grow linguistically, but personally as well.

📈 “At Filolo, we provide a safe, inspiring environment where every child can thrive.”

Want to Learn More?

Explore our summer, autumn, and winter programs:
🔗 Visit our camp page filolo.ch/en/
📞 Contact us for a personal consultation +41 76 252 71 26