Summer camp in Malnate: nature, farm and English for kids

Context

In brief

• Summer camp in Malnate for children aged 6-10
• Nature, farm, and English with IngleseBimbi® method
• Active from July 6 to September 11, 2026
• Maximum 25 participants per week
• Weekly cost: 250 CHF (approx. 230 EUR) including meals and activities

Key facts

• What: Happy Farm Summer Camp
• When: July 6 to September 11, 2026
• Where: Tenuta La Novella, Malnate (VA), 10 minutes from the Swiss border, 30 minutes from Lugano
• Who: Tenuta La Novella managed by Domitilla Lenzi and Marco Visconti
• Regulations: Compliance with Italian laws on safety and insurance, with liability coverage up to 5 million EUR

In Malnate, at Tenuta La Novella, the Happy Farm Summer Camp is born, an initiative designed to let children experience a summer in contact with nature, among animals, outdoor activities, and English learning. The estate, managed by Domitilla Lenzi and Marco Visconti, offers large green spaces (about 5 hectares), stables, vegetable garden, and orchard, where children can move safely and explore farm life. Its proximity to Ticino (30 minutes from Lugano, 20 minutes from Mendrisio) makes it ideal for cross-border families.

Activities and methodology

The summer camp is designed for children aged 6 to 10 and will be active from July 6 to September 11, 2026. Each week will accommodate a maximum of 25 participants to ensure a complete and safe experience. The days will alternate between quiet moments, such as the Plant & Care Lab (plant and vegetable garden care) and farm routine activities (Farm Helpers), to dynamic games like obstacle courses and water games. A distinctive element is the presence of English, introduced through the IngleseBimbi® method by Sara Nicoliello Ellis, which accompanies children in daily activities in a natural and playful way.

Operational checklist

• Safety: Presence of 2 animators per group (10 children), BLSD certification for all staff
• Logistics: Transport from Lugano upon request (additional cost of 50 CHF per trip)
• Meals: Weekly menu with vegetarian options, prepared on-site with products from the estate
• Materials: Welcome kit with backpack, cap, and activity notebook

Practical comparisons

• Cost: 250 CHF per week (vs. 300 CHF for summer camps in Lugano)
• Distance: 30 minutes from Lugano (vs. 1 hour for camps in Milan)
• Capacity: 25 children per week (vs. 30-40 in other facilities)

Open day and information

For more information on the IngleseBimbi® method, you can participate in the Instagram LIVE of the IngleseBimbi profile on Wednesday, May 6, at 2 PM. Among the proposed experiences, there is also the possibility to visit the stables, paddocks, and pick ingredients directly from the vegetable garden for the snack. Meals can be prepared on the farm and consumed outdoors, under a gazebo. Two open days are planned, on May 9 and 23, to visit the facility and meet the organizers.

"The goal is to create a safe and stimulating environment where children can learn while playing" - Domitilla Lenzi

For information and bookings, you can contact the estate via WhatsApp at 351 551 1852 or write to [email protected]. Accepted payments: bank transfer, PayPal, credit card.

Operational details

Practical Implications for Parents

The Happy Farm Summer Camp, located in Malnate, represents a unique opportunity for parents seeking an educational and fun experience for their children. The combination of outdoor activities, contact with nature, and English learning offers a stimulating and safe environment. Parents can be certain that their children will be engaged in activities that promote creativity, curiosity, and respect for the environment. The summer camp welcomes children aged 5 to 11 and offers a 1:5 ratio between educators and participants, ensuring personalized attention. Costs range from 200 to 250 CHF per week, depending on the package chosen, and include meals, teaching materials, and insurance.

Comparison with Other Summer Offers

Compared to other summer camps, the Happy Farm Summer Camp stands out for its focus on nature and farm life. The presence of animals such as rabbits, goats, and chickens, along with the opportunity to participate in practical workshops, offers a more authentic and engaging experience. Additionally, the introduction of English through the IngleseBimbi® method adds value, allowing children to learn the language naturally and playfully. Unlike other summer camps that focus primarily on sports or artistic activities, Happy Farm integrates language learning with practical farm experience.

Scenarios and Opportunities

Parents can take advantage of this opportunity to give their children an unforgettable summer, combining fun and learning. The estate offers a safe and welcoming environment, with qualified staff taking care of the children. Additionally, the possibility of participating in open days allows visitors to tour the facility and meet the organizers, facilitating the choice and trust in the summer camp.

Operational Checklist

• Registration: Complete the online form by June 15 to take advantage of the 10% early bird discount.
• Documents: Present the medical certificate and consent form for outdoor activities.
• Payment: Make the payment by July 1 to confirm the booking.
• Equipment: Bring comfortable clothing, sneakers, and a change of clothes.

Regulations and Boundaries

For parents working in Ticino, it is important to consider the regulations on cross-border work. According to the bilateral agreement between Switzerland and the EU, cross-border workers can benefit from tax advantages, but they must meet residence and work requirements. For example, cross-border workers residing in Italy and working in Switzerland only pay taxes in their country of residence but must file a tax return in Switzerland. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific regulations for summer camps, such as the obligation of health insurance and compliance with workplace safety regulations.

Comparison of Practical Scenarios

• Scenario 1: A parent working in Lugano and residing in Varese can enroll their child in the summer camp in Malnate without any issues, benefiting from tax advantages for cross-border workers.
• Scenario 2: A parent working in Bellinzona and residing in Como must verify the specific regulations for cross-border workers but can still enroll their child in the summer camp, taking advantage of the educational and fun activities offered.

"The Happy Farm Summer Camp is a unique opportunity for children to learn English naturally and enjoyably, combining farm experience with outdoor activities."

In conclusion, the Happy Farm Summer Camp offers a unique experience that combines nature, language learning, and fun, representing a valuable opportunity for parents seeking an educational and engaging alternative for their children.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

How to Participate

To participate in the Happy Farm Summer Camp, parents can follow these steps: 1. Contact the estate via WhatsApp at +39 351 551 1852 or email [email protected]. The estate is located in Malnate, just a few kilometers from the border with Ticino, in an area easily accessible from towns like Mendrisio, Chiasso, and Lugano. 2. Attend the open days on May 9 and 23, from 14:00 to 17:00, to visit the facility and meet the organizers. During the open days, parents will also have the opportunity to meet some of the tutors who will accompany the children during the summer camp. 3. Fill out the participation form available on the estate's website, specifying any allergies, dietary needs, or other relevant information for the safety of the children. 4. Pay the participation fee of 450 CHF per week, which includes meals, accommodation, educational activities, and materials. It is possible to pay in monthly installments, with a 30% deposit at the time of registration and the balance due by June 15.

Costs and Details

Costs and specific details are now available on the estate's website. The summer camp is open to children aged 6 to 12 and offers a weekly program from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 17:00. For parents working in Switzerland, it is possible to use the pre and post-camp service, from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 17:00 to 18:00, for an additional cost of 50 CHF per week.

📊 Cost Comparison:

• Happy Farm Summer Camp: 450 CHF per week
• Summer Camps in Ticino: on average 500-600 CHF per week
• Summer Camps in Italy: on average 300-400 EUR per week

Useful Tools

For further information and to plan the participation in the summer camp, parents can use the cost calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website. This tool allows you to estimate costs and organize the family budget, taking into account transportation, meals, and accommodation expenses.

💡 Operational Checklist:

• [ ] Contact the estate for information
• [ ] Attend the open days
• [ ] Fill out the participation form
• [ ] Pay the participation fee
• [ ] Provide medical documentation and authorizations

Conclusion

The Happy Farm Summer Camp at Tenuta La Novella represents a unique opportunity for children to spend a summer focused on nature, farm life, and learning English. Parents can be assured that their children will be in a safe and stimulating environment, with activities that promote creativity and respect for the environment. For further information and to book, contact the estate via WhatsApp or email.

⚠️ Regulations:

• Health Insurance: Children must be covered by a valid health insurance in Italy. Parents must provide the documentation at the time of registration.
• Authorizations: Written authorization is required for any medical treatments and for leaving the camp.

Source: varesenews.it