Why parents in Switzerland are choosing early English support
For many families in Zurich, Zug, and Lucerne, fluency in English has become much more than a “nice-to-have.” Under the Lehrplan 21 curriculum, children in German-speaking Switzerland begin learning English in primary school, often from the second or third grade.
In binational and bilingual families, where one parent is Swiss and the other comes from abroad children may already have experience with English, and while they attend local public schools in German, English becomes the “bridge” language at home and in their wider family network.
Whatever the context may be, in the age of fast technological progress where English is the dominant training language of artificial intelligence (AI), it is becoming prevalent that a strong foundation in English is more than an academic skill, it’s a way to stay connected across cultures and prepare children for future studies and opportunities.
On a more personal level for children between ages 3 - 12 years old parents see that strong English skills open doors to more friendships as well. That’s why many are turning to playgroups, after-school classes, and holiday camps to give their children a head start.
AtoZ English helps families bridge the gap—offering small, playful, and confidence-building English classes that complement public school learning and prepare kids for the world ahead.
What actually works for young learners
- Play-based, phonics-led beginnings. Systematic phonics boosts early reading and supports comprehension, especially when it’s explicit and playful.
