During the first years of life, children learn language primarily by being surrounded by it. They listen, observe, connect words with actions and gradually begin to understand and use language themselves.
For this reason, English in Montessori Mini is not taught as a separate subject. English is the language of the environment.
Throughout the session, children encounter English naturally through everyday communication, Montessori-inspired activities, songs and rhymes, movement, stories, practical life activities and sensory exploration.
There is no expectation for children to speak English. They are given time to listen, observe and develop understanding at their own pace.
Children are free to explore activities according to their interests and developmental stage. Sessions may include:
practical life activities that encourage independence;
sensory materials and exploration;
activities supporting fine motor skills, coordination and concentration;
songs, rhymes, stories and movement;
naming real objects and actions;
Montessori-inspired materials and activities.
The programme follows the child rather than expecting every child to complete the same activity at the same time.
One parent or caregiver participates alongside the child. The teacher supports both child and adult, while parents can also learn practical ways to encourage independence, concentration, language development and curiosity at home.
The full session is conducted in English, creating a consistent and natural English-language environment.
Montessori Mini supports:
independence and self-confidence;
concentration;
fine motor skills and coordination;
sensory development and exploration;
practical life skills;
natural curiosity and motivation to learn;
understanding of English through meaningful interaction;
positive and natural associations with the English language.
For children whose home language is not English, the aim is exposure and familiarity rather than formal language instruction.
The programme is designed for children aged 1–3 accompanied by one parent or caregiver.
It is suitable for international, English-speaking, multilingual and Estonian-speaking families, as well as families interested in Montessori education and child-led learning.
No previous knowledge of English or Montessori experience is required.
Age: 1–3 years
Language: English
Session length: 120 minutes
Frequency: Once a week
Group size: Maximum 8 children
Participation: Child + one parent/caregiver
Programme duration: September–May on Thursday evenings 16:45-18:45
Families may join for the full academic year or one semester:
Autumn semester: September–December
Spring semester: January–May
Monthly fee: €89
Full-year fee: €680 for 9 months (approximately €75.50/month)
To secure your child’s place, either the first month’s fee or the full-year fee must be paid.
The monthly fee reserves a permanent place for your child and remains the same regardless of whether there are four or five sessions in a particular month.
There are no sessions on Estonian public holidays or during school holidays, and the monthly fee is not reduced accordingly.
Programme members also receive:
free Open Play sessions at Monte Lapsed during designated Open Play hours;
40% discount on online parent education courses;
access to the private Monte Lapsed Facebook community, including useful information, partner discounts and special offers.
You are also welcome to bring a friend to Open Play at the regular €16 rate, provided at least one attending family is a programme member.
We are also planning a Monte Community Morning during the academic year – a relaxed opportunity for families to play, meet and spend time together.
Charlotte is an experienced English teacher and Montessori educator with over 10 years of experience working with children of different ages.
She has completed AMI Montessori Assistant training for ages 3–6, 6–12 and 12–18, alongside practical Montessori experience with children from toddler age upwards. Her background also includes English teaching, arts and creative education, educational technology and research into Montessori-based English-language learning.
As a mother of two young children, Charlotte aims to create a warm, calm and child-led environment where children can explore, develop independence and become familiar with English naturally.
Does my child need to understand or speak English?
No. Previous knowledge of English is not required. Children can listen, observe and gradually become familiar with English at their own pace, with no expectation to speak.
My child’s home language is Estonian. Is the programme suitable?
Yes. The programme is suitable both for children who already encounter English and for families who would like to introduce more English naturally.
Do parents need to speak English?
You do not need to be a native or fluent English speaker. However, basic understanding is helpful as the programme is conducted in English.
Does the parent participate?
Yes. Montessori Mini is a parent-and-child programme, so one parent or caregiver participates alongside the child.
What happens when my child turns three?
Children can generally remain in the same group until the end of the programme if the environment continues to meet their developmental needs. Transitions to the next age group are possible in winter and spring.
What if my child doesn’t want to participate at first?
That’s completely fine. Children are never forced to participate and may observe for as long as they need before choosing to explore an activity.
Is the programme suitable for very active or shy children?
Yes. Children can participate according to their temperament, interests and developmental pace.
What happens if my child misses a session?
Missed sessions cannot be replaced. Programme members can use designated Open Play sessions free of charge.
Can we attend a trial session?
Separate trial sessions are not offered. Before joining, families are welcome to visit Monte Lapsed during Open Play or Sensory Play to become familiar with the environment.
Can we join after the programme has started?
If places are available, joining during the programme may be possible. Please contact us to discuss the best option.
What should we bring?
Please dress your child in comfortable clothes that allow them to move and explore freely. For some activities, a change of clothes may be useful.
Can siblings attend?
Registration covers the participating child only. If you need a different arrangement, please contact us beforehand.
How do I secure a place?
Advance registration is required. After registration, you will receive an invoice by email. Your child’s place is confirmed once the required payment has been made.
Not sure which programme is right for your child?
Please contact Monte Lapsed and we will be happy to help you find the most suitable group.