Montessori Mini in English (1-3)

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.

What happens during Montessori Mini?

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.

What does the programme support?

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.

Who is it for?

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.

Programme Information

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

Programme Fee

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.

Additional Benefits for Programme Members

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.

Your Teacher – Charlotte Louise Leeman

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.