Grow up bilingual
Growing up bilingual naturally—learning through immersion
Children learn languages best the same way they learn their native language: through everyday life. At our centers, German and English are an integral part of daily life. The children are immersed in both languages every day—while playing, during story time, while doing crafts, singing, or eating together.
This so-called language immersion works entirely without pressure or vocabulary lists. The children hear the languages, try them out, and use them in real-life situations. In this way, they develop a confident feel for language, a joy in speaking, and, along the way, an open understanding of other cultures.
In each of our facilities, we have staff members who speak English at a native level and who always address the children in English or respond to them in English.
According to Maria Montessori, the language-sensitive phase begins with the child’s first cry. Children acquire language with ease up to the age of 30 months. The sensitive period (the developmental window) for language extends until the age of 6. During this time, a second language can be learned alongside the native language without difficulty. In our childcare centers, this is integrated into daily life and thus occurs quite naturally.
“It is therefore necessary to provide young people with comprehensive support during their sensitive periods, in accordance with recognizable, general developmental patterns, while at the same time giving them enough freedom to unfold in accordance with the individual impulses at work within them, even if these are not immediately apparent.”
(M. Montessori)
“It must be clearly understood that, in order to truly become a citizen of the world, one must prepare oneself step by step through successive experiences. Through experience, not theory!”
(M. Montessori)
An international team that brings diversity to life
Our educational team is international and multilingual—just as diverse as the children and families at Montessori & Friends. German- and English-speaking educators serve as authentic language role models for the children in their daily lives. In each of our bilingual centers, at least one team member speaks English at a native level—and in the larger centers, there are even more. Through the close collaboration between the daycare center and the international families, other languages and cultures also contribute to the language immersion environment.
Additionally, young adults from various countries enrich our centers as part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC—formerly the European Voluntary Service, EVS). They bring their language, culture, and personal experiences to the table. For the children, this is a valuable experience: they learn early on that diversity is a given and that living together is enriching. Thus, every child has English- and German-speaking adults as conversation partners every day.
Learning German and English the Montessori Way
Our bilingual program is closely aligned with the Montessori approach. Children learn independently, at their own pace, and guided by their interests. In a lovingly prepared environment, they find a variety of materials that invite them to explore language—in both German and English. Language requires space to develop, freedom, quiet, and stimulation.
Language is not “taught” here, but experienced: through stories, songs, conversations, role-playing, and hands-on activities. Our staff observe attentively, provide guidance, and support each child individually. This creates a relaxed learning atmosphere where children develop confidence in their own abilities—in both languages.
Montessori institutions around the world use similar language materials. Children from families who have previously attended a Montessori school in another country recognize it and feel at home.
“When we speak of peace, we do not mean a partial ceasefire between separate nations, but a permanent state that encompasses all of humanity.”
(M. Montessori)
“I ask the dear children, who are capable of anything, to work with me to build peace among people and in the world.”
(M. Montessori)
Cultural diversity as part of everyday life
At Montessori & Friends, cultural diversity isn’t just an optional extra—it’s an integral part of our daily interactions. Different languages, traditions, and ways of life find their place in our daily routines, projects, celebrations, and rituals.
The children learn to ask questions, listen, and appreciate differences. They discover that every person is unique and that respect, openness, and tolerance are essential for living together harmoniously. In this way, they grow into curious, empathetic, and open-minded individuals—well-prepared for a diverse world.
Currently, people from 27 nations work at Montessori & Friends.