When we arrived on the island of Koh Phangan in 2019, there were only a handful of kindergartens. Today, the situation is completely different! Families now have a vast selection of fantastic kindergartens with various focuses, sizes, and locations around the island.
I’ve put together a full guide to international kindergartens and childcare options in Koh Phangan for children aged 8 months to 7 years. Most of the information comes directly from my interviews with the schools and is presented mainly in their own words. In some cases, I gathered the information from the kindergartens’ websites.
Koh Phangan International Kindergartens
Le Petit Prince
Location: Le Petit Prince is located in Chaloklum
Contact: +66 (0) 94 77 980 77, Mail: [email protected], Website: https://le-petit-prince.space/
Mission and Philosophy
The mission of Le Petit Prince is to create an environment where every child feels confident and safe.
Their preschool is a place where children acquire the essential knowledge for their age, and develop their intellect and personal qualities.
Le Petit Prince strives to foster an atmosphere of order, acceptance, and mutual respect, providing children with space for choice, self-expression, and interaction. Our goal is to teach the little ones to be responsible, to respect both their own and others’ boundaries, and to care for themselves and the world around them.
Curriculum and Languages
Le Petit Prince follows the “Preschool 2100” program, which is divided into age groups and takes into account developmental milestones. For younger groups, the program focuses on motor skills, speech, and social skills, while older children concentrate on school readiness and deeper subject exploration.
Classes are conducted in Russian and English. Le Petit Prince uses an integrated approach where English is based on the materials learned in Russian. This helps children more easily assimilate the new language and see the connection between the two languages. Additionally, the program includes “Jolly Phonics” methodologies from the Cambridge curriculum, which supports the development of phonetic and grammatical skills.
Facilities and Resources
Le Petit Prince organizes thematic concerts and theatrical quests for their students to celebrate major holidays. Once a year, they hold a large annual performance for parents. Additionally, the teachers take the children on excursions every few months.
In addition to the core educational program, Le Petit Prince offers daily creative workshops for children on weekdays from 15:30 to 16:30:
- Drawing on Mondays
- Thermomosaic on Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Creative crafts on Wednesdays
- Storytelling therapy on Fridays
Also, their playroom is open for scheduled sessions on weekdays from 16:00 to 19:00 and on Saturdays from 12:00 to 16:00.
Qualifications of Teachers
The teachers of Le Petit Prince have received education in psychology and pedagogy and have substantial teaching experience.
The preschool teacher for the younger group is currently completing training as a neuropsychologist, which allows her to select activities that are not only age-appropriate but also cater to the specific needs of the children in her group.
The teacher for the middle and older groups has experience not only as an educator but also as a host for children’s parties. She is currently studying psychology, which helps her effectively address complex pedagogical challenges.
Their English teacher has previous experience working with special needs children and now excels at teaching core subjects in English to children who have not studied the language before.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
The number of children in a group can vary depending on their age. The maximum class size for 2-3 and 3-4-year-olds is limited to 8 children each.
The maximum class size for 4-5 and 5-6-year-olds is limited to 12 children per group.
Each group has one main teacher and a nanny assigned. Thus, Le Petit Prince has one adult for every 5-6 children, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable environment for every child.
Admissions Process
Admission at Le Petit Prince always starts with a free trial visit on a weekday by appointment from 9 to 11 AM. Based on the questionnaire and the trial visit experience, an individualized adaptation plan is developed for each child.
Payment is available for 1 month at 20,000 baht. For long-term enrollment, there is a registration fee of 5,000 baht, with a monthly fee of 18,000 baht.
Alternatively, payment options are available for 3 months at 48,000 baht and 6 months at 84,000 baht.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
The Bilingual Kindergarten is focused on a strong educational program that ensures the ability to communicate fluently, read, and write in Russian and English, and prepares children for enrollment in Russian or international schools. Additionally, it emphasizes effective communication with others, solving conflicts, and building friendly relationships.
The physical health of children is extremely important to the staff of Le Petit Prince. Therefore, all meals for children are prepared in their own kitchen using only natural ingredients, according to a European menu, taking into account the characteristics and preferences of the children.
Everyday activities include neuropsychological practices for mental, physical, and psychological development. Le Petit Prince is proud that many parents have trusted them with the care of their children for many years and is looking forward to welcoming you and your children.
Please note: If you’re looking to relax on Malibu Beach, Le Petit Prince Kindergarten offers a great play area for non-students. With spacious indoor and outdoor spaces, little ones especially enjoy the shaded rope park and the indoor climbing wall. Arts and crafts workshops are available on weekdays at 3:30 PM.
The play area is open on weekdays from 4 PM to 9 PM and on Saturdays from 12:30 PM to 4 PM. An experienced, English-speaking nanny is there to supervise, and children under 3 should be accompanied by a parent. Don’t forget to pre-register before your visit!
Circle of Sun
Location: Circle of Sun is located in Madue Wan
Contact: +66 (0) 92 560 9040, Mail: [email protected], Website: https://www.circleofsun.com/
Mission and Philosophy
Circle of Sun International Kindergarten’s mission is to provide a harmonious, safe and inclusive environment where all children can thrive with a sense of belonging and develop at their own pace, in touch with themselves and the world around them.
The Circle of Sun International Kindergarten is particularly inspired by the Montessori and Waldorf pedagogies. Both share the Circle of Suns International Kindergarten’s fundamental holistic approach to education and care: treating each child as an individual, recognizing their feelings and needs, and encouraging the development of independence and self-confidence while building harmonious relationships with others.
Curriculum and Languages
Whilst supporting an English-speaking environment, Circle of Sun follows a blended curriculum that incorporates both Montessori and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) with some elements of Waldorf education. They believe that these programs can work together to enhance children’s learning and development during their crucial formative years through a variety of creative and educational methods. These methods stimulate the child’s imagination, interest in science, love of nature, and development of social and emotional intelligence, encouraging curiosity from an early age.
Facilities and Resources
Located in the heart of Koh Phangan in a beautiful secluded jungle area, Circle of Sun International Kindergarten offers children a wonderful indoor space that feels just like your own home and an incredible outdoor area to explore!
The Children’s Library has an extensive and growing range of English books and a selection of high-quality wooden toys and learning materials to stimulate children’s creativity, imagination, and learning.
Carefully selected materials support children’s healthy development and help to create a plastic-free environment.
Qualifications of Teachers
The team of passionate early childhood educators at Circle of Suns International Kindergarten holds relevant qualifications in Early Years Education and Care and Montessori, as well as specialized training and experience in their respective fields. All educators are fluent in English.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
Our average class size is between 12 and 15 children, with a pupil/teacher ratio of 4 to 6 children per teacher.
Circle of Sun currently has a mixed-age class of 12 pupils aged 3 to 5.
Admissions Process
- Contact the team to check availability and book a visit by emailing [email protected] or using the form on their website, www.circleofsun.com, or by WhatsApp to +66925609040
- Secure a Place: by transferring with the enrolment and tuition fee.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Circle of Sun strives to make their menu as child-friendly and healthy as possible, offering sugar-free meals throughout the day and keeping gluten-free meals to a minimum. Lunch meals are mainly steamed or boiled and our menu is entirely vegetarian.
At Circle of Sun International Kindergarten, children are reassured by the recurring rhythm of the day, week and year through the repetition of activities;
- Practical activities such as gardening, cooking, handwork, and tidying up
- Artistic activities such as painting, drawing, and modelling and structured Montessori and Waldorf educational activities
- Songs and rhymes accompanied by movement and gesture.
- Daily outdoor play and regular nature walks, which cultivate awareness, love and care as they learn about the natural world we are a part of by engaging our senses.
Circle of Sun International Kindergarten aims to inspire a lifelong love of learning by nurturing a child’s natural curiosity about the world around them and inspiring their innate love, connection and respect for the world.
Tiny House (former Wonderkids)
Location: Tiny House is located in Thongsala
Contact: +66 (0) 979 871 553
Mission and Philosophy
Tiny House offers supervised play for 8-month to 3-year-old kids every day from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Their mission is to offer flexible and convenient childcare, along with fun and engaging activities that help kids grow and learn.
Curriculum and Languages
Tiny House is a licensed indoor and outdoor play area where formal classes are not part of the program. Children are warmly invited to attend various events hosted in the play area, which typically include activities like coloring, dancing, and guided play.
Facilities and Resources
An extensive selection of toys, books, and art supplies is available both indoors and outdoors, including a large wooden play kitchen and a traffic learning area outside.
Qualifications of Teachers
All staff members are certified in vocational child care and first aid.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
The space remains adaptable and is not fixed, allowing for versatile use during workshops and play activities.
Admissions Process
Walk-ins are always welcome, with pricing options available on an hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Nanny services are also offered for an additional fee.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Parents and children are encouraged to visit any day of the week, as Tiny House is open from 9 am until 6:30 pm. Overnight nanny options are also available.
Messy House
Location: Messy House is located in Thongsala
Contact: +66 (0) 800 2000 38, Website: https://www.facebook.com/MessyHousePhangan
Mission and Philosophy
Messy House offers supervised play for 3 to 10-year-old children every day from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Their mission is to provide a service to parents and children in the community, offering flexibility and convenience for parents balanced with social and developmental activities for kids.
Curriculum and Languages
Messy House is a licensed indoor and outdoor play area that does not offer formal classes. However, participation in events and workshops in the play area space is welcomed, typically including activities such as coloring, dancing, and guided play.
Facilities and Resources
A wide range of toys, books, and art supplies is available both indoors and outdoors, with drinks provided by the café.
Qualifications of Teachers
Vocational child caregiver and first aid certificates are held by all staff members.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
No formal requirements are in place. As an open space for workshops and play activities, a fixed setup is not maintained.
Admissions Process
Walk-ins are encouraged, with prices charged on an hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Nanny services are available for an additional charge.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
A visit is welcomed any day of the week, as Messy House is open from 9 am until late. Parents can also hire overnight nannies if needed.
Seeds of Phangan International Kindergarten
Location: Seeds of Phangan is located in Thongsala
Contact: Mail: [email protected] Website: https://www.seedsofphangan.com/
Mission and Philosophy
Seeds of Phangan International Kindergarten is dedicated to providing a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment for children ages 3-5 from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am until 3 pm.
Their mission is to foster empathy, mindfulness, intercultural understanding, and respect for the environment in young learners. They prioritize social, emotional, and academic growth, guided by certified and passionate American and German educators.
The kindergarten is committed to supporting the local Thai community by sourcing materials and services locally. Centrally located in Thong Sala, they welcome children from all backgrounds to join their diverse and inclusive learning community.
Curriculum and Languages
Seeds of Phangan International Kindergarten offers a blended curriculum that combines elements of the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the German educational system, enriched with Montessori, Piaget, Steiner, and Fröbel philosophies.
The curriculum emphasizes artistic expression, creativity, and free play, alongside structured activities like daily morning circles that foster language development and a strong classroom community. Children are also engaged in mindfulness practices, yoga, and environmental care, nurturing their social-emotional growth and empathy.
The primary language of instruction is English, with additional support for children to develop their language skills.
Facilities and Resources
Seeds of Phangan is located in a peaceful area with plenty of natural light and mountain views.
The kindergarten has high-quality resources like natural wooden and Montessori toys, a library with classic books, and selected teaching and art materials.
There’s a large outdoor area with a wooden playground, yoga space, mini shala, trampoline, sandpit, mud kitchen, and sports equipment. Children can also enjoy cars, bicycles, and a big blackboard for creative play. Safety is a top priority, with furniture made from natural materials like bamboo and wood, all sourced locally.
Qualifications of Teachers
The staff at Seeds of Phangan International Kindergarten are highly qualified, with degrees in Early Childhood Education, Psychology, and Social Work. The team also includes experienced teaching assistants, a dedicated nanny, and a cook who prepares nutritious meals daily.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
Class sizes are kept small with a maximum of 25 students per class. The classes are divided by age: Sunflowers for ages 3-4 and Bumblebees for ages 4-5. The student-teacher ratio is 4:1.
Admissions Process
The admission process at Seeds of Phangan Kindergarten begins with sending an email to [email protected], providing details about the child and parents.
After receiving initial information, families can schedule a tour or a video call to learn more about the kindergarten. If interested, families may join the waiting list if enrollment is full.
When a space opens, parents will need to submit an application form, sign the guidelines, and pay the registration fee and tuition by the given deadline to confirm their child’s spot. The kindergarten offers only term or yearly bookings, not weekly or monthly enrollment.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Seeds of Phangan focuses on every part of a child’s growth—social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual. The kindergarten puts a big emphasis on social-emotional learning, helping children understand their feelings, build empathy, and learn to communicate well. They also have a Relaxation Corner where kids can relax, talk about their emotions, and learn how to calm down.
Parents should know that Seeds of Phangan supports each child’s unique needs, helping them develop strong social skills, mindfulness, and the ability to set boundaries, all in a caring and diverse environment.
Little Panda Kindergarten
Location: Little Panda Kindergarten is located in Thongsala
Contact: +66 (0) 81 586 4955 or +66 (0) 81 586 4975, Mail: [email protected], Website: https://littlepandakpg.com/
Mission and Philosophy
Curriculum and Languages
The curriculum is inspired by Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Forest School methods. It focuses on holistic development, including personal and social growth, literacy, math, physical activity, and creative arts. Activities include phonetics, science, cooking, art, gardening, and yoga.
The kindergarten teaches English and Thai, helping children develop communication skills through interactive lessons and play.
Facilities and Resources
Qualifications of Teachers
The teachers and staff at Little Panda Kindergarten are highly qualified, with expertise in education and child development. They are trained in Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Forest School methods.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
Class sizes are kept up to 12 students per class. For the younger children, each class is supported by one teacher and two teacher helpers.
Admissions Process
The admission process at Little Panda Kindergarten starts with a facility tour to help parents understand the environment and educational approach. After the tour, parents complete the application and pay a non-refundable registration fee. There may be a waiting list for some age groups.
Tuition fees are as follows:
- Daily: 1,500 THB
- Monthly: 25,000 THB
- Trimester: 65,000 THB
- Second Child Discount: 61,750 THB per trimester
Parents receive daily reports and monthly progress updates on their child’s development.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Little Panda Kindergarten strongly emphasizes cultural diversity and inclusivity. Children celebrate various nationalities’ holidays and traditions, fostering an appreciation for different cultures from an early age. This unique focus on global awareness helps kids develop respect and understanding for others.
Babeli-Koh Kindergarten
Contact: Form: https://www.babeli-koh.com/contact, Website: https://www.babeli-koh.com/
Mission and Philosophy
Curriculum and Languages
Babeli-Koh Kindergarten follows a balanced curriculum that integrates international standards with local cultural values. At Babeli-Koh, languages express a vision of the world. The manner of naming and formulating already constitutes a point of view on reality. Children at Babeli-Koh, coming from all over the world, learn and practice English as the common basis of communication with each other.
Facilities and Resources
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
Currently, Babeli-Koh Kindergarten hosts two groups of kids: Juniors (aged 2 to 3 years old) and Seniors (aged 3+ to 4+ years old). The maximum number of kids Babeli-Koh can accommodate is 12, with an approximately equal number in each group. Part of the time, all the kids spend time together. Babeli-Koh Kindergarten has 2 teachers and 2 nannies for 12 kids, ensuring a ratio of 1 adult per 3 children.
Qualifications of Teachers
Babeli-Koh’s head teacher is a native English speaker from the US with a Bachelor’s Degree in Pedagogy. All staff members at Babeli-Koh are highly qualified and experienced in early childhood education. Babeli-Koh offers a yearly certification course for the teaching team to ensure they undergo continuous professional development and stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies and practices.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at Babeli-Koh Kindergarten begins by applying via the web form. Parents will then be contacted by management to arrange a visit, which includes an interview with the parents and a meeting with the child. After the visit, both sides decide on the enrollment date and process. Babeli-Koh strives to make the process as smooth and welcoming as possible.
Tuition fees at Babeli-Koh may be paid monthly or termly, with enrollment requiring a commitment of at least one term. Detailed information about fees is available upon request, during the admission visit, or on Babeli-Koh’s website.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Babeli-Koh Kindergarten prides itself on creating a supportive and inclusive community for its students and their families. Being a small structure with 12 families, Babeli-Koh fosters a close-knit environment where everyone feels like one large family.
Kiddies World Nursery & Kindergarten
Location: Kiddies World Kindergarten is located in Sri Thanu
Contact: +66 (0) 625 411 849, Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093835753082
Mission and Philosophy
Curriculum and Languages
The curriculum includes a mix of hands-on activities and thematic learning.
Facilities and Resources
Admissions Process
To learn about the specific steps for enrollment, please contact the kindergarten directly through their provided phone number or visit their Facebook page for more details.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Kiddies World Nursery & Kindergarten stands out for its emphasis on fun and educational experiences that combine practical life skills with creative play. The kindergarten fosters a supportive environment where children learn through hands-on activities like cooking classes, outdoor play, and themed weeks.
Arki.Kid
Location: Arki.Kid is located in Madue Wan
Contact: +66 (0) 63 189 5389, Website: www.arki-kid.com
Mission and Philosophy
Arki Kid’s mission is to create a joyful and engaging educational experience that inspires children to discover their passions and develop a lifelong love for learning. The school emphasizes a future-focused curriculum that encourages students to become socially-conscious changemakers and innovative entrepreneurs who can positively impact the world around them.
Arki Kid’s philosophy centers around personalized learning, where education is tailored to each child’s unique potential. The school provides a balanced mix of education, play, and freedom within a natural environment, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to cultural and environmental values.
Curriculum and Languages
Arki Kid offers a personalized curriculum focusing on English, Math, Science, and Art, taught through creative, hands-on projects. The curriculum includes critical thinking, creativity, motor skills, and emotional and social development, with an emphasis on Thai history and cultural values.
English is the primary language of instruction, and the school supports students at all proficiency levels.
Facilities and Resources
The school features both traditional classrooms and bamboo shala structures, providing diverse learning environments. The outdoor playgrounds offer children the opportunity to play among the trees, socialize, and connect with nature. Dedicated areas for STEM projects encourage hands-on creativity and innovation. The school also integrates Thai history and cultural values into the learning experience, fostering a deeper connection to the local culture.
Recreational facilities include trampolines, bicycling areas, a Lego room, painting spaces, and various games, ensuring that children have plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Additionally, Arki Kid provides cafeteria services that offer breakfast, lunch, and snacks, with a focus on vegetarian meals and healthy refreshments. These facilities create a safe, fun, and enriching environment where children can thrive.
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
The classes are small, ensuring that every student receives the support they need.
- Unicorn Class: For children aged 2 to 3 years old.
- Rabbit Class: For children aged 3 to 5 years old.
- Panda Class: For children aged 5 to 7 years old, divided into two separate classes based on ability.
- Owl Class: For children aged 7 to 9 years old, also divided into two separate classes based on ability and English proficiency.
- Eagle Class: For children aged 9 to 12 years old.
Qualifications of Teachers
The teachers are either native English speakers or near-native English speakers, coming from various parts of the world. All the teachers are experienced and certified. Their qualifications include the ability to effectively teach children of different English proficiency levels, ensuring that even non-English speaking students can understand and enjoy the lessons.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at Arki Kid is straightforward and involves several key steps:
- Initial Contact: Interested parents can start by messaging Arki Kid on WhatsApp and reading the Arki Kid Information Brochure carefully.
- School Tour and Meeting: Schedule a free school tour and a meeting with the school director to get a feel for the environment and discuss any questions or concerns.
- Application Fee: After the admission is approved, parents must pay a one-time, non-refundable application fee of 5,000 THB.
- Tuition Payment: Once the application fee is paid, parents are required to pay the tuition fee for their selected enrollment option.
- Registration Form: After payment, parents must fill out the registration form and submit the required documents, including a copy of the child’s passport, a recent picture, and the payment receipt.
- Enjoy the Journey: Once all steps are completed, the child is ready to begin their educational journey at Arki Kid.
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Arki Kid also stands out for its commitment to nurturing not just academic skills but also the physical, emotional, and social development of each child. The focus on fostering future changemakers and socially-conscious entrepreneurs is woven into the curriculum, encouraging students to think critically about their role in the world and how they can make a positive impact.
Amor Infinito Learning Center
Location: Amor Infinito is located in Hin Kong. You can find the location of Amor Infinito Learning Center here.
Contact: +86 183 8711 0325, Mail: [email protected], Website: https://amorinfinitothailand.wordpress.com/
Mission and Philosophy
The Amor Infinito Learning Center offers a unique and holistic educational experience. The teachers are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where children can discover their true selves and develop their unique voices. Their mission is to provide a holistic education that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the environment. Amor Infinito Learning Center prioritizes creating balanced groups of nationalities to enrich cultural exchange and understanding.
They also offer a vibrant Family Social Club, creating a space for families to share, connect, and build a strong community together. Beyond traditional lessons, they provide a variety of creative, recreational, and enjoyable activities for both children and parents. Their goal is to make learning a joyful and enriching experience for the entire family, fostering bonds and lifelong memories.
Curriculum and Languages
At Amor Infinito Learning Center the curriculum is a flexible and adaptive blend inspired by various modern teaching methodologies, focusing on experiential learning. They ensure children not only excel academically but also gain life skills in cooking, gardening, and building, learning to solve problems independently. Children immerse themselves in all cultures, participate in eco-friendly permaculture projects, and engage in a variety of learning programs, from languages and sciences to music, arts, and crafts.
English is the primary language of instruction, with introductory lessons in Thai to foster cultural understanding and integration. After school, vibrant social programs encourage interaction, while parent-student bonding activities strengthen family connections.
Facilities and Resources
Class Sizes and Student-Teacher-Ratio
At Amor Infinito, classes will be structured into two groups of 15 students each or three groups of 10, depending on the children’s ages. This approach allows them to maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring each child receives the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Admissions Process
The admissions process at Amor Infinito Learning Center involves completing an application form, attending an orientation session, and scheduling a trial day for prospective students. Parents are invited to get in touch through their website: http://amorinfinito.online/, and complete the form to receive all details and set a personal interview.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are designed to be competitive and inclusive, reflecting their commitment to providing quality education accessible to all families. Detailed fee structures and financial aid options will be available during the admissions process.
Achievements and Milestones
Specialties / What Parents Should Know
Final Thoughts on Kindergartens and Childcare Options in Koh Phangan
It’s amazing how much has changed since 2019! Now, families have so many great choices for their little ones, with kindergartens that focus on different teaching styles and cater to various needs.
If you’re new to the island or just exploring options for your child, I hope this guide helps you find the right place. Each kindergarten here offers something unique, whether it’s small classes, a focus on holistic education, or just a warm and welcoming environment.
If you’re interested in more Koh Phangan related articles, check out my blogs about the best areas for families on the island, the best kids activities and the cost of living for a family of four.
I hope you find the perfect Kindergarten for your little one! If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments—I’m here to help as much as I can.
Thank you for reading and letting me be a part of your day. Yours, Lulu
