Learn Finnish in a fun and relaxed way with me!

Feel at home with the Finnish language

I offer private Finnish lessons and Finnish courses for adult learners. I teach online as well as face to face in Helsinki. I specialize in speaking and listening skills as well as helping my students prepare for the YKI examination

I believe that the quickest and most efficient way to mastering a language is to enjoy the journey. 

“Mari is an exceptional Finnish teacher, who has a unique set of skills that go beyond imparting grammar and vocabulary. She is deeply passionate about Finnish language and that is contagious. Her enthusiasm motivates you to move on when you lose hope.

Finnish is a very challenging language, and Mari is patient and empathetic, providing always constructive feedback. She adapts her teaching methods to meet the individual needs of the students, and conveys complex language concepts in a simple and understandable manner. She always encourages questions and provides clear explanations.

Mari helps you also to find appreciation for the culture and nuances of the language. She helps you understand the cultural context of the language, which has been a very important part of my motivation to learn.”

– Araceli del Río Sastre

Moi, hauska tavata!

My name is Mari Nikonen. I’m a professional Finnish teacher (MA) based in Helsinki, Finland. I have been teaching Finnish to adult learners since 2008.

In my work as a teacher, I want to help language learners find a sense of belonging and ownership and to feel at home with the Finnish language.

I’m one of the authors of YKIä kohti, a complete textbook for YKI preparation, and Fonetiikkaa suomen kielen oppijoille, a texbook on Finnish pronunciation for advanced Finnish learners and Finnish teachers.