The Reggio Emilia Approach is an educational philosophy that originated in Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II, under the leadership of educator Loris Malaguzzi. This approach views children as strong, capable, and full of potential, with a natural curiosity that drives their learning. Education is seen as a collaborative process involving children, educators, families, and the community. At its core, the Reggio Emilia philosophy emphasizes exploration, expression, and the importance of relationships in learning.

Key principles include:

1. The Image of the Child: Children are seen as competent, resourceful, and active participants in their own learning, not empty vessels to be filled with knowledge.

2. Emergent Curriculum: Learning topics are guided by the interests and questions of the children. Educators observe and document children’s play and dialogue to plan meaningful projects and experiences.

3. The Environment as the Third Teacher: Thoughtfully designed learning spaces are open, engaging, and filled with natural materials. The environment encourages discovery, communication, and collaboration.

4. Hundred Languages of Children: Children express themselves in many different ways—through art, music, movement, building, storytelling, and more. These multiple forms of expression are all valued and supported.

5. Collaboration and Relationships: Learning happens through interaction—between children, educators, and families. Group work is encouraged to build communication and social skills.

6. Documentation and Reflection: Teachers carefully document children’s ideas, conversations, and progress through notes, photos, and displays. This makes learning visible and helps guide ongoing curriculum planning.

    Child-Centered Learning

• Children’s interests and ideas drive the curriculum, leading to deeper engagement and more meaningful learning experiences.

Fosters Creativity and Critical Thinking

• Open-ended materials, project-based learning, and multiple forms of expression (the “Hundred Languages”) encourage children to think creatively and solve problems in diverse ways.

Promotes Independence and Confidence

• Children take an active role in their learning, make choices, and participate in real-life tasks—building autonomy, confidence, and decision-making skills.

Strong Focus on Social-Emotional Development

• Emphasis on collaboration, communication, and relationships helps children develop empathy, cooperation, and a sense of belonging.

Supports Individual Learning Styles

• By recognizing that children learn in different ways (visually, kinesthetically, through storytelling, art, music, etc.), the approach accommodates a wide range of learners.

Rich, Stimulating Environments

• Classrooms are thoughtfully designed to be beautiful, organized, and engaging, supporting a calm and purposeful atmosphere for exploration.

Involves Families as Partners

• Parents are viewed as active participants in the learning process, fostering strong home-school connections and community involvement.

Reflective and Intentional Teaching

• Educators closely observe and document children’s development, using these insights to guide and tailor learning experiences to each group and individual child.

Encourages Lifelong Love of Learning

• By nurturing curiosity, wonder, and joy in discovery, the Reggio Emilia approach helps children become enthusiastic, self-motivated learners.