The Reggio Emilia Approach

Children are capable of constructing their own learning and are active collaborators in their education, as opposed to passive observers. They are inspired by their own interests, questions and theories of the world around them.

Children learn by calibrating within their community. Children create essential relationships with their peers, educators, artatelierista, pedagogista, parents and the world around them. These relationships are used by children to collaborate with in various settings in order to express their ideas and reflect on learning. They build the skills to learn in a strong, trusting community rather than solely working independently.

Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the the philosophy, created the profound principle of The Hundred Languages of Children. Children are natural communicators and are encouraged to express themselves in various ways. These languages are found in movement, words, buildings, sculpting, music, painting and so much more. As educators, it is our responsibility to understand a child’s language through observation and promote a supportive environment.

The classroom is looked at as a living organism that reflects the interest of the children. The environment is welcoming and authentic. It is much more than a physical construct of chairs, tables and such but instead a place that inspires learning by constantly evolving.

Educators are viewed as nurturers and guides to children as they work through their inquiries and theories. Teachers observe children and identify what ideas and concepts can have further explorations. The educators role leads a curriculum that is child originated and teacher framed. Teachers are able to take ideas from children and help guide them towards greater exploration.

Documentation is essential within The Reggio Academy because it makes learning visible. Documentation is presented throughout the classrooms and consist of photographs, children’s quotes, artwork, and educators hypothesis. This gives value to both children’s voices and the their learning. It is a reflective tool for educators that opens up dialogue for various communities within the school.

Parents play an active role in a child’s learning experience. We value a strong means of communication between home and school in order for children to continue their explorations outside The Reggio Academy. We encourage parents to come in, talk to us in person and establish open communication.