Reggio Emilia Philosophy
“Our task is to help children communicate with the world using all their potential, strengths, and languages, and to overcome any obstacles presented by our culture.”
-Loris Malaguzzi
Origin
Founded in the city of Reggio Emilia, Italy, by Italian educator, psychologist, and philosopher Loris Malaguzzi.
Intention & Principles
Viewing children as independent, confident, curious, and encouraging their interests. Relationships with the teacher, parents, and environment help to drive a diverse set of interactions for children.
Role of the Teacher
Teachers partner with children in their classrooms, listening, observing, asking questions, providing materials, and working together to encourage curiosity in the learning process.
Role of the Parent
Parental involvement in the learning process offers children natural security and role models to encourage learning at school and at home with families.
Role of the Environment
Designed to be inviting and to promote exploration, the environment helps children think open and inquisitively and is used directly in children’s activities.
Natural Learning Process
Exploration puts children in charge of their own learning by encouraging them to ask questions and figure out new ways of accomplishing tasks and solving problems. Teachers observe and assist each child’s unique learning process, providing the tools to succeed as necessary.