The Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education

If parents agree on anything, it’s the importance of educating their children to the highest standard. This means placing your child in the best schools as soon as possible. All schools employ various teaching techniques, but each child’s personality determines their ideal approach. Consider the Reggio Emilia model, which is popular among the world’s most prestigious preschools.

Understanding Reggio Emilia Education

The Reggio Emilia system developed in the mid-20th century near Reggio Emilia, Italy, as pioneered by local educator Loris Malaguzzi. Like the popular (and similarly Italian) Montessori method, the Reggio philosophy is child-centered. Learning is loosely structured and largely self-paced. Knowledge is achieved via exploration and experience, with young learners encouraged to use their five senses to find out about the world. Kids are treated as autonomous people and expected to play an active part in their education. Reggio-inspired schools and daycare Jacksonville FL programs focus on long-term projects that emphasize critical thinking, group problem-solving and individual responsibility.

Learning in Their Own Language

The idea at the heart of Reggio Emilia education is that children have “a hundred languages.” Literally, this refers to all the techniques of self-expression enjoyed by children. Reggio classrooms provide a wide range of tools for learners to express themselves. Children may show their feelings through storytelling, drawing and other artistic means. The goal of teachers is to help them clearly communicate their thoughts with one another and with the world.

Community Involvement

In modern education, there are mutual concerns of a lack of support between parents and teachers. In the villages around Reggio Emilia, community members directly participate in the children’s learning process. Parents are seen as their children’s primary instructors, and are therefore invited to participate in every part of school life. Ideally, parents work together with teachers to reinforce school lessons at home and in the community.

As Reggio Emilia methods receive wider recognition, parents can expect greater options for their children’s education. Look online for more information and to find Reggio-inspired schools near you.