OUR PHILOSOPHY
Acclaimed as an exemplary model of early childhood education throughout the world, the Reggio Emilia approach to education is committed to the creation of conditions for learning that will enhance and facilitate children's construction of their own powers of thinking through expressive, communicative and cognitive languages. The philosophy of our center is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and is based upon the following principles that take place in the pre-primary schools in this city in northern Italy:
Emergent curriculum expands upon the interests of children. Topics for deep study are captured from the talk of children, through community or family events, and the known interests of children. Teachers work together to come up with ideas about the possible directions of a project, the materials needed, and possible parent and/or community support and involvement.
Projects take place as in-depth studies of concepts, ideas, and interests of the group. They may last one day, weeks, a month, or could continue throughout the school year. Teachers help children make decisions about the direction of study, together they research the topic, work with representational medium to demonstrate the topic and select the materials needed to represent the work.
The Reggio Emilia approach calls for the integration of various medium as tools for development. Creations of concepts and hypotheses take place through various forms of representation such as print, art, construction, drama, music, puppetry, shadow play, and many other means. These are considered languages and are essential to children's understanding of their experiences and the world around them.
Collaborative large and small group work is considered valuable and necessary to advance intellectual development. Children are encouraged to dialogue, critique, compare, negotiate, hypothesize, and problem solve through group work. Within the Reggio Emilia approach multiple perspectives promote both a sense of group membership and the uniqueness of self. Collaboration extends from the school into the community.
The teacher's role is complex. Working as co-teachers, the role of the teacher is to be that of a learner alongside the children. The teacher is a researcher, a resource, a guide and a designer of the environment. Teachers carefully listen, observe, and document children's work. Teachers are committed to their own learning as well.