What & Why Reggio-Emilia?

What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach—and Why It’s Great for Your Preschooler

As a parent, you want your child’s early years to be full of wonder, growth, and meaningful learning. But with so many educational philosophies out there, it’s hard to know which one fits your child best. One approach that continues to gain attention and praise around the world is the Reggio Emilia approach. But what exactly is it—and why do so many educators believe it's a powerful way to support young children?

Let’s break it down.

What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach?

The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy that originated in a small town in northern Italy after World War II. It was created by a teacher named Loris Malaguzzi and a group of local parents who believed that children deserved a better, more meaningful way to learn.

At its core, the Reggio Emilia approach believes:

• Children are capable and curious

• Learning should be driven by the child’s interests

• The environment is a powerful teacher

• Teachers are partners and researchers, not just instructors

• Families play a crucial role in the learning journey

  
  

Rather than following a fixed curriculum, Reggio-inspired educators observe children closely and help expand their learning based on what they’re naturally drawn to—whether it's dinosaurs, rainbows, bugs, or building bridges out of blocks.

Key Features of a Reggio-Inspired Preschool

Here are some of the main things you might notice in a Reggio Emilia early learning environment:

• Project-Based Learning: Children explore topics over days or even weeks. For example, a child’s interest in birds might turn into drawing feathers, building nests, reading books about birds, and even watching them through binoculars.

• Beautiful, Thoughtful Classrooms: Often called “the third teacher,” the classroom is carefully designed to be calm, organized, and full of natural materials that invite exploration and creativity.

• Documentation of Learning: Teachers don’t just teach—they listen, photograph, take notes, and reflect on what children say and do. This helps them understand each child’s thinking and helps families stay closely connected to their child’s progress.

• Emphasis on Expressive Arts (The 100 Languages): Reggio believes children express themselves in many ways—through drawing, music, dance, clay, storytelling, building, and more. These are all respected as valid ways of learning.

  
  

Why It’s So Beneficial for Preschoolers

1. Supports Social and Emotional GrowthChildren learn how to collaborate, express themselves, and build empathy. They’re treated as capable individuals, which builds self-confidence and a sense of belonging.

2. Fosters Creativity and Problem-SolvingBecause children have the freedom to explore their interests, they develop critical thinking and the ability to ask questions, experiment, and come up with their own solutions.

3. Builds a Love of LearningWhen learning is exciting, personal, and hands-on, children are naturally motivated. Reggio Emilia helps children see learning as joyful and meaningful.

4. Encourages Language and CommunicationWith an emphasis on dialogue and expression in many forms, children develop strong communication skills—both verbal and non-verbal.

5. Connects Learning to the Real WorldWhether children are planting a garden, building a shelter, or exploring water, they’re learning through real-life experiences that help them make sense of the world.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and respected. The Reggio Emilia approach does exactly that—it empowers children to be active participants in their own learning and honors their natural curiosity.

If you’re looking for a preschool that nurtures creativity, encourages deep thinking, and values your role as a parent, a Reggio-inspired program might be a beautiful fit for your child’s early years.