The Reggio Emilia Philosophy, My Favorite Inspiration for a Preschool Classroom

I sought out a Reggio Emilia inspired preschool for my first teaching position, and that has shaped my teaching style to this day. The Reggio Emilia approach began in the Reggio Emilia region of Italy after World War II. There was a need for Early Education, with a lack of resources typically needed. Led by psychologist Loris Malaguzzi, an innovative teaching philosophy was created. Malaguzzi and local parents worked with what they had: nature, real materials (in the place of toys), and the local community. They turned a few simple components into a beautiful way of teaching, inspired by creativity, resourcefulness, the community and the ways children communicate. Loris Malaguzzi referred to the many ways children communicate as "a hundred languages".

When you step into a Reggio Emilia inspired school, the décor starts as a blank slate. You will see simply painted walls, neutral wood furniture, and some comfy couches among the tables and chairs. This neutral base allows the children's vibrant artwork and photos of their learning experiences to be the focus. The effect is really beautiful and inspiring. Every wall in the classrooms and hallways displays the children's creativity and learning process. A sensory bin in the Fall, may look like a nature walk with leaves, pine cones and twigs. There are lots of building materials such as wooden blocks used with toy animals and Magna-tiles for the light table.

The art center, called an Atelier, is stocked with bins of recycled and natural materials, clay, and little items you might find around your house. These items are accessible to the children. Often the teacher will select several items and put them on the table with some photos. The children will use their creativity to make their own versions. Circle time is done on the rug, but you won't find colorful cut outs for the days of the week and calendar. The alphabet may be made from sticks and the morning discussion is centered around the daily topics. Almost all materials are made, found in nature, or authentic. The Kitchen Center may have real pots, wooden spoons, and a newspaper on the table. The dress up clothes look like they're from Mom and Dad's closet. The classroom is a natural place of comfort, inspiration, creative play and discovery.

I teach in a more traditional play and academically based preschool, so the structure is different than a Reggio Emilia inspired preschool. There are areas where I provide Reggio Emilia inspired activities for my students, such as the light table, the Art Center and our daily "Quiet Time". It has helped my students build creativity, resourcefulness and confidence in their abilities. I am excited to share with you lots of photos this year, inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.