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CURRICULUM
IMAGE OF THE CHILD:
We believe children are able to co-construct their own experiences. Children are capable, curious and competent. The Reggio philosophy is an approach to teaching and learning that helps children tap into their natural potential through interactions with their environment and each other. Teachers provide enriched experiences and provide each child with the individualized attention they need in order to learn and grow.
EMERGENT CURRICULUM & PROJECT APPROACH:
Children are treated as active collaborators in their education, as opposed to passive observers. The curriculum is based on children’s interests and the daily observations and notes teachers take on their students’ growth and exploration. After observing children at play and engaged in new experiences, the teachers reflect upon their observations to plan new activities, and long term projects. Ideas for projects come from both the children and the teachers and they can last anywhere from a few days to several months. We often call these projects “adventures” or “explorations”. Teachers lay out academic, physical, emotional and social goals for the children and make intentional choices in designing and implementing the curriculum to ensure that the children are challenged academically in all areas, including math, science, and literacy.
REPRESENTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT:
We always invite children to present their ideas and learning in many forms: print, art, drama, dance, music, puppetry, and so on. Children can demonstrate their ideas in many different ways. Giving the space for all of these efforts to flourish helps each child build confidence and excitement about their learning.
COLLABORATION:
Basing the course of study on the children's interests creates a collaborative environment that can help foster growth. Asking the children to help direct the course of learning allows them to feel heard and respected, and encourages their sense of self-worth. Learning is based on interrelationships. In Reggio there is a close interaction between teachers, parents, community and children.
ENVIRONMENT/OUTDOOR LEARNING:
The classroom revolves around the children’s senses, relying on sight, sound, touch and even taste and smell to assist with learning. As a result, Reggio Emilia classrooms are different than your average preschool, with large common spaces, natural elements and lots of accessible and curiosity-sparking materials. We keep a variety of materials accessible so children can explore in an open-ended way. Environments are set up to entice the children to explore and experiment. With daily provocations, we encourage invitation to play and incorporate play in the learning process. There are many different avenues of exploration. There is an emphasis on natural materials and outdoor learning. Using nature and our surroundings as the educator. Outdoor learning helps children learn the value of nature and our outdoor teachers teach the importance of environmental preservation as well. Each learning space should stimulate exploration, engagement, discovery, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. Elements of nature are brought into the classroom and the outside environment is as important as the classroom. Children are encouraged to use natural items in their projects and to develop a relationship with their world.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE:
Our indoor and outdoor learning environments are designed to help children understand they can be active partners to make a change. Our gardens and recycling/up-cycling programs teach children how to learn to care for our earth, living creatures and our community. We encourage kids to participate in projects that reinforce the idea that young children can make a difference. We learn about all religions, holidays and keep an inclusive approach to all people.
COMMUNITY & OUTINGS:
Learning is based on interrelationships. In Reggio there is a close interaction between teachers, parents, community and children. Children are collaborators and work best when included in a community as opposed to working independently. Relationships in the community are also an important role in children’s education. They present unique knowledge in various cultures, intergenerational relationships, and a sense of belonging in a larger group. We recognize the importance of being involved in the community and plan various field trips to learn what is going on around us, support local business and involve children to be part of a greater good.
Curriculum: Testimonials
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