What is Reggio Emilia?
A little history
The Reggio Approach® was born in Reggio Emilia, a small city in northern Italy in 1945, at the end of the Second World War.
Loris Malaguzzi, at the time a Psychologist and teacher, was invited to support the development of the philosophy of the school and investigate several educational practices and ideas from different parts of the world, namely Maria Montessori, John Dewey, Jean Piaget, Vygotsky, Jerome Bruner, and others.
By 1980, a study group of educators, teachers, and professionals from different parts of the country gathered in Reggio Emilia to reflect on education. By 1991, the ‘Newsweek’ newspaper defined Diana School as one of the best schools in the world. This created a heightened sense of interest around the Reggio Emilia Philosophy of Education from several parts of the world.
What makes it special?
The Reggio Philosophy is a dynamic educational approach grounded in constructivism, child-centered principles, and evidence-based practices. Adults play the role of researchers instead of teacher, refining their methods through observation and collaboration with children, drawing inspiration from global education research and diverse childhood experiences.
Beyond education, Reggio Emilia Approach is a life philosophy, encouraging a respectful, democratic dialogue with children. Embracing this approach as parents fosters active listening, allowing children to thrive as confident, independent, and critical thinkers.