The Reggio Emilia Approach is an innovative philosophy of early childhood education that originated in Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II, founded by Loris Malaguzzi and local families.
It is based on the belief that children are strong, capable, and full of potential, and that learning is a process of exploration and discovery that happens through relationships and creativity.
Key Principles:
- Children as Protagonists – Active participants in constructing their knowledge.
- Teachers as Co-Learners – Guiding and researching alongside children.
- Environment as the Third Teacher – Inspiring curiosity and exploration.
- Documentation – Making learning visible through photos, notes, and displays.
- Community Collaboration – Families, educators, and children learning together.
What does this look like in Imagine classrooms?
🎨 Value of Process over Product – process art and open-ended materials drive creativity.
🤝 Collaboration and Relationships – families, teachers, and children form communities.
🧠 Inquiry-Based Learning – projects grow from children’s interests and questions.
📸 Documentation as a Learning Tool – children’s ideas made visible through notes, photos, and quotes.
🌍 Connection to the Larger World – Our Earth, Our Home & Imagine Kids for Kids encourage global awareness.
❤️ Respect for the Child – autonomy, empathy, and expression are central to our practice.