Reggio emilia approach
Discover St. Paul's Preschool's Unique Approach to Learning
The Reggio Emilia approach is a child-centered philosophy where kids lead their own learning through curiosity, using the environment as a "third teacher", and expressing themselves through "100 languages" (art, music, movement) in long-term projects, with teachers acting as guides, not directors, fostering deep connections and problem-solving. It sees children as competent and full of potential, learning through relationships with peers, educators, and their surroundings.
6 principles of teaching & learning
Image of the child
role of the teacher
role of the teacher
Adults see each child as inherently capable, strong, curious, and rich in potential, viewing them not as empty vessels but as active learners, competent citizens, and co-creators of their own knowledge, who learn through their "hundred languages" (diverse forms of expression) and in deep relationships with others. They are seen as powerf
Adults see each child as inherently capable, strong, curious, and rich in potential, viewing them not as empty vessels but as active learners, competent citizens, and co-creators of their own knowledge, who learn through their "hundred languages" (diverse forms of expression) and in deep relationships with others. They are seen as powerful individuals with rights, full of ideas, and intrinsically motivated to understand the world.
role of the teacher
role of the teacher
role of the teacher
The teacher is a partner in learning with the child. The teacher’s role is to act as resource, provocateur and partner in learning with the children. Children’s work, play and discussions are documented through notes, photos, tape recordings and videos. These are carefully reviewed by the teachers and guide their curriculum and project d
The teacher is a partner in learning with the child. The teacher’s role is to act as resource, provocateur and partner in learning with the children. Children’s work, play and discussions are documented through notes, photos, tape recordings and videos. These are carefully reviewed by the teachers and guide their curriculum and project decisions based on the children’s interests, ideas and developmental readiness to acquire new skills.
learning is visible
role of the teacher
learning is visible
Educators meticulously observe and document children's exploration, ideas, and problem-solving through art, conversations, play, and projects, making their thinking tangible to guide further learning, rather than just observing for assessment, transforming learning into a shared, co-constructed, and evident process. This involves notic
Educators meticulously observe and document children's exploration, ideas, and problem-solving through art, conversations, play, and projects, making their thinking tangible to guide further learning, rather than just observing for assessment, transforming learning into a shared, co-constructed, and evident process. This involves noticing learning in unexpected places and using documentation (notes, photos, recordings) to reflect with children, adapting activities to their interests and potential.
parents as partners
environment as the third teacher
parents as partners
Reggio Emilia parent involvement is a fundamental value of this educational approach. Here, parents are seen as partners who participate actively in a child's educational experience, including the activities of the school and in children’s projects. Parents are welcomed into the school and collaborate with teachers. They give of their t
Reggio Emilia parent involvement is a fundamental value of this educational approach. Here, parents are seen as partners who participate actively in a child's educational experience, including the activities of the school and in children’s projects. Parents are welcomed into the school and collaborate with teachers. They give of their time and serve as advocates for the school in the community. At St. Paul's Preschool, we believe that education is a collaborative effort between students, families, and educators. We are committed to fostering strong relationships with our students' families and the broader community. We view parents as the child's first teacher. We offer a variety of ways for families and community members to get involved and support our school.
100 languages
environment as the third teacher
parents as partners
A Reggio-inspired approach offers experiences and opportunities for learning in many mediums. Children experience the world through a truly multi-sensorial approach, and learn fluency in a variety of languages: sculpture, wire, paint, dance, music, movement, story, poetry, puppetry, dramatic play and so much more. Children communicate
A Reggio-inspired approach offers experiences and opportunities for learning in many mediums. Children experience the world through a truly multi-sensorial approach, and learn fluency in a variety of languages: sculpture, wire, paint, dance, music, movement, story, poetry, puppetry, dramatic play and so much more. Children communicate and learn through many forms (drawing, drama, dance, building), not just words.
environment as the third teacher
environment as the third teacher
environment as the third teacher
The classroom environment is intentionally designed with natural materials and open-ended resources to invite exploration and creativity. Through conscious use of space, color, natural light, attractive and appropriate learning materials and displays of children’s work, the environment is another teacher and is inviting to children, teachers, families, and visitors.