4 Facts About the Reggio Emilia Approach

Topics: School Life 

Age Range: Preschool 

School: Lake Worth 

The Reggio Emilia approach is an influential educational philosophy in early childhood education that emphasizes respect for children, collaboration, and learning through exploration. It has gained strong international recognition for its thoughtful, child-centered principles. The following four facts explain the origins, structure, and defining characteristics of the Reggio Emilia approach, offering a clear understanding of why it continues to inspire educators, schools, and preschools and daycares in Lake Worth, FL, and around the world.

1. It originated in post–World War II Italy
The Reggio Emilia approach emerged in northern Italy after World War II, in the town of Reggio Emilia. In the aftermath of the war, families sought a new form of education that would help rebuild society through democratic values, cooperation, and mutual respect. Parents in the region collaborated closely with educator and psychologist Loris Malaguzzi to establish preschools that reflected these ideals.

Rather than following traditional, authoritarian models of education, these early schools were founded on the belief that children, families, and educators should work together as an educational community. This collaborative spirit, rooted in social responsibility and shared ownership, became a defining feature of the approach. The historical context is essential to understanding Reggio Emilia, as its philosophy was shaped by a desire to foster critical thinking, participation, and social connection in young learners.

2. The approach is deeply child-centered
At the core of the Reggio Emilia philosophy is the belief that children are competent, capable, and naturally curious individuals. Learning is not imposed upon them but emerges from their interests, questions, and experiences. Children are viewed as active participants in their education rather than passive recipients of information.

To support this, teachers engage in intentional preparation and thoughtful academic planning in advance—carefully observing children, anticipating possibilities, and designing learning environments, materials, and provocations that invite exploration and deeper thinking. This intentional planning remains flexible, allowing educators at a quality preschool or daycare in Lake Worth, FL to respond meaningfully to children’s evolving ideas, inquiries, and academic growth.

This child-centric perspective respects the individuality of each learner and recognizes that meaningful learning occurs when children feel engaged, valued, and motivated.

3. The curriculum is emergent, not predetermined
Unlike traditional educational models that rely on fixed curricula and predefined learning outcomes, the Reggio Emilia approach uses an emergent curriculum. This means that learning experiences develop organically based on children’s interests rather than a predetermined set of lessons or objectives.

Projects in Reggio-inspired settings are often long-term and open-ended, sometimes lasting weeks or even an entire school year. There are no correct answers or rigid expectations. Instead, children are encouraged to explore ideas in depth, revisit concepts, and express their understanding in multiple ways. This flexible structure allows learning to remain dynamic and responsive, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and deeper understanding.

4. Educators and parents are collaborative partners
Collaboration is a central principle of the Reggio Emilia approach. Educators, parents, and children are viewed as co-learners who contribute equally to the educational process. While educators bring professional knowledge and guidance, they do not dominate learning. Instead, they listen carefully, ask open-ended questions, and support children’s investigations.

Documentation is a key practice within this collaborative framework. Educators observe and record children’s conversations, artwork, and discoveries to better understand their thinking and to share learning progress with families. Parents and the wider community are also recognized as vital contributors, enriching children’s experiences through shared knowledge, culture, and engagement. This partnership strengthens learning outcomes and reinforces the idea that education is a shared responsibility.

The Reggio Emilia approach to child-centered learning, collaboration, and emergent curriculum continues to resonate with parents seeking a holistic and respectful model of early childhood education. At KLA Schools, our vision is to offer your child endless opportunities and empower them to positively influence the world. We spend each day making it our mission to enable a safe, innovative environment and high-quality education, inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. If you're looking for a preschool or daycare in Lake Worth, FL, contact us today.