How do children benefit from the Reggio Emilia approach?

The Reggio Emilia approach was born in northern Italy after World War II. Educator Loris Malaguzzi and local parents came together with a new idea: that children are capable, curious individuals who should be active participants in their own learning. They believed that education should not be rigid or one-size-fits-all, but instead should reflect the interests, ideas, and voices of children.

Today, the best preschools in Bethesda MD, inspired by Reggio Emilia, nurture creativity, independence, and critical thinking from an early age. Through hands-on activities and thoughtful exploration, children learn to express themselves and solve problems in ways that feel meaningful to them. Let's dive deeper.

1. Children express themselves in many ways

A central idea in the Reggio Emilia approach is that children have “a hundred languages” to express their thoughts and feelings. These include art, movement, storytelling, building, and more. This is why classrooms are filled with materials that encourage children to use these languages and explore their ideas through hands-on experiences. This helps them connect to the world in personal and meaningful ways.

2. The environment supports learning

In a Reggio-inspired school, the classroom becomes part of the learning process. Spaces are carefully designed to be open, calm, and welcoming. Materials are chosen to invite curiosity and exploration. Teachers create “invitations to learn” through objects or activities that spark questions and ideas. This helps children at the best preschools in Bethesda, MD, feel comfortable, inspired, and ready to engage.

3. Teachers as partners in learning

Teachers in Reggio Emilia settings don’t just give instructions. They observe, listen, and learn alongside the children. Their goal is to support each child’s interests, encourage critical thinking, and ask open-ended questions. They also document what children say and do, helping to shape the curriculum in real time based on what the children are curious about.

4. A respectful and collaborative community

Reggio Emilia principles value the voice of every child. Children are seen as capable and full of potential. Schools using this approach believe in creating a strong, respectful community among teachers, children, and families. Everyone works together to support each child’s learning journey.

With its focus on creativity, collaboration, and meaningful exploration, the Reggio Emilia approach helps children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Our Bethesda daycare center and preschool are designed to be comfortable, not overstimulating, safe, and to encourage collaborative play. If you're looking for the best preschools in Bethesda, MD, we invite you to contact us today!