Curriculum

• Emergent curriculum is driven by the interests of the children and builds upon this excitement.
• Learning topics are spontaneous and arise from the immediate interest of a child/group of children.
• Ideas are supported by resources: the teacher, equipment, books, craft supplies, and experiences.
• Topics may last a day, a week, a month or more - as long as the children remain interested and engaged.
• The project is extended by observing and listening to the children at play or by asking the children open ended questions.

Culture and Values

• The Reggio Emilia approach embraces the philosophy that children are competent, capable, and creative individuals.
• Children are valued as equal partners—not "empty vessels" waiting to be filled.
• By respecting the diversity in learning, the potential of every child can be met.
• Parent, teacher, and community involvement is strongly encouraged and welcomed.
• Newsweek rated Reggio Emilia as the best amongst all preschool approaches in the world. In the article "The World's 10 Best Schools" Newsweek stated, "For preschools, we picked Reggio Emilia, in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, as an example of a grass-roots project that has become an international role model." www.reggioinspired.com/newsweek.htm