Drawing Inspiration from the Reggio Emilia Approach Inspired Approach to Education and Learning The Hundred Languages of Children According to The Hundred Languages of Children, children use multiple ways to communicate, think, make discoveries, express themselves, play, and demonstrate their thoughts. Children are encouraged to communicate through their words, movements, drawings, structures, sculptures, photos and more. Philosophy and Fundamental Principles Inspired by the Reggio Emilia preschools, we focus on the image of the child, and view them as competent, capable, and filled with learning potential. Children are full of curiosity and wonder. We believe that each child is resilient, inquisitive and children are the protagonists, the researchers, and the constructors of their inquiry-based learning experiences. Educators, including teachers, paraprofessionals, leadership team members and families are partners in children’s learning experiences. Children’s learning is ongoing, evolving and not limited to their time in the classroom. Our educators listen and document children’s ideas, and facilitate and create environments offering materials that provide children with opportunities to investigate and explore their interests. A Reggio Inspired environment is referred to as “the third teacher.” The environment provides opportunities for children to explore, play, and learn through active engagement with carefully chosen materials and manipulatives. At the WP Child Development Center, we believe children should have ownership of the learning spaces, including the hallways, indoor and outdoor classrooms. The outdoor classroom space is valued and has as much learning potential as the indoor space.
