Reggio Emilia Approach

The Reggio Emilia Approach derives its name from its place of origin, Reggio Emilia, a city located in Emilia Romagna in Northern Italy. Shortly after the Second World War, Loris

Malaguzzi, a young teacher and the founder of this educational approach, joined forces with the parents of this region to provide care for young children. They felt that it is in the early years of development that children form who they are as individuals. This led to creation of a program that was based on: the principles of respect, responsibility, and community; the value of exploration and discovery; a supportive and enriching environment; and the interests of the children through a self-guided curriculum. Originally inspired by the need of women to return to the workforce, over the last 50 years, this educational philosophy has caught the attention of early childhood educators worldwide.

The principles of the Reggio Emilia approach that we work with at Flinders Children’s Centre & Tji Tji Wiltja Preschool fit beautifully within our curriculum, The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia – Belonging, Being, Becoming. The Reggio Emilia philosophy is simply excellent early childhood practice. We believe that by implementing learning programs and experiences through the lens of the Reggio Emilia principles within a SA context, we are able to create rich, engaging and exciting learning experiences for children in a

beautiful, respectful environment that fosters strong relationships and a strong sense of identity and belonging for children and families. Outlined below are some of the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy that we foster.

Relationships

Relationships and learning through relationships underpin everything that we do. Flinders Children’s Centre & Tji Tji Wiltja Preschool staff are committed to making connections with every child and building “real” relationships. We provide experiences for children to connect with each other and develop a sense of belonging to our Kindergarten community. We also value relationships with families and the wider community and strive to create opportunities and experiences to connect with them. We aim for “partnerships” with parents, not just superficial parental involvement, we strive to develop a culture where staff and parents respect childhood as a time for children to explore, create and be joyful.

Image of the child

Flinders Children’s Centre & Tji Tji Wiltja Preschool staff see the children as strong, competent, creative and curious, and capable of building their own theories, not as empty vessels that require filling up with facts. Children are seen as unique individuals within a group. Children are encouraged to share their experiences, ideas, theories and curiosities. A strong sense of identity in children is promoted, children’s images are projected everywhere: in photographs; in reflections of mirrors; in celebrations of learning; and in the child directed learning projects and journeys. Children are respected and valued for their unique individual personalities and identities.