Reggio emilia inspired Preschool

What is Reggio Emilia-Inspired Learning?

Reggio Emilia-inspired learning is a child-centered educational approach that values curiosity, creativity, and hands-on exploration. It encourages children to express themselves in many different ways—through art, building, nature, storytelling, and more. At its heart, this approach believes that children are capable, curious learners who thrive when given the time and space to discover the world around them.

How is it different from Montessori?

While both Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches are rooted in respect for the child, they differ in structure and style. Montessori classrooms are highly organized with specific materials and routines. Reggio Emilia-inspired environments are more open-ended, allowing children to guide their learning through inquiry and projects based on their interests. There is no set curriculum; instead, learning is built through observation, conversation, and collaboration with teachers and peers.

Why it matters for ages 3 to 5

These early years are a time of rapid growth in language, social skills, and imagination. Reggio Emilia-inspired learning nurtures all of these areas by creating rich environments for exploration and expression. For children ages 3 to 5, it provides a meaningful foundation for lifelong learning by honoring their natural wonder and supporting their emotional and intellectual development.

 What Are Provocations?

In a Reggio Emilia-inspired program, provocations are carefully arranged materials, setups, or experiences designed to spark a child’s interest, thinking, and creativity. Unlike traditional toys or lessons, provocations invite children to explore, ask questions, and make discoveries on their own.

For example, a provocation might be a table with magnifying glasses, pinecones, and insects under glass, or a mirror with loose parts like beads and sticks nearby. These setups encourage children to touch, observe, sort, compare, and create—without being told exactly what to do.

The goal of a provocation is not to lead children to one “right” answer, but to inspire their curiosity and encourage deeper thinking, communication, and imagination. It’s one of the ways Reggio Emilia honors the child as an active participant in their own learning.

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