Some children leap into new experiences with ease. Others hesitate. Some find their words early, while others communicate with gestures, expressions, or big feelings that don’t always make sense yet.

That’s where early intervention comes in. Not as a reaction to what’s “wrong,” but as a caring, thoughtful response to what a child might be telling us before they can even say it out loud.

In a world where many early learning centres try to be everything at once, it can be hard to know what your child is really experiencing from day to day. One classroom may lean Montessori. Another borrows from Waldorf. Others promise a little bit of Reggio, but only in name.

At Piccoli, we believe in depth over variety; in one consistent, thoughtful approach that children, families, and educators can rely on. That’s why we’ve made a clear and intentional choice: we’re proudly and fully Reggio Emilia.

If you’ve started looking into early childhood education options, chances are you’ve come across two big names: Reggio Emilia and Montessori. They both sound thoughtful, child-centred, and rooted in respect for young learners. So… are they the same? Not quite.

Understanding the differences between these two philosophies can help you choose a program that feels right for your child and your values.

Curiosity and confidence is at the heart of the Reggio Emilia Approach®, a philosophy that trusts children to lead, values relationships above routines, and sees every moment as a learning opportunity. It influences everything from how we set up our classrooms to how we support families and interact with each child.

So how does this all come to life inside our walls? Here's what Reggio Emilia looks like at Piccoli, and how it supports your child's growth.