What Reggio Emilia Looks Like at Piccoli
Every day at Piccoli, we see just how capable children really are. We notice it when a toddler solves a block puzzle on their own. When a preschooler asks for help instead of giving up. When two children negotiate who gets the blue paint first.
That kind of 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.
It starts with relationships
With Reggio Emilia , learning begins when children feel genuinely known and respected. That's why strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do.
Every child at Piccoli is part of a small group led by a key educator who takes time to understand how they play, think, and communicate. These educators aren’t there to instruct from the front of the room. Instead, they act as co-learners and guides, asking open-ended questions, following each child’s lead, and gently helping ideas take shape without stepping in too soon.
For families, that connection matters just as much. We check in regularly, keep you informed, and make sure you're always in the loop about your child's experiences and progress.
The environment as an educator
Walk into Piccoli and you’ll feel it right away, our spaces are calm, open, and full of natural light. That’s no accident. We believe the environment is the “third teacher,” purposefully designed to spark curiosity and independence.
Classrooms are large and flexible, with child-height furniture and natural materials that encourage imaginative play. Loose parts invite experimentation. The Piazza, our central gathering space, fosters connection between classrooms. And yes, there’s even a fish tank to wonder about.
Whether it’s growing plants, investigating shadows, or building forts, children are encouraged to explore, collaborate, and make meaning in their own ways.
Learning grows from children’s interests
There’s no predetermined path at Piccoli. Our programs grow from children’s interests, not imposed plans. When something sparks curiosity, educators build on it by introducing new materials, posing meaningful questions, or extending an idea into a shared project.
A group of toddlers fascinated by birds might spend a week sketching feathers, reading stories, and creating bird feeders. A preschooler’s question about "what’s inside a bean?" might turn into a mini science lab.
Documentation makes learning visible
We use tools like Brightwheel to capture and share your child’s learning journey. Our educators document moments through photos, quotes, and reflections. This helps us plan meaningful experiences and keeps you closely connected.
At Piccoli, learning isn’t about polished results. It’s about the discoveries children make along the way. We honour the process, not the product.
Families are our partners
And finally, the Reggio philosophy sees families as co-educators. We embrace that through open communication, an open-door policy, and space for you to share your child’s world—from weekend adventures to favourite songs.
Families are always invited to contribute ideas, attend events, and even influence classroom projects. You’re an essential part of the learning village.
Designed with all children in mind
Every detail of Piccoli reflects our commitment to inclusive, responsive learning, including for children with diverse developmental needs. From sensory-friendly layouts to individualized developmental supports, every element is designed to meet children where they are and help them thrive.
Our educators are always learning too. Many team members attend official Reggio Emilia training in Italy, bringing rich insight back to our Calgary centre.
Curious to see Reggio Emilia in action?
Piccoli opens in Calgary’s Beltline this fall, and we can’t wait to welcome you. Ready to give your child a nurturing, curiosity-led start? Enrollment is now open.