All about the Reggio Emilia Approach®
A child-centred philosophy
At Piccoli, we believe that children are naturally curious, capable, and full of potential. That’s why we are proud to follow the Reggio Emilia Approach®, an inspiring, child-centred philosophy that nurtures creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. With Reggio Emilia, they learn how to think for themselves, work with others, and express their ideas in many ways – through art, play, words, music, and more.
Children who grow up in Reggio-inspired environments often become strong communicators, deep thinkers, and compassionate friends.
Key features of the Reggio Emilia Approach®
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THE HUNDRED LANGUAGES OF CHILDREN
We believe children express themselves in a hundred different ways: through drawing, music, movement, storytelling, building, and more. We nurture all these languages, giving your child many ways to explore and share their thoughts and feelings.
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EMERGENT CURRICULUM
Our curriculum grows out of your child’s interests. When something sparks their curiosity, we follow it, designing projects and experiences that keep them excited to learn.
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LONG-TERM PROJECTS
Children explore topics deeply, sometimes over weeks or months. These projects build focus, creativity, and teamwork, as children investigate, ask questions, and share discoveries together.
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TEACHERS AS RESEARCHERS
Our educators observe closely and guide thoughtfully. They don’t just teach. They learn alongside your child, always reflecting on how to best support their growth.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Learning extends beyond our walls. Children explore their world and connect with their community, helping them understand their place in it and feel valued as young citizens.
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RESPECT FOR TIME
Children are given the time and space they need to think, explore, and create. We don’t rush. We encourage them to enjoy the journey of learning.
Documentation matters
In the Reggio Emilia Approach®, documentation is a key practice used to make children’s learning come alive.
As your child plays, explores, and creates, we carefully observe and record their experiences. This includes:
Photos of your child in action
Quotes from their conversations
Artwork, drawings, and creations
Teacher reflections and notes
Displays showing how projects evolve over time
You’ll see these stories shared throughout our centre, in portfolios, and through our communication with you.
Documentation:
Makes learning visible. See how your child thinks, creates, and grows every day.
Honours their voice. Children feel proud when their words and ideas are valued.
Guides meaningful teaching. Helps our educators understand and support your child’s individual journey.
Connects you to the classroom. Stay involved and celebrate their discoveries with us.
Celebrates every step. We value the process of learning, not just the final result.
Your child’s story matters
At Piccoli, we believe every child has a unique story worth telling. Through the Reggio Emilia Approach® and thoughtful documentation, we make sure your child’s voice is heard, their ideas are explored, and their potential is nurtured.
Opening Late Summer 2025
Join the waitlist and discover how learning unfolds—naturally, joyfully, and beautifully.
Frequently asked questions
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The Reggio Emilia Approach began in the town of Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II. Parents in the community, together with educator Loris Malaguzzi, wanted a better future for their childre; one that celebrated their ideas, voices, and abilities. They created a new way of learning, one that has now inspired educators around the world.
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In a Reggio Emilia-inspired classroom, your child is more than a student. They are an explorer, thinker, and creator.
Children are capable. We see every child as strong and full of potential. Learning is led by their interests, questions, and ideas.
The environment is the third teacher. Our spaces are thoughtfully designed—filled with natural light, beauty, and materials that inspire exploration.
Learning is project-based. Children dive deep into projects based on their interests, encouraging critical thinking and creativity.
Teachers are co-learners. Our educators don’t just teach—they observe, ask questions, and support children as they discover the world.
Parents are partners. We value family involvement and work together with parents to support every child’s growth.
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The Reggio Emilia Approach® resonates deeply with families because it:
Respects each child as a unique individual
Supports emotional, social, and cognitive development
Fosters independence, confidence, and collaboration
Provides a calm, inspiring, and natural learning environment
Builds a strong sense of community among families and teachers
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In the Reggio Emilia Approach®, documentation is a key practice used to make children’s learning come alive.
As your child plays, explores, and creates, we carefully observe and record their experiences. This includes:
Photos of your child in action
Quotes from their conversations
Artwork, drawings, and creations
Teacher reflections and notes
Displays showing how projects evolve over time
You’ll see these stories shared throughout our centre, in portfolios, and through our communication with you.
Documentation:
Makes learning visible. See how your child thinks, creates, and grows every day.
Honours their voice. Children feel proud when their words and ideas are valued.
Guides meaningful teaching. Helps our educators understand and support your child’s individual journey.
Connects you to the classroom. Stay involved and celebrate their discoveries with us.
Celebrates every step. We value the process of learning, not just the final result.
