Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio-Emilia method

At the heart of the Reggio philosophy is the belief that children are full of curiosity and creativity; they are not empty memory banks waiting to be filled with facts, figures and dates. Reggio-inspired curriculum is flexible and emerges from children's ideas, thoughts and observations. The Reggio goal is to cultivate within children a lifelong passion for learning and exploration.

The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education is based on over forty years of experience in the Reggio Emilia Municipal Infant/toddler and Preschool Centers in Italy. It places emphasis on children's symbolic languages in the context of a project-oriented curriculum. Learning is viewed as a journey; and education as building relationships with people (both children and adults) and creating connections between ideas and the environment. The Reggio Approach is based on a comprehensive philosophy, underpinned by several fundamental, guiding principles.

The child as protagonist, collaborator, and communicator

The teacher as partner, nurturer, guide, and researcher.

Cooperation as the foundation of the educational system.

The environment as the "third teacher."

The Parent as Partner

Documentation as communication

Emergent Curriculum: An emergent curriculum is one that builds upon the interests of children. Topics for study are captured from the talk of children, through community or family events, as well as the known interests of children (puddles, shadow, dinosaurs, etc.). Team planning is an essential component of the emergent curriculum. Teachers work together to formulate the possible directions of a project, the materials needed, and possible parent and/or community support and involvement.

Pee Wee Patch Child Development Center

1796 S Lapeer Rd

Lake Orion, MI 48360

(248) 814-1010

peeweepatch.com