learning

Reggio Emilia Approach

Advent School Early Childhood teachers are inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. Since we opened our Early Childhood Center in 2004, our entire school has been profoundly influenced by this philosophy. The Reggio Emilia philosophy of education closely matches The School’s mission and belief that all children are naturally curious and have unlimited potential.

Through our annual Advent School Collaborative and workshops in partnership with Lesley University, our Early Childhood teachers share their knowledge and experience. Advent teachers have traveled to Reggio Emilia, Italy and regularly participate in exchanges with Reggio-inspired schools in the United States and around the world.

The Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education was initially developed in Italy in the 1940s after Work War II. Loris Malaguzzi, philosopher and educational innovator, guided local families from the northern Italian city of Reggio Emilia in their journey to create schools, which reflected the values of their community. Inspired by renowned early childhood psychologists and philosophers Dewey, Piaget, and Vygotsky, the Reggio Emilia Approach is built upon a foundation of connected principles and is known worldwide for its innovative and child-centered philosophy of teaching and learning.   

Guiding Principles of the Reggio Emilia Approach

The following key principles are inspirations from Reggio Emilia, which we adapt to our own community and culture at The Advent School.

The Image of the Child
We believe in children’s strengths and capabilities. Our goal is to empower children to explore the world, create meaning, and challenge their own thinking. Over time, children apply their knowledge confidently and successfully to new situations, which results in feelings of pride and self-worth.

The Role of the Teacher
Teachers are facilitators who guide children’s thinking, document their ideas, and support them in their learning. They provoke skill development, deep thinking, and positive social interaction.

The Role of the Parents
We recognize that each family brings a unique perspective to the classroom and welcome parents’ active participation in our program.

The Role of the Environment
The classroom environment reflects the values, beliefs and cultures of those who share it. Each area of the room and the materials housed there has a specific purpose. The design, color, and natural light are backdrops to feature the children’s work as the main attraction of the classroom setting.

The Power of Documentation
Documentation provides a visual record of the dynamic learning encounters that take place the classroom. With this data, we can interpret children’s interests, feelings, and ideas and give value to their work. Documentation is a form of assessment and advocacy for each individual child.

Emergent Curriculum
Children’s interests and discoveries propel our curriculum. Our goal is to challenge children to generate their own ideas and theories, posing thought-provoking, open-ended questions. In keeping with our school philosophy, teachers integrate and encourage in-depth learning experiences.

Programs for Educators

Each year, in partnership with Lesley University, The Advent School hosts a fall and spring workshop for teachers who are invested in the Reggio Emilia Approach. In addition, we offer our annual Advent School Collaborative for up to 15 teachers and have welcomed teachers nationwide, as well as delegations from Iceland, Israel, and Taiwan.

We invite those who are interested in learning more about the Reggio Emilia Approach to plan a visit to our school and engage in an interactive program with our teachers. Please contact Assistant Head of School, Arati Pandit at extension 17, to make arrangements. There is a small fee for this visit.