The Reggio Emilia Approach to early childhood education places a strong emphasis on the role of families in a child’s learning journey. Unlike traditional educational models where parents play a secondary role, Reggio Emilia settings view families as essential partners in the learning process. This philosophy fosters a culture of collaboration, respect, and shared responsibility between educators, children, and families.

One of the key principles of Reggio Emilia is the belief that children learn best in a supportive, community-driven environment. Parents are encouraged to participate actively in their child’s education, not just as observers but as contributors. They engage in regular discussions with teachers, help document children’s progress, and even take part in classroom activities. This partnership ensures that learning extends beyond the classroom and into the home, creating a seamless connection between school and family life.

Furthermore, Reggio Emilia settings value the diversity of family backgrounds and perspectives. Educators recognise that each family’s unique culture and experiences enrich the learning environment. By integrating family traditions, languages, and values into the curriculum, children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and respect among all members of the school community. 

In conclusion, the culture of families in Reggio Emilia settings is one of active participation, mutual respect, and shared learning. By embracing family involvement, these schools create a nurturing environment where children, parents, and educators grow together as a learning community.

Reflection by:
Joanne Tong
Senior Quality Assurance Manager
E-Bridge Pre-School

Reflecting on the study trip to the Loris Malaguzzi Centre in Reggio Emilia, Italy, has led to a significant transformation in my views on environments for young children. The Centre and the pre-schools we visited exemplify Malaguzzi’s vision, embracing a philosophy that sees children as capable, resourceful, and active participants in their learning journey.

The concept of the “hundred languages of children” resonated profoundly, emphasizing the value of various forms of expression and learning beyond traditional education approach. The significant impact of long-term, inquiry-based learning was clearly visible in the children’s intricate projects, which were carefully planned and facilitated to align with their interests and questions. The atelier, a space for exploration and experimentation with different materials, showcased how creative expression promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The focus on documentation, not merely as a record but as a means for reflection and dialogue, was especially striking. The thoughtfully displayed project documentation-featuring photographs, documentations, and children’s artwork— revealed the depth of their learning processes and the educators’ insightful observations.

The collaborative spirit among educators, children, and families was evident throughout the pre-schools. Its environment, designed to encourage interaction and communication, reflected a community committed to nurturing children’s potential. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the importance of creating learning environments that are responsive, stimulating, and respectful of children’s natural curiosity and creativity. The Reggio Emilia Approach should not be seen as a method to replicate. but rather as an inspiration to foster a culture of listening, observation. and respect for children’s interests and abilities.

Reflection by:
Cathy Chew
Senior Centre Leader
E-Bridge Pre-School

Participating in the recent study group in Reggio Emilia was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of its educational philosophy. Immersing myself in this inspiring environment, I was moved by the emphasis on seeing the child as capable, the power of collaboration, and the innovative practices that celebrate curiosity and creativity as the heart of learning.

I gained a deeper appreciation for the idea that children build their lives through the knowledge and experiences they encounter and the relationships they form. Identity emerges from these interactions, shaped by the balance between belonging and recognizing differences. In education, time is key for these processes to unfold naturally, embracing mistakes and risks as essential parts of learning. Children thrive when given the freedom to explore, exchange ideas, and navigate conflicts. Through these experiences, children not only develop empathy but gain a greater understanding of others.

I also learnt that the Reggio Emilia Approach takes a social-constructivist view of teaching and learning, emphasizing the creation of contexts where children can lead their own learning. This happens through the interplay of their ideas with those of others and the world around them. In this framework, the adult’s role is to design environments that empower children to explore independently, rethinking traditional notions of teaching and learning. They model being active participants by giving a voice to various subjectivities and to the group.

Teachers used documentation as a tool to gather information and the children’s responses to explore their own teaching, to inform professional dialogue and to generate questions and inquiry about the children and their learning. It is then shared with children and families to enable them to interpret, reflect upon, evaluate and co-construct the meaning of experiences. Therefore, observation and documentation are invaluable tools, serving not only as records but as reflective practices that enrich learning for both children and adults.

Reflection by:
Nurafahsha Binte Mohamad Ya’acob
Class Teacher
EtonHouse Pre-School Mountbatten 223