Approach
Reggio Emilia
A project- and inquiry-based approach where children explore their own questions through many forms of expression.
Independent & unaffiliated. Early Atlas is an independent project and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, certified by, or sponsored by any organization associated with this approach. We use the name only to describe the tradition that inspired a lesson. Our materials are original works inspired by these ideas — not official curricula — and all trademarks and names belong to their respective owners.
Developed in the town of Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II, associated with educator Loris Malaguzzi.
Lessons tagged Reggio Emilia are inspired by these ideas — child-led inquiry and expressing ideas in many media. They are original Early Atlas activities, not an official Reggio Emilia program.
Principles
- The child is a capable, curious co-constructor of knowledge.
- Emergent, project-based learning that follows children's interests.
- The "hundred languages" — children express ideas through art, building, movement, and more.
- The environment acts as a "third teacher."
- Documentation of children's thinking guides what comes next.
Lessons inspired by this approach
Early Atlas