Reggio in Action - Early Childhood Classroom Studies
In our Reggio Emilia-inspired program, children are active participants in their learning, guided by skilled teachers who partner with them as co-researchers. By honoring children's natural curiosity, we intentionally build early literacy, numeracy, communication, and critical-thinking skills. Learning takes place in beautifully designed classrooms and across our wooded outdoor campus, where exploration, questioning, and discovery are part of every day.
This four-part video series offers families a glimpse into our preschool classrooms, highlighting how student-led learning unfolds in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways. Each video focuses on a different Reggio-inspired study; together, they provide a comprehensive look at how this approach supports confident, capable learners in our early childhood division.
In a Reggio classroom, topics of study are thoughtfully chosen as vehicles for skill development that support academic readiness, creativity, collaboration, and independence. Below each video, you’ll find key experiences and practices to watch for!
Preschool 3-4 Classroom: Reggio Study—Water
- Early science skills developed through hands-on experiments and hypothesis-building.
- Literacy and vocabulary growth embedded naturally throughout the day.
- Foundational math concepts introduced through purposeful play.
- Extended learning through a related field trip experience.
- Independent exploration supported by teacher-guided reflection and conversation.
Preschool 3-4 Classroom: Reggio Study—Insects
- Use of loose parts to foster creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor development.
- Family partnership through parent involvement as a guest expert.
- Cross-divisional collaboration, including exposure to 3D printing.
- Access to abundant outdoor green space for real-world exploration.
- Observation and attention to detail expressed through artistic portraits.
Preschool 4-5 Classroom: Reggio Study—Flight
- Student-driven dramatic play encourages imagination and collaboration.
- Recycled materials used intentionally for design, construction, and innovation.
- Emergent connections between vocabulary and our explicit, systematic phonics program.
- Integration of history to broaden understanding and context.
- Guest expert experiences that enrich learning and deepen engagement.
Preschool 4-5 Classroom: Reggio Study—Homes
- Tiny Tiger Tuesday building community across the early childhood division
- Meaningful connections between classroom learning and students’ own lives.
- Opportunities to build confidence through leadership and presentation.
- Use of provocations—open-ended materials that invite curiosity and exploration.
- Classrooms intentionally designed to feel welcoming, safe, and like an extension of home.