Reggio
The Reggio Emilia method was founded by a teacher, and educational psychologist Loris Malaguzzi shortly after WWII in Reggio Emilia, Italy. One of the main aspects of the philosophy is the role of self expression. The philosophy believes in the concept of “One Hundred Languages” in that there are “hundreds” of ways for children to express themselves.
Those ways of expressions are described as expressive, communicative, symbolic, cognitive, ethical, metaphorical, logical, imaginative and relational. In following the philosophy materials are presented; and the artist known as the atelier, offers a variety of different expressionist tools that allows the child free reign to express themselves. Initially children explore, experiment and play with the materials but they are subconsciously developing skills and will eventually be able to use those skills to assist in concept development. There is no right or wrong. Each child is allowed to express their individuality thus nurturing creativity and deeper understanding of a topic.
