The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy from Italy that views children as capable, curious learners who construct knowledge through exploration and relationships. It emphasizes project-based learning, the environment as a "third teacher," and documentation of the learning process.
What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach?
The Reggio Emilia approach originated in the Italian town of Reggio Emilia after World War II, when citizens used salvaged materials to build schools focused on early childhood education. Educator Loris Malaguzzi developed the philosophy alongside parents and community members. By 1991, Newsweek identified Reggio Emilia schools among the world's best. The approach centers on viewing children as strong, competent, and full of potential—not empty vessels awaiting information. Children are believed to have a "hundred languages" for expressing understanding: speech, art, music, movement, and countless other forms.
Key Takeaways
- Children are seen as capable constructors of their own knowledge
- The environment functions as a "third teacher" alongside parent and child
- Learning emerges from children's interests through long-term projects
- Documentation makes learning visible through photos, notes, and portfolios
- Easily adapted for homeschooling without special training or materials
Core Principles
Several foundational beliefs drive Reggio Emilia education. Children possess innate curiosity and capability from birth. Learning happens through relationships—close interaction between adults and children. Parents are partners and collaborators, recognized as the child's first teacher. Teachers function as co-learners rather than instructors, working alongside children and facilitating deeper thinking. The emergent curriculum evolves based on children's interests and questions rather than following predetermined lesson plans.
Environment as Third Teacher
Reggio Emilia places unusual emphasis on physical space. The environment is considered an essential "third teacher" that invites exploration and self-expression. Spaces feature natural light, aesthetically pleasing materials, and flexibility to evolve with children's projects. The belief: place children in a beautiful, stimulating environment with engaging materials, and they'll be motivated to explore and respect it. For homeschoolers, this translates to intentionally curating your learning space with open-ended materials, natural elements, and areas that encourage curiosity.
How It Differs from Montessori
Adapting for Homeschool
Homeschoolers often implement Reggio principles through Project-Based Homeschooling—essentially the same philosophy with a different name. Lori Pickert, a former Reggio school director turned homeschooler, popularized this adaptation. No special training or expensive materials are required. Follow your child's lead on topics, document learning through photos and journals, create flexible spaces that invite exploration, and view yourself as learning alongside your child rather than dispensing information. Projects might last a week or extend throughout the year depending on sustained interest.
The Bottom Line
The Reggio Emilia approach offers homeschoolers a philosophy rather than a rigid curriculum—respect children as capable learners, follow their interests, and create environments that invite exploration. It's particularly well-suited for early childhood through early elementary years, though principles can extend to older students through project-based learning. The approach requires no certification or special materials, just willingness to observe your child's curiosity and build learning experiences around it. For families drawn to child-led education with more structure than unschooling, Reggio Emilia provides a thoughtful framework.
