8:30-9:00 - Arrival & Open Play

9:00-9:20 - Clean-up & Morning Gathering

9:20-10:00 - Nature or Outdoor Exploration and/or Process Art

10:00-10:15 - Snack Time

10:15-10:30 - Music Circle

10:30-11:00 - Open Play & Dismissal

What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach?

The Reggio Emilia approach is an early childhood education philosophy that began in Italy after World War II. It’s known for valuing the child as strong, capable, and full of potential, and emphasizes creativity, relationships, and exploration.

We believe in the following based on this approach:

1. “Children are capable.”

We believe every child is curious and capable of directing their own learning. Instead of giving them all the answers, we give them space to explore, ask questions, and try things out. Children are seen as co-creators of their education.

2. “The environment is the third teacher.”

We create beautiful, inviting classrooms full of natural light, interesting materials, and flexible spaces. The environment encourages independence, collaboration, and creativity.

3. “Teachers are guides and researchers.”

Teachers observe closely, listen to children’s ideas, and help extend their thinking through projects and questions. We learn alongside the children and adapt based on their interests and discoveries.

4. “Projects and play are powerful.”

Learning happens through hands-on exploration and long-term projects. If children are interested in insects, for example, we might observe them, draw them, read books, and even build a bug hotel—linking science, art, and storytelling.

5. “Families are partners.”

We see parents and caregivers as essential members of our learning community. We share what’s happening in the classroom and invite your voice, ideas, and participation.

6. “100 Languages of Children.”

Children express themselves in many ways—through drawing, movement, music, pretend play, conversation, and more. We honor and support all these forms of communication as valuable ways to learn and show understanding.

To sum it up:

In our program, we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. That means we see your child as curious and full of ideas. Rather than focusing on worksheets or rigid lessons, we create hands-on experiences based on their interests. We document their learning through photos, artwork, and stories so you can see how they grow. We truly see you as partners in this journey.

Watch this overview video for additional information to the Reggio Emilia approach.

We view our families as their child’s first teacher and are excited to partner along this learning journey. We welcome family volunteers and participation in our PlayPod program. Please speak with or email Dee Dee Swann (dswann@wonderplaylearning.com) if you are interested in volunteering in some way.