What is a Reggio Emilia Schools?
A Reggio Emilia school follows an acclaimed early-childhood approach that originated in the town of Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II. It views children as capable, curious, and full of potential, learning through exploration, relationships, creativity, and project work in a rich, beautiful environment.
History & origins
Developed by educator Loris Malaguzzi and the community of Reggio Emilia, Italy, the approach became internationally influential in early-childhood education and inspired many US preschools and primary programs.
Philosophy & approach
Reggio-inspired education rests on ideas like the "hundred languages of children" (many ways of expressing and learning), the environment as the "third teacher," child-led emergent projects, documentation of learning, and strong family and community involvement.
Curriculum & academics
Learning is emergent and project-based, following children's interests and questions rather than a fixed curriculum, with rich use of art, materials, nature, and expression. Teachers observe, document, and co-construct learning with children.
The classroom & school day
Classrooms are intentionally beautiful and inviting, with natural light, natural materials, an "atelier" (art studio), and thoughtful documentation of children's work displayed throughout.
Grade levels & structure
Reggio is primarily an early-childhood (infant, toddler, preschool, kindergarten) approach; its principles sometimes extend into the early elementary years.
Admissions & enrollment
Most Reggio-inspired programs are private preschools, admitting by application and charging tuition. Because "Reggio Emilia" is not a franchise or trademark, programs describe themselves as "Reggio-inspired," and authenticity varies.
Costs & financial aid
Reggio-inspired programs are typically private and charge tuition, varying by region and program.
Accreditation & governance
No formal certification governs the name; look for genuine understanding of the approach, well-prepared teachers, an atelier/art focus, and strong documentation. Programs may also hold early-childhood accreditation (e.g., NAEYC).
Is a Reggio Emilia Schools right for your child?
Reggio suits families who value a creative, child-led, relationship-rich early childhood with an emphasis on art, exploration, and expression. Families seeking early formal academics or structured instruction may prefer a different approach.
How it compares to other schools
Like Montessori and Waldorf, Reggio is a child-centered alternative approach — but Reggio is emergent and project-based (following children's interests) rather than following set materials (Montessori) or a developmental arts curriculum (Waldorf), and is primarily early-childhood.
Finding Reggio Emilia Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists Reggio-inspired and other early-childhood programs across the country.
Key facts
- OriginReggio Emilia, Italy (Loris Malaguzzi)
- ApproachChild-led, emergent, project-based; the "hundred languages of children"
- SignatureEnvironment as "third teacher," ateliers, documentation
- LevelPrimarily early childhood (PreK–K)
- CostMostly private tuition; "Reggio-inspired" (not trademarked)
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: