I was introduced to the Reggio method during my time as Early Education teacher at play-based private schools. I used aspects of the Reggio method, as well as Montessori, to influence my class regimen. While Reggio and Montessori are both play-based, child-centered, nurturing approaches- there are important differences. 

The Hundred Languages of Children

What I love most about the Reggio Method is it’s belief that children form their unique personalities during their early years of development. Not only are children forming ideas about the world around them, they also have the ability and desire to communicate their perspectives. So Reggio aspires to provide children with outlets for personal expression in diverse ways. They call this “The Hundred Languages of Children”. The Reggio philosophy uses a variety of avenues for free thinking and conveying ideas including drawing, writing, dramatic play, and sculpting. These symbolic languages are used as tools to investigate, hypothesize, revise, and reconstruct ideas. Teachers then allow children to repeat activities and modify each other's work in the collective aim of better understanding. This collaborative, communicative, open-ended approach is at the core of The Reggio Method. 

Curriculum in The Classroom

The Reggio Emilia method aims to foster creative thinking using the innate interests of the child. Whereas Montessori classrooms feature a selection of set activities for children to choose from, in Reggio classrooms the direction of the lessons depend on the developing interests of the children. This allows for learning opportunities to remain fluid and open ended. In fact, Reggio teachers don’t create a curriculum ahead of time. Instead there is a profound responsibility for the Reggio teacher to know their students in holistic ways in order to create opportunities for learning based on their gifts. Teachers then take on the role of co-learner instead of observer. On the other hand, Montessori classrooms generally teach a curriculum involving math, language, practical skills, geography, cultural studies, science, and music using movement and sensory activities as a guide.

Collaboration vs. Independence

An essential aspect of the Reggio Method is it’s emphasis on community. Children work in collaborative group settings and are encouraged to build on each other’s ideas. Reggio classrooms often feature windows and hallways that connect classrooms. Many Reggio schools also have one centrally located dress-up area for all children to enjoy together. While Montessori also aims to nurture children’s ability to exist in harmony with others, there is an emphasis on independence. Children are supported in their autonomy to direct their own play and work alone whenever they wish.

Assessments

In both the Reggio and Montessori classrooms, tests and grades are not used as tools for assessment. Instead, teachers create portfolios by gathering work throughout the year from each student. 

Reggio at Home

You can incorporate the Reggio approach at home by following some key principles such as:

  • The environment is the “third teacher”. Rooms are beautiful, feature natural light, and are void of clutter. Color and materials are carefully selected to be visually appealing and inspiring.

  • Instead of pre-prepared or isolated subject areas of learning, encourage children to work on creative projects based on their current interests. Explore their ideas using different avenues of expression like painting, writing, and storytelling. 

  • Documentation is important in The Reggio Method. Display children’s work including transcripts of thoughts and conversations.

  • Rich conversation is important. Children’s thoughts and ideas are respected.

  • Toys should be beautiful, well crafted, and made of quality materials. They should be open-ended to inspire children to make self-discoveries. Include items from nature such as pine cones, bark, and sticks.

  • The use of mirrors in play areas offers the opportunity for children to see another point of view and depth understanding. Mirrors should be placed on walls as well as surfaces. 

  • Allow children to take responsibility for some of their own self care and daily living activities.