Kids in Reggio Emilia elementary schools learn more than academics. They’re exposed to creative, experiential learning experiences that stimulate their minds and help them develop life skills. In these schools, the Reggio Emilia approach ensures children are engaged in meaningful learning opportunities. Let’s find out more below.
1. Social-Emotional Learning
At a Reggio Emilia-inspired private elementary school, children learn to be socially responsible and emotionally aware. The schools use the 100 Languages of Children approach, which gives kids the opportunity to express themselves in different ways. It helps them build empathy, problem-solving skills, and self-awareness.
2. Self-Directed Learning
Children are encouraged to explore their interests and take ownership of their learning. They have opportunities to direct their projects and engage in creative problem-solving activities that help them become independent learners. This type of education encourages them to think critically and ask questions, which ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of their world.
3. Experiential Learning
These elementary schools offer experiential learning opportunities that help students make connections between their classroom and the real world. Through field trips, guest speakers, and hands-on projects, kids engage with their environment meaningfully. This type of learning helps them develop problem-solving skills and understand how the things they learn in school can be applied in everyday life.
4. Creative Expression
Creative expression is strongly encouraged in these institutions. Children explore their ideas and express themselves through art, music, and other forms of media. This creative freedom helps them develop important skills such as communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. It also allows them to develop their self-confidence.
5. Community Involvement
In Reggio Emilia elementary schools, children learn to be engaged citizens in their community. They participate in various projects and initiatives that help them develop a sense of social responsibility and learn how to contribute positively to their world. They also learn the importance of respecting diversity and developing a sense of global citizenship.
Reggio Emilia early education allows children to learn far more than just the traditional academic subjects. They have creative experiences that help them develop life skills and prepare them for success in the future. In Florida alone, there were 397,970 students enrolled in pre-K through 12th-grade private schools during the 2019-2020 school year, according to Florida Trend, which shows just how popular these schools have become.
