The Reggio Emilia Approach to Home Education

The Reggio Emilia approach to homeschooling views children as capable learners with innate curiosity and potential. This educational philosophy originated in post-World War II Italy, founded by teacher Loris Malaguzzi in the city of Reggio Emilia. Today, the Reggio Emilia approach has gained popularity worldwide, inspiring thousands of schools and home educators across 145 countries.

Main Principles

1. Child-Centred Learning: Children are active participants in their educational journey, directing their own learning based on interests and experiences. In a home setting, parents can observe and follow their child’s lead, adapting activities to suit their curiosity.
2. Environment as the Third Teacher: The learning environment plays a crucial role in children’s development. Home educators can create stimulating spaces that encourage exploration and creativity, using natural materials and open-ended resources.
3. Project-Based Learning: Long-term projects emerge from children’s interests and questions. Parents can facilitate in-depth investigations, helping older children research and explore complex topics over extended periods.
4. Documentation of Learning: Careful observation and documentation of children’s work and ideas are essential. Home educators can maintain portfolios, journals, or digital records to track progress and reflect on learning experiences.
5. Hundred Languages of Children: Children express themselves through various ‘languages’, including art, music, drama, and movement. Parents can provide diverse materials and opportunities for self-expression across all age groups.

Benefits of the Approach

The Reggio Emilia approach enhances critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. It encourages creativity and self-expression through multiple mediums. The approach develops strong communication skills and collaborative abilities. It also promotes a deep understanding of concepts through hands-on, experiential learning.

Challenges for Parents

Implementing the Reggio Emilia approach at home may require significant time and resources for project preparation and documentation, due to it’s learner-directed nature. The approach demands flexibility and adaptability, which can be challenging for those accustomed to structured teaching methods.

Implementing the Approach at Different Ages

Here are some examples of age-appropriate ways the Reggio Emilia approach can be implemented:

Ages 7-11

• Create a ‘wonder wall’ for children to post questions and ideas for investigation
• Encourage nature journaling to observe and document seasonal changes
• Facilitate group projects based on shared interests, such as building a model city
• Use storytelling and drama to explore historical events or scientific concepts
• Incorporate art and music into daily learning activities

Ages 11-14

• Develop long-term research projects on topics of personal interest
• Encourage debate and discussion on current events or ethical issues
• Use technology for collaborative projects with other home educators
• Explore community issues through interviews and local activism
• Create multimedia presentations to showcase learning and understanding

Ages 14-16

• Design and conduct scientific experiments based on personal hypotheses
• Engage in entrepreneurial projects, from concept to execution
• Participate in community service initiatives, documenting the process and impact
• Create portfolios showcasing skills and knowledge across various subjects
• Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects that combine multiple areas of study

Children Who Would Benefit Most from This Approach

• Creative thinkers who thrive on expressing ideas through various mediums
• Self-motivated learners who enjoy directing their own educational journey
• Curious investigators who love asking questions and seeking answers
• Collaborative workers who excel in group settings and enjoy shared projects
• Hands-on learners who prefer experiential and practical approaches to education
• Reflective individuals who appreciate documenting their learning process

Further Reading

1. Reggio Children Foundation
2. The Education Hub (New Zealand)