The Origins of Reggio Emilia: A Revolutionary Approach to Early Childhood Education

When parents begin exploring early childhood education philosophies, they often come across the Reggio Emilia approach. Known for its child-led learning, emphasis on creativity, and strong community involvement, Reggio Emilia has gained worldwide recognition as one of the most progressive and innovative ways to nurture young minds.

But where did this approach come from, and why does it continue to influence early learning centres like Small Sprouts today? In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of Reggio Emilia, its core principles, and how it aligns with our play-based philosophy at Small Sprouts.

 Where Did Reggio Emilia Begin?

The Reggio Emilia approach was born in a small Italian town of the same name shortly after World War II. In the wake of destruction and hardship, a group of parents, led by educator Loris Malaguzzi, came together with a shared vision—to create a new kind of school that would:

• Empower children to think for themselves

• Foster creativity and critical thinking

• Encourage collaboration and problem-solving

• Be deeply connected to the local community

Malaguzzi believed that children were natural learners who constructed their own knowledge through experiences, exploration, and relationships. His approach rejected traditional, rigid teaching methods, instead embracing a holistic, flexible, and deeply child-centred approach.

The Key Principles of Reggio Emilia

At the heart of Reggio Emilia’s philosophy are several core principles that continue to shape modern early childhood education.

1. The Child as a Capable Learner

Reggio Emilia sees children as strong, competent, and full of potential. Instead of being passive recipients of knowledge, children construct their own learning through play, creativity, and inquiry.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We encourage curiosity by allowing tamariki to ask questions and explore.

• We provide open-ended play opportunities to promote critical thinking.

• Our kaiako observe and follow each child’s interests, guiding them naturally.

2. The Hundred Languages of Children

Malaguzzi famously said that children have "a hundred languages"—meaning they express themselves in many ways, including:

• Drawing and painting

• Music and dance

• Storytelling and role-play

• Construction and building

• Movement and sensory play

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We provide natural, open-ended materials to encourage creative expression.

• Our tamariki explore music, movement, and storytelling as part of daily learning.

• We value outdoor play, allowing children to interact with nature as another "language" of expression.

3. The Environment as the Third Teacher

In Reggio Emilia schools, the physical environment is considered a key part of learning—not just a backdrop, but an active participant in a child’s development.

• Classrooms are designed to be beautiful, engaging, and interactive, filled with:

• Natural materials like wood, plants, and light-filled spaces

• Provocations that spark curiosity (e.g., mirrors, sensory stations, loose parts)

• Documentation of learning—children’s artwork and projects displayed

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• Our learning spaces are carefully designed to be warm, inviting, and interactive.

• We use natural resources and loose parts to encourage exploration.

• Our outdoor environment plays a huge role in daily learning, allowing children to connect with nature.

4. Learning Through Relationships & Collaboration

Reggio Emilia is deeply community-focused. Children learn best when they collaborate—with other tamariki, kaiako, and whānau.

How We Apply This at Small Sprouts:

• We foster group learning, encouraging tamariki to problem-solve together.

• We actively involve parents and whānau, sharing updates and inviting participation.

• Our kaiako work as co-learners, guiding rather than instructing.

How Reggio Emilia Inspires Small Sprouts' Philosophy

At Small Sprouts, we are deeply inspired by Reggio Emilia and weave its principles into our play-based, child-led approach.

Our Approach at Small Sprouts:

• Respect for Children – We view every child as capable and competent.

• Inquiry-Based Learning – We follow children’s interests, asking questions and guiding exploration.

• Creativity & Expression – We provide art, music, and storytelling to nurture multiple ways of thinking.

• Strong Community Involvement – We encourage whānau participation in our learning journey.

• Outdoor & Natural Play – We create beautiful learning spaces, both indoors and outdoors.

We also integrate New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki, ensuring our approach reflects local values, bicultural learning, and the needs of Aotearoa’s children.

 Final Thoughts: A Timeless Approach for Modern Learning

Many parents are drawn to Reggio Emilia-inspired learning because it allows children to develop naturally, without pressure or rigid academic expectations.

The Reggio Emilia approach has transformed early childhood education worldwide. By focusing on creativity, collaboration, and respect for each child’s potential, it aligns perfectly with the way tamariki naturally learn and grow.

At Small Sprouts, we proudly embrace these principles, creating an environment where children can explore, discover, and thrive.