# Reggio Emilia (approach to education) > [!AI]+ > > The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy focused on preschool and primary education. It was developed by psychologist Loris Malaguzzi and parents in the villages around Reggio Emilia, Italy, after World War II. The approach is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community through exploration and discovery in a supportive and enriching environment. > > The Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes hands-on discovery learning that allows the child to use all their senses and all their languages to learn. It views children as capable beings who are full of potential and should be allowed to explore their world. > > This approach also emphasizes the importance of a strong relationship between teachers, parents, and children. Teachers are seen as co-learners rather than just instructors. They observe the children closely, ask questions to understand their interests, document their work, and then use this information to guide their teaching. > > The environment is considered the "[[Third Teacher]]" in this approach. Classrooms are designed to be beautiful, welcoming spaces filled with natural light and materials that encourage exploration. > > Another key aspect of the Reggio Emilia approach is documentation. Teachers record children's thoughts, comments, and observations about projects. This documentation serves as an assessment tool for teachers, a way for parents to stay informed about what their child is learning, and a record of the child's thoughts and ideas throughout the year. > > Overall, the Reggio Emilia approach values the child as strong, capable and resilient; rich with wonder and knowledge. Every child brings with them deep curiosity which drives their interest to understand their world and their place within it.