The Reggio Emilia approach is an early childhood educational philosophy; it uses a child-centered, constructivist curriculum, which uses self-directed, experiential learning in a relationship-driven environment. It is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community through exploration, discovery, and play.  Our program is inspired by this philosophy.

Children have 100 languages. They have multiple ways of seeing and multiple ways of being. Children are natural communicators and should be encouraged to express themselves however they feel they can. This may include words, movement, drawings, paintings, buildings, sculptures, and more. ​

Children are collaborators and learn through interaction within their communities. An emphasis is placed on small groups, to support the idea that we form ourselves through interaction with peers, adults, and the world around us. ​

Children can construct their own learning. They are the main initiators of the learning process. Children should be treated as active collaborators in their education. ​

Teachers are partners, nurturers, and guides who help facilitate the exploration of children’s interests as they work on short and long-term projects. The main goal for the teacher is to listen and observe the children, as well as question and listen for opportunities to encourage further exploration of a child’s interests. ​

The classroom environment acts as the third teacher. Classrooms are carefully integrated with one another, as well as with the outside community. Classrooms also use natural furnishing to encourage real-life interactions. ​

Parents are partners in education. Parental participation in their child’s education is a critical component of the learning philosophy. Parents are always invited to play an active role in the classroom community.​

Documentation is a critical component of communication. Teachers document the learning process within the classroom and transcribe the verbal language used by the children. ​

Based on the teachings of Maria Montessori, Montessori is an educational philosophy and practice that fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth in all areas of development. The goal of the Montessori classroom is to nurture each child's natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect.

Montessori materials provide a concrete hands on approach to learning. Materials follow a progression allowing the child to develop an understanding of the concept.

A multi-age classroom encourages leadership development. Older children reinforce what they have learned by showing their younger classmates fostering cooperation rather than competition between age levels. ​

Child directed work supported by the design and flow of the Montessori classroom. Children make choices for themselves leading to engagement, motivation and responsibility. ​

There is an emphasis on Peace Education and supporting children in building classroom community and connecting to our global community.