Day 13

Today was very interesting at the school of Reggio Emelia. We visited this child centered place this morning, and we observed children from the ages of 3-5. There were sections for all three ages, and what we saw was quite impressive. Upon entering this building, we noticed the very creative student crafts that were in front of the school. These student models were decorated In a variety of asterisks of things found around the household. We were informed that parents are very involved with the children, and their assistance is needed often. This is all a part of the Reggio Erika approach. 

As we walked in, it was a very spacey, bright, and organized environment. We saw the area where there was an abundant amount of parent information on what their children were currently working on, we saw a school greenhouse type thing, and we had a peak into some of the rooms. 

We toured all three sections. Every room had a main focus project and every room was totally equipped with so many resources. There was a home area, a light table where students built things with random materials, a construction area, writing/messaging table, easels inside and outside, and an area where they worked in their focus project. The students get to choose at the beginning of the day what they would like to do. A teacher will sit and take notes on the students during some of their "centers." It was so personal and so focused, it was unreal! The guide also informed us that they provide a lot of natural materials for the students so they are encouraged to use their creativity for playing and whatever else they do. 

Finally, we saw the art room. I have never seen an assortment of resources! It was amazing to see all of the options for these students to use and manipulate with. They had some awesome creations and resources that help to provide a rich and quality learning experience. These children are very privelaged to be able to have access to these things. This school does cost money, but it looks well spent. 

It was nice to see what opportunities the children have in this school. Like our schools, the children are given responsibilities, doing activities to help them learn, and are having fun. While I see a benefit, this approach does pose an argument in comparison to our schools--at least at the kindergarten level. I don't recall hearing about the children formally learning like math, reading, etc. Compared to my class level K, I had students who could solve math word problems, read at a level of high first grade, and critical think our solutions all In a different learning environment. Whether or not students at this school do this, to some it may seem as an advantage and some may think this required learning is a disadvantage because of taking childhood away. Personally, I like aspects of each!