CHILDREN, SPACES, RELATIONSHIPS. THE INFANT-TODDLER CENTRES AND PRESCHOOLS EXPERIENCE OF REGGIO CHILDREN

Abstract

There are many forms of teaching and learning experiences that promote a type of so-called advanced education. Italy stands out with the experience of Reggio Children, in the city of Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy, in particular regard nursery schools and preschools, which invests the capabilities and potential of children, believing that education is a public place of social cohesion, made of participation and relationship between children, teachers, parents and citizens. Howard Gardner, American psychologist, the most important representative of the theory of multiple intelligences, has written about the experience of Reggio Emilia Municipal schools with which he comes into contact in the ‘80s of last century: “My favourite example of an ethical community is a small town called Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy. In addition to providing high quality services and cultural benefits for its citizens, the city provides excellent child-care centers and pre-school. Children feel that the community takes care of them. So, when they grow up, return this respect by taking care of others. They become good workers and good citizens”.