Reggio Definition:
The heart of the Reggio Approach is project work that follows the passions of the students. Projects are very in-depth inquiries that cross all disciplines of education. Art is also very important in the Reggio world. Multiple expressions with true artists’ materials are of the utmost importance. The environment or the room design serves as what Reggio educators call the “third teacher” (Wurm, 2005). Whenever possible the classroom utilizes natural materials and muted tones. The way the room is laid out and organized guides and facilitates the ease of learning. The way of life and culture in Italy completely supports this way of thinking, so in America, we can never be truly Reggio, only Reggio inspired due to cultural differences. (Wurm, 2005) Reggio Emilia is admired internationally as best practice in Early Childhood Education and is associated with better transitions from preschool to elementary school (Schneider, 2014). After participating in a Reggio Emilia program students are more likely to like school, have academic success, are more cooperative, and have fewer problem behaviors. (Schneider, 2014).