Ciao from Reggio Emilia!!
I just returned from a three-week adventure through Italy, during which, I set out for a mission to Reggio Emilia, the birthplace of our inspired teaching philosophy. I enjoyed a full day at the Loris Malaguzzi International Center in Reggio Emilia. I toured the eye-opening facility and wandered through their most recent interactive art installation, "Ray of Light" -- a creative feat of light, shadow, color, and movement designed to animate and delight children ages one through 99. I also peeked in on the Infant-Toddler Center and preschool classrooms that have inspired a teaching movement that spans countries all over the world. I was moved by the simplicity, attention to detail, and essential immersion of nature and its materials into the classroom environment. These were rooms inspired by the curiosity of children and created especially to guide them in formulating ideas about the world around them.
This was an essential venture for Play by the Park. We are striving to create an authentic experience for our young ones; an experience influenced by research, inspired by Reggio first-hand, and translated to our own Brooklyn culture. One of the amazing teachers I met at the Loris Malaguzzi International Center explained to me, "You are very smart to have come here. You cannot really teach Reggio until you have SEEN Reggio." Hearing this sentiment first hand confirmed to me the magnitude and value of my excursion to the small town of Reggio Emilia. The city of Reggio is rich in history and a lasting, undying commitment to their children. I was so impressed by the fun, wonder, and respect present in every project, teacher, and art display. I am thrilled to bring that same enthusiasm and commitment home and create an exciting experience for our children here. Join us for exploration, wonder and adventure for the young inquisitive mind!
-LaVoya Woods-Dionne, co-director and teacher, Play by the Park
