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Reggio Emilia Approach & Nature-based Education

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In recent years, there’s been a growing interest in nature-based education, with Scandinavian-style forest schools becoming particularly popular. As cities expand and children’s lives become increasingly structured and screen-driven, the idea of outdoor learning—where kids spend more time in natural environments, exploring freely—has become an appealing alternative.

But like any educational trend, forest schools vary widely in quality and implementation, and the broader concept of integrating nature into education takes many different forms.

This brings us to the Reggio Emilia approach, which has long embraced nature as an essential part of the learning environment—but in a way that’s distinct from forest schools. Rather than separating learning into “indoor” and “outdoor” experiences, Reggio classrooms blend the two, using nature as both a material and a context for exploration.

So, what role does nature really play in a Reggio-inspired setting? How does it support children’s learning and development? And how does Reggio’s approach compare to other models of nature-based education?

Why Nature Matters in the Reggio Emilia Approach

The Environment as the Third Teacher

In the Reggio Emilia philosophylearning is not confined to four walls. The physical environment is designed to be dynamic, adapting to children’s interests while offering elements that stimulate discovery.

This approach differs from traditional structured learning, where environments are static and predetermined. Instead, Reggio classrooms evolve alongside children’s curiosity, reflecting their interests and interactions with their surroundings.

📌 Read more: How Reggio Emilia Classroom Design Supports Inquiry-Based Learning


Nature as a Medium for Learning

In Reggio Emilia-inspired settings, nature is not just a backdrop—it is an active component of learning. Children are encouraged to engage with the natural world through:

✅ Observation: Watching insects, collecting leaves, and exploring seasonal changes spark curiosity about the environment.
✅ Sensory Exploration: Handling soil, water, or tree bark enhances fine motor skills and builds an emotional connection to nature.
✅ Artistic Expression: Natural materials—such as flowers, stones, and mud—are incorporated into collages, sculptures, and painting activities.
✅ Autonomous Discovery: Outdoor environments allow children to self-direct their learning, making decisions based on what fascinates them most.

Unlike traditional education models that rely on predefined materials and structured tasks, the Reggio approach allows nature itself to be a teacher, a tool, and a canvas for creativity.


Scientific Benefits of Nature Play in Early Childhood

While the Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes nature as a learning tool, research confirms that outdoor play has profound developmental benefits for young children. From cognitive growth to emotional regulation, nature-based education fosters essential life skills in early childhood.

Cognitive Benefits: Nature Enhances Focus, Problem-Solving, and Creativity

Scientific studies show that children who engage in outdoor play demonstrate higher levels of problem-solving and creativity compared to their peers in traditional indoor settings.

In Reggio-inspired settings, where children lead their learning experiences, outdoor play amplifies creativity and autonomy, supporting the philosophy that children are co-constructors of knowledge rather than passive learners.

📌Read more: The 7 Core Reggio Emilia Principles

Physical Benefits: Movement and Motor Skill Development

The physical advantages of nature-based learning are significant, with research indicating that children who engage in outdoor play show better motor skills, balance, and coordination.

For children in Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms, outdoor experiences serve as natural extensions of movement-based learning, allowing them to explore their physical limits without the constraints of desks and chairs.

Emotional & Social Benefits: Nature Reduces Stress and Supports Self-Regulation

Outdoor environments promote emotional well-being, with research highlighting nature’s role in reducing stress and fostering social connections.

Reggio Emilia educators observe children’s interactions in outdoor settings, using their natural curiosity as a guide for discussions on emotions, relationships, and environmental stewardship.

📌Read more: How Art Education Fosters Emotional Intelligence and Empathy in Kids


Reggio Emilia vs. Other Nature-Based Educational Models

Reggio Emilia vs. Scandinavian Forest Schools

Both Reggio Emilia and Scandinavian Forest Schools emphasize child-led exploration and a strong connection to nature, but they differ in how they structure learning and integrate the environment into daily activities.

Scandinavian-style forest schools first emerged in Denmark in the 1950s and have since spread across Sweden, Norway, Germany, the UK, and North America. While the approach varies by region, the core idea remains the same: children learn primarily through outdoor play and hands-on experiences in natural settings. Some programs are fully outdoor, with children spending entire days in forests or other green spaces, while urban adaptations incorporate elements of outdoor education into more traditional school structures.

Regardless of how they are implemented, forest schools are built on the belief that unstructured play in nature fosters resilience, independence, and problem-solving skills.

Similarities Between Reggio Emilia and Forest Schools

Key Differences

As nature-based education gains traction, many schools now combine elements of Reggio Emilia and forest school philosophies, creating hybrid models that balance structured indoor learning with immersive outdoor experiences. This reflects a broader shift toward child-centered, environmentally conscious education, where learning extends beyond classroom walls and into the natural world.

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Reggio Emilia vs. Montessori’s Prepared Environment

While Montessori and Reggio Emilia share a respect for child-led learning, their approaches to the learning environment and nature differ significantly.

For a deeper comparison, check out Reggio Emilia vs. Montessori: Key Differences in Learning Environments. By exploring the nuances between educational approaches, you can gain valuable insights into how different methodologies impact a child’s development. The Reggio Emilia educational philosophy overview highlights the importance of student-led learning and the role of the environment as a crucial component of education. Understanding these differences can help parents and educators make informed decisions about the best learning environments for children.

The Role of Risk and Sensory Learning in Nature Play

Risk-Taking in Reggio Emilia: Encouraging Safe Exploration

Children are natural risk-takers, and the Reggio Emilia approach encourages safe, developmentally appropriate challenges that help build confidence and problem-solving skills. This philosophy promotes exploration and creativity, allowing children to learn through hands-on experiences and interactions with their environment. By adhering to Reggio Emilia teaching principles, educators create a supportive atmosphere where children can engage in meaningful play, fostering their independence and critical thinking. As a result, children not only gain knowledge but also develop resilience and adaptability, essential skills for their future learning journeys.

Unlike traditional schools, where physical activity is often restricted, Reggio-inspired programs allow children to test their physical limits in a supportive environment, leading to greater self-confidence.

Sensory Engagement: How Nature Supports Early Brain Development

Nature provides rich sensory experiences that stimulate early childhood brain development. Reggio Emilia classrooms and outdoor spaces prioritize direct interaction with natural elements to enhance learning.

Many studies have proved that children who engage in sensory-rich natural environments show improved cognitive function and emotional regulation.

Through hands-on interactions with nature, Reggio Emilia students develop a deeper understanding of their surroundings, problem-solving skills, and sensory awareness. This immersive experience encourages curiosity and fosters a lifelong appreciation for the environment. By engaging with natural materials and outdoor spaces, children enhance their creativity and critical thinking abilities. The Reggio Emilia approach curriculum supports this exploration by integrating nature-based learning into daily activities, allowing students to form meaningful connections with the world around them.

📌Read more: The Shift from STEM to STEAM: Why Soft Skills Are Crucial for Your Child’s Education

Outdoor Learning and Climate Awareness

The Reggio Emilia Approach Fosters Environmental Responsibility

From an early age, children in Reggio Emilia-inspired programs are encouraged to respect and care for nature. Rather than learning about environmental conservation through textbooks, they engage in real-world projects that promote sustainability.

Examples of nature-based projects in Reggio Emilia classrooms include:

These activities cultivate a sense of environmental responsibility, showing children that their actions have a direct impact on the world around them.

Final Thoughts

The Reggio Emilia approach doesn’t separate nature from learning—it makes it an essential part of the environment, both indoors and out. Unlike forest schools, which take place entirely outdoors, Reggio-inspired classrooms blend nature into daily experiences, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery. By incorporating natural materials and elements into the learning space, Reggio Emilia classroom design principles foster a connection between children and their surroundings. This seamless integration of nature helps children develop a sense of responsibility for the environment while enhancing their sensory experiences. In this way, the Reggio Emilia approach not only promotes academic growth but also nurtures emotional and social development through exploration and collaboration.

As more schools explore nature-based education, the key takeaway remains the same: children learn best when they can explore the world around them.

How do you incorporate nature into your classroom or home learning? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Save for Later:

Why is nature important in the Reggio Emilia approach?

Nature is considered part of the learning environment, just like the classroom itself. It fosters curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery, allowing children to explore the world through real experiences rather than abstract lessons. Outdoor spaces, natural materials, and changing seasons all become tools for learning.

How does Reggio Emilia incorporate nature into everyday learning?

Rather than seeing nature as a separate space for occasional activities, Reggio Emilia blends indoor and outdoor environments. Classrooms often open into gardens or outdoor play areas, and natural materials—like leaves, stones, and water—are regularly used for exploration, art, and sensory learning.

What are the benefits of outdoor learning for young children?

Research shows that time in nature helps children develop problem-solving skills, focus, emotional resilience, and physical coordination. Outdoor learning also fosters independence and collaboration, as children navigate real-world challenges together.

Can Reggio-inspired nature learning work in cities?

Absolutely! Even in urban settings, Reggio-inspired schools and homeschooling families find ways to incorporate nature. Rooftop gardens, courtyard green spaces, nature walks, and even indoor plants or natural materials can help bring the benefits of nature-based learning into any environment.

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