Self-directed learning and unschooling are often mistaken as the same thing, but the difference is critical. This post explores how self-directed learning provides essential structure and guidance, while unschooling’s lack of boundaries can leave children unprepared for the future. Understand why the distinction matters and the risks of unschooling in today’s world.
In the Reggio Emilia approach, documenting the learning journey is a cornerstone of the educational experience. This method captures and reflects on children’s growth and development across various subjects, not just art. By documenting the entire learning process, educators can emphasize the importance of the journey over the final product. This practice supports the principles…
“To complicate is simple, to simplify is difficult.” – Bruno Munari Have you ever kicked off a class by asking a seemingly trivial question like, “What color is the snow?” Simple questions like these can open up a world of discovery. In this post, we’ll walk through my process for designing lesson plans that are…
In the landscape of modern education, the concept of visible learning has taken center stage, reshaping how we think about teaching and learning. At its heart, visible learning is all about making the learning process transparent and accessible to everyone involved. It’s a shift towards transparency, where the journey of acquiring knowledge isn’t hidden within the…
As the winter season unfolds, bringing its unique blend of snow-covered landscapes and chilly mornings, it’s the perfect time to engage children in a winter-inspired process art activity. “What Color is the Snow?” invites young minds to explore the enchanting world of colors, textures, and light, drawing inspiration from the serene beauty of winter. Rooted…
When it comes to teaching kids, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s where the concept of the emergent curriculum comes into play, a method that the Reggio Emilia approach to education really champions. This method isn’t about sticking to a rigid plan; instead, it’s all about tuning into what kids are curious about and using that to drive their…
The ultimate education battle: Reggio Emilia vs Montessori. These two approaches, often used interchangeably, seem to pop out everywhere, from Pinterest activities to Instagram-worthy classroom setups. But are they the two sides of the same coin? Not quite. So let’s try to move beyond superficial labels, diving deep into the fundamental principles, methodologies, and classroom…
In the realm of early childhood education, loose parts play is a dynamic approach rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy. It recognizes that children are innate learners who flourish when granted the freedom to explore and create on their own terms. Prepare to embark on a practical and playful adventure where possibilities are as boundless as a child’s…