We are so excited for the start of the new school year! One of our most important tasks is getting our classrooms ready for the children. At Woodbridge School, this means thoughtfully setting up our Reggio-inspired learning spaces. These classrooms are designed to spark curiosity and creativity, following the Reggio Emilia philosophy of early childhood education. This approach encourages children to explore their interests, express themselves, and learn through hands-on experiences—with the classroom environment itself acting as a “third teacher.”
Six Reggio-inspired Classroom Features
- Natural Materials and Aesthetic Beauty
Classrooms are designed to mirror the beauty and harmony found in the environment with soft lighting, neutral tones, and uncluttered spaces. Each room uses materials from nature including wood, stones, shells, and plants as well as fabrics. As the seasons change, classroom themes and materials change, incorporating the change of seasons into classrooms. - Child-Centered Layout
All spaces are designed for our students, including child-sized furniture and materials that are easily accessible. Spaces are arranged to encourage independence and collaboration. Child-led exploration is encouraged with multiple activity areas including an art studio, reading nooks, and sensory tables.
- Documentation of Learning
The learning process is well-documented throughout our school and within the classrooms. Walls display children’s work, photos, and quotes. Additionally, learning is visible through journals, portfolios, and project boards. Teachers document each child’s progress and interests to guide future activities.
- Flexible and Open-Ended Materials
Spaces are designed to encourage creativity and child-led exploration including available materials that invite experimentation and problem-solving such as loose parts (e.g., buttons, fabric scraps, sticks, etc.). The spaces and the materials emphasize the creative process over the end product.
- Connection to Nature
The environment is our third teacher at Woodbridge School which includes a lot of outdoor play in our beautiful outdoor areas. Garden spaces and a wide variety of outdoor play areas promote learning in nature. Integrating indoor plants, natural light, and outdoor spaces are integral. Seasonal changes and families’ cultures or traditions are reflected in classroom themes and materials.
- Community and Collaboration
The sixth and final common feature of a Reggio-inspired classroom includes space for group work and dialogue. Community space fosters children’s voices and choices being respected and encouraged. Families are involved in the learning process and environment.
Five Important Benefits for Children
The above features that are integral to Woodbridge School and the design of our school, classrooms, and outdoor areas offer important benefits to young children aged 18 months to five years old.
Below is a summary of the five primary benefits to a child that establish a strong foundation for life-long learning.
1. Fosters Creativity and Imagination
- Children explore open-ended materials and express themselves through art, storytelling, and play.
- Encourages divergent thinking and innovation.
2. Promotes Independence and Confidence
- Children make choices about their learning and environment.
- Builds self-esteem through meaningful contributions and decision-making.
3. Supports Deep Learning Through Inquiry
- Learning is driven by children’s interests and questions.
- Projects evolve over time, allowing for deeper understanding and critical thinking.
4. Enhances Communication and Collaboration
- Children work in groups, share ideas, and learn to listen and negotiate.
- Language development is supported through dialogue and documentation.
5. Respects Individual Learning Styles
- Each child’s unique way of learning is honored.
- Multiple forms of expression (the “100 languages of children”) are encouraged.
We look ahead to the new school year with great excitement and anticipation as we welcome new and returning students and their families to Woodbridge School!
