reggio-inspired

These two amazing educators, Lella Gandini and Amelia Gambetti, didn’t need an introduction. Conference participants literally held their breath not wanting to miss a word! Gambetti began by stating that her main goal has been to “create bridges to put together different experiences.” She referenced the Model Early Learning Center (MELC).

The NAREA conference kicked off with Co-Chairs, Margie Cooper & Jennifer Strange welcoming educators. They announced that the next study group to Reggio, Italy will be May 1st-May 8th. Since 1990, Angela Ferrario has been organizing study groups to Reggio Emilia and has worked with Reggio Children as the U.S. Liaison since 1994, when the organization was established. Angela is a U.S. reference point for the Reggio Children International Network and a founding board member of the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance (NAREA).

In the spirit of uniting educators and advocates who are passionate about inspiring changes in early childhood programs, the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance (NAREA) board hosted a reception at the DeCordova Museum in Lincoln, MA. Amelia Gambetti, educator, Reggio Children International Network Coordinator and Liaison for Consultancy to Schools, and Lella Gandini, Ed.D, Reggio Children U.S.

This session was presented by the amazing educators and editors of Insights and Inspirations from Reggio Emilia: Stories of Teachers and Children from North America. I found it challenging to take notes while Lella Gandini spoke. She has a soft, calming voice and such powerful insights to share. She, and the other presenters, were truly inspirational!

The above mentioned book is organized by the following themes:
1. Child image
2. Teacher image
3. Children and being respectful
4. The hundred languages of children
5. Power of communication

Kelly Lenihan is a lead teacher at the University of Michigan’s Dearborn campus Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC). Mrs. Lenihan’s session focused on a Growing Project that was inspired when she realized that eight of her families were expecting babies and that this was on the minds of many of her students and their families. Through a project-based approach a variety of preschool standards were met.

Mrs. Lenihan described to attendees the ECEC environment:
-Reggio inspired program
-6 Classrooms – each classroom was in a cottage and children could visit rooms/centers as they wished