This four-volume bundle of Innovations presents a rich, multifaceted exploration of the Reggio Emilia Approach to early childhood education, offering educators, researchers, and community stakeholders an in-depth look at the principles, practices, and global resonance of this influential philosophy.
Volume 1 centers on foundational elements of the Reggio Emilia Approach—participation, listening, and the co-construction of learning. Through essays and project reflections, including those by Reggio educator Chiara Spaggiari and a community initiative in Vermont responding to Hurricane Irene, this volume emphasizes the school as a public, democratic space where relationships with children, families, and the broader community are nurtured. The issue also includes a compelling piece by Harold Göthson on education as a right and the essential role of teachers in sustaining democratic societies, as well as tributes to Eli Saltz and Loris Malaguzzi, celebrating their legacy in shaping the periodical and early education dialogue.
Volume 2 delves into the creative and aesthetic dimensions of learning through the lens of the atelier, a hallmark of Reggio-inspired environments. Filippo Chieli discusses how materials and media become expressive languages for children, reinforcing the theory of the “hundred languages.” A conversation among educators at the Cyert Center in Pittsburgh reflects on two decades of developing an infant-toddler program rooted in participation and respect. The volume also features reflections on the impact of The Wonder of Learning exhibit and introduces plans for the inaugural peer-reviewed issue of Innovations, signaling a growing commitment to scholarly documentation and knowledge sharing.
Volume 3 foregrounds the importance of educational research as both a practice and a value embedded in daily interactions with children. Contributions from Deanna Margini and educators at Sabot at Stony Point in Virginia highlight how research supports continuity, intersubjectivity, and community-wide inquiry. This volume also includes tributes to Jerome Bruner, recognizing his influence on educational theory and his special connection to Reggio Emilia. Reflections from the 12th NAREA Summer Conference explore the idea of schools as spaces of pedagogical research and collective learning.
Volume 4 emphasizes children’s rights to participate fully in society, highlighting projects that give voice to children as active citizens. Co-authored by leading figures from Reggio Emilia and Harvard’s Project Zero, the lead article illustrates how citizenship is practiced daily in Reggio and Washington, DC. Additional features include tributes to Jerome Bruner from the Reggio community, stories of relational depth from Colorado State University’s Early Childhood Center, and explorations of creativity and friendship as essential components of children’s learning and development.
Together, these volumes provide a comprehensive portrait of the Reggio Emilia philosophy in action—its ethical foundation, its commitment to community, and its evolving dialogue with educators around the world.
