KLA Schools Curriculum: Reggio Emilia Approach

CA 2835

High-Quality Reggio Emilia-Inspired Preschool Curriculum

Why Choose Our Early Childhood Curriculum?

At KLA Schools, we redefine early childhood education with a unique, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach that nurtures creativity, independence, and a lifelong love for learning. Our preschool curriculum, recognized globally for innovation, is designed to ignite curiosity and inspire exploration. It allows young learners to discover the world through hands-on, meaningful experiences. More than just education, it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and limitless possibilities.

Our research-based program seamlessly blends academic readiness with social-emotional development, ensuring every child's holistic and enriching learning experience. We integrate STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) into our curriculum to foster creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. We cultivate independence, collaboration, and critical thinking through hands-on exploration, preparing young learners for school and a future of endless curiosity and success.

Experience a preschool curriculum that focuses on hands-on learning and deeper understanding

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Child-led learning

A classroom’s curriculum stems from the particular interests of the children. Curriculum topics derive from talking with children and their families as well as from readily known interests (such as puddles and dinosaurs).

Academic skills are learned best when children are interested. For example, learning about dinosaurs often leads to a math experience adding dinosaur figurines, writing a story or reading a book about dinosaurs, and a science experience about dinosaurs in the garden.

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Making Learning Fun

Often times, children learn more from the process of learning as they do from the visible end result that goes home to parents at the end of the day.

We encourage this through collaborative long-term projects that enable children to explore, analyze, and evaluate various concepts and topics. Our teachers document your child’s thought process each step of the way, and by integrating different areas of the classroom, each child’s learning process is respected.

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Proven Principles

Our curriculum and principles align with the universal early childhood principles that the World Forum Foundation has found to best support children’s learning and development.

The World Forum Foundation is an international early childhood education research and advocacy group that works to improve the quality of life for all children, regardless of their background. High-quality programs such as ours utilize the research and resources of the WFF as part of our professional development for teachers and to inspire others in our communities to advocate for the rights of young children.

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Integrated STEAM Learning

Each of our classrooms features age-appropriate technology materials, and children are always encouraged to build, create, theorize, question and dream. Our educational environment is inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach where children are viewed as capable researchers and active learners.

Rather than separating STEAM learning into a standalone enrichment program, science, technology, engineering, art and math are integrated into our curriculum and practiced in the children’s every day school life.

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Core Learning Areas in Our Preschool Curriculum

Our daycare curriculum covers essential learning domains contributing to a child's holistic development.

Early Literacy & Language Development

Children develop language skills through storytelling, phonics, and interactive reading activities that build a strong foundation for communication and literacy.

Inquiry-Based Math & Logical Thinking

Through hands-on math activities, children explore concepts like counting, patterns, measurement, and problem-solving in engaging and meaningful ways.

Social Studies & Understanding the World

We introduce young learners to diverse cultures, community roles, and historical perspectives, fostering a sense of belonging and global awareness.

Science & Nature Exploration

Our curriculum includes interactive science experiments and outdoor nature studies encouraging observation, inquiry, and discovery.

Artistic Expression Through Music & Visual Arts

Creativity is nurtured through painting, sculpture, music, and movement activities that encourage self-expression and appreciation for the arts.

Social-Emotional Growth & Executive Functioning

Children learn essential social-emotional skills, such as self-regulation, cooperation, and decision-making, helping them develop strong interpersonal relationships.

Gross Motor & Physical Development

Outdoor play and movement-based activities promote physical health, coordination, and gross motor skill development.

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The Reggio Emilia-Inspired Curriculum – A Child-Led Approach

Our preschool curriculum is rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which values the child as an active participant in their learning journey. This approach emphasizes child-led exploration, allowing young learners to follow their natural curiosity and interests while engaging in meaningful, hands-on experiences. Educators act as facilitators rather than instructors, fostering a collaborative environment where children, teachers, and parents work together to create a rich, engaging educational experience. Our curriculum nurtures critical thinking, independence, and a lifelong love of learning through project-based learning, open-ended materials, and an emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction.

Encouraging Inquiry, Exploration, and Problem-Solving

Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore their surroundings, and engage in hands-on problem-solving activities.

Following the Interests of the Child for Deep Learning

We tailor learning experiences to align with each child's interests, ensuring engagement and meaningful educational experiences.

Classroom as the Third Teacher – Learning Through the Environment

Our classrooms are designed to be rich learning environments with materials that inspire creativity, collaboration, and exploration.

Documenting the Learning Process Through Reflection

We emphasize documentation through portfolios, photos, and reflections, helping children recognize their growth and learning journey.

Learn more about our approach

Integrated STEAM Learning in Everyday Activities

Our preschool curriculum integrates STEAM into daily activities, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Through play, hands-on experiences, and interactive projects, children explore and connect concepts to real-world applications in a fun, engaging way.

Science & Engineering Concepts Explored Through Play

Children are natural scientists and engineers, exploring through questions and hands-on experiments. Building challenges, sensory play, and nature exploration teach scientific principles like cause and effect and basic engineering. Activities such as bridge-building and water experiments foster curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Technology & Digital Literacy in a Hands-On Format

We introduce age-appropriate digital literacy through interactive, screen-balanced activities. Coding games, robotics, and hands-on tech tools build problem-solving and computational thinking skills. Our approach fosters exploration and creativity, ensuring children confidently use technology as a learning tool.

Art & Creativity Infused into Everyday Learning

Art enhances self-expression, imagination, and fine motor skills in early childhood. Our curriculum integrates creative arts—painting, music, movement, and play—into all learning areas. By blending art with STEAM, children engage visually and kinesthetically, deepening their understanding of patterns, symmetry, and spatial awareness.

Math Concepts Explored Through Patterns, Measurement, and Play

Integrating math into play makes learning fun and meaningful. Children naturally develop number sense through sorting, counting, measuring, and pattern recognition. Hands-on activities like building, cooking, and shape play strengthen problem-solving, reasoning, and spatial skills, building a solid foundation for future success.

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A Day in Our Preschool Program – Learning in Action

Our daily schedule is structured to maximize learning opportunities while allowing children the flexibility to explore their interests.

Morning Circle Time – Encouraging Communication & Connection

Each day begins with morning circle time, where children share their thoughts, sing songs, and participate in discussions that build confidence and social skills.

Inquiry-Based Project Exploration & Hands-On STEAM Learning

Children engage in hands-on projects integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and math concepts, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Outdoor Play & Gross Motor Skill Development

Outdoor activities encourage physical movement, teamwork, and exploration, supporting healthy development and well-being.

Social-Emotional Learning Through Group Play

Children practice cooperation, empathy, and conflict resolution through guided play activities, building essential social-emotional skills.

Creative Arts & Music – Expression Through Sound and Movement

Music, dance, and art activities allow children to express themselves creatively and develop an appreciation for different art forms.

Literacy & Language Enrichment with Storytelling & Writing

Daily reading and writing activities foster a love for language and literacy, preparing children for future academic success.

The Role of Our Teachers – Guiding, Supporting, and Inspiring Learning

Our teachers act as guides and co-learners, fostering exploration, creativity, and confidence. They create an empowering environment where children experiment, express themselves, and develop problem-solving skills through observation, open-ended questions, and encouragement.

Highly Qualified, Trained Educators in Early Childhood Development

Our expert educators specialize in cognitive, emotional, and social development and tailor learning to each child’s needs. With a strong foundation in play-based and inquiry-driven education, they integrate STEAM and storytelling, making learning engaging and meaningful.

Continuous Professional Development & Training in Reggio Emilia Principles

Our educators continuously expand their expertise through training in Reggio Emilia principles, child-led learning, and documentation. Workshops and peer collaboration keep them updated on best practices, fostering a classroom culture of exploration and collaboration.

Facilitating Inquiry-Based Learning Through Observation & Interaction

Our curriculum nurtures curiosity by encouraging children to explore, ask questions, and solve real-world problems through hands-on learning. Teachers observe, assess interests, and guide deeper thinking with open-ended questions, ensuring an engaging, child-centered experience.

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Keeping Families Involved in the Learning Journey

We believe learning extends beyond the classroom, so we prioritize strong parent partnerships. Open communication, collaboration, and transparency keep families informed and engaged in their child's development.

Daily Documentation & Learning Updates

We provide real-time updates, including photos, videos, and progress reports, offering insight into daily activities and achievements. This connection allows parents to stay involved and extend learning at home.

Parent-Teacher Conferences & Open Communication

Scheduled conferences and ongoing communication ensure parents stay informed about their child’s progress, strengths, and areas for growth. Our open-door policy allows parents to connect with teachers anytime.

Monthly Family Events to Encourage Learning at Home

We host interactive family events, like STEAM workshops, storytelling nights, and art exhibitions, which foster hands-on learning and home-school collaboration. These experiences strengthen bonds and reinforce classroom concepts in a fun, engaging way.

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See Our Preschool Curriculum in Action - Schedule a Tour Today!

We invite you to visit KLA School locations and experience how our innovative preschool curriculum fosters joyful and meaningful learning experiences for children. Our nurturing environment encourages curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning, providing each child with the foundation to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Explore our classrooms, meet our dedicated educators, and see how we inspire young minds through hands-on, engaging activities.

FAQs

What is a Reggio Emilia-Inspired Preschool Curriculum?

A Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool curriculum is a child-centered, play-based approach to learning that emphasizes creativity, exploration, and collaboration. It encourages children to express themselves through various "languages" such as art, movement, and storytelling while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

How is STEAM Integrated Into Everyday Learning?

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) is naturally woven into daily activities through exploration, problem-solving, and experimentation. Children engage in hands-on projects, build structures, explore nature, and use technology in age-appropriate ways to develop an early foundation in STEAM concepts.

How Does Inquiry-Based Learning Work in the Classroom?

Inquiry-based learning allows children to explore interesting topics through hands-on experiences and open-ended questions. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students as they investigate, ask questions, and discover answers through experimentation, discussion, and creative projects.

What Are the Core Academic Skills My Child Will Learn?

Children develop foundational literacy, math, science, and critical thinking skills. They engage in early reading and writing activities, number recognition, problem-solving tasks, and scientific exploration through hands-on experiences. These skills are integrated into meaningful, real-world contexts to foster a love of learning.