Insights From Reggio Emilia: Possibilities for Remedy and Repair of U.S. Early Childhood Systems

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 8:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Creating Holistic and Renewed Spaces for Early Learning (Table 3)

Abstract

“We could never do that here in the US.” After years of taking students to participate in the Reggio, Emilia Italy U.S. Students and Professors Study Group tours that is the phrase that I hear from most of the students. This paper focuses on the insights gained from nine visits to Reggio Emilia with faculty and students. In-depth topics of discussion that question the “American Way” we do early childhood education will be shared. Perspectives and culminating projects from students in American teacher education and early childhood programs will illustrate their important take-aways and their concerns that delve deeply into the American system of early childhood education.

Author

• Nancy B. Hertzog, University of Washington