Organizers of Charlotte's first charter school hope to adapt the philosophy for older children when the elementary school opens in August. That's not much of a stretch, Watkins says. The philosophy can benefit even middle school and high school students, she says. And she's trying to teach parents to follow it at home by taking time to listen to their children and help them explore their interests. Here, in very broad strokes, are some key differences between most American child-care centers and Reggio Emilia's preschools.
Preschool years are important to prepare children for success in school or adult life.
Good teaching should produce measurable test results. Test scores aren't highly valued. Days are broken into short blocks of time. Most projects are done by the end of the day. Focus is on projects that last days or even months.