The most common preschool philosophies are:
- Reggio Emilia: Focus is on child-led, play-based learning with a strong emphasis on collaboration.
- Montessori: Focus is on child-led, play-based learning with a strong focus on individuals learning in their own way, at their own pace.
- Waldorf: Focus is on the "whole child" - "head, heart, & hands" - traditional academics are not emphasized
- Forest/outdoor: Play-based programs that take place entirely outdoors, with a heavy focus on nature
- Language immersion: Immersive education in a foreign language
- Academic: Heavy focus on traditional academics from the earliest ages
- Traditional: Teacher-led environment with little or no input from children on what they're interested in
- Play-based: Children learn academics and social emotional skills through play without adhering to another specific play-based philosophy