4*/5
What is this book about?
Working in the Reggio Way is an introductory book to the Reggio Emilia style of schooling originating in Italy. It is by an American teacher to spent time in Reggio Emilia working in their early learning programs, and how she has adapted the philosophies for North American schools.
Theoretical or Practical?
For the most part, this book focuses more on the "what" rather than the "how" of Reggio. That said, it never makes the theory feel heavy or academic. The book is an extremely easy read, and enjoyable. It is full of anecdotes and great moments. Was I able to go out the next day and implement practices? Nope, but I certainly had food for thought the moment I began reading.
Do I recommend the book?
100% yes! I loved this book and in many ways I felt like it was a slap in the face, but in a good way! A complete wake-up call for my teaching. She had so many excellent points about viewing our children as capable and competent and how to reflect on how that should change our teaching and classroom environment. Plus, it was an enjoyable read, which is always great when you are reading about educational practices.
Pros:
- Easy, quick read
- Enjoyable narration without a condescending author
- Excellent points in every chapter
- Interesting anecdotal moments and stories from the classroom
- Short and sweet
- Enjoyable narration without a condescending author
- Excellent points in every chapter
- Interesting anecdotal moments and stories from the classroom
- Short and sweet
Cons:
- No photographs
- Limited practical suggestions (there were attempts, but I found them still based more in theory rather than "do in your classroom tomorrow" type stuff)
- Limited practical suggestions (there were attempts, but I found them still based more in theory rather than "do in your classroom tomorrow" type stuff)
Quotes I Can't Get Out of my Head:
"In Reggio, the child is viewed as strong, powerful, rich in potential, driven by the power of wanting to grow, and nurtured by adults who take this drive towards growth seriously." Pg. 16
"If we see children as competent to construct their own knowledge, then the children must be given time to do this" Pg. 16
"it was possible to help the children discover and respect the dangers inherent in all environments and to stay aware of these for their own protection" Pg. 35
"It is much easier to be told what to do and to have your time scheduled for you than to do it on your own...The environment was set up and organized, however, to make it easier for children to pursue their interests without the need for adults to manage children, the space, or their time." Pg. 39
I could go on, but there were sooo many!
"If we see children as competent to construct their own knowledge, then the children must be given time to do this" Pg. 16
"it was possible to help the children discover and respect the dangers inherent in all environments and to stay aware of these for their own protection" Pg. 35
"It is much easier to be told what to do and to have your time scheduled for you than to do it on your own...The environment was set up and organized, however, to make it easier for children to pursue their interests without the need for adults to manage children, the space, or their time." Pg. 39
I could go on, but there were sooo many!
Buy, Borrow, or Forget it?
If you have any belief that the child is a competent person that needs direction but not dictation, then buy this book. If you aren't sure, borrow it. Whatever you do, DON'T forget about it!