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preschool age children (2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years) and in the fifth classroom Mary supervises
the four and five year old children.
In design and promotional literature used for marketing, the centre acknowledges
the work of the children, teachers, and community of Reggio Emilia. The influence of
Reggio is very apparent in the physical space. The most obvious homage to the schools of
Reggio Emilia is the centre’s “piazza” area which is in the centre of the classrooms.
While the environment does emulate the schools of Reggio Emilia, on close examination,
adherence to the other principles of Reggio are questionable.
Background.
Mary has a four year degree in psychology from a local university. In her second
year she applied to a joint program which would combine her psychology degree with a
diploma in early childhood education from a community college. After four years she
graduated with a Bachelor’s degree and an early childhood education diploma. After a
number of years, Mary found work as a special needs educational assistant with the
school district and while enjoying the experience, she longed once again to have her
“own classroom.”
Her next position at a private nursery school had a “real nice atmosphere” and the
“kids were really sweet,” it was “just a good feeling centre.” After taking time off
following the birth of her first child, Mary’s took a position as assistant Director at a
child care centre. Here she was able to combine working in the classroom with
administrative work. “I liked being in the classroom with the kids; I think that is my
favourite part. But it was nice at the end of the morning to be in the office.”