Try this at home!
Here are three tips that integrate Reggio Emilia principles into creating a calm festive season with young children:
Reggio-Inspired Creative Spaces:
Designate a special holiday-themed creative space where children can explore their imagination. Provide open-ended art materials like coloured paper, ribbons, and natural elements like pinecones and leaves. Encourage them to create their own festive art pieces, fostering self-expression and a sense of ownership in the holiday preparations.
Nature-Inspired Decorations:
Incorporate natural elements into your holiday decorations. Collect items like pinecones, branches, or leaves during nature walks, and use them to create simple, elegant decorations. This not only aligns with the Reggio Emilia emphasis on the environment but also brings a calming and organic feel to the festive season.
Child-Created Advent Calendar:
You may already have bought an advent calendar, but why not also involve the children in creating their own. Provide small boxes, craft materials, and encourage them to decorate and fill each box with a special note, drawing, or a small object. This not only builds anticipation but also aligns with the Reggio Emilia principle of valuing the child’s voice and contributions in the learning process.
By infusing Reggio Emilia-inspired elements into your holiday activities, you can foster a sense of creativity, collaboration, and joy while maintaining a calm and child-centred environment during the festive season.
