Current Course Schedule

Reggio-Emilia Approach: Interpret Theory & Practice for Schools in U S (Infant - 5 Yrs)

The early childhood program found in Reggio-Emilia, Italy, incorporates an emphasis on the learning environment, process vs. product, developmentally appropriate practice, and the importance of the community of learners. Much of this philosophy reflects the culture of the Italians and is difficult to re-create in the United States. This workshop is meant to provide an introduction to the approach and will attempt to bridge The Reggio-Emilia theory with American culture. We will view the Reggio-Emilia approach as a means to combat the push-down curriculum, competition, product over process, and the jumping/skipping of learning stages we are now experiencing in this country.
Term(s) offered: Fall, Spring and Summer
Format: online (fall and spring); on-campus (summer)
  • Course Number
    TEED654N
  • Focus On
    Ages Infant - 5 Years
  • Category
    Credit-bearing Courses, Early Childhood, Online
  • Registration Options and Cost
    $425 12.0 CTLE or 1.2 CEU
    $1,814 1.0 Credits

Sections

Spring 2024

  • Section 1:
    • Patricia Watkins
      Patricia Watkins
      is currently an educational coach here at Bank Street, working with teachers across
      NYC to support early childhood math development.  Before taking on this role she taught in a
      NYC Reggio Emilia influenced school for eight years, supporting programs for student’s ages 18
      months to 5 years old.  Her continuing education included a visit to Reggio Emilia Italy,
      professional development workshops in NYC, and time being mentored by a Reggio Emilia
      coach.  With a dual masters in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Fordham
      University, Pat has continued her relationship with Fordham as a Field Specialist and research
      assistant. Working on a series of children’s books has become one of her greatest pleasures, in
      conjunction with spreading the word about how Reggio Emilia can positively impact any
      teacher’s practice.
    • Rafael Perez-Segura
      Rafael Perez-Segura
      Rafael Pérez-Segura, MA, has taught for 11 years in Pre-school-5 classrooms. He is a fully certified teacher in both California and New York. Currently, he learns with 2 to 4 year olds at Mi Casita Preschool and Cultural Center in Clinton Hill/Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. He is also the Director of the school. At Mi Casita, Rafa is part of a team that is building a school based on relational cultural practices. He describes his pedagogy as embracing emergence in community. Pérez-Segura earned a masters degree in Elementary Education from Stanford University and a BA with a dual degree in Economics and Political Science From the University of Connecticut. He is certified in New York State for Childhood, Grades 1-6.

"This was a wonderful course that pivoted to the needs of the group"

"Enriching and inspiring learning opportunity!"

I came away with "A clearer understanding of the Reggio approach, practical suggestions for the upcoming school year, feeling much more confident with my knowledge and ability to talk to parents/colleagues about this approach."


"I remembered the importance of free play, open ended art, and how fundamental it is for Children's problem solving, creativity, community work."
—Teacher, 5 years in the field

"I've been waiting for a year to take this course and it was fantastic! Breathed fresh influence into my teaching career. Remindeed me of what is important for children and teachers."
-Lisa S., Lead Teacher, 11 years in the field

"The class made me reflect on my practice and think about the kind of teacher I am and what to be. It helped me to reignite the desire to grow and learn as a teacher."
—Teacher/Curriculum Coordinator, 5 years in the field

"This class changed the way I think about time in the classroom."
- Abigail C., Teacher, 1.5 years in the field

"I gained a deeper understanding of Reggio Emilia. I feel like I have a much better understanding of the background and how it is implemented in the classroom."
- Co-chair of a non-profit, 10-15 years in the field of education