design

 

Educational leaders need to be knowledgeable about different early childhood educational models and understand the benefits and challenges of each approach to learning. Early childhood education models provide a foundation for the curriculum and learning opportunities throughout the instructional setting. By selecting a program model for an early childhood center, you are establishing research-based instructional practices that are aligned and developmentally appropriate for the school community.

For this assignment, imagine that you are the director of an early childhood education center, and you are inviting parents to engage in their child’s learning in the classroom. Create a website for parents, teachers, and the community who may consider joining your new center.

Based on the needs of your community, select one of the school models:

• Project Approach
• Head Start
• High Scope
• Montessori
• Reggio Emilia
• Waldorf

Create a name for your center. Include the hours, an address, contact information, and any other relevant information that the community might need. Using family-friendly language, include the following on the website:

• The history and theoretical foundation of the model
• How the model aligns with the development of the whole child
• Rationale for why you selected the model and how it can support the needs of early learners
• Summarize the alignment between curriculum, instruction, and activities for each learning space/classroom (infant room, 1-2-year-old room, 3-4-year-old room)
• Include how various theories and philosophies support early learning and development of each learning space/classroom
• Describe the materials, furniture, and resources present in each learning space/classroom
• Volunteer opportunities in each learning space/classroom for parents
• A description of at-home activities parents can use for each learning space/classroom
• What teachers and parents can expect to see and hear in each learning space/classroom (conference, play-based learning, presentation, adult learning class, etc.)

In addition, write a 250-500 word reflection answering the following questions:

• How will you get the information to families without the internet?
• How will you advertise the website?
• How will you accommodate families whose primary language is one other than English?
• How will you encourage families from different family structures (single parents or parents of the LGBTQ community, foster families, etc.) to participate?

Support your work with 2-3 scholarly references.

While APA Style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide

Shanequa Mcnelson

College of Education, Grand Canyon University

ECE-501-O500 Introduction to Early Childhood

Dr. Sandy Foster

March 5,2025

Welcome to Bright Futures Early Learning Center!
Inspiring Young Minds Through the Reggio Emilia Approach

Address: 2318 Grenada Blvd
Hours: Monday – Friday | 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Contact: (662)-884-3308|

info@brightfutureselc.com

About Us

Bright Futures Early Learning Center is dedicated to nurturing creativity, collaboration, and a lifelong love of learning. Our program is inspired by the
Reggio Emilia approach, a child-centered philosophy that emphasizes self-expression, exploration, and community involvement.

Our Philosophy

The Reggio Emilia approach was developed in post-World War II Italy by educator Loris Malaguzzi. This model views children as capable and curious individuals who learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences. It encourages collaboration among children, teachers, and families while integrating arts, nature, and inquiry-based learning.

Why Reggio Emilia?

We chose this model because it aligns with our belief that children are active participants in their learning journey. Reggio Emilia supports the
whole child, fostering cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through hands-on exploration, creative expression, and project-based learning.

Our Classrooms & Learning Spaces

Infant Room (6 weeks – 12 months)

Focus: Sensory exploration and responsive caregiving

· Soft, cozy spaces for bonding and movement

· Natural light and soothing materials

· Gentle music and sensory-rich experiences
Parent Involvement: Parents are encouraged to visit, read, or engage in baby massage.
At-Home Activities: Singing lullabies, tummy time, and sensory play with textures.

1-2-Year-Old Room

Focus: Language development and early independence

· Open-ended toys for problem-solving

· Art stations for finger painting and texture exploration

· Safe climbing structures for motor development
Parent Involvement: Volunteer to read books, engage in movement games.
At-Home Activities: Naming objects, simple puzzles, and water play.

3-4-Year-Old Room

Focus: Inquiry-based learning and collaboration

· Project-based centers inspired by children’s interests

· Collaborative storytelling and dramatic play

· Nature-inspired materials for science exploration
Parent Involvement: Assist with classroom projects, attend presentations.
At-Home Activities: Journaling with drawings, nature walks, and counting games.

Volunteer Opportunities for Families

·
Storytelling & Reading Days

·
Art & Science Exploration Sessions

·
Outdoor Gardening Activities

·
Parent-Teacher Workshops on Child Development

What to Expect in Our Classrooms

·
Conferences & Parent Meetings: Regular updates on child progress.

·
Play-Based Learning: Hands-on discovery through art, nature, and social interactions.

·
Presentations: Children share their learning through projects and storytelling.

Reflection: Connecting with Families

How will you get the information to families without the internet?
For families without internet access, we will distribute printed newsletters and handouts during pick-up and drop-off times. We will also host in-person information sessions and community bulletin board postings at local libraries and churches.

How will you advertise the website?
We will promote our website through flyers in local businesses, community centers, and pediatric offices. Social media platforms and word-of-mouth from current families will also help spread awareness.

How will you accommodate families whose primary language is one other than English?
We will provide bilingual materials, offer translation services for meetings, and ensure that our staff includes multilingual educators who can communicate with diverse families effectively.

How will you encourage families from different family structures to participate?
We will create an inclusive environment by hosting family events that welcome all caregivers, providing resources for diverse family needs, and offering flexible volunteering opportunities to accommodate different schedules and commitments.

References

Edwards, C., Gandini, L., & Forman, G. (1998).
The Hundred Languages of Children: The Reggio Emilia Approach in Transformation. Ablex Publishing.

Malaguzzi, L. (1993).
For an Education Based on Relationships. Young Children, 49(1), 9-12.

Piaget, J. (1952).
The Origins of Intelligence in Children. Norton.

Join us at Bright Futures Early Learning Center—where curiosity leads the way!