Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we view every child as strong, capable, independent, curious, and full of imagination. At Viva Kids, we empower children to think, question, investigate, explore, and help navigate their journey as life-long learning.
Our program is student-centred and self-guided, using self-directed, experiential learning in relationship-driven environments. Based on the principles of respect, responsibility and community, Viva Kids offers early childhood experiences and education through exploration, discovery and play.
The core of the Reggio Emilia philosophy recognizes that children form their own personalities during the early years of development and have "a hundred languages" to express their ideas. Our goal is to teach children how to use these symbolic languages (painting, sculpting, drama) to express themselves in everyday life.
This Reggio Emilia approach was developed after World War II by Loris Malaguzzi and parents in the villages around the town of Reggio Emilia, Italy.
About our Facilitators
The Reggio Emilia approach asks that our facilitators pay close attention to each child’s unique interests and development to tailor the learning experience.
While Reggio Emilia is a child-led approach, the educator still plays a very significant role. At Viva Kids Academy, staff listen to the childrens’ questions and stories carefully – and observe the children’s use of the hundred languages (drawing, painting, building, movement, music). Then, they can guide and mentor them to explore their interests through classroom activities, long-term projects and collaboration.
Under the Reggio Emilia approach, educators play multiple roles and are responsive to the context and needs of each learner. Sometimes they’re the teacher. Other times they might be co-learner or researchers. Listening and watching are imperative for planning the child’s learning journey.
Most of our full-time teaching staff are Registered Early Childhood Educators, while others combine education and experience in a related field. We provide our program facilitators with training and development in the Reggio Emilia philosophy through workshops, seminars and conferences, and through moments of study, observation and documentation.
How does learning happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years:
Viva Kids Academy continues to reference resources developed by the Ontario Ministry of Education. How does learning happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years focuses on learning and development through relationships, particularly the relationships between children, families and educators. It outlines goals for children, expectations for programs and questions for reflection based on the four foundations of belonging, wellbeing, engagement and expression is a resource that focuses on learning and development through relationships and outlines goals for children and expectations for programs based on the four foundations. Engaging in responsive relationships and supporting children's emotional well-being is as important as ensuring their health and safety.