Nature Schools & Reggio Emilia

A few good reads on nature preschools, The Reggio Approach, and the benefits of play:

Nature Preschools

mag.audubon.org – Article on nature preschools, discussing cognitive benefits of outdoor time in the early years

bostonglobe.com – Article on nature preschools & kindergartens emerging in the US

academia.edu – Recent research on prosocial behavior exhibited in preschool aged children through nature-based activities

The Reggio Emilia Approach

globalmama.com – A wonderful, approachable write up on the Reggio-inspired classroom through the eyes of a parent.  This site also offers helpful comparisons to Montessori and Waldorf schools.

widipedia.org – Nuts & bolts of the Reggio Emilia Approach and its origins

Play

independent.co.uk  – Great article on the benefits of play — by Dr. Peter Gray, research professor of psychology at Boston College