Originally posted at Little Sunshine
Choosing a preschool can feel overwhelming. There are tours to schedule, questions to ask, and—perhaps most confusing of all—educational philosophies to compare. Two names parents often encounter are Reggio Emilia and Montessori. While both approaches are respected, research-informed, and centered on children, they differ in meaningful ways.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering Reggio vs Montessori…what’s the real difference? you’re not alone. This guide breaks down how each approach works, what classrooms look like, and how learning unfolds, so you can feel confident choosing the environment that best supports your child.
A Shared Belief: Children Are Capable Learners
Before diving into differences, it’s important to note what Reggio Emilia and Montessori have in common. Both approaches:
- Respect children as capable, curious individuals
- Value hands-on learning over worksheets
- Encourage independence and problem-solving
- Focus on the whole child, not just academics
In Little Sunshine’s Playhouse’s curriculum, these shared values are foundational, but the way they come to life each day is distinctly Reggio Emilia. The distinction lies not in what children are capable of, but how their learning is supported, extended, and celebrated.
What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach?
The Reggio Emilia approach was founded in Italy by the visionary Loris Malaguzzi and is built around the belief that children learn best through relationships, exploration, and collaboration. Rather than following a fixed curriculum, learning emerges from children’s interests.
This philosophy is at the heart of our school. We observe closely, listen carefully, and design learning experiences that grow naturally from children’s questions and curiosities.
Key Features of Reggio Emilia:
- Emergent curriculum: Learning evolves based on children’s interests
- Project-based learning: Topics are explored deeply over time
- Collaboration: Children learn together through discussion and shared problem-solving
- Teacher as co-learner: Educators observe, ask questions, and extend thinking
- Strong focus on environment: The classroom itself plays an active role in learning
The Reggio Emilia classroom is often described as a “third teacher,” alongside children and educators, a belief we intentionally bring to life in every learning space.
What Is the Montessori Approach?
The Montessori method was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori and follows a carefully structured model. Montessori classrooms are designed to support independence through order, repetition, and self-correction.
Key Features of Montessori:
- Prepared environment: Materials are arranged intentionally and remain consistent
- Individual work: Children often choose work independently and work quietly
- Specific materials: Montessori materials are designed to teach one concept at a time
- Teacher as guide: The adult observes and steps in only when needed
- Mixed-age classrooms: Typically spanning three years
In Montessori, the learning materials themselves guide the child. There is usually a “right way” to use each item, allowing children to master skills through repetition and individual focus.
Reggio vs Montessori: Classroom Environment
One of the most noticeable differences between Reggio vs Montessori is what the classroom looks and feels like.
Reggio Emilia Classroom:
- Warm, inviting, and filled with natural light
- Open-ended materials like loose parts, art supplies, and natural objects
- Documentation of children’s thinking displayed on the walls
- Spaces designed for collaboration, creativity, and conversation
Montessori Classroom:
- Calm, orderly, and quiet
- Shelves with clearly defined materials
- Neutral tones and minimal decoration
- Children often working independently
In our Reggio Emilia–inspired classrooms, you might see children sketching ideas together, revisiting a project over several days, or using unexpected materials to express what they’re learning. These environments are intentionally designed to spark curiosity and invite deeper thinking.
Reggio vs Montessori: How Learning Happens
Reggio Emilia Learning Style
Learning begins with children’s interests. A simple question—“Where does rain go?”—might spark weeks of exploration through art, storytelling, science experiments, and group discussion.
In our school, this kind of inquiry-driven learning is central. Children are encouraged to ask questions, test ideas, collaborate with peers, and express understanding in many different ways. The Reggio Emilia approach values the learning process as much as the outcome.
Montessori Learning Style
Learning follows a progression introduced by the teacher. Children choose from activities already prepared for them and work toward mastery of specific skills.
This structure can be especially appealing to families who value predictability, independence, and clearly defined academic materials.
The Role of the Teacher
Another key distinction in Reggio vs Montessori is how educators interact with children.
- Reggio Emilia educators engage in ongoing dialogue, ask open-ended questions, and learn alongside children.
- Montessori teachers carefully observe and introduce materials, then step back to allow independent work.
In Reggio classrooms, like those at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, teachers often document conversations and projects, using children’s words and ideas to guide future learning experiences. This creates a learning environment that feels responsive, personal, and deeply meaningful.
Structure vs. Flexibility
If Montessori is known for structure, Reggio Emilia is known for flexibility.
- Montessori classrooms follow a consistent daily rhythm and material progression.
- Reggio Emilia classrooms adapt based on children’s interests, group dynamics, and discoveries.
Neither approach is better or worse, just different. At our Reggio Emilia–inspired school, flexibility allows learning to stay relevant, engaging, and connected to the real interests of the children in the room.
Which Is Better: Reggio or Montessori?
This is one of the most common questions parents ask, and the honest answer is: it depends on your child.
Montessori may be a good fit if your child:
- Enjoys working independently
- Thrives in structured environments
- Likes repetition and clear expectations
Reggio Emilia may be a strong fit if your child:
- Learns through social interaction
- Enjoys creativity and open-ended exploration
- Is curious, expressive, and eager to ask questions
Many families choose Reggio Emilia because it mirrors how children naturally learn: through play, relationships, and meaningful experiences.
Why the Reggio Emilia Classroom Feels Different
Parents often notice that children in Reggio-inspired environments talk enthusiastically about their day. That’s because learning is deeply connected to their own ideas and interests.
A Reggio Emilia classroom encourages children to:
- Think critically
- Collaborate with peers
- Express ideas through art, movement, and language
- Build confidence in their voice and abilities
This is the experience we intentionally create at our school, one where children feel empowered, engaged, and excited to learn.
Final Thoughts on Reggio vs Montessori
When comparing Reggio vs Montessori, there is no universal “right” answer, only what feels right for your child and family. Both approaches honor children as capable learners, but they differ in structure, environment, and how learning unfolds.
The best preschool is one where your child feels safe, inspired, and excited to explore each day. For families drawn to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, our school offers an environment where curiosity is celebrated, creativity is nurtured, and children are supported as confident, capable learners from the very beginning.
If this article sparked your interest, there’s so much more to explore. Our About page dives deeper into how exceptional early education can nurture a child’s natural curiosity, confidence, and love of learning. You can even experience this approach for yourself at a Reggio Emilia preschool and daycare near you. We’re glad you’re here. Let’s keep learning together.
Read more about the Reggio Emilia philosophy!
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