The Thousand Languages Of Children
The phrase “The Hundred Languages of Children” comes from the Reggio Emilia philosophy and reflects the belief that children express themselves and learn in countless ways. These “languages” are not limited to spoken words—they include drawing, painting, building, music, movement, pretend play, nature exploration, and so much more. Each child has unique strengths and interests, and when given the freedom to use different modes of expression, their ideas, emotions, and understanding of the world shine through.
What This Means for Our Programming
At Nature’s Nest Preschool, we embrace these many “languages” by:
- Providing diverse materials and tools—from art supplies in our Atelier to natural elements outdoors—that allow children to experiment and create.
- Encouraging multiple forms of expression so a child can tell a story through paint, dance, sculpture, or a garden project.
- Designing projects that evolve from children’s ideas, giving them the space to explore topics in the way that makes the most sense to them.
- Honoring every child’s voice, whether it comes through words, gestures, movement, or quiet observation.
By celebrating the Thousand Languages, we nurture not only creativity but also communication, problem-solving, and confidence. It ensures that every child is seen, heard, and valued for who they are.
