A frequently asked question is what does "Reggio Inspired Art" mean? Creative Minds Learning Center schools offer a Reggio Inspired Art Program in the mornings. This program features highlights of the Reggio Emilia approach which when executed properly is art with very little to no boundaries. CMLC teachers guide the children with a theme but do not have a cookie cutter, "color in between the lines" approach to their art. The art project evolves based on the children's interest and input. Here are some other key elements to Creative Minds Reggio approach to the art program offered daily at the schools.
- Community support and parental involvement- Reggio Emilia's tradition falls in line with Creative Minds which is to expand on a view of children as the collective responsibility of the local community. In Reggio and Creative Minds communities, the infant, toddler and pre-primary programs are a vital part of the community.The parents' role mirrors the community's, at both the schoolwide and the classroom level. Parents are expected to take part in discussions about school policy, child development concerns, and program offerings evaluation. Because a majority of parents—including mothers—are employed, meetings are held quarterly in the evenings so that all who wish to participate can do so. Parents are encouraged to attend these meetings to contribute positive ideas enhancing the school as a community. These meetings held at Creative Minds are called Parent Involvement Meetings.
- The role of teachers- In the Reggio approach, the teacher is considered a co-learner and collaborator and not just an instructor. Teachers are encouraged to facilitate the child's learning by planning activities and lessons based on the child's interests which is added to Creative Minds calendar school-wide. This calendar offers flexibility based on the individual teachers ideas and the children's interests. The teacher starts the lesson by asking questions to further the children's understanding and be actively engaged in the activities alongside the child, instead of sitting back observing the child. As a partner to the children, the teacher is inside the learning situation. Murals are some of the children's favorite art group projects since they all add their unique touches and learn new ideas from one another.While working on projects with the child, the teacher can also expand the child's learning by collecting data such as photographs, notes, videos, and conversations that can be reviewed at a later time. The teacher needs to maintain an active, mutual participation in the activity to help ensure that the child is clearly understanding what is being "taught".
A variety of materials are used in our Art Programs.
