During my Maymester in Italy, I learned so much and had such an amazing time. My program was in Reggio Emilia, Italy to learn about the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood learning. I would say that my favorite part of studying abroad was getting to go into the different schools. I got to shadow in three different preschools and one 5th grade classroom. I also got to teach a lesson in the 5th grade classroom with another CofC student; I had an awesome time getting to teach the students about the United States and answer all of their questions.

As an Early Childhood Education major, I definitely loved and learned so much from being in the preschools. Learning about the Reggio approach to education, I realized I really want to incorporate the Reggio style into my teaching after college. The Reggio approach emphasizes children learning through hands-on activities and art, which I now want to be a pillar of my teaching philosophy. I also really love how Reggio preschools emphasize student-created and student-centered decorations. I like that the Reggio approach emphasizes documentation. In the preschools we went to, there were pictures of the students doing different activities and descriptions of the lessons, activities, and what the students learned. This is utilized as a way for the students to see how they have learned and grown and for parents to read and know what their child is doing at school when they are dropping off or picking their children up. These are probably my favorite parts of the Reggio approach and the principles I want to incorporate into my future classroom the most.

I had such an incredible time studying abroad in Italy. I left feeling so inspired by how they treat early childhood education. I also loved the Italian culture and getting to experience it. I saw beautiful, breathtaking places. I made amazing friends with fellow CofC education majors. I am so grateful to have been given this opportunity. I will truly never forget it!