Our Mission

The mission of New Jersey Educator’s Exploring the Practices of Reggio Emilia, Inc. (NJEEPRE) is to raise awareness, encourage and support the principles and practices of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education among early childhood professionals – including pre-service teachers, teachers, assistant teachers and program support personnel,  directors, administrators, parents, college and university faculty members and all those who work with young children in the State of New Jersey.

The Reggio Emilia approach is based on the internationally respected schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy and it is consistent with the Developmentally Appropriate Practices Guidelines (DAP) of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Because the Reggio Emilia approach has links to best practices for young children, NJEEPRE is committed to helping teachers integrate its principles into American school culture through quality professional development opportunities.

Dr. Lella Gandini, the U.S. Liaison for the Reggio Emilia Program of Early Childhood Education, has written an excellent article outlining the distinguishing features with regard to the theory and practice of the Reggio Emilia approach entitled “Values and Principles of the Reggio Emilia Approach.”.