Odyssey Nursery gears up for outdoor play and learning with a mud kitchen, painting corner, garden and chicken coop!

1. What are the benefits of connecting children to nature?

Nature is far more than just an “outdoor space,” it’s a powerful teacher in Reggio Emilia learning! When children engage with the natural world, whether by observing wildlife or planting a garden, they not only gain insights into biology and natural cycles but they take responsibility for their environment. By caring for their plants, they deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of life. Families living in a cosmopolitan desert city like Dubai, often long for such an opportunity and its location on Umm Suqeim means that Odyssey enjoys ample amount of space to create such an environment. They recently added a chicken coop which is really popular with the kids and cozy spots all around with natural grass to ensure authenticity. The smell and touch of real grass is soothing and therapeutic!

2. What are “open-ended materials” used in the Reggio Emilia approach?

In the Reggio Emilia approach, open-ended materials such as loose parts, natural items, and art supplies offer numerous benefits for young learners. These versatile resources encourage creativity and imagination, allowing children to explore and manipulate them in multiple ways.

Odyssey’s “Atelier” has on display a myriad of materials like blocks, fabric, and recyclables like cardboard boxes and containers, for children to engage in problem-solving and critical thinking. The freedom to experiment with these materials also fosters collaboration and communication among peers. Loose parts can also include objects such as buttons, caps, pebbles, and children typically build towers and sculptures, houses, cars, art installations, and even furniture and play structures like a stage for storytelling and role play.

3. What are the 100 languages in Reggio Emilia learning?

The “100 Languages” concept in the Reggio Emilia approach highlights the diverse ways children can express themselves beyond just spoken language. It includes forms such as drawing, music, dance, dramatic play, gardening and cooking amongst others. By valuing these varied modes of communication, educators support each child’s unique strengths and preferences. Ultimately, it celebrates the multiple ways children make sense of their world.

4. What does the concept of “documentation” mean and what are its benefits?

Throughout Reggio Emilia spaces, children’s learning is displayed through photos, videos, and written observations, which is something you don’t see in many other approaches. This aids in reflective practice, guiding educators in assessing and planning based on real-time insights. Families get to celebrate their child’s achievements, making it a collaborative and informed educational journey.

5. What are the benefits of trilingual learning at Odyssey Nursery?

Trilingual learning in the Reggio Emilia approach boosts cognitive flexibility, helping children think adaptively and solve problems more effectively. It also enriches cultural awareness and empathy by exposing them to diverse perspectives. Children are exposed to English, French and Arabic through native speakers from each culture which aligns with Reggio Emilia’s emphasis on diverse forms of expression and understanding. Learning multiple languages from an early age builds cultural awareness which is especially useful when living in a diverse city like Dubai.  This opportunity can also improve memory skills, as children practice remembering vocabulary, grammar rules, and pronunciation.

• Call: 800-REGGIO
• Or Email: register@odysseynursery.com