The 5 Main Differences Between Montessori and Reggio-Emilia

Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio-Emilia often get lumped together but these educational approaches are all very different.

Last year Katie and I wrote some notes on the difference between Montessori and Waldorf. You can click here to read that post.

This post is about the difference between Montessori and Reggio-Emilia. It'll be helpful if you're deciding between these two types of schools for your child (or if you're just curious).

In my opinion, both can be great in the early years, depending on the child and educator carrying out the program. And they both believe that children should have some control over the direction of their learning, a tenant I hold deeply.

The 5 Main Differences Between Montessori and Reggio-Emilia

1. Curriculum

• Montessori - follows a clearly defined curriculum and specially designed materials with a clear purpose i.e. the Pink Tower. The materials are introduced in a specific sequence, with each next step building off of previously learned skills.
  
  Children must master the previous material or preliminary skill before moving on to the next, since the sequence is what sets them up for success.  
  
  Most exercises in a Montessori classroom also involve movement - both the hands and body.
  

Lessons are taught 1-on-1 or in a small group and there are no standardized expectations. Every child works with the materials they want, leading their own learning.

Vs.

• Reggio-Emilia - does not have a set curriculum. Core subjects are taught by integrating them into the child’s interests via projects and play-based learning.
  
  Core subjects, like math and science, are taught through play. For example, when children build a structure out of blocks they may learn math concepts like counting, measurement and geometry or science concepts like balance, gravity and cause and effect.
  
  This works well because Reggio-Emilia programs only typically run until age six, compared to 18 in Montessori, so it's easier to teach the basics of core subjects through play.
  

What and how the children learn core subjects is based on observations of the child. The teacher then prepares activities or "provocations,"which are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity and invite exploration.

Where Montessori and Reggio-Emilia Overlap

Both approaches are not completely different and they were both developed around the same time in Italy.

Both educational approaches:

1. Are Child-centred - Child seen as capable and active in their own learning.
   
   
2. Feature a prepared environment - Beautiful, inviting spaces that encourage exploration and independence.
   
   
3. View the role of adult in the same way - The teacher in both classrooms is viewed as a guide/facilitator, not a direct instructor.
   
   
4. Are hands-on - Both are very hands on. Learning happens through real-life, practical experiences.
   
   
5. Move at the child’s pace - Lessons move at the child's pace, after careful observation by the teacher. There is plenty of time for repetition and revisiting work as needed.