Understanding the ‘100 Languages of Children’

At Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centres, we believe in every child’s extraordinary potential. Central to our philosophy is the “100 Languages of Children,” a transformative idea that shapes our approach to early childhood education. This concept, rooted in the visionary work of Loris Malaguzzi, underscores the many ways children express themselves beyond mere words.

What Are the ‘100 Languages of Children’?

The “100 Languages of Children” refers to the diverse forms of expression children use to communicate their thoughts, emotions, and understanding of the world. Loris Malaguzzi, the founder of the Reggio Emilia Approach, championed the idea that children possess a rich spectrum of expressive languages. This perspective shifts our focus from traditional verbal communication to a more holistic view, recognising and valuing the various ways children interact with their environment. These languages encompass various forms of expression, including but not limited to:

Visual Arts

Children often communicate through visual arts, such as drawing, painting, and sculpting. These mediums allow them to convey feelings, explore concepts, and represent their experiences. For example, a child might create a vibrant painting to express their emotions about a recent event or to explore a new idea they are learning about.

Dramatic Play

Dramatic play is another powerful language. Children express themselves through role-playing, acting out scenarios, and using props to make sense of the world around them. They might reenact a story they have heard or invent their own imaginative narratives, using dramatic play to process and communicate their thoughts.

Movement and Dance

Physical expression through movement and dance is a dynamic way for children to communicate. They might use their bodies to express feelings or ideas, showcasing their creativity through choreographed routines or spontaneous movements. This form of expression is particularly important for children who are more kinesthetically inclined.

Writing and Storytelling

Beyond spoken language, children express themselves through writing and storytelling. They create their own stories, write letters, or keep journals, using these written forms to convey their inner worlds and ideas. Whether written or oral, storytelling allows them to organise their thoughts and share their narratives with others.

Music

Music offers another rich avenue for self-expression. Children might create and play music, sing, or compose tunes. Through music, they can communicate emotions and ideas in ways that words might not capture, using rhythm, melody, and harmony to express themselves.

Building and Construction

Building with blocks, Legos, or other construction materials allows children to communicate spatial and design concepts. By constructing models, they represent their understanding of various subjects, whether it’s a simple tower or a complex architectural design. This hands-on activity fosters problem-solving and creative thinking.

Nature Exploration

Interaction with the natural environment is a profound language of exploration. Children might collect leaves and rocks, or create nature-inspired art, expressing their connection to the outdoors. This form of expression nurtures their creativity and instils a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature.

Why are the ‘100 Languages’ Important?

Understanding and embracing the ‘100 Languages of Children’ is crucial for several reasons:

1. Holistic Development: By recognising diverse forms of expression, educators support children in developing all aspects of their being—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical.
2. Individuality: Each child possesses unique strengths and preferences in expressing themselves. Embracing these differences fosters a sense of identity and self-confidence.
3. Engagement: Offering multiple avenues for expression engages children more deeply in their learning process, sparking curiosity, creativity, and a love for exploration.
4. Communication Skills: The ‘100 languages’ approach enhances children’s communication skills beyond verbal language, fostering the ability to express ideas effectively and empathetically.
5. Connection to Learning: Children learn best when they can connect their learning to meaningful experiences. The ‘100 languages’ concept ensures learning is relevant, personal, and enriching.

We are committed to acknowledging and encouraging these languages at Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centres. By providing diverse avenues for self-expression, we create an inclusive and engaging learning environment. Through these multiple forms of expression, children can fully engage with their learning environment, laying a robust foundation for their future success. 

Join us on this journey, where we celebrate the extraordinary capabilities inherent in every child and support them in reaching for the stars. To find out more about the Reggio Emilia approach, its principles, and how we encourage these languages, feel free to contact us on 02 9891 2222 or via email at mail@reggioemilia.com.au.