The Hudson Lower School employs a Reggio Emilia-inspired teaching pedagogy which encourages children to explore, investigate, and grow. Originally instituted in Northern Italy, the Reggio Emilia method is founded on the belief that children'scuriosity about their world—as well as their innate sense of creativity—should guide their learning. Students are given long-term collaborative projects that purposefully connect core academic areas of language, mathematics, science, and the arts. This creates an experiential, collaborative learning environment across all Lower School grade levels.
Kindergarten: Being Inquisitive
The first years of school are for exploring, investigating, growing, and inspiring a love of learning. Hudson’s Kindergarten Program is an exceptional start to your child’s educational journey, as we see our youngest learners as intellectually powerful, naturally inquisitive, and innately creative.
Our classes keep pace with their energy and curiosity, promoting experiential learning as well as establishing a solid foundation for students’ future academic success. Hudson values the enthusiasm of our youngest students, and every child is encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas while engaging in collaborative activities and problem-solving.
Collaboration
Reggio teaching practices are most successful when there is a collaborative learning partnership between parents, teachers, and students. Feedback from parents and teachers is crucial to supporting a student’s current learning path and future growth.
Environment
A Reggio-inspired school sees the space in which children learn as a third teacher, which is why Hudson’s classrooms are designed for collaborative, inquiry-based learning. Classrooms provide access to materials that promote hands-on learning and the application of essential academic skills and knowledge.
Teachers as Guides
Our Kindergarten teachers are co-constructors of knowledge, researchers, documentarians, and advocates. They provide resources for children to engage in inquiry, with appropriate guidance to ensure that learning experiences support mastery of the curriculum.
Projects
Projects are central to both the children’s and teacher’s learning experience. Hands-on projects inspire creativity, critical thinking skills, and discussion. Project ideas are determined by the children’s interests and tied to Ontario curricular guidelines.