Who is Loris Malaguzzi?

Loris Malaguzzi (1920–1994) was an influential Italian educator and founder of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Born in Correggio, Italy, Malaguzzi dedicated his life to advocating for innovative educational practices that prioritize the potential and capabilities of children.Malaguzzi's philosophy centered around the belief that children are active participants in their own learning process and possess vast intellectual capabilities from a very young age. He famously described children as having "a hundred languages" through which they express themselves, including art, music, movement, and more.In the aftermath of World War II, Malaguzzi played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Reggio Emilia educational system in the town of Reggio Emilia, Italy. This approach emphasized collaboration among children, teachers, and the community, as well as the use of the environment as a tool for learning.Under Malaguzzi's guidance, the Reggio Emilia approach became internationally renowned for its child-centered practices, which prioritize exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. His work continues to inspire educators around the world, shaping the way we understand and approach early childhood education.