Early Learning Center Infant Program
All children have preparedness, potential, curiosity, and interest in constructing their learning, in engaging in social interaction and in negotiating with everything the environment brings to them.Lella Gandini, (1993) Fundamentals of the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education, Young Children, 49, p.5
Our Program
The Hampshire College Early Learning Center Infant Program welcomes children from six weeks to 14 months of age at the start of our school year. These children stay together as a community for a full year or two depending on their age. Our class naturally shifts from an infant group to an infant/toddler mixed cohort as the year progresses. We are licensed for seven children each day, with support from two Co-Lead teachers, and two assistant teachers and/or student teachers.
Our program is inspired by the work of educators in Reggio Emilia and Pistoia, Italy.
Our work stems from the image of the child as powerful, autonomous, joyful agents in their own learning. We strive to demonstrate respect for each infant's autonomy by giving them ample time and space to move and explore. We aim to extend their curiosity by curating a rich, dynamic space that is responsive to their changing abilities and interests. We understand the importance of meaningful connections between children and adults for cognitive development, and work to maximize opportunities for “serve and return” interactions.
"Relationships are at the very heart of the Reggio Emilia philosophy. That philosophy is reflected in an environment that encircles the child with three 'teachers,' or protagonists. The first teacher—the parent—takes on the role of active partner and guide in the education of the child. The second is the classroom teacher. Often working in pairs, the classroom teacher assumes the role of researcher and intentionally engages children in meaningful work and conversation. The third teacher is the environment—a setting designed to be not only functional but also beautiful and reflective of the child’s learning. It is the child’s relationship with parent, teacher, and environment that ignites learning. — Mary Ann Biermeier (2015) Inspired by Reggio Emilia: Emergent Curriculum in Relationship-Driven Learning Environments, Young Children
Further Reading Resources:
Application for Admission
The Early Learning Center is currently accepting applications for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers for the 2024-25 academic year. Applications for the waitlist can be submitted throughout the year.