The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education originated in a town in northern Italy, Reggio Emilia, in the province of Emilia Romagna. The schools began as a parent initiative after WW2. The parents banded together with a vision of developing a preschool system where children were treated with respect and where parents would be actively involved in their child’s education. The Reggio Emilia schools have been described as one of the best practices of early childhood education in the world. The approach encourages students’ natural curiosity and creativity. The children demonstrate their knowledge and understandings in a variety of creative ways. Key components of Reggio inspired learning include: ​ Building on the strengths and competencies of children. This is called ‘the image of the child.’ Encouraging, supporting and developing collaborative learning within the environment. Having carefully planned spaces. The environment and materials are described as ‘the third teacher’. Skilling of children in a variety of art media. This is called ‘the hundred languages.’ Developing documentation which demonstrates the child’s understandings and knowledge. Encouraging parents as partners in their child’s education. To find out more information about the Reggio Emilia approach, please visit North American Reggio Alliance at: http://reggioalliance.org/narea/

Cork is 100% natural, biodegradable, and completely environmentally friendly. It is ideal for children's use since it is lightweight, waterproof, easy to clean and resistant to wear. Due to its tight cellular structure, it does not collect dust and is hypoallergenic. Cork comes from the bark of the Cork Oak Tree. The extraction of the bark is a process that doesn’t harm the tree but in fact, prolongs its life. Every nine years there is new bark to be removed. These oak forests support one of the world’s highest levels of forest biodiversity, second only to the Amazonian Rainforest.

It can take 1-3 weeks to process an order.

No, at this time, we only ship within the United States.

Mio Reggio "My Reggio" is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and its values of open-ended play, holisitic learning and connection to nature.

Consider donating toys to local organizations. Donating to a good cause can be one of the most effective ways to recycle toys. You’ll be preventing them from going into our growing landfill and giving them a second life to make another child smile. There are many, many ways to donate your toys: Children’s charities Children’s hospitals Churches Daycares Family members & Friends Neighbors Playgroups Thrift shops (Goodwill, Savers, Y’s Buys, etc) Libraries