The Princess of Wales emphasized the importance of encouraging children to embrace a slower pace in today’s fast-moving world during her recent visit to Italy, where she advocated for early years development.
During her visit to the renowned Loris Malaguzzi International Centre in Reggio Emilia, Kate interacted with educators and practitioners who are at the forefront of implementing the “Reggio Emilia approach,” which focuses on fostering social and emotional growth.
While touring the center’s “light atelier,” a space adorned with hanging plastic waves and decorations, Kate learned how the environment was designed to stimulate children’s engagement and playfulness.
Expressing her views, Kate highlighted the importance of slowing down for children in today’s fast-paced environment, encouraging them to be more observant of their sensory surroundings.
Engaging in hands-on activities, Kate fondly recalled creating colorful objects with her children during lockdown, emphasizing the value of simplicity and sensory experiences in learning.
The Princess was warmly welcomed by the center’s president, Maddalena Tedeschi, and other key figures, expressing her eagerness to delve deeper into their work and praising the center’s commitment to creativity and children’s development.
Established in 2006, the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre serves as a hub for international collaboration, research, and the documentation of children’s educational journeys, attracting over 130,000 visitors annually.
Named after Italian psychologist and educator Loris Malaguzzi, the center embodies his vision of promoting innovative approaches to early childhood education following the aftermath of World War II.
After engaging in a private briefing with the center’s team to gain insights into their methodologies, Kate participated in a clay workshop, experiencing firsthand how children benefit from such interactive sessions.
Reflecting on her own initiatives, Kate discussed the use of clay in conveying early childhood concepts, highlighting the significance of fostering connections and creativity from an early age.
Before departing, Kate enjoyed a brief interaction with a group of delegates from Latin America interested in the Reggio Emilia approach, sharing her enthusiasm for the philosophy’s holistic and therapeutic aspects.
As a token of appreciation, Ms. Vercalli presented Kate with a bouquet of flowers, with Kate reciprocating the gratitude and expressing her regret at not being able to prolong her visit.
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