SPONSORED CONTENT: How to Choose a Progressive School

Parents who pursue a progressive education for their kids will generally encounter three types of progressive teaching philosophies in New York: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. While these schools share similarities, each offers a distinct progressive teaching philosophy. But there’s another option: Vivvi, an early education model that brilliantly combines key qualities of the three schools. We spoke to Lynne Mueller, the Director of Learning at Vivvi, about the program’s novel approach to a progressive education. 

What is the progressive teaching philosophy of Montessori, Reggie Emilia, and Waldorf schools?

The Montessori method is a child-centered method of education that involves child-led activities, classrooms with children of varying ages, and teachers who encourage independence among their pupils. Montessori schools use a hands-on learning environment and open-ended learning materials.

Reggio Emilia schools view young children as individuals who are curious about their world and can learn from their surroundings. Reggio has a project-based approach, where curriculum topics are driven by the interest of the students. The environment is the “third teacher” and community is an integral part of the school experience.

The underlying principle of the Waldorf philosophy is a dependable routine. A Waldorf school emphasizes creativity, imagination, and disconnecting from technology with oral language as a hallmark of that progressive teaching philosophy.  

How has Vivvi adopted the best qualities from the progressive education movement?

The Vivvi learning model has taken key components of Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio and has integrated them in a high-level curriculum. For example, like Reggio schools, Vivvi supports children’s curiosity about the world around them. Vivvi’s spaces engage young learners with simplicity and interaction. In addition, Vivvi mimics Montessori’s focus on the whole child. Each month, teachers map out child-inspired thematic webs, a practice that emphasizes that each child’s journey is unique.