Guiding Principles ****************************************************************************************** * ****************************************************************************************** At Kaštánkov Early Childhood Center, we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which Italy as a response to the horrors of World War II. This philosophy is based on the belief is competent, curious, and creative, and learns best through self-discovery, experience, a with others. In the Reggio approach, the child is seen as an active participant in their o caregivers, the environment, and parents are partners who accompany them on this journey. A great emphasis is placed on the environment, which is considered the “third teacher.” A prepared space motivates children to explore, supports their independence, experimentation imagination, and encourages joyful learning. Equally important is partnership with familie communication, and respect for each child’s individuality. From the Reggio Emilia approach, we take above all a respectful view of the child, an emph experential learning, and the joy of creative exploration. This way of working allows us t atmosphere where children feel safe while having the freedom to grow, ask questions, explo their own ideas. We don’t like to limit ourselves to just one approach – we also draw inspiration from othe eduational philosophies, seeking what truly works best for both children and us. Our goal at Kaštánkov to exerience the joy of discovery, feel accepted, and develop their unique ab their own pace, always with support and understanding. Our motto: “I trust myself – I learn and I grow.”