In the Reggio Emilia philosophy, learning isn’t shaped only by the child and the teacher—it is also profoundly influenced by the environment. This idea, often summed up as “the environment is the third teacher”, places physical space alongside educators and peers as a key driver of growth, curiosity, and discovery.
From the arrangement of furniture to the choice of materials, every detail in a Reggio-inspired classroom is intentional. It’s not simply about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that invite children to explore, collaborate, and express themselves in meaningful ways.
What Does “The Third Teacher” Mean?
The concept recognizes that the space children inhabit can teach just as much as a person can. A thoughtfully prepared environment:
- Encourages independence.
- Inspires creativity.
- Promotes collaboration.
- Reflects and respects children’s ideas.
In a Reggio classroom, the environment is dynamic—it evolves based on the children’s interests, ongoing projects, and the seasons.
Key Principles of the Reggio Learning Environment
- Beauty and Order
Reggio classrooms are calm, inviting, and filled with natural light. Materials are arranged in an orderly, accessible way to inspire respect for the space and the objects within it. - Natural Elements
Plants, stones, wood, and other natural materials are woven into the design. These connect children to nature and bring sensory richness to their play and projects. - Visibility and Transparency
Clear containers, glass jars, and open shelving make materials visible and easy to choose. Children can see what’s available, encouraging autonomy and decision-making. - Spaces for Collaboration and Reflection
Tables for group projects, cozy nooks for reading, and open floors for building offer children different ways to work together—or find quiet time when needed. - Documentation on Display
Photographs, drawings, and project notes are displayed at the child’s eye level. This makes learning visible and encourages children to revisit, reflect, and extend their ideas. - Flexible and Evolving Areas
Nothing in the classroom is static. Materials and layouts shift as projects develop, making the space responsive to the children’s needs and curiosity.
How the Environment Inspires Learning
- Promotes Independence – When materials are accessible, children take ownership of their work, from choosing resources to cleaning up afterward.
- Encourages Exploration – Open-ended spaces and resources invite experimentation and creative problem-solving.
- Supports Collaboration – The arrangement of tables, rugs, and gathering areas naturally fosters group discussion and teamwork.
- Invites Expression – Art studios, dramatic play corners, and construction areas provide multiple “languages” for children to express their ideas.
- Celebrates the Child’s Voice – Displaying their work tells children their contributions matter, boosting confidence and self-esteem.
Bringing the Concept Home
You don’t have to be in a school to apply this principle. At home, you can:
- Create accessible storage for toys and art supplies.
- Display your child’s artwork and projects prominently.
- Incorporate natural light and calming colors.
- Use baskets, jars, and trays to keep materials visible and inviting.
Final Thoughts
When we treat the environment as the third teacher, we create spaces that are more than just backdrops—they become active participants in learning. A Reggio-inspired classroom (or home space) is alive with possibility, ready to adapt, respond, and grow alongside the children it serves.
By honoring the power of the environment, we show children that their surroundings matter, their work is valued, and their curiosity has a place to flourish.
