How SKY Preschool Brings the Reggio Emilia Philosophy to Life

In the heart of Jakarta, SKY Preschool in Menteng offers something truly special. It’s more than just a school—it’s a place where children are nurtured to grow as curious, creative, and capable individuals. At SKY, learning is not about memorization or passing tests; it’s about developing the whole child—emotionally, socially, and intellectually.

This preschool adopts a child-led, play based approach, inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and aligned with the World Economic Forum Education 4.0 Framework.  

SKY Preschool nurtures the mind, the body and the emotions of every child through its child-led, play-based program, promoting, exploration, learning and collaborative projects. SKY Preschool provides a dynamic learning environment where children are encouraged to ask questions, explore their interests, and work together. This approach not only fosters a love of learning but also helps children build essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

A Philosophy That Trusts Children

At the core of the Reggio Emilia philosophy is a deep belief that children are competent and capable and filled with immense potential. At Sky we treat every child with this regard and this is reflected in the way we structure our learning program and environment. 

Sky teachers guide and collaborate with the children and together (teachers and students) explore topics, ask questions, and embark on meaningful learning journeys. This partnership not only fosters curiosity but also empowers children to take charge of their own learning.

Learning Through Play and Exploration

One of the most powerful aspects of SKY Preschool’s approach is play-based learning. We understand that play is the most powerful and effective way to learn. Numerous Academic studies have proven that the very best way  for children to develop essential skills is through authentic play. 

But what makes SKY Preschool’s approach stand out? 

Unlike many other schools where a child’s whole day is directed by the teachers – at Sky teachers observe the child closely, listen carefully, and offer materials,  challenges and pose questions to encourage the children to think deeper, create wider and imagine beyond the possible. 

Connecting Play with Purpose

While play may seem spontaneous, it is purposeful. Every day activities are presented to the children in the form of provocations – with the goal of sparking curiosity and exploration. Children are invited to investigate new ideas, solve problems, and work together. Whether it’s a new art project, a science experiment, or a nature walk, every activity is an opportunity for children to engage in meaningful learning.

What’s more, these provocations are not just for individual exploration; they encourage collaboration. Children often work together, sharing ideas and solving problems as a team. This fosters vital social skills like empathy, communication, and teamwork—all of which are essential for lifelong success.

The Role of the Teacher: A Guide, Not an Instructor

At SKY Preschool, the role of the teacher is fundamentally different from traditional models. Teachers are not the central figures who lecture or direct learning. Instead, they are guides and partners. They support children as they explore their ideas, offering gentle challenges that push their thinking further.

This approach allows children to take ownership of their learning. Teachers respect each child’s interests and passions, using those as starting points for deeper exploration. Rather than dictating what children should learn, teachers help facilitate a process of discovery. They encourage children to ask questions, find solutions, and reflect on what they’ve learned along the way.

Reflecting and Celebrating the Learning Journey

Another key aspect of the Sky approach is the practice of reflection. Reflection is not only about looking back on what was learned and achieved but also about celebrating the learning process itself. At SKY Preschool, this is a critical step in every project or learning journey.

As projects come to an end, children and teachers gather together to reflect on their experiences. Teachers document this reflection through photos, notes, and the children’s own words. These documentation pieces are shared with families, creating a bridge between home and school. Parents are invited to see what their children have been working on, ask questions, and celebrate their child’s growth.

Through this process, learning becomes visible. It also deepens the connection between the child, the teacher, and the family—creating a strong community of learners.

A Safe, Familiar Environment for Exploration

Before any formal learning takes place, it’s important for children to feel safe and comfortable in their environment. At SKY Preschool, creating this sense of belonging is a top priority. Teachers focus on building strong relationships with each child, helping them feel secure in their surroundings.

By giving children the time and space to explore their own interests, SKY Preschool nurtures a sense of autonomy and self-confidence. Children learn to trust themselves and their abilities—skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

The Importance of Collaboration

One of the defining features of SKY Preschool’s approach is the emphasis on collaboration—not just between teachers and children, but among the children themselves. Whether they’re working on a group project, solving a puzzle, or engaging in imaginative play, children are constantly learning from and with each other.

This collaborative learning process is a cornerstone of the Reggio Emilia philosophy. It teaches children the value of working together, sharing ideas, and respecting different perspectives. They learn that everyone’s contributions matter, and that cooperation is essential for success.

How Collaboration Enhances Social-Emotional Learning

Collaboration also plays a key role in social-emotional learning. Through group activities, children learn important social skills like patience, empathy, and conflict resolution. These experiences help children build strong relationships with their peers and gain confidence in their ability to communicate effectively.

At SKY Preschool, teachers carefully observe these interactions and step in when necessary to guide children in resolving conflicts or understanding each other’s feelings. This ensures that the classroom is a supportive and inclusive environment where all children feel valued.

Why SKY Preschool’s Approach Matters

In today’s fast-paced world, children need preparation for their tomorrow. At Sky we align our program with the WEF Education 4.0 Framework which highlights the essential skills future adults will need to thrive in the rapidly changing world of work. In particular we focus on Global Citizenship, Innovation & Creativity, Interpersonal Skills and Self Management. 

At SKY, we believe that learning should be a joyous journey, not a race. We provide ample space for children to express themselves, make discoveries, and learn through exploration and play. By adopting the Reggio Emilia philosophy, SKY Preschool provides children with an education that goes beyond academics. It’s about developing the whole child—emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Children are seen as active participants in their learning, and their voices are valued in the process. This holistic approach prepares children not only for primary school but for life itself, empowering them with the confidence and resilience needed to face future challenges. By fostering a love of learning early on, SKY helps children develop a lifelong curiosity that will stay with them as they grow.

More Than Just a School: A Place to Grow

At SKY, learning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every child is respected as a unique individual with their own interests, talents, and ideas. We create a dynamic, evolving learning environment where curiosity leads the way, and every day is a new opportunity for growth. Whether through play, exploration, or reflection, we nurture not only your child’s intellect but their character, creativity, and emotional resilience.

Joining SKY Preschool means more than just enrolling your child in a preschool—it means giving them the best start in life. It means being part of a supportive community that values each child’s potential and embraces their learning journey with enthusiasm and care. Together, we’ll ensure that your child doesn’t just learn—they flourish.

We invite you to be part of this inspiring journey with us. Because at SKY Preschool, we believe that every child deserves a place to grow, to dream, and to become the very best version of themselves.

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