Pistoia, Italy

Before Pesach break, Nicole Mahern, Krysti Adams, and I had the opportunity to go on a Reggio-inspired Study Trip to Pistoia, Italy organized by NAREA (North American Reggio Emilia Alliance).  

​For more than two decades, Pistoia’s network of early childhood education centers has drawn international attention. Situated about 30 minutes west of Florence in Tuscany, Pistoia is known for its long-standing system of municipal infant-toddler centers, preschools, and children’s spaces known as AreaBambini. The city’s first preschool opened in 1964, followed by its first infant-toddler center in 1972. In 1982, it launched the first AreaBambini for children aged 18 months to 8 years, and in 1996, a center for babies and their parents was established. Across Italy, infant-toddler and preschool programs are administered by local municipalities, each reflecting the unique culture and values of its community.  

During our visit, we had the privilege of exploring a range of inspiring infant and toddler centers and preschools—each one reflecting the deep care and creative spirit that lie at the heart of early childhood education in Pistoia. A true highlight of our experience was the opportunity to visit two extraordinary AreaBambini—dynamic, thoughtfully designed spaces that foster children’s growth and imagination.

One of the spaces we visited was the AreaBambini Verde, a vibrant and nurturing environment created for children aged 5 to 8. Here, curiosity blossomed and wonder thrived as two dedicated specialists worked together with teachers to lead engaging, hands-on activities that encouraged exploration and discovery about science. Preschoolers in Pistoia visit the Verde multiple times each week, eagerly diving into these enriching experiences that seamlessly blended learning with joy. 

Another remarkable space we had the opportunity to visit was the AreaBambini Rossa. Dedicated to infants and toddlers, this warm and welcoming environment also serves as a vital support hub for families with young children. What makes the Areabambini Rossa especially unique is its commitment to community engagement—it regularly opens its doors to the public, offering free training sessions and informative talks led by specialists. These gatherings not only provide valuable guidance for parents and caregivers but also cultivate a strong sense of connection and belonging among families navigating the early stages of parenthood. In this way, AreaBambini Rossa becomes more than just a space for children—it becomes a nurturing community where families are supported, empowered, and embraced.

​Overall, this trip reaffirmed our deepest beliefs about children and the values that shape our educational philosophy. It was inspiring to witness how the educators of Pistoia infuse their daily lives with an appreciation for the beauty found in small, everyday moments—a quality that is seamlessly woven into the fabric of their early childhood culture.

From the thoughtful arrangement of materials to the intentional design of every space, the care and reverence for the learning environment is evident the moment you step into any of their centers. This visit offered a refreshing and deeply meaningful perspective on how the Reggio Emilia philosophy can be interpreted and adapted—revealing Pistoia’s own uniquely beautiful and authentic expression of this approach.