FAQs

The Reggio Emilia approach is a child-led educational philosophy that encourages curiosity, creativity and hands-on exploration. Children learn through projects based on their interests, while teachers guide discovery, collaboration and problem-solving. This approach values the environment as a “third teacher” and emphasizes creativity and critical thinking

While both approaches value independence, Reggio Emilia is more flexible and child-directed, with lessons built around children’s interests and group exploration. Montessori classrooms follow a more structured, individual learning path with specific materials. Reggio Emilia places a stronger emphasis on collaboration, creativity and project-based learning.

A Reggio Emilia lesson often begins with a child’s question or spark of curiosity, making the learning experience deeply personal and engaging. For example, if a child asks where animals go in winter, their teacher might create a collaborative project on hibernation and migration. In fact, our preschool class did just that, turning a simple question into a multi-week exploration.

Students were encouraged to observe nature, record their findings through drawings, build explanatory models and explore informational books together. The process is not linear; the lesson evolved over time, guided by the children’s own ideas, hypotheses and surprising discoveries. This child-led curriculum ensures that learning is meaningful and directly relevant to students’ worlds, fostering a lifelong love of exploration.

Yes, the Reggio Emilia approach can be highly beneficial for children with diverse needs, including those with ADHD or differing learning styles. A core strength of this educational philosophy is its emphasis on an expressive, hands-on learning environment. The approach naturally allows for the movement, creativity and exploration that can help children with ADHD stay focused and channel their energy productively.

Lessons are flexible and adaptable, evolving based on the children’s interests and individual needs. This adaptability is key to helping all children, particularly those with different learning styles, remain engaged and achieve success by learning in ways that are most natural and effective for them.

Child care and daycare often refer to supervised care for children while parents work, typically focusing on safety and daily routines. Preschool is more structured and focuses on early learning, social development and school readiness. Children’s Discovery Center’s Toledo area early childhood education centers combine both care and educational experiences to help our students grow.

For more than 35 years, we’ve been proud to support Toledo-area families with trusted child care and education through our infant care programs, toddler programs, preschool (pre-K) programs and Discovery School kindergarten.

The best preschool curriculum supports the whole child: socially, emotionally, academically and creatively. Play-based and child-led approaches, like Reggio Emilia, are widely recognized for fostering curiosity, confidence and critical thinking skills that prepare children for lifelong learning.

Choosing the right preschool or daycare starts with understanding your child’s needs. Look for a safe, nurturing environment, qualified teachers, strong communication with families and a curriculum that encourages growth and exploration. Visiting the center and observing classrooms can help you feel confident in your decision.

To learn more about how to choose a childcare provider right for your child and family, read our blog on the topic.

Most children start preschool between the ages of 2 and 4, depending on their developmental readiness and family needs. Early exposure to a structured, social environment can help build confidence, communication skills and independence.

Preparing your child for preschool is an exciting step, and a little preparation can go a long way in building confidence and easing first-day jitters. Start by establishing consistent daily routines, such as regular wake-up times, meals and bedtime, to help your child adjust to a structured schedule. Encouraging independence is also key. Practice simple skills like putting on shoes, washing hands and cleaning up toys.

Talking positively about preschool can help your child feel excited rather than anxious. Read books about starting school, discuss what a typical day might look like and answer any questions they have in a reassuring way. If possible, visit the classroom or meet their teacher ahead of time so the environment feels familiar.

It’s also helpful to practice short periods of separation to build comfort being away from you. With encouragement, patience and a supportive routine, your child can begin preschool feeling secure, curious and ready to learn. You’ll be ready for preschool registration in no time!

Children’s Discovery Center serves children ages 6 weeks to five years, and even through 10 years old in Camp Discovery and school-age programs.

Children’s Discovery Center offers infant care, toddler programs, preschool, kindergarten and school-age programs at participating centers.

Infant programs focus on building trust, comfort and early sensory exploration, while toddler classrooms encourage movement, communication and social interaction.

As children grow, preschool and pre-kindergarten programs introduce more structured opportunities for learning through play, creativity and collaboration. Each age group benefits from activities designed to support cognitive, emotional, social and physical development in a way that feels natural and engaging. Teachers tailor their approach based on each child’s stage of growth, helping them build confidence, independence and a love for learning. 

Discovery School kindergarten is an Ohio Department of Education-approved program developing skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies. Children also participate in various activities that enhance large-motor skills, social skills, and technology awareness.

You can enroll your child by completing our online registration form.

To learn more about the enrollment process, including the non-refundable registration fee, preferences and waiting lists, please visit this page.

Want to explore CDC first? We encourage all interested families to schedule a tour of your local Discovery Center. Contact our team to find a time to meet our team in person.

Children’s Discovery Center provides Toledo, Ohio, area families with reliable childcare that is conveniently located near home and work. Our five early childhood education centers are located in Franklin Park (Talmadge), Holland (Wolf Creek), Perrysburg (Avenue Road), Perrysburg (Harbor Town Place) and Waterville.

Yes. Children’s Discovery Center is a faith-based program that incorporates Christian values into daily learning. Children are encouraged to grow in kindness, compassion and understanding while developing academically and socially.