“An Atelier is most of all a place of research.” -Loris Malaguzzi

We welcomed families earlier this month for Family Atelier Day - an opportunity to come alongside their children as they explore the potential of materials. This is a meaningful way for parents and loved ones to be involved as active participants in the education of their children.

“I’m surprised there are so many different kinds of paint, and that the children know how to use them.”

“I always liked paintings that show the brush strokes… the textures.”

“I love that she sees different things.”

A strong focus of this year’s Family Atelier Day was paint. Throughout the classrooms, we have observed children gravitating towards different types of paint - tempera, watercolor, paint sticks, paint pens, and even stabilo crayons that transform into paint with water. Children experimented with painting monochromatically or with multiple colors, at an easel or on the floor, collaboratively on large paper or individually with smaller types of paper. A single material with endless possibilities.

“There is too much blue for the yellow to make green.”

“Black is one of Mommy’s favorite colors. It’s mine and Mommy’s favorite colors.”

“Blue portrait of grandma.”

By sharing these opportunities with families, children demonstrate their capabilities and creative thinking. It was also a special time for older siblings, especially PPP alumni, to return and engage with the materials. Thank you for joining us for Family Atelier Day!