INCLUSION CORNER
WHAT IS THE REGGIO EMILIA APPROACH?
The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy that is student-centered and constructivists based. It utilizes self-directed, experiential learning in relationship-driven environments. It is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community encouraging exploration and discovery through a self-guided curriculum. Developed after World War II by psychologist Loris Malaguzzi and parents in the villages around Reggio Emilia, Italy, it derives its name from the city it originated. The Reggio Emilia approach to teaching young children puts the natural development of the children as well as the close relationships that they share with their environment at the center of its philosophy. Sewall is excited to begin to integrate a Reggio Emilia inspired approach in some of its locations. It aligns well with Sewall’s longtime play-based inclusionary practices.
MISSON MOMENT – JAYDEN
Jayden is a 5 year old who came to the Sewall Dahlia campus location when it opened in Fall of 2015. He was referred by an education advocate, due to his learning needs and demands on his mom. Jayden’s mother is a single mom and with the diverse needs of her children, she has been unable to work for the past 8 years. She manages to provide for Jayden and his siblings, but the last few years have been hard.
When Jayden first came to Sewall, he had a tough time adjusting. He dealt with separation anxiety and was unable to communicate. Most days, he screamed and cried for long stretches. After spending his early childhood years in a Sewall preschool, Jayden built his vocabulary, learned strategies to interact with both children and staff and is happy to come to school. Sewall helped Jayden’s mom obtain an Individualized Education Plan to provide the special education support he needs. His family has been able to access assistance for groceries and lunches, and since Jayden was in Sewall’s full-day program, his mom has been able to return to work again. What a difference the early childhood years at Sewall has made for Jayden and his family!
The Koelbel Family Challenge Match
Sewall is extremely grateful for the Koelbel family. They kicked off our We Are ALL Better Together campaign with the May 3rd announcement of their extremely generous $250,000 matching gift!
As of today, $197,000 has been raised toward the $250,000 match! That leaves $53,000 left to achieve the match and raise a total of $500,000 for the children and families Sewall serves!
Click here to give now and have your
Sewall is very fortunate and grateful to have long-time supporters like The Anschutz Foundation. Since 2000, The Anschutz Foundation has been supporting the children, families, teachers, and therapist at Sewall. Sewall and The Anschutz Foundation share a common goal of investing in high quality youth education programs that serve youth and prepare more Coloradans for future success. Sewall celebrates The Anschutz Foundation and their huge impact on the future of Colorado by investing in our children. THANK YOU!
Upcoming Events and Notices
- Tour Sewall! See our mission in action and sign up for one of our tours on:
The 75th Anniversary Sewall Child Development Center 2019 Beacon Celebration on Thursday, October 24th, at The Catalyst RiNo, Featuring DaeSean Hamilton, Denver Broncos Wide Receiver. Click here to register.