The author describes the birth and development of infant-toddler centers in the town of Reggio Emilia (from the 1960’s to the 1970’s). This influential and complex experience flourishes thanks to the unremitting commitment of Loris Malaguzzi (1920-1994) and of the local authorities. From the start this experience concentrates on the experimental approach involving all stakeholders - teachers and other staff, families and community representatives - in the planning of the activities. The second part of the paper focuses on Malaguzzi’s training and career, and in particular on his work in the medical psycho-pedagogical center in Reggio Emilia.
Keywords: Preschool, Reggio Emilia, Loris Malaguzzi, social management, active-learning pedagogy, school psychology.