100 Languages of Children Access Program Branches Atelier Scholarship Application – 2026

Posted on May 7, 2026 by reggioinspirations

100 Languages of Children Access Program Branches Atelier Scholarship Application – 2026

Now more than ever, children need opportunities to find and use their voices. In this moment, we are reminded of the power of self-expression, the kind that transforms, connects, and surprises.

Loris Malaguzzi, the visionary behind the Reggio Emilia approach, referred to paints, pencils, clay, light, movement, and more as “the hundred languages of children.” These materials are not just tools, but essential means through which children communicate their thoughts, emotions, and theories about the world.

At Branches Atelier, we believe it is our responsibility as educators to nurture these diverse forms of expression. We must commit to creating spaces where children’s voices—through gesture, sound, sculpture, paint, wire, story, and play—are honored, heard, and explored. This work requires educators with open hearts and minds and a deep passion for listening, collaboration, and making meaning with children.

With this vision in mind, we are proud to offer the 100 Languages Access Program for ECE Educators—a scholarship and mentoring opportunity for early childhood educators who are seeking to deepen their understanding of the 100 Languages. This professional development and mentorship program supports ECE educators in exploring how children make their ideas visible and how we, as adults, can become better partners in that journey. Come and Join Patricia Hunter McGrath, Christina Bianchi and our Branches teachers as we take a deep dive into The 100 Languages of Children.

Who Should Apply:
This opportunity is open to new or experienced:

Early Childhood Educators (ECE)

Mentors and coaches

Preschool center directors and ECE program owners

Family child care providers

Priority will be given to those working in or serving underserved communities.

Scholarship Award Includes:

Estimated program costs of $1,000 of professional development and mentorship classes and mentoring sessions per educator

$ 250 in curated program art materials and course resources

We invite you to apply and join us in cultivating classrooms where every child’s language is welcomed, explored, and celebrated.

Branches Atelier is committed to providing accessible professional development opportunities in progressive early childhood education.

We are offering five scholarships based on financial need for our upcoming trainings focused on the 100 Languages of Children, with a mixture of workshops via zoom, and materials training via video.

Join us as we explore the power of materials to express ideas. Together, we will unpack how to move with fluidity between children’s individual theories, representations, group reflections, and investigations.

How can we support children’s use of materials to communicate, collaborate, and innovate?

How can we create rich environments that are ripe with possibilities to help all children thrive? 

Eligibility Requirements:

        A. Early childhood educators (infant, toddler, and preschool settings)

Educators working in diverse educational contexts

Educators interested in Reggio Emilia–inspired practice

Practitioners committed to reflective, research-oriented pedagogy

No prior experience with the 100 Languages approach is required, but a willingness to engage deeply and thoughtfully is essential.

        B. Demonstrated financial need: Written Submission 

All applicants must be available to attend all scheduled sessions:

1. June 2nd – 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Welcome Orientation and Foundations to the Program and Graphic Materials & Drawing Tools

Exploring drawing as a language for communication, mark-making, and representation

2. June 23rd – 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Clay as a Language of Thinking

Understanding clay as a medium for transformation, expression, and investigation

3. September 16th – 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Integrating Technology into the Classroom

4. September 22nd, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Block Building & Construction

Supporting engineering, collaboration, and spatial thinking through construction

5. October 6th – 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm, Creating Dialogues Across Media

Connecting materials to deepen thinking, revisiting ideas, and supporting long-term inquiry

        C. A strong interest in progressive early childhood education philosophies: Written submission and participation in a reflection session. 

Scholarship Coverage:

The scholarship covers the cost of the professional development training and materials to support coursework. Please note that an administration fee of $25 is NOT included and will be the responsibility of the scholarship recipients.

Application Instructions:

Please complete all sections of this application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/ee46386fd0824db8b08719be3747f9bd

Posted in Announcement, Branches Atelier Institute, Online courses, Resources, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Branches Atelier – Early Summer Workshop Series

Posted on May 7, 2026 by reggioinspirations

A Deep Dive Into The Hundred Languages of Children: 

Bringing The Hundred Languages Into Your Classroom

                                    

Early Summer Workshop Series Register Here

 A FOUR-PART ONLINE AND IN PERSON BRANCHES ATELIER WORKSHOP SERIES

WITH PATRICIA HUNTER-MCGRATH, CHRISTINA BIANCHI AND OUR BRANCHES TEAM OF EDUCATORS

For more than 18 years, Branches Atelier has developed an innovative program using expressive media and materials as tools of the mind. We are happy to offer this series of workshops to deeply explore the essential role that materials play in children’s learning. Over five sessions, you will be introduced to the philosophy, techniques, and organizational strategies needed to create dynamic, creative, and innovative explorations for your work with children, deep dives into the use of materials at your schools. 

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach

Do You Ever Feel This Way?

  • Overwhelmed when choosing materials for your classroom?
  • Unsure what to do after the first day or two of introducing materials?
  • Struggling to set clear boundaries—or frustrated when children don’t care for materials?
  • Walking into an art store and not knowing what to buy or how to use it?
  • Feeling your own creativity depleted revisiting the same ideas year after year?

You’re not alone—and this series is designed to support you.

The Hundred Languages of Children

The “Hundred Languages of Children” recognizes that children express their thinking, ideas, and emotions in many different ways—not just through words.

Drawing, clay, paint, light, technology and materials all become languages for thinking and meaning-making.

Each year, we hear from educators across the U.S. who share similar challenges:

  • Where do I begin?
  • How do I keep materials meaningful over time?
  • Why do explorations seem to end before they begin?

Sometimes, when considering the Hundred Languages, we miss the forest for the trees.

This series supports you in:

  • Understanding materials as languages
  • Building confidence from your home or classroom
  • Engaging in hands-on learning guided by an Atelierista
  • Reflecting deeply on your teaching practice
  • Learning the tools, strategies and techniques of different materials.

You’ll Learn:

  • Why these materials are foundational across ages
  • How and when materials are introduced
  • How materials evolve over time instead of being removed too quickly
  • How to recognize when materials need:
    • More time
    • New provocations
    • Small adjustments
  • How these materials extend:
    • Curiosity
    • Attention span
    • Creativity
    • Problem-solving

Program Overview

Join us for four interconnected workshops exploring materials as languages for thinking, communication, and meaning-making.

Each session focuses on a specific material language while building toward a deeper understanding of how children connect ideas across experiences.

Online Workshops Via ZOOM

#1 Graphic Materials & Drawing Tools. Tuesday, June 2nd 2026 – 6pm to 8:30pm – $65
Exploring drawing as a language for communication, mark-making, and representation

    #2 Intro to Clay as a Language of Thinking.  Tuesday, June 23rd 2026 – 6pm to 8:30pm – $65
    Understanding clay as a medium for transformation, expression, and sensory exploration

      In person hands on Worksops at Branches Atelier

      11359 W Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90066 

      #3 Advanced Clay: Iterations, Combinations and Unlimited Possibilities

      Saturday, June 6th, 2026 – 9am to 3pm – $135

      includes breakfast and A block of clay

      #4 Creating a World of Colors: Palettes that Connect us to our World

      Saturday, June 27th, 2023 – 9am to 3pm – $145

      includes breakfast and materials to take back to your classroom

      Workshop Descriptions

      Online Via Zoom

      #1 Graphic Materials & Drawing Tools:  

      Exploring the Alphabet of Drawing Register Here

      Tuesday, June 2nd 2026  6pm to 8:30pm – $65 Online Via ZOOM

      Patricia Hunter McGrath and Christina Bianchi

      “Drawing at its best is not what your eyes see but what your mind .” – Millard Sheets

      Join us  and explore the wonders of drawing. Over many years Branches has discovered and developed many different ways that drawing can be used as a powerful tool for children to uncover and deepen their ideas and develop their creativity and imagination. Together you will learn many different techniques and strategies that you can use in your classrooms.

      Together, we will explore:  

      • What is the difference between observational, representational, and imaginative drawing?
      • What are the techniques to introduce line tools to children?
      • How can drawing be used to help children understand sequencing?
      • How can drawing be used to support literacy and mathematics?
      • What is drawing to learn?
      • How can drawing support literacy, narrative, and poetic language?
      • How is drawing used to make relationships and connections visible?
      • How can drawing support sequencing and prediction?
      • What is the alphabet of drawing?

      #2 Introduction to Clay as a Language of Thinking  NEW Register Here

      Tuesday, June 23rd  2026  6:00pm – 8:30pm – $65 Online Via ZOOM

      Patricia Hunter McGrath and Christina Bianchi

      Join Branches Atelier for an inspiring online workshop designed for educators ready to rethink clay as a dynamic creative language for the youngest learners.

      There is something deeply powerful about clay in the hands of children.

      It resists, responds, remembers, and transforms. It invites slowing down, close observation, experimentation, revision, and discovery. In this all-new online workshop, educators will explore how clay becomes far more than an art material — it becomes a language for thinking.

      Clay as a Language of Thinking invites participants into a rich investigation of clay as a medium for inquiry, relationship, and meaning-making within early learning environments inspired by the principles of the hundred languages of children.

      Through this online workshop, we will explore how clay supports children to:
      • Think with their hands
      • Develop symbolic and representational thinking
      • Explore transformation through process
      • Build confidence through experimentation
      • Make thinking visible through three-dimensional expression

      Together we will examine how clay offers unique opportunities for long-term inquiry, slowing down learning processes and creating space for reflection, problem-solving, and collaborative exploration.

      Participants will explore:

      The language of clay
      Understanding clay as a responsive material for communication, investigation, and thought

      Setting up meaningful clay encounters
      Creating invitations that encourage inquiry, experimentation, and sustained engagement

      Techniques for young learners
      Simple, accessible approaches for introducing and sustaining explorations in clay

      Clay as transformation
      Exploring how change, revision, collapse, rebuilding, and emergence become central to learning

      IN-PERSON  Hands On Workshops  Onsite at

      Branches Atelier – 11359 W Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90066 

      #3 Advanced Clay Techniques :

      Iterations, Combinations and Unlimited Possibilities NEW Hands On.

      Saturday, June 6th, 2026, 9am to 3pm – $135 @ Branches Atelier Register Here

      includes breakfast and A block of clay

      Presented by Patricia Hunter McGrath and Branches Staff

       I like doing clay work. It’s different from drawing on a page because you have something to mold into different shapes. It’s quite visual; it’s a thing you can hold and feel, which makes it different from drawing.” – Bonnie Wright

      Clay is a powerful tool for transformation in children’s hands; it supports stories and narratives, different perspectives, and geometry. Its flexibility invites us to reconsider our ideas over and over again. Join us while we explore the wonderful medium of clay and consider how to set up a studio where clay’s potential as a tool for representing children’s ideas can be realized.

      Together, we will explore:

      • How can clay be combined with different materials for limitless possibilities?
      • What is the relationship between drawing, paper and clay?
      • How can clay support different perspectives, points of view and iterations?
      • How are slabs used to create structures and sculptures?
      • How are advanced clay tools, techniques offered to the children?
      • How does clay become a tool for collaboration?

      This workshop includes a block of Clay for your classroom.

      #4.Creating a World of Colors: Palettes that Connect us to our World

      Saturday, June 27th, 2026, 9am to 3pm – $145 @ Branches Atelier Register Here

      includes breakfast and materials to take back to your classrooms!

      Presented by Patricia Hunter McGrath and Branches Staff

      “I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way–things I had no words for.” – Georgia O’Keefe

      Tempera Paint can be mixed in an infinitely nuanced palette, but how often do we end up creating colors that represent the vitality, diversity, and beauty of the natural world? 

       Join us as we consider how we can use this resource to bring attention to the richness of the environment, including: 

      • What are the tricks and tips to creating a wide range of beautiful palettes?
      • What are the techniques of paint mixing with children?
      • How can color support children learning?
      • How can a wide range of paint colors support children’s connection to nature?
      • What is the difference between a tone, hue, shade, and tint?
      • How can paint and color support literacy and poetic language?

       Included in the cost of this workshop is breakfast, a color wheel, paint cups, and paints that participants can use to create a personal palette that can be taken back to their centers. Participants will also create a paint recipe book, that can be used for years to come, as a tool to create beautiful palettes throughout the year.

      Register Here

      Posted in Announcement, Branches Atelier Institute, Event, Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

      Online Workshop Series this February continues this Tuesday Evening 2/24/26. Also, Due to Popular demand, We are repeating Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments. on 3/3/26 (see below)

      Posted on February 22, 2026 by reggioinspirations

       Innovative Environment Sessions

      Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

        

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      🎨 Workshop 3 REPEAT : Preschool Classroom Environments

      Last Tuesday was sold out and many of you reached out to see this. So if you missed it, We are repeating this one on Tuesday 3/3/26.

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: March 3rd,  6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

      Posted in Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Uncategorized, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      Online Workshop Series this February continues this Tuesday Evening 2/24/26. Also, Due to Popular demand, We are repeating Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments. on 3/3/26 (see below)

      Posted on February 18, 2026 by reggioinspirations

       Innovative Environment Sessions

      Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

        

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      🎨 Workshop 3 REPEAT : Preschool Classroom Environments

      Last Tuesday was sold out and many of you reached out to see this. So if you missed it, We are repeating this one on Tuesday 3/3/26.

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: March 3rd,  6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

      Posted in Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Uncategorized, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      Online Workshop Series this February continues this Tuesday Evening 2/17/26

      Posted on February 15, 2026 by reggioinspirations

       Innovative Environment Sessions

      Preschool Classroom Environments

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

       

      🎨 Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: February 17th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

       

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      Posted in Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Uncategorized, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      Online Workshop Series this February continues this Tuesday Evening 2/17/26

      Posted on February 9, 2026 by reggioinspirations

       Innovative Environment Sessions

      🌿 Environment as the Third Teacher

      Four Online Reggio Inspired Environment Design Workshops

      Time: 6:00–8:00 PM (2 hours each) PST
      Format: Live online
      Cost: $50 per session or $175 for all 4 REGISTER
      Presenter: Patricia Hunter McGrath 

      Designed for infant, toddler, and preschool educators seeking to create intentional, beautiful, and meaningful environments that support curiosity, creativity, responsibility, and deep engagement.

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

      🌱 Workshop 1: Infant & Toddler Environments This was Last week

      Materials, Beauty, and Transformation for Our Youngest Learners

      Date: February 3rd 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      We Will Explore:

      • What materials are appropriate and meaningful for infants and toddlers
      • The role of natural materials in creating calm, nurturing, and aesthetically pleasing environments
      • How materials are introduced intentionally to infants and toddlers
      • How young children explore materials through sensory experiences, repetition, movement, and touch
      • When materials are changed, rotated, or transformed
      • How environments evolve in response to children’s development and interests
      • How do we create magical, creative immersive environments for infants and toddlers

      This workshop focuses on slowing down, simplifying, and creating environments that honor early relationships and exploration.

       

      🌿 Workshop 2: Outdoor Classroom Environments

      Designing Living, Creative, and Evolving Outdoor Spaces

      Date: February 10th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      Topics Include:

      • How to design innovative, enticing, and creative outdoor environments
      • Outdoor paint setups: easels, ground and wall painting, natural paint tools, temporary and permanent setups
      • How children are invited to design and co-create outdoor provocations
      • How the teacher’s role shifts from supervisor to facilitator
      • How outdoor provocations change over time, seasons, and children’s interests
      • The role of gardening in children’s learning: observation, responsibility, patience, and inquiry
      • How growing plants and gardens support children’s connection to the natural world
      • How discoveries from the outside become indoor explorations
      • What kinds of materials and mediums can be used outside.

      This workshop reimagines the outdoors as a dynamic, creative, classroom that changes and transforms throughout the year. 

       

      🎨 Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: February 17th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

       

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      Posted in Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Uncategorized, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      New Online Workshop Series this February Starts this Tuesday Evening

      Posted on February 1, 2026 by reggioinspirations

       Innovative Environment Sessions

      🌿 Environment as the Third Teacher

      Four Online Reggio Inspired Environment Design Workshops

      Time: 6:00–8:00 PM (2 hours each) PST
      Format: Live online
      Cost: $50 per session or $175 for all 4 REGISTER
      Presenter: Patricia Hunter McGrath 

      Designed for infant, toddler, and preschool educators seeking to create intentional, beautiful, and meaningful environments that support curiosity, creativity, responsibility, and deep engagement.

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

      🌱 Workshop 1: Infant & Toddler Environments

      Materials, Beauty, and Transformation for Our Youngest Learners

      Date: February 3rd 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      We Will Explore:

      • What materials are appropriate and meaningful for infants and toddlers
      • The role of natural materials in creating calm, nurturing, and aesthetically pleasing environments
      • How materials are introduced intentionally to infants and toddlers
      • How young children explore materials through sensory experiences, repetition, movement, and touch
      • When materials are changed, rotated, or transformed
      • How environments evolve in response to children’s development and interests
      • How do we create magical, creative immersive environments for infants and toddlers

      This workshop focuses on slowing down, simplifying, and creating environments that honor early relationships and exploration.

       

      🌿 Workshop 2: Outdoor Classroom Environments

      Designing Living, Creative, and Evolving Outdoor Spaces

      Date: February 10th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      Topics Include:

      • How to design innovative, enticing, and creative outdoor environments
      • Outdoor paint setups: easels, ground and wall painting, natural paint tools, temporary and permanent setups
      • How children are invited to design and co-create outdoor provocations
      • How the teacher’s role shifts from supervisor to facilitator
      • How outdoor provocations change over time, seasons, and children’s interests
      • The role of gardening in children’s learning: observation, responsibility, patience, and inquiry
      • How growing plants and gardens support children’s connection to the natural world
      • How discoveries from the outside become indoor explorations
      • What kinds of materials and mediums can be used outside.

      This workshop reimagines the outdoors as a dynamic, creative, classroom that changes and transforms throughout the year. 

       

      🎨 Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: February 17th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

       

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      Posted in Online courses, Online early childhood classes, Uncategorized, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      New Online Workshop Series this February

      Posted on January 26, 2026 by reggioinspirations

      ALL NEW! Innovative Environment Sessions

      🌿 Environment as the Third Teacher

      Four Online Reggio Inspired Environment Design Workshops

      Time: 6:00–8:00 PM (2 hours each) PST
      Format: Live online
      Cost: $50 per session or $175 for all 4 REGISTER
      Presenter: Patricia Hunter McGrath 

      Designed for infant, toddler, and preschool educators seeking to create intentional, beautiful, and meaningful environments that support curiosity, creativity, responsibility, and deep engagement.

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

      🌱 Workshop 1: Infant & Toddler Environments

      Materials, Beauty, and Transformation for Our Youngest Learners

      Date: February 3rd 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      We Will Explore:

      • What materials are appropriate and meaningful for infants and toddlers
      • The role of natural materials in creating calm, nurturing, and aesthetically pleasing environments
      • How materials are introduced intentionally to infants and toddlers
      • How young children explore materials through sensory experiences, repetition, movement, and touch
      • When materials are changed, rotated, or transformed
      • How environments evolve in response to children’s development and interests
      • How do we create magical, creative immersive environments for infants and toddlers

      This workshop focuses on slowing down, simplifying, and creating environments that honor early relationships and exploration.

       

      🌿 Workshop 2: Outdoor Classroom Environments

      Designing Living, Creative, and Evolving Outdoor Spaces

      Date: February 10th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      Topics Include:

      • How to design innovative, enticing, and creative outdoor environments
      • Outdoor paint setups: easels, ground and wall painting, natural paint tools, temporary and permanent setups
      • How children are invited to design and co-create outdoor provocations
      • How the teacher’s role shifts from supervisor to facilitator
      • How outdoor provocations change over time, seasons, and children’s interests
      • The role of gardening in children’s learning: observation, responsibility, patience, and inquiry
      • How growing plants and gardens support children’s connection to the natural world
      • How discoveries from the outside become indoor explorations
      • What kinds of materials and mediums can be used outside.

      This workshop reimagines the outdoors as a dynamic, creative, classroom that changes and transforms throughout the year. 

       

      🎨 Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: February 17th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

       

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

      New Online Workshop Series this February

      Posted on January 14, 2026 by reggioinspirations

      ALL NEW! Innovative Environment Sessions

      🌿 Environment as the Third Teacher

      Four Online Reggio Inspired Environment Design Workshops

      Time: 6:00–8:00 PM (2 hours each) PST
      Format: Live online
      Cost: $50 per session or $175 for all 4 REGISTER
      Presenter: Patricia Hunter McGrath 

      Designed for infant, toddler, and preschool educators seeking to create intentional, beautiful, and meaningful environments that support curiosity, creativity, responsibility, and deep engagement.

      What Participants Will Gain From These Workshops

      • Confidence choosing and introducing materials
      • Clear strategies for the care and organization of materials 
      • Tools for building children’s responsibility and respect for materials
      • Practical environment setups for immediate use
      • A deeper understanding of the environment as a teacher

      🌱 Workshop 1: Infant & Toddler Environments

      Materials, Beauty, and Transformation for Our Youngest Learners

      Date: February 3rd 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      We Will Explore:

      • What materials are appropriate and meaningful for infants and toddlers
      • The role of natural materials in creating calm, nurturing, and aesthetically pleasing environments
      • How materials are introduced intentionally to infants and toddlers
      • How young children explore materials through sensory experiences, repetition, movement, and touch
      • When materials are changed, rotated, or transformed
      • How environments evolve in response to children’s development and interests
      • How do we create magical, creative immersive environments for infants and toddlers

      This workshop focuses on slowing down, simplifying, and creating environments that honor early relationships and exploration.

       

      🌿 Workshop 2: Outdoor Classroom Environments

      Designing Living, Creative, and Evolving Outdoor Spaces

      Date: February 10th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

       

      Topics Include:

      • How to design innovative, enticing, and creative outdoor environments
      • Outdoor paint setups: easels, ground and wall painting, natural paint tools, temporary and permanent setups
      • How children are invited to design and co-create outdoor provocations
      • How the teacher’s role shifts from supervisor to facilitator
      • How outdoor provocations change over time, seasons, and children’s interests
      • The role of gardening in children’s learning: observation, responsibility, patience, and inquiry
      • How growing plants and gardens support children’s connection to the natural world
      • How discoveries from the outside become indoor explorations
      • What kinds of materials and mediums can be used outside.

      This workshop reimagines the outdoors as a dynamic, creative, classroom that changes and transforms throughout the year. 

       

      🎨 Workshop 3: Preschool Classroom Environments

      Dynamic, Creative, and Responsive Learning Spaces

      Date: February 17th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      We Will Discuss:

      • What makes a preschool classroom dynamic and creative
      • What materials are intentionally integrated into the classroom and why
      • How classrooms are organized to support independence, focus, and collaboration
      • The role children play in organizing materials, caring for the environment, and classroom decision-making
      • How teachers set clear boundaries around the care and use of materials
      • How materials extend curiosity, creativity, attention span, and problem-solving
      • When and why materials are changed, revisited, or expanded
      • How is light used to define space and create irresistible provocations 
      • What kind of textural elements create warm and coziness in the classroom
      • How do you design shelfs and environments to inspire childrens ideas

      This session emphasizes balance—between freedom and structure, beauty and function.

       

      🖌 Workshop 4: Ateliers Inside & Outside

      Studios, Materials, and Shared Creative Spaces

      Date: February 24th 6:00–8:00 PM $50 REGISTER

      In This Workshop, We Explore:

      • How different kinds of ateliers are integrated throughout a school
      • Ateliers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
      • What are intelligent materials are and how they support thinking and expression
      • How atelier materials are introduced, organized, stored, and revisited
      • How ateliers can function as materials lending libraries
      • Designing atelier spaces using shelves, rolling carts, studio rooms, and outdoor areas
      • Supporting collaboration, creativity, and responsibility across shared spaces
      • What are inspiration books and how are they used to inspire work throughout the school 
      • How can materials be used to support and develop resilience and social relationships.

      This workshop supports schools in creating cohesive, connected creative, collaborative learning environments rather than isolated classrooms.

      REGISTER

      Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

      Last day for a tax deductible donation to the Branches Atelier Fund

      Posted on December 31, 2025 by reggioinspirations
      Dear Branches Atelier Community,
      Happy New Year!

      As we move through this season of gratitude, we invite you to consider supporting the work, creativity, and joyful learning that continues to flourish at Branches Atelier every day. Today is the last day to benefit from a tax deductible donation for 2025.

      A tax-deductible donation to The Branches Atelier Fund helps us continue offering enriching experiences for our children, teachers, and families.

      If Branches has touched your life, even in a small way, we hope you’ll join us in strengthening the foundation that makes this community so special. Every contribution—large or small—truly makes a difference.

      If you work for a company that supports matching funds please consider recomending The Branches Atelier Fund.

      We wish you, your family, and friends, a safe and joyous holiday season! And we hope to see you soon in 2026.

      With appreciation and gratitude,
      The Branches Atelier Team

      Visit us here for more information The Branches Atelier Fund (BAF), a visionary 501(c)(3) charity, stands at the forefront of transforming early childhood education through innovative, Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches.
      Drawing on decades of rich pedagogical expertise, BAF’s passionate mission centers on providing educators and families with powerful tools, deep knowledge, and unwavering support needed to spark critical thinking, nurture community engagement, and kindle lifelong learning in young minds.

      The Branches Atelier Fund supports:

      ~ Professional Development for Teachers
      ~ Community Professional Development Initiatives
      ~ Scholarships and Financial Aid
      ~ Emergency Support Fund
      ~ Parent and Family Education
      ~ Empowering Teachers to Flourish

      Make a Donation
      Posted in Announcement, Branches Atelier Institute, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment