What is a key belief of Malaguzzi regarding children?

A key belief of Malaguzzi, the founder of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, is that all children are competent thinkers and learners. This perspective emphasizes that children are not just passive recipients of knowledge; rather, they actively construct their own understanding of the world around them. Malaguzzi promoted the idea that children possess strong abilities, creativity, and unique perspectives, and that educators should recognize and foster these competencies through supportive environments that encourage exploration and expression.

In this approach, the role of educators is crucial; they are viewed as partners in learning rather than traditional authority figures. This view aligns with the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy, where the environment is seen as the "third teacher," and children's inquiries are encouraged throughout their learning journey. By empowering children to think critically, collaborate, and express their ideas, Malaguzzi's approach fosters an atmosphere of respect for children’s capabilities and potential.

The other options suggest notions about dependency, attachment, or limitations in children's capacities, which do not align with Malaguzzi's core beliefs that promote children's competence and agency in their own learning processes.