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

$125 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, in-person events (at Branches Atelier in Culver City, CA), 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. ECE teachers who are new to the field, ECE students seeking further knowledge of the role that materials can play in a progressive classroom, or experienced teachers or mentors in early childhood education, and owners operating with or working for preschools in underserved communities are welcome to apply.

        B. Demonstrated financial need: Written Submission 

All applicants must be available to attend all scheduled sessions:

1. Welcome Orientation and Foundations to the 100 Languages: 

Tuesday, May 6th - Online 

2. Palettes that Connect us to our World: 

Saturday, May 10th - In person

3. Engaging Natural Materials: 

Saturday, August 30th - In person

4. Intro to Reggio in Our Context: 

Wednesday, September 3rd & September 10th -Online

5. 100 Languages Access Mentoring Session Celebration Lunch and Presentation of Hundred Languages Certificates: 

Saturday, September 20 

        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 lunch at in-person events. Please note that an administration fee of $25 is NOT included and will be the responsibility of the scholarship recipients, as are transportation costs to in-person events.

Application Instructions:

Please complete all sections of this application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.