The Hundred Languages of Our Children: A Story from the ELC

Sometimes the most beautiful journeys begin with a spark of curiosity, and this past term, that spark came from three of our ELC children. One day, quite spontaneously, they began decorating one of our display vases. When our educators asked them what they were doing, they simply said, “We would like to do more.” And just like that, a very special project was born.


What followed was a term filled with wonder, creativity, and heartfelt connection. Guided by our Unit of Inquiry, “We belong to many different communities and cultures,” the children explored what it means to belong - through art, conversation, and time spent in nature. Magazine clippings, leaves, twigs, stories, and shared ideas became the inspiration for a collaborative creation that was unveiled as a surprise to families, just in time for Mother’s Day.


This was no ordinary project. It was child-led, shaped by the imaginations and rhythms of our learners. Each child engaged in their own unique way, some planning and problem-solving, others painting, sawing, gluing, threading, or describing what they saw and felt. Every contribution was valued; every voice mattered.


As educators, it was a joy to witness the children’s capabilities shine. They showed us how naturally they step into roles as thinkers, creators, and collaborators. They took risks, tried new techniques, and encouraged one another with kindness and respect.


This project became a celebration of the hundred languages of childhood. The language of movement, of hands at work, of colours blended with care. The language of shared ideas, of joyful invention, of quiet moments spent creating something meaningful together.


We are so proud of what they have achieved, and we are thrilled to share it with you. We hope you enjoy the photos, and take a moment to visit the floor book on display at the ELC, our visual journal of this incredible journey.





As Loris Malaguzzi so beautifully wrote:





The child


is made of one hundred.


The child has


a hundred languages


a hundred hands


a hundred thoughts…





And we have seen them all.