One of the reasons we are here in Guangzhou is to create the environment for Mei Bimbi, a Reggio-inspired preschool. The name, Mei Bimbi, marries the Chinese word for beautiful with the Italian word for baby. The space selected for the centre is currently being renovated to create a design that honours the values of the Reggio Emilia philosophy; and walking into the construction site brought back many memories from the transformation undertaken at Richland last year. It’s exciting to be in an environment like this again – knowing the potential it holds for children and learning.
The centre will include the following:
- A beautiful reception area to welcome families
- A Piazza that the children can gather in, move in, and create in
- 4 classes with large glass windows
- A dedicated music room
- A custom designed sand pit
- A large discovery water feature
During the past two weeks I have watched the construction team erect walls, install the ventilation system, and build the sandpit and water feature. Although the centre still has a few weeks left for construction, it is unfolding daily, and I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to be here at this formative stage. 
This entire project has been filled with possibilities: immersion in a different culture, connecting with educators on the Reggio Emilia philosophy, and constructing a centre for children and their families to experience a profoundly different way of learning for them. I look forward to sharing the transformation as it continues. Welcome to the world, Mei Bimbi!
