The preschools operated by the municipality of Reggio Emilia in Emilia Romagna, Italy, have drawn the attention of early childhood educators worldwide. This paper describes five features of these preschools. First, the educational philosophy of the schools is influenced by the high value accorded to cooperation in nothern Italian culture; Bruner's concept of learning as a communal activity; and Issacs' concept of learning as active inquiry. Second, teachers are viewed as collaborators in a child's education, rather than as transmitters of knowledge, and there is frequent cooperation between teachers and parents concerning children's education. Third, the design of the preschools has incorporated aesthetically beautiful spaces, including spacious entryways, clean and decorated dining rooms, and well-supplied art areas. Fourth, great value is placed on arts and letters. Children's visual perception and aesthetic awareness are enchanced. Drawing is a daily occurrence. Teachers encourage children's communication through words and noverbal means. Fifth, the preschools use the project approach to learning. Projects incorporate art, science, numbers, and words, and involve disussions, field experience, cultural exposure, and relating to the community at large. A list of 20 references is included. (BC)