At Alam Atelier Preschool Jakarta, learning is a journey sparked by curiosity and guided by attentive listening. This philosophy comes to life in their year-end exhibition, “If You Listen Closely,” showcasing the creativity, thinking, and discoveries of children aged 6 months to 6 years.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, the exhibition highlights how children explore the world through art, movement, storytelling, and hands-on investigation. From observing bunnies with quiet awe to racing snails and creating their own school aviary, each child-led exploration is a testament to their boundless imagination:
Crawlers (6–15 months) engaged in sensory play and quiet observation of bunnies through their “Hap Hap” project, including gentle real-life encounters.
Walkers (16–24 months) explored the beauty and movement of butterflies, interpreting their elegance through dance, light, and color.
Pre-Nursery (2–3 years) children followed various paths of wonder—dreaming up rocket ships to explore space, marveling at sunflowers turning toward the sun, and observing iguanas with awe. One class’s fascination with birds led to the creation of a school aviary, now a cherished space for all.
Nursery (3–4 years) children became captivated by mushrooms, leading to a deep investigation—studying fungi under microscopes, crafting mushroom villages, and learning to care for wild mushrooms daily.
Kindergarten & Prep (4–6 years) students studied snails, sparking questions about movement and texture. Their exploration included a session with Dr. Ayu Savitri Nurinsiyah, a taxonomy expert who has discovered 22 new snail species in Indonesia. Children hosted snail races, measured trails with popsicle sticks, and recorded their observations in detail.
Each class followed a natural path of learning, with educators carefully listening, documenting, and observing children’s evolving thoughts and questions. The exhibition features photos, transcripts, learning journals, and interactive displays, bringing their discoveries to life in The Hundred Languages of Children—the many ways young learners express their understanding through art, movement, storytelling, and reflection.
Families are invited to visit starting May 16, 2025—a chance to slow down, observe, and connect with how children explore the world.
At its heart, “If You Listen Closely” is more than just an exhibition—it’s an invitation to see childhood in a new light. By tuning in to children’s discoveries, we are reminded that every question, every observation, and every shared moment of joy holds profound meaning.
