When DAZI first opened its doors, I was snapping pictures constantly. Part of that came from wanting families to feel connected, and part of it came from still learning who these incredible little humans were. In those early weeks, I hadn’t yet built deep relationships with the children. I was observing, listening, and trying to understand their rhythms, personalities, and unspoken cues.
Photos felt like the easiest way to show families that learning was happening.
But as time went on, something beautiful shifted.
When Relationships Deepened, Our Practice Evolved
The more I observed and followed the children’s lead, the more they began inviting me — and later, our staff — into their play. They started asking for art materials, for certain toys, for help building, for a story, for a partner in their adventures.
That invitation changed everything.
Suddenly, taking endless photos felt redundant. I didn’t need to document every moment from the sidelines because I was now living those moments with them. My hands were busy supporting play, co-regulating emotions, offering materials, asking questions, and celebrating discoveries.
The camera naturally took a back seat because the relationships took centre stage.
In Reggio-inspired programs, engagement always comes before documentation. And now, with strong relationships guiding each day, that principle has become our practice.
Presence Over Performance
Phones can document learning, but they cannot build relationships.
When a child hands me a block, asks for paint, climbs into my lap needing reassurance, or pulls me toward an idea they’re excited about, that moment deserves my full attention — not a phone in my hand.
Children know when adults are truly with them. By putting the phone down, we send a powerful message:
“I see you. I’m here with you. I’m interested in your ideas.”
This is far more valuable than a photo taken from a distance.
Why We Focus on Learning Stories Instead of Hundreds of Pictures
We absolutely do take photos — but they are purposeful, intentional, and tied to learning.
Rather than send dozens of snapshots each day, we create Learning Stories that highlight:
A child’s thinking
Their strategies and discoveries
Social connections or teamwork
The learning cycle unfolding
The “why” behind their play
A single Learning Story communicates more meaningful information than a full gallery of disconnected images.
Documentation should make learning visible — not overwhelm families with quantity.
A Team Approach: All Staff Follow This Meaningful Practice
As we continue to grow and welcome new staff, this philosophy remains at the heart of our work.
Every educator at DAZI will be trained and supported in this connection-first approach:
Engage deeply with the children
Build strong, trusting relationships
Follow the child’s lead
Prioritize presence
Document with intention, not out of habit
This ensures consistency for children and families — and keeps our program aligned with the values that DAZI was built on.
Quality Over Quantity, Always
You will still receive photos. You will still get glimpses into your child’s joy, creativity, curiosity, and exploration. But what you can trust above all is this:
Your child spent their day with adults who were fully present, not distracted by screens.
Engagement comes first.
Connection comes first.
Relationships come first.
And everything we document — whether a Learning Story, a photo, or a reflection — grows out of that foundation.
The Heart of Our Work
Our goal is not to create a day full of photos.
Our goal is to create a childhood filled with wonder, discovery, relationships, and joy.
And those are things that don’t need a camera to be real.
Rosetta
