This day’s focus is on reconceptualizing quality in early childhood settings, and re-imagining research as an ethic of welcome and relationship. Inspired by the voices and daily life of children, families, and educators in Reggio Emilia, Stefania will propose a view of quality as value-laden and culturally constructed. Through the story of her own encounter with the learning communities of Arcoboleno infant-toddler centre and Neruda school, she will explore the image of early childhood settings as places of research, where children and adults are welcomed and valued as researchers in daily life. Examples from daily life – rich images and the voices of children, teachers, and families – are used to frame new understandings of quality and an invitation is extended to teachers to see themselves as researchers in their every day encounters with children.