If you are researching daycares and preschools in Edison or Roselle, NJ, you have likely come across two names: Montessori and the Creative Curriculum. Both are respected early childhood education approaches — but they are very different in philosophy, structure, and what they look like day to day.
What Is the Montessori Method?
Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, Montessori is a child-led approach built around self-paced learning, specialized materials, and mixed-age classrooms. Key features:
- Children choose their own activities from a prepared environment
- Specialized Montessori materials (sensorial, math, language, practical life)
- Multi-age classrooms (typically 3-6 together)
- Uninterrupted 3-hour work periods
- Teachers are “guides” who observe more than direct
- No letter grades or formal assessments
Best for: Self-directed learners who thrive with independence, children who need more sensory or hands-on engagement, and families who value child-led exploration over teacher-directed instruction.
What Is the Creative Curriculum?
The Creative Curriculum (published by Teaching Strategies) is a research-based, teacher-guided curriculum used in thousands of licensed childcare centers across the United States, including Little Einstein’s Academy. Key features:
- Structured daily schedule with intentional learning goals
- Teacher-led circle times, lessons, and small group activities
- Curriculum organized around 11 interest areas (blocks, dramatic play, art, science, math, literacy, technology, cooking, sand and water, music, and outdoors)
- Built-in assessment (GOLD) to track developmental milestones
- Same-age classrooms aligned to developmental stages
- Strong emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academics
Best for: Children who thrive with routine and clear expectations, families who want measurable progress tracking, and settings that need to meet NJ state licensing and kindergarten readiness standards.
Key Differences Side by Side
| Factor | Montessori | Creative Curriculum |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Child-led, open-ended | Teacher-guided, structured day |
| Classroom | Mixed ages (3-6) | Same age group |
| Assessment | Observational, no grades | GOLD assessment system |
| Cost | Often higher (specialty materials) | Comparable to standard daycare |
| CCAP Accepted | Varies by center | Yes (at Little Einstein’s) |
| Kindergarten Prep | Strong conceptual foundation | Directly aligned to K standards |
Which Is Better for My Child?
Neither is objectively better — they suit different children and families. Research shows both produce strong outcomes when implemented well. The more important factors are: quality of the specific center, staff stability, ratio sizes, and whether your child’s personality fits the approach.
A structured child who needs routine and predictability typically thrives in a Creative Curriculum program. A highly independent child who resists being told what to do may love Montessori’s freedom.
Why Little Einstein’s Academy Uses the Creative Curriculum
We chose the Creative Curriculum because it:
- Is backed by decades of peer-reviewed research on early childhood outcomes
- Aligns directly with NJ preschool learning standards and kindergarten readiness benchmarks
- Includes a proven assessment tool (GOLD) that lets us track every child’s progress and share it with parents
- Provides structure and consistency that young children in group care genuinely need
Learn more about our curriculum at Little Einstein’s Academy or schedule a tour to see it in action.
FAQ
Is Montessori better than regular daycare?
Not necessarily. High-quality daycare using any research-based curriculum (including Creative Curriculum) produces outcomes comparable to Montessori. Program quality, staff stability, and ratios matter more than the brand name.
Is Creative Curriculum used in NJ public preschools?
Yes. Creative Curriculum is one of the most widely used curricula in NJ’s state-funded preschool programs, including Abbott district preschools. It is fully aligned to NJ Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards.
Does Little Einstein’s Academy offer Montessori?
No. We use the Creative Curriculum, which we believe provides the right balance of structure, play, and academic preparation for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-K.
