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The Creative Curriculum
The Creative Curriculum
In our ECE classrooms (PK, TK, and ECSE), we use The Creative Curriculum: a research-based, comprehensive program designed to support the holistic development of young children. It emphasizes learning through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences, helping teachers create responsive, engaging environments based on children’s interests.
The curriculum supports all areas of development: Social-Emotional, Cognitive, Physical, Language, and Literacy
Key components include a project-based approach (A study, Question of the Day, Mighty Minutes, and focused lessons in math and literacy). Teachers use ongoing assessments to tailor instruction to each child’s needs, making the curriculum both inclusive and authentic.
Click here to learn more about The Creative Curriculum. We also recommend reviewing the "Foundations" Volume, which offers valuable insight into the philosophy, structure, and key components of the curriculum to help you better understand the how and why behind your daily practice.
We’ve also created a shared space to highlight ideas, lessons, and resources from our ECE teachers, you can explore those contributions here. Scroll down to find these!
Teachers have access to physical copies of the curriculum in their classrooms and can also use the online SmartTeach platform for additional support and planning tools.
25-26 Creative Curriculum Pacing Guide.PK.180 Days.pdfPacing Guide
Pacing Guide
A pacing calendar is a tool that educators can use to pace their instruction and plan how long to spend on each study. Here you will find our Creative Curriculum Pacing Calendar for the 2025-2026 school year.
Keep in mind that this pacing guide is flexible. Teachers are encouraged to adapt it according to the unique experiences and interests of their students. Please make adjustments as needed.
Daily Schedule
Daily Schedule
An ECE schedule should include key components that support children's development throughout the day, such as Breakfast, Morning Meeting, Intentional Play, Outdoor Recess, Read-Alouds, Enrichment or Science, Lunch, Rest Time, and an Afternoon Meeting. While the order of activities may vary by elementary school, it is important to follow the allocated time for each part of the day, limit whole group transitions, keep group time under 15 minutes, and provide ample time for intentional play. Whenever possible, longer outdoor play periods are encouraged to support active learning and exploration.
Learn more in The Creative Curriculum for The First 6 Weeks: Building Your Classroom Community.
For a Dual Language TK Classroom Schedule sample click here
Resources by Study
Resources by Study
The Creative Curriculum studies cover various topics. Each study is designed to engage children in hands-on, meaningful experiences that promote social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
Here you will find resources (such as activity ideas, vocabulary cards, pictures, etc.) shared by fellow ECE teachers.
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