Developed by RCM’s world-class educators in partnership with our In-house neuroscience and research department, Smart Start ECE® combines decades of expertise with the latest research in early childhood development.
Smart Start ECE seamlessly integrates into existing programs, making it easy to bring the proven benefits of music into early childhood education. Through engaging, music-based activities, it enhances learning, fosters creativity, and supports overall development, setting a new standard for early education.
Proven by neuroscience research
Music training strengthens brain networks and helps children build essential neural connections that support cognitive development including,
- Increased IQ
- Stronger memory
- Enhanced speech development
- Faster reading ability
- Deepened empathy
Integrated with Early Literacy Skills
When kids regularly engage with music, they become better readers. Using musical play, singing, and interactive activities, they are organically introduced to the five main building blocks for reading.
- Phonemic Awareness
- The ability to recognize and manipulate individual sounds in words
- Phonics
- Understanding the relationship between sounds and letters
- Fluency
- The ability to read quickly, accurately, and with expression
- Vocabulary
- Knowledge of word meanings
- Comprehension
- Understanding and interpreting text
Easily Integrates into Any Early Learning Setting
Smart Start ECE® is designed for seamless integration into early childhood programs, curricula, and even home learning, making it adaptable to any educational setting, regardless of your location.
The Smart Start ECE Advantage
Smart Start ECE is a research-proven, music-based program that enhances early learning and seamlessly integrates into any educational setting, providing:
The Smart Start ECE Approach
Smart Start ECE features a structured series of music-based activities
Designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, with 12 engaging, 15-minute lessons per level. These hands-on activities strengthen cognitive development through active participation, using familiar themes like water, weather, and animals to seamlessly fit into early learning programs.
Flexible and adaptable
Activities can be introduced in any order, making it easy to tailor the program to your learning environment. Optional book and craft activities provide additional opportunities for hands-on engagement with music.
Easy to implement
Pre-recorded audio tracks make each activity engaging and effortless to use, allowing educators to focus on guiding children’s learning rather than leading the music themselves.
Why Educators Value
Smart Start ECE
No musical background? No problem. Our online training equips educators with the skills and confidence to lead engaging lessons while deepening their understanding of childhood development through music.
Plug-and-play activities are always available, providing structured, engaging content that supports student learning whenever it fits into your day.
Kids don’t just listen—they move! These activities encourage active participation, helping children develop coordination, balance, and body awareness through fun, engaging movement.
With arts programs declining, Smart Start ECE ensures children continue developing musical skills while fostering creativity through engaging lessons and optional craft activities.
Structured, outcome-driven lessons keep children actively involved in learning while fostering focus and participation.
The Parent App extends the experience, giving families access to hundreds of activities they can enjoy together at home.
Training for Providers
The Smart Start teacher training for early childhood educators empowers teachers to confidently deliver the Smart Start curriculum, regardless of their musical background or ability. Teachers learn about cognitive skills, why music-making is such a powerful way to develop those skills, and master practical strategies that bring music to life for young learners. Teachers will also have access to free ongoing professional development to continue growing their skills and supporting their students' cognitive and musical journeys.
Start Your Journey
Contact us to learn how you can introduce Smart Start ECE to your community.
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