Preschool Curriculum: everything you need to choose well.

A preschool curriculum is the structured plan that guides what children ages 2 to 6 learn each day. This guide compares the eight most-used models worldwide, shows what each does best, and gives you a free library of 20,000+ activities to start with today.

Preschool curriculum models compared

• IPC: Thematic, play-based, standards-aligned. Best for: Schools wanting global standards plus daily plans.
• Montessori: Self-directed work with specialized materials. Best for: Mixed-age rooms emphasizing independence.
• Reggio Emilia: Project-based, child-led inquiry. Best for: Studios with strong documentation practice.
• Waldorf: Rhythm, nature, imaginative play, no screens. Best for: Families seeking slow, low-tech childhoods.
• HighScope: Plan-do-review active learning cycle. Best for: Programs serving at-risk learners.
• Creative Curriculum: Studies and interest areas. Best for: US centers needing a familiar framework.
• EYFS: UK statutory framework, 7 learning areas. Best for: Schools in or aligned with the UK.
• IB PYP: Transdisciplinary inquiry, global mindedness. Best for: International schools seeking IB authorization.

Try the free preschool curriculum · See all frameworks

Frequently asked questions

What is a preschool curriculum?

A preschool curriculum is the structured plan a school or teacher uses to guide what children ages 2 to 6 learn each day. A good curriculum covers language, math, science, creative arts, social-emotional development, and physical play, and ties daily activities to clear developmental goals so children are ready for kindergarten.

What are the most popular preschool curriculum models?

The most widely used preschool curriculum models worldwide are IPC (International Preschool Curriculum), Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, HighScope, Creative Curriculum, EYFS (UK), and IB PYP. Faith-based programs like A Beka and Abeka are also common in the US. Each model has a distinct philosophy on play, structure, and the role of the teacher.

How do I choose the right preschool curriculum?

Start with your goals: school readiness, bilingual development, social skills, or faith formation. Then check three things: alignment to your country or state standards, evidence of child outcomes, and how much teacher training the program requires. IPC, Montessori, and Creative Curriculum all have strong evidence bases. The right pick is the one your teachers can actually run well.

How is IPC different from Montessori or Creative Curriculum?

IPC is a thematic, play-based curriculum mapped to global standards with 20,000+ ready-to-use activities and built-in assessment. Montessori uses self-directed work with specialized materials. Creative Curriculum is theme-based but heavier on teacher planning. IPC gives schools the structure of a formal program with the flexibility of play-based learning, and the platform handles lesson planning and reporting automatically.

Is there a free preschool curriculum I can use?

Yes. IPC offers 20,000+ free preschool activities and lesson plans aligned to every major framework, with no credit card to browse. Schools that need assessments, parent reports, and operations tools upgrade to a paid plan.