Early Edge Education & Music

In order for kids to reach their true potential, Short Hills resident Rashmitha Sirsi believes structured academics should be balanced with creativity. She’s now brought this concept to town with her new learning hub, Early Edge Education & Music (52 Millburn Ave.), which combines math and music in one space. The center celebrated its grand opening on Jan. 31 and will be fully operational seven days a week starting Feb. 1. Here, Sirsi describes the programs offered and discusses how kids can benefit from them:

What makes Early Edge different from traditional tutoring or music centers?

I’ve created something I wish existed when I was searching for quality enrichment programs: One place where children can develop both academically and creatively. We’ve brought together two exceptional programs—Seriously Addictive Mathematics and Musicologie—because we believe children need both structure and creativity to truly thrive. Instead of driving to multiple locations after school, families have one trusted center where their children receive comprehensive support in a nurturing environment. It’s about simplifying life for parents while enriching it for kids.

What is Seriously Addictive Mathematics?

S.A.M. brings the Singapore Math approach to our community, focusing on deep conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization. Students learn how and why math works, which builds genuine confidence and problem-solving skills. This approach aligns beautifully with what many local public schools, including those in Millburn-Short Hills, already use. Our small classes allow each child to progress at their own pace while developing focus, persistence, and a positive relationship with math.

What does carrying forward the Musicologie mission mean to you personally?

Musicologie began as a very personal idea about how children learn best. What resonates with me most is that it’s not just about learning an instrument—it’s about nurturing confidence, curiosity, and joy through music. Creating a space where families feel supported and children feel safe to explore and grow is incredibly meaningful to me.

Tell us about your goal of helping people become better musicians and better humans.

One of the most meaningful changes I see is in children who start out unsure of themselves. Over time, as they’re encouraged rather than corrected, they begin to take risks and trust their own abilities. A child who once worried about making mistakes starts raising their hand, trying new ideas, and even explaining concepts back to their teacher. Parents often tell us that confidence carries over into school and other activities. Music becomes a way for children to discover their voice.

The Musicologie Method emphasizes learning through play. How do you help parents understand that this approach works?

Play is how young children learn best. But it’s not unstructured or casual at Musicologie—it’s intentional and thoughtfully designed. When children are engaged and emotionally safe, they absorb concepts more deeply and retain them longer. Once parents see their child excited to come to lessons and naturally apply what they’ve learned, the value becomes very clear.

Encouraging mistakes can feel counterintuitive. What happens when children are given permission to fail?

The transformation is powerful. When children realize mistakes are part of learning, they become more resilient. I’ve seen students go from shutting down after a wrong note to smiling and trying again. That shift changes everything. Confidence grows, and progress happens more quickly because the fear is gone.

What advice would you give parents of young children considering music lessons?

At age 4 or 5, it’s not about performance or mastery—it’s about exposure and connection. Music supports brain development, coordination, listening skills, and emotional expression. Even small, joyful experiences at this age can have a lasting impact and build a foundation that will support them for years to come.

If every family could understand one thing about what you’re creating at Early Edge, what would it be?

Whether through math or music, our focus is not about perfection—it’s about growth, confidence, and connection. When children feel safe and encouraged, they learn far more than academic concepts or musical notes. They learn how to try, how to persist, and how to express themselves. That’s what stays with them forever. We’re building a place where learning feels natural, joyful, and deeply meaningful.

Photo by Sixpence photography by Kristy