In 1960, I developed a preschool program for my son that incorporated teaching life skills, with the child’s attention span in mind, in an environment that was positive and fun. The end result was the Mulford Method. The basic premise of the Mulford Method is to teach lifetime skills and learning patterns for preschool children using a positive approach where fun and learning become synonymous. All of the skills taught in the Mulford program are interwoven by using music, art, and drama. Children have the fun and satisfaction of play while building basic learning skills.
Skills such as public speaking, time management, self discipline, listening to and interpreting verbal directions, become part of children who attend Mulford School. Our program also includes fitness and development of the fine and gross motor coordination skills which are so necessary to a child’s well being.
Preschool Activities:
Reading and Math Skills, Public Speaking, Finger Plays, Singing, Arts and Crafts, Play Dough Modeling, Puzzles, Rhythm Band, Stories, Outdoor Play, Nature and Science Study, Games, Barn Trips, Dancing, Activity Records, and more.
The purpose of this method is to give children an advantage throughout their lives. Mulford School focuses on:
- Making the child’s first preschool experience positive, happy, and satisfying.
- Providing companionship and social experiences.
- Providing equipment and materials appropriate for the child’s developmental skills.
- Teaching positive lifetime skills and play habits with the attitude that “Learning is fun!” and “I can do anything!”
The Mulford Method Kindergarten:
The Mulford Kindergarten Program combines lifetime skills with the highest level of academics. The “Excel” program is based on the highest level of learning for each child. This program allows the child to gain a solid and advanced foundation in reading, writing, arithmetic and public speaking. Lifetime skills provide the child an advantage throughout their social and academic lives.
Using the Frontline Phonics reading/writing program, the children learn many strategies that develop their reading and writing skills. The kindergartners use these strategies and skills daily which helps them develop their skills.
The math skills and concepts are taught using a manipulative approach. This approach is a “touch and see” method, which allows kindergartners to better understand math concepts. This understanding will help them become consistent when using the math skills they have learned.
Kindergarten Curriculum:
- Math Skills
- Listening
- Reading
- Speaking
- Writing
- Math/Science
- Music/Movement
- Social Studies
Through positive reinforcement, the children are encouraged daily to try new tasks. Success builds confidence and a positive attitude toward learning.
This Kindergarten Program is taught using the “Mulford Method”, which ensures that each child feels successful and makes wonderful growth and progress. Children quickly realize that “Learning is fun!” and demonstrate an “I can do anything!” attitude.
“I give your child what I, as an educator, wanted for my child.”
-Beverley M. Mulford
