“So, FUMP is play-based program? How will my child be prepared for an academic elementary school and beyond?” I hear this question so often. Parents want their children to excel academically, and wonder how a developmentally based program can lay the foundation for academic success. It seems counter-intuitive, right? Having children in a school that focuses on child development milestones and hands-on experiences actually prepares children in the BEST way to success in school.
At FUMP, we build a solid base for growth and learning. We focus on the age appropriate developmental needs of each child. We focus on all five domains of development as they emerge to create bright, articulate, self-sufficient, imaginative and friendly children. This creates a child who is ready for the academic challenges ahead. In fact, many of our former students have soared.
Most of our FUMP graduates spread out across the city to various public and private elementary schools. Soon enough, middle school comes along. Austin ISD has a vibrant magnet program and attracts students who desire a more rigorous education experience. The most well-known magnet program is Kealing Middle School, located just a few miles from FUMP. My son attended Kealing for middle school, and on the first Back-to-School night, I saw no less than two dozen former FUMP families, whose children were attending a demanding academic program.
It was struck by the dichotomy of all of these children who began their education in a developmental program now excel academically WITHOUT early academic rigor. Many schools are selling programming of early reading and workbooks. At FUMP, our philosophy lays the foundation for what becomes academic excellence.
You can check out more information about FUMP alumni students on our ALUMNI PAGE.