The Association Method

The Association Method

An Instruction Method for Language Disorders

The instructional system for children with language disorders at Magnolia Speech School is based on the Mildred McGinnis Association Method of teaching spoken language.

This program came about when Mrs. Matthews, founder of the school, noticed that two of her first seven students at the school (all hearing-impaired) had difficulties with memory. She found that The Association Method helped build the students’ memories, which is necessary for both spoken language and reading comprehension. The Association Method is consistent and structured, incorporating repetitive drills to build core skills in attention, retention, and recall. With over 60 years of planning and refining it at Magnolia Speech School, this method has become a very specialized curriculum that has met with continued success for children with language disorders.

The Association Method is consistent and structured, incorporating repetitive drills to build core skills in attention, retention, and recall.

Every Magnolia Speech School student has an Individual Education Plan or Service Plan that outlines goals in appropriate subject areas. Our professionals work with students on a daily basis to address delays in sensory integration, cognition, activities of daily living, and gross motor/fine motor skills. Every student participates in music class. Audiological services (addressing auditory processing) and speech therapy are provided to the students as needed.

Every aspect of The Association Method is designed to help children overcome their communication obstacles and transition into general educational programming.


If your child has a speech or language disorder, The Association Method could help them build their speaking, reading, and retention skills. Call us to learn more about Magnolia Speech School.