Little Shoes Academy, founded by Melissa Jenkins and Kathy Lawson, introduces a groundbreaking homeschool curriculum designed to empower parents in the early education of their children.
-- Transforming Early Learning with Little Shoes Academy
In an effort to empower and support homeschooling parents, Little Shoes Academy (LSA), a new homeschool curriculum developed by twin sisters Melissa Jenkins and Kathy Lawson, is set to revolutionize how early learning is taught at home. The curriculum, launching on March 4, 2025, is a comprehensive and research-backed approach to early childhood education, addressing both the needs of children and the challenges parents face when homeschooling.
As seasoned educators with over 60 years of combined experience, Jenkins and Lawson have tailored LSA to bridge the gap between educational theory and practical application in the home. Recognizing the growing need for alternative educational resources, the sisters created a curriculum that not only equips parents with the tools to teach but actively guides them through the process.
The Science of Reading at the Heart of Early Literacy
One of the standout features of Little Shoes Academy is its emphasis on early literacy, which is taught using the Science of Reading approach—a research-based method that has been proven to be highly effective in classrooms for decades. The PreK curriculum covers essential literacy skills such as phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, sight words, fluency, and comprehension. This structured approach is designed to engage young learners while ensuring they grasp foundational reading concepts in a way that builds confidence and enjoyment.
“Our goal was to create something that not only taught children but empowered parents,” said Melissa Jenkins, Co-Founder of Little Shoes Academy. “The Science of Reading approach is a proven method, and we are bringing that success into homes everywhere. Parents don’t need to feel overwhelmed—they have the resources and support they need to be effective teachers.”
A Holistic Approach to Math
Math instruction in Little Shoes Academy incorporates a strategic mix of hands-on games and manipulatives, ensuring that children grasp how numbers relate to one another rather than simply memorizing facts. This approach fosters critical thinking, number sense, and flexible thinking—skills that are essential for mastering foundational math concepts. Through activities that emphasize problem-solving and analysis, LSA’s math curriculum helps children develop a deeper understanding of mathematics, setting them up for success in later years.
“We wanted to take a fresh approach to math that goes beyond just counting or ordering numbers,” said Kathy Lawson, Co-Founder of Little Shoes Academy. “Our method fosters a love for numbers and a curiosity about how they work together. The focus is on thinking critically and developing a deeper understanding.”
Prime Attributes for Success
Little Shoes Academy is designed with five key principles that drive its educational philosophy:
- Pure: Clear, no-fluff instructions that guide parents and children through each lesson.
- Researched-Based: Every strategy is grounded in peer-reviewed research, particularly the Science of Reading for literacy.
- Intentional: Each teaching moment is purposeful, with content carefully curated for its impact.
- Multi-Layered: Lessons are designed to teach multiple skills simultaneously, creating richer learning experiences.
- Effective: Research indicates that the approach used by Little Shoes Academy has been shown to triple the expected results for young learners.
Support Beyond the Curriculum
In addition to the curriculum itself, Little Shoes Academy offers robust parental support. Parents will find access to a community of homeschooling families via a Facebook group, where they can ask questions, share experiences, and obtain additional resources. The curriculum also includes virtual gatherings where parents can consult experts and get advice on everything from lesson planning to overcoming obstacles in the homeschool journey.
“The curriculum was a game-changer for me,” said Anna Webster, a new homeschooling parent. “I didn’t think I could do it, but with LSA, I feel confident. It’s like they are right there with me, guiding me every step of the way.”
Addressing the Growing Homeschooling Movement
Homeschooling has seen significant growth in the U.S. over the past decade. Research from the Washington Post indicates that homeschooling has increased by 51% since the 2017-2018 school year, with some areas like New York and Washington, D.C. experiencing even higher rates of growth. This surge represents a growing demand for quality, flexible educational options that meet the needs of families. Little Shoes Academy seeks to meet this demand by providing a curriculum that not only teaches children but also empowers parents with the tools, resources, and support necessary to create successful homeschool experiences.
“Our mission is to ensure that homeschooling is no longer seen as an alternative or fringe option, but as a viable, effective choice for parents and students alike,” said Jenkins.
Availability and Accessibility
The Little Shoes Academy curriculum will be available for digital download starting March 2025, making it easy for parents to get started right away. It includes a comprehensive scope and sequence, pre- and post-assessments, as well as supplemental reading materials designed to complement the learning experience.
Parents can also access free resources on LSA’s Facebook page and attend weekly online sessions for ongoing guidance and support.
About Little Shoes Academy
Little Shoes Academy (LSA) was founded by twin sisters Melissa Jenkins and Kathy Lawson with the aim of supporting early learners in the home environment. With more than six decades of combined experience in education, the founders developed a curriculum that not only focuses on effective learning strategies for children but also empowers parents to become confident, effective teachers. Beyond the curriculum, LSA offers ongoing support through a vibrant online community and expert-led resources, ensuring that parents feel guided throughout their homeschooling journey.
For more information, visit www.littleshoesacademy.com.
Media Contact:
Melissa Jenkins
Co-Founder, Little Shoes Academy
Phone: 501.414.6439
Email: melissa@littleshoesacademy.com
Social Media:
Facebook: Little Shoes Academy Community
Contact Info:
Name: Melissa Jenkins
Email: Send Email
Organization: Little Shoes Academy
Website: http://www.littleshoesacademy.com/
Release ID: 89153426
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