Ever feel overwhelmed trying to figure out the right way to teach your child to read? You’re not alone—and this week’s episode is here to bring you clarity and encouragement.

Leslie Nunnery sits down with Melissa Jenkins, founder of Little Shoes Academy, to talk about the science of reading—what it is, why it matters, and how you can confidently use it in your homeschool.

Melissa brings wisdom, practical tips, and a heart for helping families succeed. If you’re teaching little ones at home—or planning to—you don’t want to miss this one.

Meet the Guest:

Melissa Jenkins holds a Masters Degree in education and is currently working with children who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing in a public school district. She spent years at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in the College of Education, focusing on teaching future educators. She has homeschooled her own children, who are now grown, and is dediyto helping the next generation of early learners.

Key Takeaways:

The science of reading is crucial for effective literacy education.

Phonemic awareness is as important as phonics in early reading.

The Mississippi Miracle showcases the success of the science of reading.

95% of children require explicit instruction to learn to read.

The five pillars of reading include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary.

Balanced literacy methods are often ineffective for teaching reading.

Parents can support reading education through systematic and explicit teaching.

Playing sound games can enhance children’s phonemic awareness.

Little Shoes Academy offers valuable resources for early learners.

Homeschooling parents have the heart and intention to teach effectively.

Additional Resources:

Click HERE to find out more about Little Shoes Academy

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