DESOTO PARISH — Preparing young learners for elementary school is getting a hands-on update this year with the launch of Little Steps to Big School: A Little Griffin’s Guide to Kindergarten.
Designed specifically for Pre-Kindergarten students, this program was developed by Mrs. Misty Junkin, Pre-K Mentor teacher, and Mrs. Shelby Bickham, Pre-K and Math Master teacher. Their aim in creating Little Steps to Big School is to build foundational academic and social skills by blending learning directly into daily home routines. Instead of traditional worksheets, families receive three interactive, hands-on activities each month designed to be completed during everyday moments—such as mealtime, play, getting dressed, or story time. Additionally, it offers parents a roadmap for non-digital, hands-on activities that foster critical early childhood growth.
A Step-by-Step Approach to Early Development
Each month features a different focus on a specific skill. The following focus areas ensure comprehensive growth across key developmental milestones:
Social-Emotional & Self-Help Skills: Building confidence, independence, and emotional awareness.
Fine Motor Development: Strengthening physical coordination for writing and daily tasks.
Literacy & Math Basics: Developing early letter recognition, vocabulary, counting, and numerical concepts.
Advanced Literacy & Math: Preparing students for higher-level classroom instruction.
Kindergarten Readiness: Synthesizing core skills for a smooth transition to full-time elementary school.
Empowering Parents as Partners
Recognizing the vital role parents play in early childhood education, each monthly packet includes detailed resources to support families, including:
Explanations of why specific skills matter at this developmental stage.
Practical tips for incorporating learning at home.
Digital resources for extra practice.
End-of-month progress checklists to monitor student growth.
Direct contact information for classroom teachers to provide ongoing support.
The initiative draws inspiration from foundational early childhood philosophy, highlighting the importance of early intervention and support: "The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one, the period from birth to the age of six," noted educator Maria Montessori.
By partnering directly with parents and meeting children where they are, the program aims to ensure every Pre-K student steps into kindergarten with confidence and enthusiasm.
North DeSoto Lower Elementary is proud to have two teacher leaders exemplify our value "collaboration" to develop this program. With support from our administrators and monetary support from our various fundraisers (snowcone sales, cookie dough, etc.) we were readily able to purchase the materials needed for these interactive kits that are sent home to every Pre-Kindergarten student each month. Thank you parents for your continued support and engagement as we all work together for what is best for our students and community.
Families interested in learning more or seeking additional support are encouraged to reach out directly to their child’s teacher.