Research and Evidence

Little Sponges is built on well-established principles of second language acquisition and early language and literacy development.

Its instructional model incorporates practices supported by decades of research, adapted to meet the needs of today’s multilingual children in the classroom and at home.

Schedule a Demo Start Free Trial

Backed by Second Language Acquisition Theory

The program draws on key findings from researchers like Stephen Krashen, Jim Cummins, and Bill VanPatten, emphasizing comprehensible input, contextualized vocabulary, and meaningful interaction. Each lesson is designed to help students understand and use language in contexts they can relate to, building fluency and confidence over time.

Multimodal input, through visuals, video, music, and interactive tasks, supports memory and engagement. Repetition and spaced exposure reinforce key concepts without becoming rote.

Aligned with Academic Standards

All content aligns with national and state standards, including ACTFL proficiency benchmarks, WIDA English Language Development Standards, and state-specific frameworks such as the ELPS in Texas or the NYS Blueprints in New York. Performance tasks are designed to reflect purposeful communication goals and scaffold students toward higher levels of proficiency.

Designed for Early Learners

Little Sponges is developmentally appropriate for young children, combining play-based learning with academic content.

Lessons integrate subjects like science, math, social studies, and health to support dual-purpose instruction—language development and core knowledge.

Research shows that early exposure to academic vocabulary in both the home and target languages supports later literacy and content mastery.

Proven Results in Classrooms

Districts using Little Sponges report increased student engagement, greater language retention, and stronger outcomes on local assessments. Teachers note that students build vocabulary more quickly and participate more confidently in class discussions, even in mixed-proficiency settings.

Many schools have used the program to strengthen instruction for English learners, support early immersion models, or pilot new programs with limited staff—all while seeing gains in student performance and family engagement.