Courage to Grow
Laura Sandefer
An introduction to the Acton Academy learning philosophy and the power of trusting children.
Recommended reading
Books for the Journey
Free to Learn
Peter Gray
Explores the role of play, autonomy and self-directed learning in child development.
The Self-Driven Child
William Stixrud & Ned Johnson
Practical ideas for supporting autonomy, motivation and resilience.
Mindset
Carol S. Dweck
Understand growth mindset and why the learning process matters.
Hunt, Gather, Parent
Michaeleen Doucleff
A perspective on encouraging capable, collaborative and responsible children.
The Coddling of the American Mind
Greg Lukianoff & Jonathan Haidt
Ideas for cultivating resilience and independent thinking.
Understand the model
Explore the Philosophy
The Hero's Journey
A framework for growth through challenges, reflection and discovery.
Explore the Hero's Journey →Self-Directed Learning
Learners set goals, track progress and take ownership with supportive guides.
Discover the Learning Model →Enrollment FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
Who is Learning Casita for?
Learning Casita is designed for children in our Spark Studio (ages 4–6) and Elementary Studio (ages 6–11) who are curious, self-motivated, and ready for a different kind of school experience. We welcome families from all backgrounds who share a belief that children are capable of more than traditional schooling asks of them.
What does a typical day look like?
Each day begins with a morning launch — a brief community gathering where learners set their intentions for the day. In Elementary, core skills time includes self-paced math and reading programs. Afternoons are often devoted to hands-on quests and project-based challenges. Spark learners enjoy age-appropriate hands-on exploration, play, and foundational skills. The day closes with reflection. Daily routines vary by studio.
Is Learning Casita accredited?
Learning Casita follows the learner-driven Acton Academy approach. School affiliation and accreditation are not the same thing. Please contact us for the current accreditation status and any specific enrollment or homeschooling requirements for your family.
How do children progress without grades?
Learners track their own progress through mastery-based systems — they advance when they demonstrate mastery, not when the calendar says so. Tools may include Khan Academy and other adaptive platforms, with learner portfolios that document their growth. Progress is visible, meaningful, and owned by the child.
What is the role of the guide?
Guides at Learning Casita are not teachers in the traditional sense. They do not primarily lecture or deliver content. Instead, they ask questions, set up challenges, facilitate Socratic discussions, and create the conditions for children to discover things for themselves. A guide’s job is to believe in each child’s capacity — and to never give away what a learner can find on their own.
How do I apply or learn more?
The best first step is to request an Info Kit — we’ll send you information about our model, schedule, and enrollment process. From there, we invite families to connect with us and learn more about the studio. Use the button below or visit our Contact page to reach out directly.