Hennie McPennie is exclusively for kids. The new shoe store, owned by Mercer Island couple John and Theresa Keith, is open for its first full week of business. Opening day was Thursday, Jan. 24.

“We’re hoping to be the true mom and pop children’s shoes store … We love kids, and being able to work with kids every day — that is really appealing,” John Keith said.

Together, the couple has more than 35 years of retail operation experience in various forms, he said. They have two children of their own who attend Mercer Island schools.

While the name ‘Hennie McPennie’ does not have any special significance, John said ‘Hennie’ connotes a chicken, and ‘McPennie’ — sheep.

“We just like the way it sounded; the cadence,” he said. “We try to make it fun for people and especially for kids.”

The shop has a selection of shoes for kids under 10, and cleats for soccer, baseball and football (ages 5-13) are also available, in addition to ballet slippers.

An official grand opening will be held on Saturday, Feb. 16, during regular hours.

Hennie McPennie is located at 3043 78th Ave. S.E. and can be reached at (206) 232-0495 or www.henniemcpennie.com. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 12 to 5 p.m., Sunday.