Ever wonder what really holds a family together? It’s not just DNA. It’s the little things we do over and over. From pancake Sundays to silly holiday traditions, these moments share who you are as a family and shape who your children become. What do your traditions, rituals, and celebrations say about your family?
On October 10th, we pause to celebrate Great Kids® Day—a moment to reflect on where we began, how we’ve grown, and the heart that keeps us moving forward.
Who better to help us reflect than Cristina Nealon?
In the spring, my friend and I signed up for a one-day pottery class, a lighthearted adventure to try something new. I imagined the beautiful vase I would create for my table and the perfectly shaped coffee mug crafted to my husband’s preferences. But let’s just say…that’s not exactly how things went.
About the AuthorMichelle Miller is a Product Development Specialist at Great Kids. Prior to joining the Product Development team, Michelle worked for three years as a Great Kids trainer. Before that, she worked as a trainer supervisor and home visitor with a...
Recently, I was drifting off to sleep when the sound of loons calling on the lake brought me back to consciousness. The ethereal sound was a feast for my ears, and I lay there in awe, soaking up every lingering echo. It had been years since I had been treated to such a symphony.
About the AuthorNancy Joerger is a Product Development Specialist. Prior to joining Great Kids®, she worked as the Assistant Program Manager of the Early Head Start Program in Madison County. She lives in Hamilton, NY, with her husband and two daughters. She enjoys...
In social work, the foundation of meaningful change begins with connection. Whether working with clients facing personal challenges or supporting families navigating complex dynamics, engagement is key to fostering trust, understanding, and collaboration.
“And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance…” -from the song “I Hope You Dance” by LeeAnn Womack
A Love for Music and Dance
Like many of you, I’m a big fan of music and dancing. Unfortunately for me, however, I am not the most coordinated dancer. Still, that doesn’t stop me from doing it — especially in my living room or kitchen when no one is around.
I also love to watch other people dance. I sometimes enjoy scrolling through the latest video dance trends on certain social media sites. One trend I enjoyed this year featured men and women of my generation showing off their 80s dance moves to Small Town Boy by Bronski’s Beat.
We’re excited to introduce you to the new CEO of Great Kids, David Bird! As we begin this new chapter, we want to share more about David, his vision for the future of our organization, and how he plans to continue our mission.
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of a toddler’s company, you’ve likely heard something along the lines of, “Me do it.”
On Saturday, my offer to help a little one put on their shoes was met with a fiercely independent “I can do it!” And when I gently commented that a shoe might be on the wrong foot, I was promptly informed, “I like them that way!” I couldn’t help but smile as this three-year-old clearly expressed their desire for independence!
While this behavior is normal and appropriate for an independent three-year-old, it’s not always fitting for adults.
I was five when my mom was expecting my brother. I have this vivid memory of her being heavily pregnant and perched on the edge of the sofa, reading me a story. I guess my brother was enjoying the story, too, as he gave my mom a surprising kick, which startled her, making her lose her balance and tumble to the floor. Thankfully, she wasn’t hurt, and we both laughed.
Great Kids, Inc., a leading organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of children and families, is excited to announce the appointment of David Bird as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
I don’t know about others, but the term SELF-CARE often brings up images of going to a gym, doing yoga, mindful meditation, or long luxurious bubble baths. And while I KNOW self-care is good for me, I rarely have the energy or time for any of that.
We celebrate the 25th anniversary of Great Kids’ incorporation with immense gratitude to our founders and partners! This milestone represents the resilience, passion, and commitment of everyone who contributed to our mission.
As social workers, understanding and responding to childhood trauma is part of providing meaningful care. This often includes interacting with individuals and families with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
Growing Great Kids®
Why Choose Great Kids?
Proven Success
Over 50,000 people have been trained to use the Great Kids curricula
Protective Factors – GGK Constructs
Research informed constructs embedded in the Protective Factors Framework
Alignment with Head Start
The Growing Great Kids Home Based Curricula Series exceeds all Head Start Curriculum requirements
Evidenced Based Research
As evidenced by seven independent evaluations, the GGK Curriculum produces outstanding results
Specialized Training Programs
On-site and virtual training options available
Healthy Families America
The Growing Great Kids curriculum aligns with and builds upon the HFA model approach