News and Updates From Great Kids

Maximize Movement

Maximize Movement

by | Jan 27, 2025

“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.

read more
Get To Know the New Great Kids CEO

Get To Know the New Great Kids CEO

by | Dec 3, 2024

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.

read more
The “Me do it” Mentality and Asking for Help

The “Me do it” Mentality and Asking for Help

by | Dec 2, 2024

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.

read more

Previously From Great Kids

Sparking HOPE for the Future: Supporting Family Systems

Sparking HOPE for the Future: Supporting Family Systems

Aug 14, 2023

So much for lazy summer days! If your family is like mine, the hustle and bustle of summer is in full swing. There are activities to go to, yardwork to keep up with, and general maintenance tasks to get done.

Travel Into Deeper Connections

Travel Into Deeper Connections

Jul 21, 2023

My trip of a lifetime was in a small town on the coast of Croatia that was once a part of the Venetian trade route. It has a beautiful coast for summer visitors and ancient buildings for tourists.

The city of Split was where I spent my 50th birthday with a group of friends. We had a tour guide to take our group through Diocletian’s Palace. Tour guides in Europe often have to be trained and licensed. They must prove their knowledge, and they have to be certified.

Individualizing Services to Support ALL Children and Families 

Individualizing Services to Support ALL Children and Families 

Jun 15, 2023

“We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails” – Dolly Parton

I love this Dolly Parton quote because, over the years, I’ve most definitely learned that while I can’t control the weather, I can do my best to make choices about how to adjust my sails. I’ve learned that in order to not just survive but thrive, I have to stay in a continuous state of learning. A state where I am present to observe and listen to what is needed. And when necessary, partner with others to figure out the best ways to adapt and adjust.

Blazing New Trails with a Strengths-Based Approach

Blazing New Trails with a Strengths-Based Approach

May 15, 2023

Recently, my friend and I completed a much-anticipated hike along the Billy Goat Trail in Maryland. We’ve been hiking together for years. And to date, this was the most physically challenging and picturesque trail we’ve ever completed. It required more preparation than usual, and during the planning process, I realized this was about something more than just a hike. My friend reached out because she was going through some difficult life changes and needed to talk to someone.

Communication Inspiration

Communication Inspiration

Apr 19, 2023

HOW WE ARE with people is as important, and perhaps more so, than what we say or do. Let me give you an example of what I mean. Imagine you’re approaching the checkout at your small local grocery store after grabbing a few items. There’s only one cashier working, and the line is long.

The World Awaits Your Learning!

The World Awaits Your Learning!

Mar 7, 2023

When I think of March, I think of spring. Since childhood, I’ve awaited the newness of this season. Unfortunately, spring isn’t a smooth transition for me and many others. In Kentucky, this time of year is defined by warm, sunny days followed by freezing flurries. It’s quite a vicious and frustrating game that mother nature likes to play with us Kentuckians.

Build on your success in strengthening families.

Growing Great Kids®

Why Choose Great Kids?

Proven Success

Over 37,000 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