News and Updates From Great Kids

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.

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Bonding Before Birth

Bonding Before Birth

by | Nov 4, 2024

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.

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Previously From Great Kids

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.

Healthy Habits for Keeping Colds Away

Healthy Habits for Keeping Colds Away

Feb 10, 2023

This morning I woke up with a dull headache and to the sound of icy rain beating against the window. It’s the kind of dreary, low-energy day that makes you want to opt-out, roll over in bed, and pull the covers up. Ugh.

2023 Best Musician Award, Goes to You!

2023 Best Musician Award, Goes to You!

Jan 11, 2023

As we kick off 2023, let’s take some time to celebrate. Let’s talk about music! For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved music. As a child, I would sit at my desk with my boom box, changing out CDs as I pretended to be a radio DJ.

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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

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Healthy Families America

The Growing Great Kids curriculum aligns with and builds upon the HFA model approach