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?
News and Updates From Great Kids
Beyond the Comfort Zone: The Hard Work of Lasting Change
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.
Back to School With Awe and Wonder
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...
Taking Turns is for Adults, too!
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.
Digital Curriculum Q&A
At Great Kids, we’re all about equipping professionals with high-quality tools to support families. Our digital curriculum takes that commitment a step further—offering the same trusted content in a modern, flexible format designed for today’s fast-paced world.
Previously From Great Kids
Great Kids Inc. Announces David Bird as New Chief Executive Officer
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.
Let’s Talk About Nervous-System Care
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.
Reflecting on 25 Years of Great Kids
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.
Building Childhood Resilience in Social Work
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).
Joy in the Small Moments
As we strive for a fulfilling life, we might catch ourselves chasing grand achievements and monumental experiences, believing they are the keys to true happiness. Many of us have shared these sentiments, even comparing ourselves to others on social media. “If only I had ___, I would be so ___.” However, insights from research and thought leaders like Brené Brown remind us that true joy often comes from embracing the small, everyday moments.
Video: 3 Key Benefits of Growing Great Kids Certifications
Staff training is always a top priority when it comes to successful program outcomes. At Great Kids, we understand the challenges of ensuring your team is equipped to drive positive results. That’s why our CEO, Shawna Donaldson, recently chatted about our comprehensive training solution. She explains 3 key benefits of Growing Great Kids certifications that empower both you and your team.
A Farewell Message From Our CEO
It is with a mixture of gratitude, melancholy, and excitement for the future that I announce my resignation as the Great Kids, Inc. CEO. My last day will be May 31, 2024.
I am so grateful for my 20 years with Great Kids, working in different capacities – either as a user of the curriculum, a Great Kids’ trainer/consultant or as the CEO for the last seven years.
Riding the Child-Led Play Train
“Choo! Choo!” my nephew Scotty* called out, “Auntie, come get on the train!” As I made my way into the family room, I saw Scotty instructing my sister where the ticketing line started, eager for us to hop aboard the train. As we each sat in our assigned seats, our train grew longer and longer as we all joined in on the fun!
Becoming Trauma-Informed, Becoming Resilient
Since I moved into my own home several years ago, the season I look forward to most is Spring. The previous owner left many lovely plants, trees, and bushes, including a coral azalea that brightens the view outside my office window for a few brief weeks each year.
Becoming a Parent Changes Your Brain
Don’t you love crawling into bed each night? The weariness of the day seems to soak away as you snuggle under the covers and feel the comfort of your bed envelop you.
According to researchers, our bodies and brains need sleep as much as breathing air and drinking water, but the amount of sleep required differs from person to person.
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