When Children Get the Early Help They Need Their Greatness Can Grow
WHAT IS GET READY TO GROW?
Get Ready to GROW (GROW) was established in 2014 and offers comprehensive developmental screenings with support for referral and follow-up services. The GROW program is a successful illustration of how to integrate systems using a collective effect approach.
In 2019, GROW Rochester adopted the Help Me Grow model to enhance its cross-sector partnerships and community impact. And in 2022 GROW Rochester expanded into Get Ready to GROW Finger Lakes.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
- 42% of children have at least one potential need identified, and early detection can prevent developmental issues
- GROW screenings go further than most providers can in a typical well child visit by looking at speech and language, movement, thinking and reasoning, and social-emotional development.
- GROW creates a 360-degree view of a child’s development, supported by a navigator that connects parents, schools, childcare and practices.
- GROW screenings help you get a holistic view of a child’s developmental progress to help identify specific and actionable steps to get them back on THEIR track.
- GROW helps families see past struggles and obstacles - to discover an opportunity to let their child’s greatness grow.
- GROW is committed to both English and Spanish messaging for families.
EVIDENCE-BASED FOUNDATION
HOW DOES IT WORK?
- Get Ready to GROW screenings are for children ages 12 months to 60 months throughout Monroe County and the Finger Lakes region
- Screenings are completed by professionals using leading-edge tools, technology, and parent questionnaires in the following areas:
- Vision
- Hearing
- Dental
- Speech
- Motor
- Social and emotional competence
- Cognitive functioning
- Physical development
- The screenings are QUICK - and can even be fun!
- All screenings and support are free to families
- Navigators provide support and follow-up assistance to families, caretakers, and programs to access further evaluation, resources, and services as needed to help ensure each child is ready to learn
SEE GET READY TO GROW IN ACTION
Stay informed on the latest Primary Project updates.
Read our newsletter From the Playroom for updates and resources.
Explore our standards-based certification program.
Learn how Children's Institute provides ongoing assistance.
PARTNERSHIPS
GET INVOLVED!
Start a Program in New York:
If your district or school is located in New York State, you may be eligible for funding. Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year will open in November 2025.
To explore opportunities to begin a program using district funding, please reach out to Shelley Sanyshyn at ssanyshyn@childrensinsitute.net
All Other States:
To learn more about how to start a Primary Project program in your state, school, or district, reach out to Lynn Smith at lsmith@childrensinstitute.net
- Goals
- GROW Development Timeline
- Awards & Recognition
For more information about Get Ready to GROW comprehensive developmental screenings:
- Email: support@getreadytogrow.org
- Phone: (585) 295-1008
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