When Matt and Megin Sharp created KidStrong in their garage to help their daughter grow stronger and more confident, they had no idea they were about to launch a nationwide movement. Frustrated by the lack of structured, science-based programs for young kids, they built their own — and today, KidStrong helps more than 65,000 children each week develop strength, confidence and character in a fun, high-energy environment.

“We didn’t want a playdate,” Megin said. “We wanted something structured and impactful.”

Now with over 150 locations and another 50 in development, KidStrong is becoming the go-to destination for parents who want more than just another extracurricular. And post-COVID, more and more families are seeking ways to support their children’s development after a period of social and academic disruption. The need has never been greater — and neither has the impact. KidStrong is already being recommended by pediatricians and occupational therapists. With a rapidly growing footprint and demand rising in cities across the country, there has never been a better time to get started.

A Science-Backed Program With Measurable Results

Designed for children ages 1 to 9, KidStrong’s unique curriculum blends physical activity, cognitive training and social-emotional development. Each 45-minute class is led by expert coaches who are trained to teach everything from balance and coordination to goal setting and public speaking.

“You can help kids develop faster, especially during those peak developmental years,” Matt said. “That’s when 95% of your brain development happens. So if you can shape kids during that time, you can make a huge impact on their lives, their families and their futures. There’s a lot of science behind that — and still nothing else out there like what we’re doing.”

The results speak for themselves. According to a parent survey conducted in 2023, 96% saw an increase in self-confidence, 88% noticed improved social skills and 85% said KidStrong is more enjoyable than other programs.

Just ask the parents.

“When my son first started attending KidStrong, he was super shy and anxious,” said Jessica from Noblesville, Indiana. “It's so funny how much he's changed and how confident he has become. I recommend and downright BRAG about this program to my friends and family.”

“It’s incredible. Our daughter goes once a week, and we’ve seen her confidence skyrocket,” said Summer, a mom in Rocklin, California. “We are truly grateful for KidStrong!”

Whole-Child Development, Wrapped in Fun

KidStrong’s secret sauce is its ability to make learning feel like play. Kids run, jump, solve puzzles, give speeches and even pretend to order food in a restaurant — all while developing critical skills that will serve them for life.

“You can’t serve all vegetables,” said co-founder Lincoln Brown. “It has to be fun for kids to want to come back and learn. When you combine real child development with fun, that’s when the magic happens.”

Each location features KidStrong’s patented, custom-designed equipment built specifically to support developmental milestones. Behind the scenes, a team of experts in occupational therapy, child psychology and sports performance continuously refines the curriculum to ensure it’s effective, age-appropriate and exciting.

“We start public speaking as early as age three,” Matt said. “It’s about building critical life skills during the most important developmental years — one through nine.”

Built for Kids. Designed for Parents.

Unlike most kids’ programs, KidStrong was intentionally designed with parents in mind. From front-row seating to see your child’s progress to regular updates about developmental milestones, families are part of the journey every step of the way.

“We bring parents right into the action,” Megin said. “We want them to feel like part of the team. This isn’t something you just drop your child off at — you get to see them grow in real time.”

Even the community aspect is intentional. Coaches know every child’s name. Parents form friendships. And KidStrong’s culture of encouragement ensures every child feels seen, celebrated and supported.

“KidStrong offers children the skills to truly win in all areas of life,” said Bobby and Jessica Montoya, franchise owners of KidStrong Westside in Albuquerque. “We are excited to be able to enrich our own children's lives and the entire community with this one-of-a-kind program!"

Real Growth, Real Confidence

KidStrong isn’t just another enrichment activity. It’s a transformative experience — one that many parents say changed their child’s trajectory. And that is why, in an era where parents are increasingly seeking structured, science-backed programs to support their children's holistic development, KidStrong's unique blend of physical activity, cognitive training and social-emotional growth, all wrapped in a fun and engaging environment, is driving its rapid expansion across the country.

“Just this morning, a mom stopped me while I was dropping off my kid,” Matt said. “She said her son started KidStrong at age two — he was super shy. He’s five now, and he’s a leader. He introduces himself to kids on the playground, to coaches at sports. She almost wouldn’t let me leave — she was so emotional talking about the change in him after three years with us. That’s why we do it.”

For more information on franchising with KidStrong, visit: https://www.kidstrongfranchise.com.

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Luca Piacentini

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Luca Piacentini

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