Mother of 7, Dr. DeShonda Jennings, Celebrates Parents & Childcare Heroes at 2025 Childcare Conference

Dr. DeShonda Jennings is more than the loving mother of five — she’s a champion for parents, educators, and childcare professionals. This year, she’s using her platform to spotlight those who care for children every day and to recognize the often-unsung heroes behind early childhood development.

A Heart for Parents & Childcare Professionals

As a mother of five, Dr. Jennings understands firsthand the challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices that go into raising children. She knows how much work it takes — from balancing schedules to seeking quality care — and she wants to use her voice to lift up other parents and those who care for little ones.

This year, she’s leading the way in honoring the people who make childhood possible: the parents, daycare providers, teachers, home-based child care professionals, and others. Through her role in the upcoming Childcare Conference & Award Ceremony, she is calling attention to the dedication, creativity, and heart that these individuals pour into their work.

About the 2025 Childcare Conference & Award Ceremony

The Childcare Conference is designed to uplift, educate, and celebrate those in the childcare space — as well as parents who partner in their children’s growth. The event will feature:

• Powerful keynote sessions
• Breakout workshops on business, leadership, funding, family engagement, and more
• VIP sessions (like getting Grant & Funding strategies)
• Networking with peers, experts, and advocates
• An awards ceremony unveiling honorees across multiple categories

Speakers, including Dr. Jennings, will dive into topics such as:

• Bridging parent–professional partnerships
• Financial strategies for childcare programs
• Leadership in early childhood settings
• Navigating current trends in childcare and education

The conference also offers two ticket tiers:

• General Admission — $147 (includes conference access, lunch, networking, vendor access) childcareconference.org
• VIP Ticket — $297 (includes VIP seating, VIP luncheon, special breakout sessions, swag, and more) childcareconference.org

VIP seats are limited, so early registration is encouraged. childcareconference.org

A hotel block is available at Four Points by Marriott / Sheraton near Richmond Airport, allowing attendees to stay close to the venue and local attractions. childcareconference.org

The Awards — Recognizing Excellence from All Corners

One of the highlights of this conference is the Awards for Childcare Excellence — a red carpet event that honors both childcare professionals and parents. Categories include:

• Infant Teacher of the Year
• Toddler Teacher of the Year
• Pre-K Teacher of the Year
• Early Childhood Educator of the Year
• Childcare Professional of the Year
• Home Day Care Leadership
• Family Day Home Leadership
• Homeschool Educator
• And others childcareconference.org

Nominations open now and run through September 30, 2025. childcareconference.org Voting begins July 1, 2025. childcareconference.org While voting helps gauge interest, final recipients are chosen based on how well the nominees meet the criteria, not just popularity. childcareconference.org

To receive an award, nominated individuals must attend the conference — awards will not be mailed. childcareconference.org

Why Dr. Jennings’s Role Matters

By centering her story — as a mother of five — Dr. Jennings gives this event personal weight. She helps bridge the worlds of parent and professional, showing that strong childcare is a community responsibility. Her leadership and visibility bring attention and credibility to those often working behind the scenes.

Her keynote will not only inspire those in attendance, but also remind all participants — whether parent or provider — that they are seen, appreciated, and essential.

How to Get Your Ticket & Be Part of This Celebration

To join the conference and awards, people can purchase tickets via the official site: childcareconference.org.
(That’s where you can nominate someone, check workshop schedules, and reserve your spot.) childcareconference.org

Invitation is open to:

• Parents
• Daycare providers
• Home-based childcare professionals
• Educators
• Community leaders supporting families and early education

Whether you want to learn, connect, or receive recognition — this is your opportunity.