Let’s be real—working in childcare is no joke. This event is all about giving YOU the recognition you’ve earned. No more hiding your greatness behind sippy cups and lesson plans. Come get your applause!
We’ve got powerful workshops, VIP sessions on getting that grant money, and speakers who actually know what they’re talking about. Plus, where else can you level up your skills AND get an award for doing what you love?
This is where childcare pros, parents, and community leaders come to connect, collaborate, and create real impact. Whether you want more clients, more visibility, or just a tribe that gets you—this is your room.
Discover the vibrant culture of Virginia's capital city at Four Points by Sheraton Richmond Airport. Our hotel near Richmond Airport provides access to the Richmond Raceway, Altria Theater, White Oak Village and the Virginia State Capitol.
Applications
Award Recipients
Category Winners
Attendees
This is one of the only conferences that rolls out the red carpet for childcare professionals and parents with official awards that spotlight your hard work. From home-based heroes to daycare directors and even homeschool champions, we’re recognizing those who go above and beyond in real life, not just on paper.
Let’s be honest—you’ve been doing award-worthy work for years. We’re just the first ones to say it out loud and on stage.
8:00 AM
Start your day off strong with powerful speakers, a lively panel, and real conversations around protecting your legacy in childcare. From legal tips to leadership gems, you’ll walk away with golden nuggets and maybe even a raffle prize. Oh—and did we mention awards?
12:00 PM
Enjoy a tasty lunch and connect with other game-changers in the room. While general attendees network and refuel, VIPs get an exclusive lunch experience with featured speakers and insider tips on funding and growth. It’s giving… next level.
1:00 PM
The energy stays high with even more impactful speakers, real-life success stories, and a powerful keynote from Dr. DeShonda Jennings. Wrap up the day with top awards, closing remarks, and your well-deserved certificate—because legends don’t leave empty-handed.
Explore this conference that for sure is not only about educating those in the childcare space but also recognizing them.
All attendees will receive lunch however we will have a special plated lunch available for our VIPs where there will also be a special speaker coming in to train on getting Grants & Funding.
Only 20 Spots Available!
All attendees will receive lunch however we will have a special plated lunch available for our VIPs where there will also be a special speaker coming in to train on getting Grants & Funding.
Only 20 Spots Available!
We invite both parents and childcare professionals to join us for our workshops.
Bridging the Gap: Building Strong Parent-Professional Partnerships for Child Success
Raising Resilient Children: What Parents and Childcare Professionals Need to Know
Mastering Family Engagement: Turning Every Parent Interaction Into Opportunity
Financial Literacy and Business Strategy for Childcare Professionals
The Art of Leadership: Managing Teams, Families, and Yourself in Early Childhood Settings
The Future of Childcare: Adapting to Trends, Technology, and Changing Family Dynamics
Celebrating innovation and excellence in childcare by honoring outstanding parents and dedicated providers, while uplifting and enriching standards across the entire community.
Only 20 Total VIP Seats Available
One Ticket with VIP Seating at Conference
VIP Breakout Luncheon
Networking
Visit Vendors
Vip Swag Bag
Autographed Copy of Dr Deshonda's New Book
Only 80 GA Seats Available
One Ticket with General Admission Seating at Conference
Networking
Visit Vendors
Our speakers will be speaking on topics that are guaranteed to help you grow your childcare business and/or strengthen the relationships and results your children get from your services.
Bridging the Gap: Building Strong Parent-Professional Partnerships for Child Success
Raising Resilient Children: What Parents and Childcare Professionals Need to Know
Mastering Family Engagement: Turning Every Parent Interaction Into Opportunity
Financial Literacy and Business Strategy for Childcare Professionals
The Art of Leadership: Managing Teams, Families, and Yourself in Early Childhood Settings
The Future of Childcare: Adapting to Trends, Technology, and Changing Family Dynamics
Legacy in Voluntary Registration Excellence Award Honors a childcare professional operating under voluntary state registration who demonstrates exceptional commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
Legacy Family Day Home Leadership Award Recognizes an outstanding family day home professional who exemplifies leadership, innovation, and nurturing care in a home-based childcare setting.
Legacy Child Day Center Excellence Award Presented to a child day center leader who consistently provides high-quality early childhood education, fosters professional growth, and makes a lasting impact in their center and community.
Legacy Religious Exemption Leadership Award Celebrates a religiously exempt childcare program leader who upholds strong educational values, integrity, and community service in alignment with their faith-based mission.
Legacy Infant Teacher of the Year Award Honors an exceptional infant teacher who provides nurturing, developmentally appropriate care and fosters early learning foundations with dedication and compassion.
Legacy Toddler Teacher of the Year Award Recognizes a toddler teacher who inspires curiosity, independence, and growth through engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences.
Legacy Pre-K Teacher of the Year Award Celebrates a Pre-K educator who prepares young learners for school success through creative, intentional teaching and meaningful connections with families.
Legacy Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award Presented to a distinguished educator who exemplifies excellence in curriculum delivery, child development expertise, and advocacy for early learning.
Legacy Childcare Professional of the Year Award Awarded to a childcare professional who leads by example, demonstrating exceptional business acumen, community engagement, and commitment to raising industry standards.
Legacy Homeschool Educator of the Year Award Honors a homeschool educator who delivers outstanding instruction, fosters lifelong learning, and builds a legacy of educational excellence within their family and community.
FAQs
Answers to Your Key Questions About Childcare and Family Legacy Services
Can one be nominated for more than one category?
Yes however once we complete the interview of the nominee, if accepted they will be selected for up to two different categories to receive votes for.
When does voting start?
Voting will start July 1, 2025. However we will still accept nominations up to September 30, 2025.
How does voting work?
This isn’t a popularity contest. Voting helps us see who’s actually sharing their nomination, but it’s not the final say. Once we spot the top 5 in each category, the real decision will be based on how well you actually fit the category—not just how many clicks you got.
Do I need to attend the conference & award ceremony?
If you are nominated, yes we are wanting all nominees to be at the conference and ceremony to receive their awards. We will not be mailing them out.
Can I nominate myself?
Yes of course you can. We plan to receive more than 250 nominations so just make sure that when we open up for interviews you set your appointment and not miss it.
How can I nominate someone for the Childcare Excellence Awards?
Nominations can be submitted through our website in the awards section by filling out a nomination form.
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