Today we’d like to introduce you to Keia Kelly.
Hi Keia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Born and raised in the heart of D.C., my story starts with a lot of love, a little chaos, and a whole lot of faith. I was adopted at age two—and again at six—so trust me when I say, my foundation was built on resilience. My mother, who raised me, is nothing short of a superhero in heels. A teacher for over 35 years, she led with grace, grit, and a red pen, and she made sure I understood early on that ambition without integrity isn’t success—it’s just noise.
Watching her pour into her students made me want to do the same in my own way. I’ve always had a soft spot for children. Honestly, I must have a magnet on my forehead—kids just flock to me. Whether I’m in the grocery store line or stepping onto an elevator, I’ll look down and there’s a toddler smiling at me like we’ve known each other for years. And I don’t mind one bit. My personality is naturally playful—I can go from boardroom to bubble wands in 2.5 seconds, and still handle business.
But let me keep it real—my path wasn’t always this clear. Like most of us, I tried on a few hats before finding the right fit. In 2011, I was working as an assistant manager at Shoe City in Largo, Maryland, when I had what I call my “God, I’m ready for more” moment. That same day, I bought a 500-pack of brightly colored paper and printed childcare flyers with nothing but a vision and a prayer. I put them everywhere—on windshields, mailboxes, doorsteps, you name it.
By Tuesday, I had five kids under my care. Five. I was thrilled—and also very much in a third-floor apartment where running a childcare business was a major no-no. But I’ve never let obstacles stop me. I had faith, a plan (kind of), and a lot of love to give.
With my babies in tow, we moved to Glen Burnie on a whim. And like a divine setup, I met Mrs. Connie—a woman who started as a provider for my children and became a mentor, a friend, and one of the biggest blessings in my journey. She helped me shape what would soon become All Smiles Childcare.
Fourteen years, countless families, and one home purchase later, All Smiles is still standing—thriving, in fact. We’ve become a trusted part of the community, and I’m proud of the network of love, support, and laughter we’ve built. Through the ups, the moves, and the “I can’t believe I’m doing this” moments, one thing has remained the same: my love for children and my belief that purpose always finds its way to the surface—especially when you lead with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of grace.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Let me tell you—this road hasn’t been smooth; it’s been more like a rollercoaster with no seatbelt. Bumps, bruises, and a few battle scars? Absolutely. Thank God for literal and emotional first-aid kits, because I’ve needed both! But even through the chaos, I always had a clear vision of where I was headed.
As a single mother of three, I’ve had to wear every hat imaginable—chef, chauffeur, therapist, and CEO—all before 10 a.m. When we moved to Glen Burnie, I rented three different family homes, each chapter filled with its own lessons and beautiful souls. One of the very first people to welcome me was Mrs. Connie. At the time, I was navigating a divorce, and she cared for my children as a licensed provider while I focused on building a dream from the ground up. Her encouragement, her wisdom—she showed up in ways I’ll never forget.
Buying my first home should’ve been the victory lap—but whew, reality had other plans. I walked straight into plumbing issues, unexpected flooding, and more repairs than HGTV could handle. But I didn’t give up. With the love and support of my village—especially some of the most amazing parents turned family (special shoutout to Christina, Greg, and Krissy)—I kept pushing, fixing, and growing, phase by phase.
Now, as the proud mother of three adults, I truly understand the emotional weight parents carry trying to juggle work, life, and everything in between. That’s why empathy is the backbone of All Smiles Childcare. I know firsthand how hard it is to hold everything together and still show up smiling. That’s why I built this business around what families really need—support, flexibility, and a safe space where their children are seen, nurtured, and celebrated.
The biggest challenge now? Space. The demand for high-quality care, especially for children under four, has grown immensely in our area. Being so close to the airport, military base, and major highways puts us in the perfect spot to serve diverse families—but expansion is a real, immediate need.
Still, no matter what’s thrown my way, I find a way to adapt, evolve, and sprinkle in some fun. Whether it’s transforming learning into play or turning challenges into growth, I’ve learned that with vision, faith, and a little creativity, even the bumpiest roads can lead somewhere beautiful.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about All Smiles Childcare Inc?
All Smiles Childcare is more than just a daycare—it’s a home away from home for children and a trusted village for parents. We’re a licensed family childcare provider located in Glen Burnie, Maryland, proudly serving children ages 2 to 5, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What sets All Smiles apart is the kind of care we offer—nurturing, intentional, and rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated. We don’t do ‘cookie-cutter’ care here. I honor each child and family individually, creating a safe space that feels personal, not transactional. You’re not just a number with us—you’re part of the All Smiles family.
With my background in Business Administration and Early Childhood Education—plus years of experience working with DC Public Schools—I’ve built this business on a foundation of education, empathy, and excellence. We specialize in supporting children with autism, ADHD, behavioral needs, and other developmental differences. I work closely with both state and private agencies to ensure children receive the therapeutic and emotional support they need.
But our mission doesn’t stop with the kids. I also offer parent coaching services for families who may need extra support, guidance, or just someone to talk to who understands the highs and lows of parenting. Whether it’s navigating developmental milestones or finding the right resources, I’m here to help. They say it takes a village—All Smiles is proud to be that village.
Looking ahead, we’re expanding our offerings to include evening and overnight care—especially to support parents working in hospitals, nursing, assisted living, and aviation. The goal is to meet the real, everyday needs of families who work outside the typical 9-to-5.
What I’m most proud of is the heart behind this brand. All Smiles was built with faith, passion, and a deep love for children—and that love is felt the moment you walk through our doors. We’re not just preparing kids for school—we’re helping them build confidence, social-emotional skills, and joyful memories that will shape who they become. And that’s something worth smiling about
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
When I think about risk, I think about faith in motion. For me, risk-taking has never been about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the vision even when the path isn’t fully visible.
In 2011, I took one of the biggest risks of my life: I walked away from a steady job as an assistant manager to pursue my dream of starting a childcare business. No blueprint, no capital, no backup plan—just a deep sense that it was time. I didn’t even put in a formal two weeks’ notice (not my most professional moment, I’ll admit), but I knew in my heart that I was stepping into something greater. Fourteen years later, All Smiles Childcare is still here, still growing, and still rooted in that original leap of faith.
The second major risk came when I packed up my life and moved to Glen Burnie with my children and, honestly, not much else. No solid foundation, no guarantees—but again, the vision was louder than the fear. I started over from scratch, and that’s when the blessings started to unfold. Buying my first home during that time felt like an impossible dream, but with faith, hustle, and the incredible support of families like Christina, Greg, and Ms. Krissy, I made it through. And not just through—I thrived.
What I’ve learned is that risk isn’t reckless when it’s aligned with purpose. It’s not about being fearless; it’s about showing up even when you’re scared. Every risk I’ve taken has brought me closer to the woman I’m meant to be. My past—being adopted, overcoming childhood challenges, raising three children as a single mother—all of that fuels my humility and my drive to serve families from all walks of life with love and respect.
So yes, I believe in risk. But even more, I believe in what happens when you bet on yourself—with faith, strength, and the kind of determination that doesn’t quit when things get hard. That’s where real transformation begins.
“Every leap I’ve taken was led by faith, not fear—and that’s the kind of energy I want every child and parent to feel when they walk through my doors.”
Pricing:
- Toddler Program $340.00 Weekly
- Pre K Program $300.00 Weekly
- Summer Care $320.00 Weekly
- Drop In Care $100.00 Daily
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AllSmilesChildcareInc.com
- Instagram: ASC_INC_
