This feature was printed in the April 2025 issue of ‘hood Magazine. To see the full issue, check out our digital issue of ‘hood!
Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year is presented by: The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Solis Photography.
Click the link to read all of the 2025 nominations for Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year.
This Award is Presented by: The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Solis Photography
Our 2025 Childcare Provider of the Year is Jenny Maier! Jenny is an 18-24 Month Teacher at Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Prairie Hills
Choosing a childcare provider is a big choice for many families. Finding one who loves your child well is an incredible gift. Here at the ‘hood Magazine, we know the value of childcare providers, and we are pleased to announce, along with our sponsors, The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Solis Photography, our 2025 Childcare Provider of the Year, Jenny Maier!
Jenny works with the 18-24 month olds at Kids’ R’ Kids of Prairie Hills. She is no stranger to childcare and has worked in childcare for 28 years! She chose a career in early childhood education because of her grandmother, who was a teacher and her greatest role model. Jenny says, “From the moment my first niece was born, I knew I wanted to devote my life to caring for and teaching young children.”
We asked Jenny about her favorite parts of being in early education. She shared about the relationships she builds with the children and the joy of seeing their personalities emerge. Jenny also values strong communication with parents, “l absolutely love to tell parents how well their child is progressing, making friends, and loving to learn,” she shares.
Surprising Jenny with the 2025 Childcare Provider of the Year award made for a fun afternoon! It was clear how much the children in her care love her and feel comfortable with her. Presented to Jenny during the surprise was a basket filled with sensory items from Sanford fit. These items were quickly enjoyed by the kids present!
Jenny shared with us what this award means to her. “It feels so good to be recognized for the love and dedication I give to “my kids” every day. I am so grateful to be able to do what I love,” she said. “I love every hug I get, and I mean every hug I give. “
Winning Nominations:
We’ve had a great experience with our daughter’s care, but no one has impacted her experience as much as Ms. Jenny. When our daughter transitioned to Ms. Jenny’s room we noticed an immediate change in her demeanor and, more importantly, in her milestones. She quickly began talking in two- to three-word sentences, suddenly knew her colors and numbers, as well as words for objects we have never discussed at home. Our daughter developed a bond with Ms. Jenny that has persisted despite her age-related transition to another room. We are so grateful Ms. Jenny has been able to be a consistent source of comfort and love for our daughter while we are away from her.
-Cassandra (Mom) and Nixon
I am nominating Ms. Jenny because she is an extraordinary educator whose dedication, kindness, and passion truly set her apart. Ms. Jenny’s commitment to caring for children goes far beyond the classroom. Ms. Jenny is more than just a teacher—she is a positive influence, a guiding light, and a source of comfort and learning for so many children and families. My child has flourished in her class, learning to speak in phrases and expanding his vocabulary in ways that have amazed us.
-Elisa (Mom) and Rome
