Just Kidding offers on-site STEAM inspired childcare for events that kids love.
From conferences and corporate retreats to weddings and parties, Just Kidding creates safe places for kids to learn through engaging and creative play. We are headquartered in Richmond, Virginia but serve the state of Virginia and surrounding areas.
All of our activities are designed by a professional educator to encourage exploration and curiosity in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Our team is made up of educators, nurses, and individuals with professional expertise working with kids.
Our goal is to take the stress of searching for quality childcare off of your guests' minds, so you can create an amazing event that everyone wants to attend.
We believe in play-based learning that’s rooted in STEAM principles.
PLAY-BASED LEARNING
Play based learning helps engage younger children in their education and has proven cognitive, physical, social, and emotional benefits. We believe kids learn the most when they’re curious, playful, and encouraged to explore!
STEAM FOCUSED
STEAM based learning fosters inclusive learning and is a crucial aspect of modern education. This project-based learning approach in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, art, and math supports enhanced critical thinking skills and keeps kids engaged!
EDUCATOR DESIGNED
All of our programs, activities, and curriculum are designed by Kareen Edwards, a professional educator and founder and CEO of Just Kidding Event Childcare. All of our events are also staffed by experienced and professionally trained educators.
Our Passionate + Qualified Team
KAREEN EDWARDS, NBCT, Ed.D
CEO + Founder
Just Kidding Event Child care is owned and operated by Dr. Kareen Edwards. Kareen earned a Doctor of Education Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has been a teacher for over 28 years. She is National Board Certified, an active community member, and an entrepreneur. Kareen created Just Kidding Event Childcare to provide a service for busy parents such as herself.
In her own journey as a parent, Kareen often had to forego many personal events and career opportunities because of child care issues. She is passionate about helping parents faced with similar challenges find safe and reliable childcare!
PAM FOWLER,
Art Teacher + Childcare Provider
Pam earned a Masters Degree in Art Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. She brings over 15 years of experience to the Just Kidding Event Childcare team.
SHANNI MERRITTE,
Special Education + STEAM Teacher + Childcare Provider
Shanni earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Liberty University and a Master’s Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. She’s spent half a dozen years as a STEAM teacher in afterschool programs and currently teaches in the special education department.
APRYL-DAWN JULIEN,
STEAM Educator + Childcare Provider
Apryl-Dawn earned an Education Specialist degree from Virginia Tech and a Masters Degree from Virginia Union University. She brings over 15 years as a STEAM educator and childcare provider to the Just Kidding team.
ANTHONY COTTON,
Physical Education Teacher + Childcare Provider
Anthony brings a diverse range of experience as a physical education teacher, coach, and mental health counselor to his work as a childcare provider with the Just Kidding Event Childcare team.
Take the stress out of finding quality childcare and give your attendees a reason to RSVP!