Love, trust, and joyful learning for children birth to 12 years old. Owner-operated, curriculum-based care with consistent routines that build confidence.
Age-appropriate, curriculum-based learning that celebrates every milestone along the way.
Birth – 18 months
Gentle, nurturing care with consistent routines. Story times, songs, and sign language in a warm, safe environment.
18 months – 3 years
Hands-on exploration, creative play, and structured activities that support physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth.
3 – 5 years
School readiness through early literacy, math, motor skills, independence, and social cooperation. Weekly field trips included!
5 – 12 years
Before & after school care plus summer enrichment with outdoor play, creative arts, group games, and exciting field trips.
The only childcare provider on Kearney's Southwest side — owner-operated with heart since 2010.
Open as early as 5:45am. Full-time, part-time, and drop-in options to fit your family's schedule.
Locked doors, secured gates, monthly safety drills, and office staff at every entrance.
Trusted curricula adapted to each child's pace. Weekly lessons covering literacy, math, science, and art.
Ages 2+ explore the community weekly — library visits, parks, and local partnerships.
We offer before & after school pick-up from Head Start, Early Head Start, Bright Future, and Kearney Public Schools — so your child goes straight from school to a place they love.
Progress reports through Smartcare and Remind App. You're always in the loop — never left guessing.
We partner with local agencies offering tuition scholarships to help families afford quality care.
Don't just take our word for it — here's what Kearney families have shared about their experience at Smiling Faces Academy.
Kelsey R.
We've had a great experience at SFA. Every morning, my child is genuinely excited to go see his friends and teachers. Field trips and summer water days are the highlight of his week, and they keep us in the loop through app notifications and a private Facebook page with daily pictures. Most importantly, the employees really love and care for our child — it gives us such peace of mind knowing he's in such a supportive, caring environment!
Kai M.
I can't say enough good things about this daycare. From the moment you walk in, you can tell the staff truly care about the kids. Everyone is so warm, patient, and kind. My children love going every day. The director, Amanda, does a wonderful job keeping everything running smoothly and making sure families feel welcome and supported. It's such a great feeling knowing my child is in a place where they're loved, learning, and having fun. They love these kids like their own.
Daniela P.
Loving, caring teachers. They were respectful, helpful and supportive. Thanks for all your hard work!
Cody G.
The staff at Smiling Faces takes great care of our kiddo!
Katy L.
We have been with Smiling Faces for 5 years and have loved it. Great communication from staff and we feel comfortable leaving our children in their care. The staff have become like family to us. 💜
Sandra R.
We've had a wonderful experience with Smiling Faces Academy. The teachers are very kind, caring, and attentive, and I really appreciate the way they care for my daughter. It gives me peace of mind knowing she is in a safe and loving environment. Thank you to all the staff for everything you do for the children every day. ❤️
Kendra L.
Loving and caring staff! My child comes home happy every day and always says she has a good day. They really help your child learn and achieve so much!
Kylee V.
Our kids love going to daycare at Smiling Faces! The staff is very supportive, flexible, and helpful. Our family has been there now 4 years!
Alicia F.
I recommend Smiling Faces to anyone looking for daycare. I am so grateful with how friendly, sweet, and kind all the employees are. Any time I have questions they do their best to answer them, give you a tour on your first day, and the app for clock in and clock out is wonderful. They send reminders and updates as quickly as they can. You ladies do a fantastic job — thank you so much!
Families choose us because we combine a warm, relationship-based approach with the structure, routines, and learning experiences kids need to thrive.
We’re proud to participate in the USDA Food Program — and we go beyond the basics. Our owner personally creates a fresh menu every month, often featuring a fruit and/or vegetable of the month. You’ll see those ingredients worked into meals and snacks in fun, familiar ways, helping kids build healthy habits through consistent exposure.
Our teachers create calm, structured classrooms where children feel safe, understood, and confident. Consistency matters — and it shows in how children settle in and grow.
Each day includes age-appropriate learning that supports early literacy, math foundations, problem-solving, and independence — all in a way that still feels fun and engaging.
We take safety seriously, with secure practices, clear supervision, and routines that help children feel comfortable and protected.
With two centers, families can choose the location that best fits their commute and their child’s needs.
You shouldn’t have to wonder how your child’s day went. SmartCare helps you stay connected with updates and communication you can count on.
We bring learning to life through hands-on enrichment and weekly field trips that connect to themes, community, and curiosity.
We focus on the skills that matter for life: emotional regulation, peer relationships, responsibility, and healthy daily habits — supported by consistent routines.
If you’re looking for a childcare center that feels structured, warm, and truly personal, we’d love to meet your family. Reach out to schedule a tour or ask about availability.
Hands-on discovery, creative play, and joyful moments — every single day.
Find the one closest to you — a third location is planned for 2027!
Spots fill fast — reach out today and we'll be in touch within 24 hours.