Meet Tobia Kelly | Early Childhood Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tobia Kelly and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tobia, what do you want your legacy to be?
“Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.” -Peter Strople

I open with this quote because I believe in it wholeheartedly. Legacy isn’t what we leave behind tangibly but what we leave internally. You can leave someone all the money in the world however if you don’t TEACH them the skills to manage it properly, then what use is it to leave them money?

I make this point because I want to leave a legacy of teaching. I want to give others the lessons I’ve learned over the years through experience and academia. It’s only natural that I became a teacher, by trade, then opened my daycare. I want to teach other children as well as my own, life lessons and how to thrive in a complex world. To give them knowledge and strategy to navigate everyday experiences and academic lessons. The ultimate legacy for a teacher is to see their students or those in their sphere engage in good works whether that’s mastering a strategy for life or academically.

I would like those who’ve I’ve crossed paths with to remember me by my wisdom and Knowledge. Now, please note that I don’t know everything there is to know about life and Early Childhood Education. Only God himself knows all. However, I want others to hear my voice in the back of their minds when they believe they have come to a problem they can’t solve or remember me telling them about an experience I’ve encountered or a strategy I’ve taught as a reference.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
One of the many hats that I wear is owner and director at Kelly’s Keys Child Development Center. We are a licensed daycare Serving children ages 0-5 yrs. Strengthening them academically in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment while using Kelly’s Keys enrichment approach to foster the whole child. Aside from educating and teaching the children we also teach the parents. This is what sets us apart, We make it our priority to educate the parents about their children’s academic success.

I am most proud of taking the leap of faith and opening my own business. By faith alone I’ve managed to help so many families, many that still reach out to me from years ago. Was it easy? Of course not! However so worth it. I overcame challenges with lots of prayer and discipline. When motivation wasn’t there, self-discipline was. The biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way is you learn as you grow. With each experience, you learn to pivot your business. You learn what works for you and others, and what doesn’t. You learn to adjust. The Kellys Keys brand is about educating. We hold on tightly to integrity, values, and morals. Kindness and grace we wear proudly, after all, we’re all still learning, right?

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve lived in San Diego for three years now, and I feel like I’ve only hit the tip of the iceberg in regards to my favorite spots in the city. I’m mostly captivated by the Little Italy, Old Town, and La Jolla areas. Oh, and I can’t forget Coronado Island. The Henry is one of my favorites for brunch in that area. I also love a good San Diego hike, such as La Jolla Cove, Annie’s Canyon, and Potato Chip cliff if you need a little challenge. Green valley falls is another hike if you want to cool down during the summertime. My favorite places to eat… OMG! Where do I even start? As of late, I’ve enjoyed Pink Rose Cafe’ for coffee and Seneca for brunch or dinner. Lousiana Purchase is another one of my favorites for a dinner date. Ocen 97 seafood truck is amazing for a quick bite. Punch bowl social is fun with friends, it’s a fun way to hang out. The list goes on, and one.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Taught in order to teach is my motto in life. Being teachable is a gift. In my case one of the gifts that contributed to my ultimate success. I did not encounter this success by being an island. I needed people on my side. Outside of the obvious of my husband and family. I owe plenty of my life lessons to my mentor Erica Bryant, a God-fearing woman, and teacher in VA. She has helped me navigate through some tough times in my life. As well as encouraged me to start my own business.

In the ECE world, we use the phrase, It truly takes a village. I can easily apply this phrase to my life as well. Surround yourself with those of the same morals and values as you. Even those who don’t necessarily know are inspiring/encouraging you. Megan Rudden at Pint-Sized Party SD, Ashlyn R. Watkins at Spiced Wife, and Gregory Ruth at 24/7 Realty and Vet Led property Management. All entrepreneurs and San Diego business owners who have encouraged me and supported me during my time of owning a business and being a full-time entrepreneur. They have all set examples and taught me to value my worth, to work hard, and to find rest when needed. Also, to keep God first which is the most important!

Instagram: @KellysKeyscdc

Linkedin: Tobia Kelly

Facebook: @Kellyskeyscdc and @Tobia Kelly

Image Credits
@Czarinalunaphotography