About

Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center is an independent, locally owned and operated, boutique childcare center caring for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-Kindergarten in Stillwater, MN.

At Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center our mission is to enhance the traditional childcare experience through education, nutrition, exercise, relaxation, illness reduction and prevention and creative projects that promote a happy, healthy and secure learning environment. Our focus is on the whole child (mind, body and spirit) and our priority is on the safety, education and health and wellness of the children and families we serve.

We are honored to have been awarded Best Childcare, Best Daycare and Best Preschool as well as nominated Small Business of the Year by our Stillwater community, families and staff.

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Gina Anderson, RN, BSN

The owner of Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center, Gina Anderson, is a registered nurse.  She graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Nursing with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, after which, she worked in a variety of hospital and clinic settings.  A year after graduation, Gina left Minnesota to pursue a travel nursing opportunity – a highlight of her career.  She spent several years in the Boston and San Diego areas.  After traveling, Gina returned to Minnesota where she worked as a nurse manager at a large orthopedic clinic in the cities and then began a career in the medical device industry as a nurse manager and as a nurse educator.  

Gina lives in Stillwater with her husband, Ryan, and two daughters, Taylor and Jordan.  She has combined her love for family, her connection with children and her interest in health and wellness to create a unique childcare center that focuses on quality through safety, education and health and wellness.

6 Time Recipient in the St. Croix River Valley for

Best Childcare

Best Daycare

Best Preschool