Hudson Childcare You Can Trust — Safe, Loving, and Enriching Every Day
At Northstar Early Learning Center, every child grows in a safe space that nurtures individuality, creativity, and independence through meaningful play and relationships.
We exist because families deserve better childcare.
We built Northstar to offer the kind of childcare we wanted for our own families — loving teachers, proven curriculum, excellent communication.
We are setting the standard.
What Makes Northstar Special
Curriculum That Starts from Day One
We don’t wait until preschool to start learning. From infancy on, we use proven curriculum and intentional routines to nurture curiosity, communication, and confidence.
Teachers Who Love and Lead
Our teachers aren’t just warm — they’re skilled. With ongoing training and deep care for every child, they act as strong role models during the most important years of life.
Real-Time Video. Daily Messaging. Excellent Communication.
From daily updates to live video access through WatchMeGrow, we keep you in the loop — because trust starts with clear, consistent communication.
Every Detail Matters — Especially Safety
We hold ourselves to the highest standards in cleanliness, licensing, and care. Through regular audits, coaching, and clear policies, we make sure your child is safe, seen, and supported every day.
Meals Made from Scratch
Our children eat nutritious, balanced meals made from scratch. Because, healthy bodies lead to healthy minds.
Programs Designed for Every Stage of Early Childhood
Infants
Warm, responsive care that nurtures trust, connection, and early development. With cozy spaces and attentive teachers, your baby is safe, soothed, and stimulated from the very beginning.
Toddlers
Busy minds and busy bodies need room to explore. Our toddler classrooms support early language, motor skills, and social-emotional growth — all through play and gentle guidance.
Preschool
A joyful, engaging environment where your child builds the confidence and skills they need for kindergarten — and life. Our curriculum blends literacy, math, social skills, and character-building in a way that’s both fun and foundational.
Heather Larson
School Director
Hudson Leadership
How long have you been with TGS?
I have been in a director role in early childhood education for over eight years. I’ve been with The Gardner School since late 2022.
Roles Served with TGS:
Director at The Gardner School of Minnetonka.
What is your educational background?
Learned a bachelor's degree in earty chikihood and family education from the University of Wisconsin in Stout, WI
What made you decide to have a career in education?
I have a desire to create a village fer parents, children, and teachers to feel safe, happy. and healthy. What other professionsupports all three goals? We all deserve the best in education. Teachers build the foundation for so many future leaders.
At Northstar, we don’t just earn enrollments — we earn trust.
Here’s what real families have to say about their experience with us.
“I felt confident from day one.”
"The teachers genuinely love our kids. I never once questioned whether my daughter was in the right place."
“They’re more than caregivers — they’re partners.”
"Northstar communicates so well. I always know how my son is doing, and they’ve helped us with everything from potty training to social skills."
“My child is learning so much and loves it.”
"Our son is excited to go to school every day. He comes home singing songs, talking about letters, and even helping set the table!"
Answers to the frequently asked questions.
What makes Northstar different from other childcare centers?
At Northstar, we’re not a daycare — we’re an early learning center. That means everything we do is centered on preparing children for lifelong success through rich educational experiences. We combine a warm, nurturing environment with a research-backed curriculum, highly trained teachers, and a culture built around care, communication, and excellence.
Is it true parents can actually watch their kids in the program?
We provide a range of green energy solutions, including solar power systems, wind turbines, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home technologies to enhance energy sustainability.
How do you ensure children are safe and cared for?
We believe every child deserves a premier early education experience. Northstar tuition is intentionally priced below the regional average while maintaining exceptional standards. We also offer sibling discounts, vacation credits, and participate in county childcare assistance programs.
Is Northstar affordable?
We believe every child deserves a premier early education experience. Northstar tuition is intentionally priced below the regional average while maintaining exceptional standards. We also offer sibling discounts, vacation credits, and participate in county childcare assistance programs.
What are your teachers like?
Great teachers mean great childcare. So, we invest heavily in their professional growth, offering continuing education, coaching, and leadership opportunities. We attract and retain passionate educators who view teaching not as babysitting — but as building a legacy in childcare.
What curriculum do you use?
We use the Pinnacle Curriculum, a nationally recognized, developmentally appropriate program that exceeds state standards. It focuses on eight key areas of growth, including social-emotional development, critical thinking, language, creativity, and physical health — all designed to spark a lifelong love of learning.
Give Them the Best Start
We can't wait to learn about your family! Contact us to set-up a tour and learn more about Northstar Early Learning Center.
