Family
Creativity
Commitment
Nurture
Love
History
Our Story
Little Explorers Child Care Center was built on a simple belief: children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and excited to explore the world around them. What started as a small, family-centered program has grown into a trusted child care community serving families in Ghent—and soon Minneota—while still holding tight to those same core values.
At Little Explorers, we focus on play-based learning, strong routines, and meaningful relationships. Our classrooms are designed to support each child’s development socially, emotionally, and academically, while allowing them to grow at their own pace. We believe in partnering closely with families, maintaining open communication, and creating a warm environment where children feel confident and cared for every day.
As our community grows, so does our commitment to providing high-quality child care, investing in our staff, and creating spaces where children can learn, laugh, and thrive. We are proud to be a place where families feel supported and children feel at home.
Owner's Bio
Jamie Gillund is the owner and director of Little Explorers Child Care Center in Ghent, Minnesota, and the heart behind its continued growth, including a second location opening in Minneota. With a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Southwest Minnesota State University and over 25 years of hands-on child care experience, Jamie brings both expertise and genuine love for children into everything she does.
She is married to her husband, Kurt, and together they have five children—Daylin, Skyla, Kestler, Whitney, and Gunner—who range from elementary age to young adulthood. Jamie spends most of her free time cheering from the bleachers, attending school and sporting events, and making memories with her family.
Most of all, Jamie loves coming to work each day—hearing the laughter, seeing the smiles, and knowing she is making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in her community.
Our Exceptional Staff The Heart of Little Explorers
At Little Explorers Child Care Center, our staff is what truly sets us apart. We believe that children learn best from people who are not only qualified, but also caring, dedicated, and passionate about early childhood education.
Highly Educated Lead Teachers
Each classroom is led by a lead teacher with post-secondary education in early childhood or a related field and valuable years of hands-on experience working with young children. Their knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices helps nurture your child’s growth every day.
Skilled and Supportive Team Members
Supporting our lead teachers are our assistant teachers and classroom aides, all of whom have successfully passed required background clearances and completed early childhood training. They bring enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine love for children into every interaction — helping to create safe, enriching, and joyful learning environments for all ages.
Ongoing Training & Professional Growth
Our commitment to excellence doesn’t stop with initial qualifications. Our staff regularly participate in continued training and professional development to stay current with best practices in health, safety, classroom dynamics, and early learning strategies. This ensures that your child receives the highest standard of care and education every day.
Caring, Patient, and Kind
Above all, we are a team that truly loves children. We are patient, kind, and dedicated to treating every child “like our very own.” Whether it’s a joyful laugh, a comforting hug, a new milestone, or a curious question — our staff celebrates and supports your child through it all.
