Our Story
About Christina's
“Where Learning And Growth Become One”
Our Guiding Philosophy
Ubuntu: “I Am Because We Are”
Christina's Child Care Center is built on the African philosophy of Ubuntu, the deep understanding that we belong to one another. A child does not grow in isolation. They grow through connection, through the village that surrounds them, through the hands that hold theirs when they stumble and the voices that cheer when they stand.
At our center, Ubuntu is not a slogan. It is how we operate every day. Parents, teachers, and staff form a genuine community around each child. We share knowledge. We share responsibility. We show up for each other. When one family is struggling, others step in. When a child hits a milestone, the whole room celebrates.
This is what it means to raise children together. Not as a service delivered to customers, but as a community committed to the well-being of its youngest members. Your child is our child. That is the promise.
How We Got Here
Our Story
Christina's Child Care Center was born from a simple belief: every child deserves a safe, loving place to learn and grow. Founded by Ophelia Zeogar, the center started as a small home-based program and has grown into Crystal, MN's trusted child care partner.
Today, we serve families across multiple classrooms, providing high-quality care from infancy through school age. Our play-based approach, experienced staff, and commitment to family engagement set us apart. We are proudly licensed by Minnesota DCYF and deeply rooted in the community we serve.
Founded
Christina's Child Care Center opened its doors in Crystal, MN, welcoming its first families during one of the most challenging years in recent memory.
First Expansion
Growing demand led us to expand our space and hire additional certified staff, allowing us to serve more families across multiple classrooms.
School-Age Program Added
We launched our school-age program with before and after school care, plus free transportation to and from local schools.
Reached 50+ Families
A milestone that reflects the trust Crystal families have placed in us. Word of mouth has been our strongest recruitment tool.
Curriculum Redesign
We overhauled our curriculum to incorporate the latest research in early childhood development, doubling down on play-based and culturally responsive learning.
What Drives Us
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To provide a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive through play-based education and compassionate care. We partner with families to build strong foundations that last a lifetime.
Our Vision
To be the child care center in Crystal, MN that families trust most, known for excellence in early childhood education, authentic family engagement, and innovative programming that prepares children for lifelong learning and connection.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
These are not aspirations on a wall. They are the commitments we hold ourselves to every single day.
Safety & Well-being
Every decision starts with the safety and health of our children and staff. This is non-negotiable.
Respect & Inclusion
We celebrate diversity and make sure every family feels welcome, seen, and valued from day one.
Play-Based Learning
Children learn best through purposeful play, exploration, and discovery. We protect their right to be kids.
Family Partnership
Parents are a child's first and most important teachers. We work alongside you, never instead of you.
Continuous Improvement
We invest in professional development and evidence-based practices because your children deserve our best.
Community Connection
We build bridges between families, schools, and community resources. No one raises children alone.
The People Behind the Care
Meet Our Team
Dedicated professionals who bring heart, skill, and genuine love to the work of caring for your children.
Ophelia Zeogar
Lead Teacher
Ophelia brings creativity and patience to every classroom interaction. She designs engaging activities that spark curiosity across all age groups, from infants discovering textures to preschoolers building their first stories. Her approach is simple: meet each child where they are and give them what they need to take the next step.
Fun fact: Collects children's books from around the world
Stephen Zeogar
Owner & Operations Manager
Stephen keeps the center running smoothly so the teaching staff can focus on what matters: the kids. From facility maintenance to licensing compliance to parent communication, he handles the operational backbone that makes quality care possible. Families know him as the person who picks up the phone.
Fun fact: Coaches youth soccer on weekends
Christina Fraser
Assistant Director
With over 20 years in early childhood education, Christina is the heartbeat of the center's teaching philosophy. She mentors younger staff, develops curriculum frameworks, and ensures every child has a safe and joyful place to learn. Her experience spans infant care through school-age programming, and she brings that full-spectrum perspective to everything she does.
Fun fact: Known for her legendary read-aloud voices
Come See Us for Yourself
The best way to understand what makes Christina's different is to walk through our doors. Schedule a tour and meet the people who will care for your child.
Crystal, MN · Licensed by Minnesota DCYF · Family-owned since 2020