Shannon Forest Christian School Provides an Exceptional Education and Much More

Choosing how to educate your child involves making important decisions, often early on in their life when parenting is still pretty new. The Greenville area has many wonderful schools, which is great – but it can also be overwhelming. I’ve talked to tons of parents in the area about their recommendations for schools and one always, always tops the list: Shannon Forest Christian School (SFCS).

Thank you to Shannon Forest Christian School for supporting Kidding Around Greenville by sponsoring this website post.

The parents I’ve spoken with about Shannon Forest get fairly animated when they discuss the school. They love it. Like really love it. SFCS has wonderful academics, athletics, and the encouraging atmosphere of a Christian education experience. Parents specifically mention the teachers and the Transitional Kindergarten program has two of the highlights.

So here is why Shannon Forest may be a great fit for your family.

Academic Environment

SFCS offers Shannon Beginnings for K3 and K4, in both full and half day options for the smaller ones. The program helps to prepare young children for an easy transition to Kindergarten which includes lots of guided play and nurturing care from loving teachers.

If some children are not ready for Kindergarten, Shannon Forest offers a unique Transitional Kindergarten Program. The Lower School includes Kindergarten 5 through 5th Grade. Students also enjoy time in the Innovations STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Lab.

Middle school is tough and can be a hard transition for some students. SFCS conducts a specially designed Crusader Crossroads program to ease students through this big step, plus classes, study sessions and one-on-one tutoring options are targeted at student success.

The Upper School at SFCS encompasses students in 7th-12th Grade and focuses on Math, Science, History and English. Several Advanced Placement (AP) courses like English, Calculus, U.S. History, European Biology, Music Theory and Biology are available for qualified students. The SFCS Director of College Counseling assists students and their families as they apply for college and explore career options.

Athletics and The Arts

On the athletic field, students in 6th through 12th Grade are able to participate in a variety of sports teams including soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, cheerleading, soccer, golf, baseball, and track & field.

The school has no shortage of creative outlets for the students. SFCS offers Foreign Language, Drama, Choir, Yearbook and Visual Arts. They also perform concerts and theatrical productions for the school and community.

Christ-Centered Values

Shannon Forest is unapologetic about its worldview; it is distinctly Christian and rooted in discipleship. Every member of the faculty and staff understands that their vocation as teachers is to teach in a way that is Christ-centered, academically excellent, and designed to move students into higher categorical thinking. They also understand that teaching is discipleship by its very nature. Family, love, and truth are at the heart of what every student and family experiences on the Shannon Forest campus.

SFCS develops these role models by requiring a certain number of service hours from each student where they are able to demonstrate their Christian faith and values in the real world.

The Vision of the school is “Educating and equipping students to pursue excellence and impact the world for Jesus Christ.” The mission is similar: “We are a Christian community providing a comprehensive college-preparatory education rooted in the truth of a Biblical worldview and marked by wisdom, excellence, and purpose.”

Fall Fest

Shannon Forest is celebrating their 50th year and are inviting anyone and everyone to their big Fall Fest on Thursday, October 25th from 5 pm – 8:50 pm. A BBQ dinner will be available for purchase but lots of free activities are happening as well, like Children’s Activities, swing dancing, music including a performance by Brandon and The Books, and special guest, Pastor Clayton King.

To purchase the dinner, visit the Shannon Forest website. To schedule a tour of the school, email or call the Director of Admissions, Candace Kurtz at ckurtz@shannonforest.com or call 864.678.5113.

Plan a visit to Shannon Forest

Shannon Forest Christian School
829 Garlington Road, Greenville
864.678.5107

Would Shannon Forest Christian School be a good fit for your child?

These Dance Lessons Only Cost Approximately $15 a Month

Looking for a class that will instill your child with social skills, physical agility, grace, promote confidence interacting with the opposite gender and be useful for various events throughout their entire life? What if I told you most if not all the equipment was supplied and the cost was about two bucks and some change per lesson? Sounds too good to be true right? Well it’s not, this is the Gold Star Youth Program ballroom dance club. ~Lindy Wilson, KAG Contributor

A little about Greenville Ballroom Dance

The Greenville Ballroom Dance club is led by ballroom professionals Roy Jordan and Dottie Schipper, who volunteer ten hours of instruction time a week. Roy has very diverse and advanced training across a variety of ballroom dance styles, having taught for over a quarter century. Dottie co-directs the program which started 14 years ago and has won various awards for community service. The club is based on an idea that started in New York inner city schools to bring ballroom dance to students from all walks of life. Watch the documentary “Mad Hot Ballroom”, currently on Netflix, if you’d like to know more,or check out the Hollywood version of the story, called Take the Lead which stars Antonio Banderas.

The only cost is currently a small “club” fee of $15/month, which is more or less to encourage accountability and regular attendance. The full costs are covered through a combination of volunteering and donations, including the competition entrance fees for advanced dancers and their costumes. That works out to about $3-4 per weekly class depending on how the month falls. Children in advanced levels take more than one lesson a week at no additional costs. Classes take place almost every week, through school breaks and are only cancelled for major holidays, so no worrying about shifting schedules–just show up!

What to expect if you attend a Greenville Ballroom Dance Lesson

When we went to our first class a few months ago, we were cheerfully greeted as my daughter was fitted for dance shoes and given a new pair in her size for FREE, along with a name tag and labeled storage box as well as a practice CD of dance music. They don’t always have every shoe size but they try to keep as much on hand as they can, all funded by donations. They only ask that the shoes remain on site stored in each child’s own container and not worn outside. There’s also skirts and various other dance apparel available, including donated high end gowns the older girls can wear for performances. However for class, any neat and casual outfit is fine. This is preferably swishy dresses or skirts that girls can move in, and for boys, slacks and a nice top. If they don’t have shoes for you, a comfortable pair of dress shoes is fine, ideally leather soled. The dress code is highly encouraged but you won’t be sent away for sweats and sneakers. (My daughter wears dresses I buy on clearance at Target for around $5, along with tights and a cardigan if it’s cold. The first day she wore some supportive sandals but she was immediately given dance shoes.) Girls should also tie back their hair and fancy updos per ballroom competition caliber are appreciated.

All school age children are welcome (approximately ages 6-18) and boys especially are welcome, because as with most dance programs, there tends to be a gender imbalance. There are quite a good amount of boys already though so your sons won’t feel like the odd man out. (Classes seem to average 40% male/60% female from what I can see). Ballroom is particularly enriching for guys as it encourages good leadership skills, confidence and for later down the road, ease in socializing with girls. The middle schooler who has the self assurance to whisk a girl around the dance floor is a guy who will never lack for female admirers! There is also the light footed dance cross training aspect that can help in sports, as in the classic “football player taking ballet” advice. For more artistically inclined kiddos, this is a physical way to learn rhythm and design.

While not heavily entrenched in music theory, learning the basic differences between ¾ time for waltzes and common 4/4 time for foxtrot/rhumba/what have you, expands their understanding in ways not otherwise experienced. The spatial reasoning, independent split second decision making and timing awareness necessary for ballroom blows me away most days, even the ones I’m fully caffeinated on! Unlike other forms of dance such as jazz or ballet, where you are given a specific routine or exercise, ballroom has its basic steps, a myriad of variations and then you are left to circle around the floor with your partner in whatever fashion you find fit.

Classes meets Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 pm – 6 pm. Beginner classes are Monday, followed by intermediate on Tuesday and advanced on Wednesday.
Classes meet at the Long Branch Baptist Church, 28 Bolt Street, Greenville. Arrive early for extra practice. Additional practice is available free to everyone every weekday (except Friday) from two until 6 o’clock. This practice time is highly encouraged.
The fifteen dollar membership fee is collected every month. Dress nicely- think comfortable and neat.
Classes are structured to accommodate all levels. Slower dances are reviewed at the beginning of class each week with basics explained for any newcomers and then more advanced dances are introduced at the end of the hour.
Practicing at home is highly recommended. CDs are provided for guidance and YouTube is great for visual demonstrations between classes.
Gold Star Youth had a United States Ballroom Dance winner in the pre-teen division at the National Dance Competition last Labor Day in a Orlando. You will find several pictures on Facebook. Come check it out!

The details on Greenville Ballroom Dance

When: Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays 5 – 6 pm. (Monday: Beginnings, Tuesday: Intermediate, Wednesday: Advanced)

Who: School age children (approximately 6 – 18 years-old)

Cost: $15 per month club fee.

Free classes: free workshops, free competition gowns, free practice shoes, free CDs, and two showcases at no charge per year

Where: Long Branch Baptist Church, 28 Bolt Street, Greenville

You are welcome to try Greenville Ballroom Dance for free before paying the monthly club fee.

Contact: Dottie Schipper 864.414.5500 dottieschipper@me.com, or Roy Jordan: RoyJordan10 @AOL.com

Visit their Facebook page for more details.

Do you want to give Greenville Ballroom Dance a try?

5 Tips from a Teacher for a Great Start to School

Greenville County Schools start on Monday, August 20th- are you ready? We’ve put together a great list of tips to ensure your kids’ school year gets off to a great start! We hope these tips from a teacher help your family get off on the right foot this year!

Are you ready for the first day of school? It’s that time!! I know, I know, you’re a hot mess of super sad to see them go back but very glad for a little extra quiet time. Here are a few tips to make sure everyone in the family is ready. ~Andrea Beam, KAG Contributor

Be prepared

The best way to be sure you and they feel comfortable is to have the necessary supplies. Supplies are easy to check off the list as you get them and you know just how awesome it feels to check things off the to do list! Be sure to think of the things the teacher doesn’t have down- lunchbox, bookbag, Kleenex (for you), extras for your house (you’ll need notebook paper for homework)…things like that.

Give it time

You and your child will both need time to adjust to the new schedule, teacher, and routines. Be patient with them and give yourself room for mistakes (theirs and yours). Build in a few extra minutes if you’re at a new school because, inevitably, you’ll start driving the same direction you’ve gone before and have to turn around. (Not that I’ve done anything like this before…)

Touch base with the teacher

Your child’s teacher wants to hear from you! Not all the time, naturally, but trust me- I love when a parent checks in to be sure there aren’t things on my wish list that I need or checks to see if there’s anything I need prayed over. Letting the teacher know you care about more than just the grade she’ll give will warm her heart!

Be sure you’ve signed up

Sign up for everything as early as possible. Join PTA, even if you can’t volunteer time. (It helps your child’s class win a prize.) Sign up to volunteer if you can- we need help! Get your kids registered for any programs you’d like them to participate in, such as Good News Club, after school, etc.

Take pictures for just you

Yes- post away with the first day pictures, but be sure to take some personal ones just for you, like the kids brushing teeth and hair while getting ready or the oatmeal faces that laugh at breakfast. Those are really the memories we love anyway, right?!

Enjoy the school year. You’ll do great and they’ll be fine! (I say that to you as well as to myself!) Happy new year!!!

What’s your best tip for being ready for the new school year?

My Kids Loved the Brand New Playground at Juanita Butler Community Center

As summer sizzles to an end, you may be running out of ideas to keep your children active. We are excited to tell you about a new playground at the Juanita Butler Community Center. This park on the west side of Greenville is sure to be a big hit with your kids, after all, it includes a zip line, a rope climbing structure and more.

The playground at Juanita Butler Community Center

Zip! Zip! Zip! That is what your kids will want to do when they arrive. With time, they will learn how to go faster on the zip line and will hurl themselves from one side to the other. Don’t worry! They can’t go very fast, and it is totally safe.

Once your kids are ready to look at the rest of the playground, they will really love the rope climbing structure. It is such a challenge to get to the top and so much fun. There are lots of balancing beams and steps. The monkey bars are high which makes them perfect for your bigger kids.

The full-size basketball court is covered and lit. Invite your friends and bring a basketball to have an exciting game day or night. Behind the basketball court, twelve swings will ensure your child gets all the swing time he or she desires.

My boys were so happy when they saw a Little Free Library! Bring a book or two to exchange with a new book to enjoy once you get home. My boys sat down right there to read theirs.

There are no benches and the entire playground is in the sun. If you are looking for a place to go on a cool day, this is your park. But, it it’s hot, bring a chair or two to sit under the trees beside the playground.

Hope you can get out to this new playground very soon! There is so much to enjoy.

Where you can find Juanita Butler Community Center

2 Burns Street, Greenville
864.467.4328

Have you visited the new playground at Juanita Butler Community Center yet?

Find Out Why Christ Church Episcopal School was Ranked Best Private School in South Carolina

Looking for the perfect Greenville County school option for your family? Christ Church Episcopal School is a wonderful choice and one families in the Upstate should consider when looking at schools in our area. Read on for more details on why CCES might just make a great choice for your family!

Thank you to Christ Church Episcopal School for sponsoring this website post.

The Greenville area is home to many excellent schools and parents have an overwhelming array of educational institutions they can choose from to meet their child’s needs. But really, as a parent, where do you start and how do you know if you’ve made the right decision in the end?

One school in Greenville stands out from others because of some incredible accomplishments. Christ Church Episcopal School (CCES) has a 100% college acceptance rate. In 2017, they were ranked #1 Best Private School in South Carolina by Niche.

And they still have a few remaining spots open for the 2018-19 school year. It’s not too late to tour or apply.

But first, here is why CCES is so awesome.

Encouraging well-rounded students

While academics are paramount to a classical education at CCES, the school also has a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center, a service learning program and 44 diverse athletic teams.

Class sizes are small, averaging one teacher for every ten students. And the staff at CCES are dedicated, experienced, and instill in the students a love of lifelong learning. Seventy percent of all CCES faculty members hold advanced degrees so students are in capable hands.

In the Lower School, learning is based on the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) where students learn how to research and present their knowledge to parents and peers. In Middle School, an emphasis is placed on skills that help students excel in both the academic and personal environments. Leadership, critical-thinking, and team building are foundational and students have multiple opportunities to engage in extracurricular and off-campus programs.

In the Upper School, students are offered more than 150 courses, including 22 Advanced Placement (AP) classes, where credits can count towards college classes. The classes are demanding and challenging yet prepare students to do well in college as they develop a wide array of skills needed long after they leave CCES.

Strategic Plan: Cultivating Deep Roots and Abundant Growth

CCES introduced their significant strategic plan, Cultivating Deep Roots and Abundant Growth, last fall. Staff studied other successful schools across the country and analyzed their own programs to see what they could do differently to move the school forward, challenge the students, and ultimately graduate young adults prepared to face college and exceed their goals.

The aim is to “equip all students for success in meeting the challenges and seizing the opportunities in the 21st Century,” said a school official.

CCES is developing wellness programs, integrating college preparation across grades, fostering a growth mindset and resilience in students through curriculum mapping and curriculum additions. They are also implementing the successful Lucy Calkins Writing curriculum, among others. One of the most influential literary educators in the nation, Lucy Culkins developed a curriculum that encourages teacher modeling, one-on-one learning, and independent writing.

Service Learning

As a Christian school, CCES values serving others and giving back to the community and encourages that same spirit in their students. When I was in high school, I couldn’t wait to get out of the classroom and into my community for service projects. By encouraging the same values in their students, CCES is helping to develop and nurture giving hearts throughout the school.

Age-appropriate projects are given to students at each grade level and they are encouraged to volunteer and recognize on their own how to serve based on what they experience. For example, some students from CCES volunteered at a local soup kitchen and realized the importance of having soap. They started a collection at school for soap and other hygiene-related items so they could bring them all back to the soup kitchen.

Athletics & Performing Arts & Faith

CCES is a member of the South Carolina High School League and the school encourages participation and performance at a high level. Sports offered include football, tennis, field hockey, volleyball, golf, lacrosse, softball, baseball, basketball, cheerleading and wrestling.

The Performing Arts Center at CCES is ahead of the curve when it comes to nurturing that creative spirit in students. CCES has talented faculty specializing in drama, music, theatre, and the visual arts, all ready to aid students to cultivate their inner Shakespearean character, Broadway musical star, Picasso, or Bruce Springsteen.

CCES is a faith based educational institution rooted in the Christian, Episcopal tradition and students attend weekly chapel services. Many of the school traditions stem from the CCES mission and “experience”. However, CCES embraces students from a spectrum of religious beliefs and welcomes them all into the CCES family.

What Others Are Saying about CCES

CCES has great reviews from parents and students. It’s easy to see that families really love the school and understand the value of a Christian education for their children.

A senior at CCES wrote: “I transferred to Christ Church sophomore year from a big public school. I enjoy the close knit community. I know all my teachers, and all my teachers know me. I have made a great group of friends. Also, CCES prepares you greatly for college and their classes challenge you to be your best.”

“CCES has provided a warm, nurturing environment for our kids to excel. They are academically challenged and involved in both team sports as well as academic clubs. One of the common comments heard from students as well as parents is how involved the faculty and administration are in their lives. Teachers go out of their way to teach, coach and mentor each student, truly taking a personal interest in them,” wrote another parent of two children who graduated from CCES.

Check out Christ Church Episcopal School for yourself

Want to check out CCES at an Open House? Mark your calendar for Thursday, October 4th at 9:30 am and 6:00 pm.

To learn more, visit:

Christ Church Episcopal School
245 Cavalier Drive, Greenville
864.299.1522

Visit the CCES on Instagram or Facebook.

Have you considered Christ Church Episcopal School for your kid’s education?

This Awesome Park in Greenville Offers Multiple Playgrounds, a Walking Trail, Tennis Courts & More

If you’re searching for a park that has designated play spaces for little kids and big kids plus some other features too, look no further! KAG Contributor Deborah and her kids love Butler Springs Park and think you will too! This awesome park includes multiple playgrounds, a walking trail, tennis courts and more!

About Butler Springs Park

What if you could sit in the shade for just a minute or two while your toddler happily plays on an age-appropriate playground? When my boys were all under 4, that idea felt like a dream. Butler Springs Park has an exciting playground for little ones that is fully enclosed and mostly shaded. The fenced-in area even has baby swings and a couple of benches. Restrooms are just steps away.

But, do not think that Butler Springs is just for toddlers! The playground designed for ages 5-12 has tall slides, challenging balance beams and monkey bars, swings, shifting stepping blocks and so much more. The crazy, rotating disc is thrilling, and there’s even some monkey bars hidden under the fish. A bench under the tall trees allows you to watch your children in the shade.

The large, covered pavilion complete with restrooms, drinking fountains and grills is situated between the two playgrounds. You will also find many picnic tables scattered throughout the park. We have brought dinner to this park and had large family gatherings.

We love the paved trail that weaves between the playgrounds, lighted tennis courts and baseball fields. Much of the trail is also shaded. You’ll discover some fun activities to do with your children along the way including hop-scotch.

The park is surrounded by quiet neighborhoods and only five minutes from Haywood Mall. Get your children, young and old, to this park the next time you want some good family time!

Visit Butler Springs Park

301 Butler Springs Road, Greenville
Visit the Butler Springs Park website here.

What’s your favorite thing to do when visiting Butler Springs Park?

Holmes Park near Downtown Greenville Has a Brand New Playground Your Kids Will Love

Do you want to find a new playground in an old neighborhood? Your children are sure to enjoy playing at Holmes Park. KAG contributor, Deborah, recently checked it out and found a tranquil park full of activities for children, teens and adults.

If you’re looking for more great parks to visit see our Greenville parks page.

Until just a few weeks before her 100th birthday, my grandmother lived in the quiet neighborhood of Dellwood. I have wonderful memories of walking down the street to Holmes Park where I could play at the playground and run around. Of course, as a child, I had no idea that Holmes Park is located just 3 miles from Cherrydale and 2 miles from downtown Greenville.

I didn’t think about how nice it was to not have to wait to go down the slide or how easy it was for my mom to keep track of me. I just loved being a kid. Now, I get to share this lovely park with my boys.

Holmes Park new playground in Greenville

About Holmes Park

The adventure begins the moment you get out of the car. You can barely see the playground from the parking lot which means you get to run up the path, beside the covered pavilion, all the way up to the brand-new playground.

This bright playground’s plethora of climbing structures makes it feel like an obstacle course. Your children will be challenged and determined to conquer the hanging triangle tunnel. The slide stands out from others with a climbing wall to reach the top instead of a ladder.

The teacup-like ride, rotating shuttle, and netted tunnel complete the draw this playground will have for every child aged 5-12. There is a fully shaded bench where you can sit and watch your children, but the playground is not shaded.

The giant live oak tree right beside the playground will draw your children into nature’s playground. You can climb its thick, low branches, hide in its leaves, and let your imagination run wild. An excellent frisbee golf course encircles the park. Most of the course is shaded which means you could take a nice walk even in the heat of the summer.

You will also find tennis courts and a ball field in the center of the park, and restrooms are across the field from the playground.

Visit Holmes Park

111 Holmes Drive, Greenville
6 am – 9 pm daily
Visit the Holmens Park website.

Have you taken your kids to explore Holmes Park since the new playground was installed?

parks and playgrounds spartanburg greenville

Here’s your ultimate guide to parks and playgrounds near Greenville, SC.

The Brand New Cancer Survivors Park is Now Open

If you’ve been on the Swamp Rabbit Trail recently you may have stumbled upon the brand new Cancer Survivors Park. We sent our newest contributor and local mom, Deborah, to check it out and tell us all about it. This awesome new park includes beautiful gardens, an amazing sculpture and more.

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Have you met a person who has not been touched by cancer? Cancer is all around us and even the word triggers feelings of fear and sadness in many of us. Maybe you are like Tom Bates who lost his daughter, Lindsey Motley, at 29 to colon cancer. He is the president of the board for the new Cancer Survivors Park. What used to be a narrow, grated bridge connecting Cleveland Park to Falls Park is now a large park filled with water falls, gardens, walkways and art.

About Cancer Survivors Park

The Cancer Survivors Park is providing hope and tranquility amid the darkness of this disease. You will find hope as you walk underneath the butterflies welcoming you to the park. You may have noticed more butterflies around Greenville. Each of these butterflies is a “Butterfly Keeper” paid for by private donors to support the Cancer Survivors Park and designed by Yuri Tsuzuki.

Another picture of hope and the focal point of the park is the amazing Celebration Pavilion. You can see it from Church Street or Cleveland Street without even getting out of your car. Standing under it will allow you a panoramic view of the entire park.

How can you not find tranquility as you walk past the man-made waterfall and enjoy the rushing of the Reedy River throughout the park! Once you cross the Spirit Bridge, you can go to your left and walk down through the Healing Garden to the Reedy River and let the sound of the river wash over you.

When you cross the bridge and go to your right, you will come to the Children’s Garden. A life-size sculpture called Fear Not by Charles Pate Jr. shows a lion comforting a child. It is a warm symbol of the strength a child receives going through cancer.

Where you’ll find Cancer Survivors Park

The main parking area of the park is off Cleveland Street. You can also access the park by parking in Cleveland Park and walking up the Swamp Rabbit Trail towards Fall Park. Another parking option is at the Next building on Church Street. This is a fun entrance as you walk the Boardwalk that weaves down through the woods, past two overlooks, and brings you out at the Turning Point Plaza of the park.

Come visit this park as soon as you can! Your children will love the walkways and water, and you can take some very deep breaths.

Cancer Survivors Park
52 Cleveland St, Greenville
864.255.5010

Have you visited Cancer Survivors Park yet? If so, what part did you like the most?

Majesty Music Academy Offers Music Lessons and Classes for Kids and Adults, Summer Camp and More

Wondering if maybe it’s time to start your child in music lessons but not sure where to look? KAG Contributor Kristina recently met with the owner of a brand new music academy that she’s sharing with us. Majesty Music Academy offers lessons and classes for all ages, summer camp and more!

Thank you to Majesty Music Academy for sponsoring this article. Be sure to check out the KAG reader special offer and sign up for two free KinderFlute classes today!

Music is such a transcendental form of art. It touches the artist, the teacher, and those who listen to it in ways that are sometimes indescribable. Learning how to play an instrument or sing well is something no one can take away from another person. If nurtured, encouraged and properly formed, a lifelong love of music can transform lives in incredibly positive ways.

Studies indicate that students who participate in high-quality music programs score higher on standardized tests, including 17% higher in mathematics and 19% higher in English than students in a low-quality music program or no music program. These students also have a larger vocabulary and better reading skills than their peers who do not participate in music lessons.

Right here in Greenville is the new Majesty Music Academy, which houses talented professionals and distinguished musicians who are dedicated to giving children a head start in math, reading, music, and self-confidence. People of every age and background enjoy studying here. It is the only private music school in the Upstate where the general public can study with both award-winning artist teachers and expert elementary specialists under one roof. The academy offers an array of music programs and private lessons for preschoolers, elementary and middle schoolers, high schoolers, and adults.

About Majesty Music Academy

Majesty Music Academy is founded by Greenville native, Dr. Susan Kindall, an internationally recognized performing pianist and teacher. Dr. Kindall says, “Music study fosters skills and character traits that go far beyond playing an instrument. Our work with students helps them to develop problem solving skills, independent thinking, discipline, commitment, concentration, confidence, and creativity. In addition, one-on-one private music study provides the opportunity for a unique experience where teaching and learning can be highly customized, allowing students to realize their full potential and transfer their lessons to life.”

The academy is equipped with cutting edge technology, including a professional recording studio and full-service classical percussion studio. Piano lessons are taught on acoustic concert grands, baby grand and studio pianos. Visual arts are also promoted in their on-site fine art gallery featuring community artists.

Majesty Music Academy strives to make their exceptional lessons both affordable and accessible for all, even offering online classes.

Majesty Music Academy offers KinderFlute® and WunderKeys®

Through unique music programs geared specifically for kids ages 4–8 (KinderFlute®) and ages 4–5 (WunderKeys®), Majesty Music Academy has the opportunity for children to start very young and learn the basics of music through age-appropriate fun.

The Preschool and Elementary Music Studies are taught by Majesty Music’s expert early childhood development specialists. These two programs consist of finger play and a foundational understanding of piano playing (for WunderKeys®) and impeccable flute technique (for KinderFlute®), group play, musical games, movement activities, and a well-rounded curriculum. The academy is the exclusive provider of KinderFlute® in the Upstate.

Try out KinderFlute® for FREE

No instruments are needed for your first two free introductory KinderFlute® classes. Sign up here.

KinderFlute® consists of 10 weekly sessions for 60 minutes each and the cost is $64.50 per month. WunderKeys® is a little longer with 14 weekly sessions, but they are only 30 minutes each and cost $112 per month. Enrollment is ongoing and students can enroll at any time.

Lessons and Classes for Elementary, Young Artists, and Adults

Private lessons are available for kids ages 6+ in piano, voice, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, conducting, and even theory/composition. Terms are all 14 weeks long and prices vary depending on how long instruction lasts. For 30 minutes for young beginners, the cost is $119 per month, for 45 minutes, it is $164.50 per month, and for an hour session, the fee is $217 per month.

Majesty Music Academy offers an accelerated program for serious students with professional and collegiate aspirations for students ages 13+ in their Young Artists program. This program includes competitions, master classes, solo recitals and festivals. Master teachers nurture students, propelling them beyond what they thought possible.

Sessions are offered in 45-minute increments ($189/month), 60-minute increments ($248.50/month), and 90-minute increments ($357/month).

Evening adult classes are also offered by the professionals at Majesty Music Academy. Adults (ages 16+) can study different instruments in the woodwinds, strings, percussion and voice. Lessons are semi-private and take place over 12 weeks in 45-minute sessions, which costs $95/month.

One neat thing about the academy is that they offer online classes through a secure platform. This is awesome for people who want exceptional instruction but for whatever reason, cannot commit to getting to the academy every week. Adults, young people, teens, and even seasoned music teachers and church musicians enjoy the convenience of studying online from the comfort of their own living rooms.

What about instruments at Majesty Music Academy?

Students need to practice their chosen instrument in order to improve, just like anything else they are learning. So Majesty Music Academy does require their students to have the instrument they are learning.

There are places in the area that actually rent musical instruments to students. Other places sell used instruments as well. Majesty Music has lists of all these places and relationships with local dealers to help students do the best they can during lessons.

Majesty Music Academy begins with an Interview Lesson

Every student new to the academy completes an initial 30-minute interview lesson for only $34. This gives people the chance to meet the teacher, see the facilities, and receive expert advice on selecting the perfect program. To schedule the interview, see this link.

Majesty Music Academy offers Summer Camp

Majesty Music Academy offers a week-long MusiCamp for children K5–6th grades (ages 4–11), with a specialized piano track for grades 3–6. This morning camp is the third week of June annually and costs only $30/individual and $60/family. It features its own original curriculum and music. You can register here.

Majesty Music Academy
733 Wade Hampton Boulevard, Greenville
864.242.6395
lessons@MajestyMA.com
http://MajestyMusicAcademy.com

Giveaway! Win Hymnproviser 1 – The Art of Improvising Text/Workbook

One lucky Kidding Around reader is going to win Hymnproviser 1 – The Art of Improvising Text/Workbook.

“Use the talents that you possess. The woods would be very silent if the birds that sang were only the best.”

The Hymnproviser series is acclaimed as one of the most comprehensive and effective hymn playing tools for sacred pianists today. The Art of Hymnprovising Text/Workbook carries the prerequisite of the ability to play four parts out of a hymnbook. The first workbook in the series covers 20 lessons with such concepts as:

Sacred Song
The Musical Sentence
Half steps and Whole steps
Intervals
Transposition and Scales
Circle of Fifths
Major, Minor, & Perfect Intervals
Triads and Inversions
The Major/Minor 7th Chord
Chords in Hymn Style
The Diminished Chord
Diatonic Triads
Playing a Solo by Ear
Playing Duets by Ear

This giveaway starts now and ends on July 12th at midnight.

You must be 18 or older and live in the USA to enter this giveaway.
You must use a valid email address to enter this giveaway.
One entry per person per day.
We will contact the winner via the email address provided within three [3] days of the giveaway ending. The winner will have three [3] days (72 hours) to respond via email. If the winner does not respond within the three [3] days (72 hours), the prize will be forfeited and another winner chosen. Directions for claiming the prize will be given via email. A valid photo ID and/or mailing address may be required.
For a complete list of Kidding Around Greenville SC’s giveaway policies and terms and conditions, see the Kidding Around Greenville SC policy page. By entering this giveaway, you agree to comply with Kidding Around Greenville SC’s terms and conditions.

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What type of music lesson would your child like to try?

Ride An Indoor Ferris Wheel and Carousel at Kangaroo Jax

You know those days when you are awakened by your kids at the crack of dawn and it’s raining or it’s too hot or too cold outside and there is just no way you are dealing with energetic little people in your house all day? Kangaroo Jax, an indoor bounce house complete with a ferris wheel, carousel, arcade games, and concessions can help you out. Read on to learn all about this new, indoor play place your kids will love!

Thank you to Kangaroo Jax for supporting Kidding Around Greenville by sponsoring this website giveaway. Read on to find out how you can win a birthday party!

About Kangaroo Jax

I first heard of Kangaroo Jax through a friend and honestly did not believe it to be as cool as she said. Kids can bounce around for as many hours as they like for one admission fee? And they can ride a carousel and ferris wheel for no extra charge?

This place does exist and it’s as neat as you’ve probably heard. Not only do they have an enormous space filled with things to help your kid get out energy, they also do birthday parties!

Admission Pricing

Monday through Friday, kids are $10 each and Saturday and Sunday $12 each. There is no limit to how long your child can play. Kids up to 12 years old are welcome to play at Kangaroo Jax.

But what about the little kids? During the week, children ages 2-5 can play for just $7 from 10 am – 2 pm.

What about kids under the age of two? Can they come? Yes! There is actually an entire space at Kangaroo Jax dedicated to kids under four years old. As a parent of a child in this age range, I love this feature because it helps my peace of mind to know that no big kids will accidentally be knocking around my little one.

If you bring children younger than two years old by themselves, their admission ticket is $7. If you bring them with an older sibling, they are free. We like free.

Birthday Parties

A good birthday party is one where parents have little to no work to do and kids have all the fun. That’s the secret sauce at Kangaroo Jax. They do everything for parents, from setting up the room with balloons and table settings to ordering and serving the food, which comes with the Mega Party and Ultimate Party packages.

The baseline Jax’s Birthday Party includes 10 guests, two hours of party room use, set-up and tear down, online invitations, paper goods and balloons, and one party host. This party package is $249 Friday – Sunday and $169 Monday – Thursday.

The Jax’s Mega Party includes all of the above in addition to two slices of pizza plus one soft drink per child and is $279 Friday – Sunday and $199 Monday – Thursday.

The Jax’s Ultimate Party includes all of the above plus party favors. This party is $300 Friday – Sunday and $229 Monday – Thursday.

Parents can add more than 10 children for a party to each package for an additional fee. If they want more pizza or extra balloons or extra drink pitchers, those options are available as well.

The only thing parents can bring to the party is a birthday cake/cupcakes. No other outside food or drink is permitted. When the party is over, all of the guests are able to play on the main floor until closing time.

And for us procrastinating parents, Kangaroo Jax allows parents to book a party with only three days’ notice. However, they do recommend booking your date ahead of time, especially on weekends, since they tend to fill up fast.

Tips When You Go

I took my kids to Kangaroo Jax on a big school holiday so there were a lot of kids, but it never felt too crowded or overwhelming since the place is huge and there are lots of things to do. I love that this place is open on most school holidays and breaks (and even snow days) and all summer when the kids are out of school. It has gone straight to the top of my “things to do with kids” list.

One thing to note is that your kids will need socks, so be sure to bring them or have an extra pair or two in your car.

Also, fill out your waiver online to save time so when you get to Kangaroo Jax you won’t have anxious kids waiting to play!

Kangaroo Jax has concessions including pizza, pretzels, and even coffee, which makes it pretty easy to spend a good chunk of time there. The owners were insightful about the needs of families when they designed the place.

So when you need a break and the kids need a place to get out their enormous supply of energy, try Kangaroo Jax!

Kangaroo Jax
2437 Laurens Road, Greenville
Monday-Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
Friday-Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
864.902.5297
https://kangaroojaxs.com/

The Giveaway

One very lucky Kidding Around Greenville reader is going to win an Ultimate Birthday Party Package at Kangaroo Jax! This party package includes ten guests, 2 hours in the party room, set up and break down, one party host, pizza, soda and party favors.

This giveaway starts now and end at midnight on July 3, 2018!

You must be 18 or older and live in the USA to enter this giveaway.
You must use a valid email address to enter this giveaway.
One entry per person per day.
We will contact the winner via the email address provided within three [3] days of the giveaway ending. The winner will have three [3] days (72 hours) to respond via email. If the winner does not respond within the three [3] days (72 hours), the prize will be forfeited and another winner chosen. Directions for claiming the prize will be given via email. A valid photo ID and/or mailing address may be required.
For a complete list of Kidding Around Greenville SC’s giveaway policies and terms and conditions, see the Kidding Around Greenville SC policy page. By entering this giveaway, you agree to comply with Kidding Around Greenville SC’s terms and conditions.