Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Top Preschools: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Where can you find a top-notch preschool in Greenville, SC? Parents want childcare they feel is educational and safe, and Kidding Around readers voted for their favorite facilities.

Our KABOOM Awards Family Favorite winners are some of the best preschools near Greenville, SC.

Top Preschools in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best Preschool in Greenville, SC

1st Place: First Presbyterian Academy

Finalists:

  • Aldersgate Child Development Center
  • Little Me Academy
  • Giggles Drop-In Childcare
  • Bob Jones Academy

First Presbyterian Academy (FPA) is a private, Christ-centered school in Greenville, South Carolina, serving students in K3 through 12th grade across two vibrant campuses. Known for its small class sizes, strong relationships, and a commitment to spiritual formation, FPA provides an environment where students are known, nurtured, and challenged to grow into the unique individuals God created them to be.

From the early years through high school graduation, students experience hands-on learning, engaging academics, and personalized attention that supports their strengths, interests, and calling. With dedicated teachers, a safe and supportive atmosphere, and a focus on whole-child development, FPA equips students with the confidence and character needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Beyond academics, FPA offers a robust student life experience—fine arts, athletics, leadership programs, service opportunities, and clubs that help students discover their gifts and build lifelong friendships. Rooted in biblical truth and guided by a mission to develop well-rounded servant leaders, FPA partners with families to provide a transformative education that prepares students for college, career, and kingdom impact.

At First Presbyterian Academy, faith and learning come together to create a school community where students flourish.

The Ultimate Guide to Preschools and Day Care in the Upstate.

Check out more preschool options.

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Greenville Preschool & Childcare Programs.


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: First Presbyterian Academy

Finalists: 

  • Little Me Academy
  • Giggles Drop-in Childcare
  • Ivybrook Academy Five Forks Campus

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: First Presbyterian Academy

Finalists: 

  • Giggles Drop-in Childcare
  • St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Preschool
  • Primrose School of Simpsonville at Five Forks
  • Little Me Academy

Top Family Dining: Greenville SC (KABOOM Winners)

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Are you looking for family dining? Greenville, SC area restaurants offer lots of different family meals for pick-up. In fact we have a whole list of great family meal deals. But if you’re looking for the best, reader-favorite family meals, this is the list for you. Our readers voted as part of our annual KABOOM Awards contest. These are their favorite, the best family dining in Greenville, SC.

Top Family Dining Places in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Family Dining in Greenville, SC

1st Place: Josey’s Chuck Wagon

Finalists:

  • Bucky’s Bar-B-Q
  • Swamp Rabbit Cafe
  • Stax’s Original Restaurant
  • The Southern Growl

Josey's Chuckwagon

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 864.655.4373 | 6001 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors , SC

JoseysChuckwagon

Josey’s Chuckwagon is a southern family owned restaurant, established December 31st of 2015, and located in Taylors, SC. Whether you’re looking for Sunday lunch, breakfast, lunch during the work week, or family dinner, we’ve got you covered!

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Find more delicious!

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Restaurants in the Upstate


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards Winners

1st Place: Josey’s Chuckwagon

Finalists:

2024 KABOOM Awards Winners

1st Place: Tropical Grille

Finalists:

Top Mom & Baby Support in Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards)

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Looking for a quick list of the best mom and baby resources in Greenville, SC? While we have a full maternity and postpartum guide with helpful local favorites, we also asked our readers to vote on their top picks in our annual KABOOM Awards contest. Here’s what they chose as the best mom and baby support spots in Greenville, SC!

Best Mom & Baby Support in Greenville, SC

1st Place: Breastfeeding Center at Parkside

Finalists:

Hub City Lactation

Breastfeeding Center at Parkside

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 864.516.2800 | 2 locations , Greenville & Spartanburg , SC

Confidence. Comfort. Community. That’s what you’ll find at the Breastfeeding Center at Parkside. Their certified lactation consultants are here to help you during your feeding journey—from preparing during pregnancy to troubleshooting latch issues, pumping, and returning to work.

The Breastfeeding Center offers private consultations, hands-on classes like Breastfeeding Basics and Baby Bootcamp, and a cozy space designed for learning and support. Need essentials? The Greenville location carries pump parts, milk-supply supplements, and more—all in one convenient spot. Plus, with resources like their support groups (Baby Basics and Mom Tribe), a helpful warm-line, and expert advice for everyday challenges, you’ll never feel alone on your journey.

Whether it’s your first baby or your third, we’re here to make breastfeeding easier and help moms feel more confident with our expertise and encouragement!

Top Public Education: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Which public schools in Greenville, SC are the best? Our readers voted as part of our annual KABOOM Awards contest for the best public school in the area. These are the reader-voted top public schools in Greenville, SC.

Best in Public Education in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best public schools in Greenville, SC

1st place: Mountain View Elementary School

Finalists:

  • Fine Arts Center
  • Skyland Elementary School
  • Taylors Elementary School
  • Legacy Early College

Mountain View Elementary

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 864.355.6800 | 6350 Mountain View Road, Taylors , SC

Mountain View

The mission of Mountain View Elementary School, in cooperation with the community, is to provide a safe, positive environment where children build skills, knowledge, and character needed for lifelong learning.

The school’s foremost responsibility is the adaptation to the academic needs of the children. The intellectual, personal, social, physical, and moral development of each child is the main concern of our school. The child benefits when the parents and teachers work together. Children learn best in an environment that fosters positive self-esteem. Children need exposure to a variety of teaching methods and strategies. Each child benefits from punctual and regular attendance. Children deserve to be treated with respect. These are statements of the purpose and fundamental truths which form the foundation of Mountain View Elementary School’s education system.


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: East North Street Academy

Finalists:

  • Taylors Elementary
  • Fine Arts Center
  • Mountain View Elementary
  • Skyland Elementary

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Skyland Elementary School

Finalists:

  • Fine Arts Center
  • Mountain View Elementary
  • Monarch Elementary School
  • Michell Road Elementary

Top After School Programs: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Where should you send your child to receive highly-rated after-school care in Greenville, SC? Working families typically require after-school care for their kids, and Kidding Around readers voted for their favorite.

Our KABOOM Awards Family Favorite winners were voted as some of the best after-school care programs near Greenville, SC.

Top After-School Programs in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best After School Care in Greenville, SC

1st place: Coast 2 Coast Camps

Finalists:

  • YMCA of Greenville
  • Giggles Drop-In Childcare
  • Yellowbobbypins Art Camp
  • Dance Collaborative
  • Girls on the Run Upstate SC

Coast 2 Coast Camps

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 877.830.3266 | 4 Upstate locations, , SC

Coast2Coast

At Coast 2 Coast Camps, we do more than watch kids—we invest in them. Every single day.

From our high-energy afterschool programs to our unforgettable summer camps, everything we do is designed to help kids grow academically, socially, emotionally, and physically—while having an absolute blast. Homework support. Structured games. Character-building lessons. Positive role models. Safe environments. Big smiles.

Parents trust us because we are intentional. Kids love us because camp feels like home. And our community has spoken—we are Voted #1 Afterschool AND #1 Summer Camp, a recognition we don’t take lightly. We’ve earned it through excellence, consistency, and care.

As a Christian organization, our values shape how we lead, serve, and love kids well. Faith, integrity, respect, and kindness are woven into our culture. At the same time, families from all backgrounds feel welcomed, valued, and respected here. Every child matters. Every family belongs.

If you’re looking for a place where your child will be safe, challenged, encouraged, and excited to come back each day—this is it.

Spots fill fast. Come see why families choose Coast 2 Coast Camps.

After School Care in Greenville, SC

Check out more after-school options.

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Greenville After-School Programs.


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Giggles Drop-In Childcare

Finalists:

  • Yellowbobbypins Art Camp
  • YMCA of Greenville

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Giggles Drop-In Childcare

Finalists:

  • YMCA of Greenville
  • Girls on the Run
  • Primrose Schol of Simpsonville at Five Forks
  • Sonshine Learning Center

Top Date Night Activities: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Winners)

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Are you planning your next date night in Greenville, SC? If you’re looking for new ideas for places to go on a date and things to do, our readers have voted on their favorites as part of our 2025 KABOOM Awards. These are our readers’ top date night activities in Greenville, SC.

Top Date Night Activities in Greenville, SC (2026)

The best date night ideas, Greenville SC

1st place: Hollowed Earth Pottery

Finalists:

  • Group Therapy Pub & Playground
  • Trapped in the Upstate Escape Rooms
  • Bridgeway Station
  • Roper Mountain Science Center

Hollowed Earth Pottery

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 864.757.2097 | info@hollowedearthpottery.com | 1320 Hampton Avenue Extension, Bay 7, Greenville , SC

HollowedEarth_1st

Hollowed Earth is a hands-on creative studio that turns date night into an experience worth remembering. Instead of the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, couples are invited to slow down, get a little messy, and create something meaningful together. From wheel throwing to hand-building classes, Hollowed Earth offers guided pottery experiences that are welcoming to beginners and fun for all skill levels. The relaxed atmosphere encourages conversation, laughter, and connection—making it the perfect setting for first dates, anniversaries, or just a night out together.

Guests leave not only with memories, but with handmade pieces that serve as lasting reminders of time well spent. It’s intimate, creative, and refreshingly different—everything a great date night should be. Hollowed Earth is more than a studio—it’s a place where connection happens naturally. Its hands-on classes make it an ideal date night spot for couples looking to unplug and spend quality time together. Creating together fosters conversation and creativity, all within a welcoming space. The result is an experience that feels both intimate and fun, leaving couples with meaningful keepsakes and a unique, shared memory.

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

More Things to Do Together!

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Date Ideas in the Upstate


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 Kaboom Awards Winners

1st Place: Roper Mountain

Finalists: 

2024 KABOOM Awards Winners

1st Place: Trapped in the Upstate

Finalists: 

There’s more where that came from!

Top Private Schools: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Where can you find an excellent private school near Greenville, SC? There are dozens of private education programs in the area, and Kidding Around readers voted for their favorite schools.

Our KABOOM Awards Family Favorites winners are some of the finest private schools near Greenville, SC.

Top Private Schools in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best Private schools in Greenville, SC

1st Place: First Presbyterian Academy

Finalists:

  • Bob Jones Academy
  • Hampton Park Christian School
  • Southside Christian School
  • Little Me Academy

First Presbyterian Academy (FPA) is a private, Christ-centered school in Greenville, South Carolina, serving students in K3 through 12th grade across two vibrant campuses. Known for its small class sizes, strong relationships, and a commitment to spiritual formation, FPA provides an environment where students are known, nurtured, and challenged to grow into the unique individuals God created them to be.

From the early years through high school graduation, students experience hands-on learning, engaging academics, and personalized attention that supports their strengths, interests, and calling. With dedicated teachers, a safe and supportive atmosphere, and a focus on whole-child development, FPA equips students with the confidence and character needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Beyond academics, FPA offers a robust student life experience—fine arts, athletics, leadership programs, service opportunities, and clubs that help students discover their gifts and build lifelong friendships. Rooted in biblical truth and guided by a mission to develop well-rounded servant leaders, FPA partners with families to provide a transformative education that prepares students for college, career, and kingdom impact.

At First Presbyterian Academy, faith and learning come together to create a school community where students flourish.

private schools in Greenville, SC

Check out more private school options.

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Greenville area Private Schools.


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: East North Street Academy

Finalists:

  • Taylors Elementary
  • Fine Arts Center
  • Mountain View Elementary
  • Skyland Elementary

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: First Presbyterian Academy

Finalists:

  • Bob Jones Academy
  • Abiding Peace Academy
  • Trailhead Community Farm School
  • Southside Christian School
  • Little Me Academy

Top Tutoring Programs: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Where can you find the best tutoring programs in Greenville, SC? Tutoring programs can be beneficial for all students, and Kidding Around readers voted for who they believed are the best in the area.

Our annual KABOOM Awards winners offer some of the best tutoring programs in Greenville, SC.
 

Top Tutoring Programs in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

The best tutoring programs in Greenville, SC

1st place: Sylvan Learning of the Upstate

Finalists:

  • STRIDES Systematic Tutoring
  • Pearl Center

Sylvan Learning of the Upstate

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 864.214.3528 | Sylvan.Upstate@glc-sylvan.com | Multiple Locations, Upstate , SC

Sylvan

Sylvan Learning delivers results that matter!

Our personalized tutoring gives your child exactly what they need, tailored to their unique learning style and preferences through an in-depth, adaptive assessment. We design a customized learning plan that adjusts to your child’s skill level and pace, keeping them engaged and motivated. At Sylvan, results matter, and we deliver.

Parents notice the difference:

The staff is friendly, professional, and truly cares about student success. The
personalized learning plans have made a big difference. We’ve seen real
improvement in both skills and confidence.” Tiffany H.

Sylvan has been an exceptional partner in our granddaughter’s academic
journey. What sets Sylvan apart is their individualized approach. It’s clear that the
engaging, student-centered environment has helped boost her confidence and
academic performance.” Sandra S.

We’re conveniently located near you in Anderson, Easley, North Main Greenville, Greenville, and Spartanburg. Our directors stay connected with families by sharing regular progress updates, addressing any questions or concerns, and monitoring your child’s growth through ongoing assessments.

Whether your child is building foundational skills or tackling advanced concepts, we provide the supplemental support that drives meaningful learning. You’ll see the impact not just in the classroom, but in all areas of life.

Children's Classes and Activities in Greenville, SC

Check out more great classes and activities for your kids!

Don’t miss our Kidding Around Guide to Classes and Activities in Greenville.


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awads

1st Place: STRIDES Systematic Tutoring

Finalist: Sylvan Learning of Greenville

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Sylvan Learning of the Upstate

Finalists: 

  • STRIDES Systematic Tutoring
  • Jason Hurdich’s American Sign Language Creator Academy
  • Mathnasium
  • Wired Minds

Top 5 Indoor Play Spaces: 2026 KABOOM Awards

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Looking for a quick list of the best indoor play spaces in Greenville, SC? While we have a full guide with tons of options, we also asked our readers to vote on their favorite indoor play spaces in our annual KABOOM Awards contest. Here’s what they chose as the best indoor play spaces in Greenville, SC!

Best Indoor Play Spaces in Greenville, SC

Best Indoor Play Spaces in Greenville, SC

1st Place: Palmetto Gymnastics Academy

Finalists:

  • The Little Gym of Greenville
  • Giggles Drop-In Childcare
  • The Children’s Museum of the Upstate
  • Kangaroo Jax

Palmetto Gymnastics Academy

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 115 Pride Drive, Simpsonville , SC

PGA_First

We are a small, family-oriented business founded in 2009 by Coaches Horatiu and Kristina Sana.
In 2024, we constructed and moved into our brand new, 20,000 sq.ft. facilty at 109 Pride Dr. This state of the art facility has dedicated equipment for our recreational classes and competitive teams.

 

Top Family Events: KABOOM Awards in Greenville, SC

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Looking for a quick list of the best family events in Greenville, SC? While we have a full calendar packed with ideas, we also asked our readers to vote on their favorite family-friendly events in our annual KABOOM Awards contest. Here’s what they chose as the best family events in Greenville, SC!

Best Family Events in Greenville, SC

Best Family Events KABOOM

1st Place: Greenville Convention Center’s Holiday Fair benefitting the Rotary Club of Greenville

Finalists:

  • Fluor Field Reading All Stars
  • Boo In The Zoo
  • Summer Adventure at RMSC
  • Freedom Blast in Greer City Park

Greenville Convention Center’s Holiday Fair benefitting the Rotary Club of Greenville

1ST PLACE SPONSOR 1 Exposition Dr., Greenville , SC

HolidayFair

For more than 50 years, the Holiday Fair has been a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike at the Greenville Convention Center.

Holiday Fair offers more than 500 vendor booths, featuring one-of-a-kind gifts, decorations, accessories, and more, a children’s play area, local entertainment, chef-prepared food offerings, and tastings from local favorites Six & Twenty Distillery and Methodical Coffee.

Don’t miss the magic! ✨

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