Downtown Greenville, Greenville City & Taylors Preschools

An independent college preparatory school in the Episcopal tradition, Christ Church Episcopal School is one of the Greenville, SC area’s most prestigious academic institutions, serving approximately 1,200 students in grades K5-12.

If you are looking for a school that will offer your child an educational experience unlike any other in the Upstate, a school that champions exploration and critical thinking within a community where every child is known, supported, and valued, then you will want to consider becoming a part of the CCES family.

What makes the CCES Lower School unique? The Primer program uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB-PYP), an inquiry-based curriculum that develops conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and the attributes of the IB Learner Profile, preparing children as global citizens from the very start.

Is financial aid available? Yes; need-based financial aid is available for families who qualify. Visit cces.org/admission/financial-aid to learn more.

Best For: Families seeking a prestigious, IB-aligned college-preparatory education in a values-driven Episcopal community from K5 through 12th grade
Location: 245 Cavalier Drive, Greenville, SC
Website: cces.org

For 50 years, Mitchell Road Christian Academy has upheld a tradition of academic excellence, character development, and spiritual formation for students in K3-8th grade. We provide a safe environment with caring, accessible, and experienced teachers who challenge and nurture students. 

MRCA’s goal for our preschool students is to give them a love for learning and lay the groundwork for academic growth and character development through our biblical worldview instruction. Our teachers plan child-focused learning units to cultivate a child’s curiosity. We value the unique qualities each child brings to our school!

Questions Asked About Mitchell Road Christian Academy for Preschool:

What is the early education approach? K3 and K4 use play-based learning units designed to cultivate phonetic decoding, reading, math, and communication skills. Teachers build off students’ natural curiosity through active, student-centered learning rooted in a biblical worldview.

What makes MRCA different? 50 years of academic excellence with caring, experienced teachers in a safe, Christ-centered community, offering everything from early education through 8th grade, plus STEAM, arts, athletics, and summer camps.

Best For: Families seeking a long-established, Christ-centered academy with strong academics and character development from preschool through 8th grade in Greenville.
Location: 207 Mitchell Road, Greenville, SC 29615
Website: mitchellroadchristian.org

Bob Jones Academy (BJA) has been partnering with Christian families since 1927 to provide an excellent, Christ-centered education for students from preschool through 12th grade. With a nurturing faculty and a strong academic foundation, BJA equips students to grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally in a caring, supportive environment.

At BJA, students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence while developing integrity, character, and a love for Jesus Christ. Instruction is rooted in a biblical worldview, and teachers model Christ-like character while challenging students to think critically, work diligently, and serve others. Our guiding principles, eternity-focused, growing, humble, transparent, unified, loving, and excellent, shape everything we do.

BJA’s college-preparatory program prepares students for future success with rigorous coursework, including honors math and science tracks and a robust dual-credit program through Bob Jones University. Graduates leave BJA confident, well-prepared for college, and grounded in their faith. Bob Jones Academy is fully accredited by both Cognia and the American Association of Christian Schools.

To learn more about how Bob Jones Academy can partner with your family, contact us at bja@bobjonesacademy.net or 864.770.1395.

St. Giles offers an enriching Preschool program focusing on Emergent Literacy, which includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We also focus on Math, Art, Music, Creativity, and Play. We nurture children as they grow in their ability to manage their behavior, develop language, interact with friends and teachers, and grow in their academic skills.

Questions Parents Asked About St.Giles Preschool:

What does the curriculum include? St. Giles focuses on Emergent Literacy, Math, Art, Music, and Play, with each classroom tailored to its age group — from sensory exploration for 1-year-olds to kindergarten readiness skills for Pre-K.

Is this a faith-based program? Yes. St. Giles is a ministry of St. Giles Presbyterian Church, rooted in loving kids, loving families, and loving God.

Best For: Families seeking a faith-rooted, play-based preschool for ages 1–4 with flexible scheduling in Greenville
Location: 1021 Hudson Rd, Greenville, SC
Website: stgilespreschool.org

Prince of Peace Catholic School has been forming saints and scholars through Catholic culture and academic excellence since 2002.

A two-time National Blue Ribbon School – placing among the top 7% of academically performing schools in the United States – POP is a warm, vibrant community where faith, knowledge, and values converge to create a bright future for every child.

What makes Prince of Peace different? POP is built on four pillars: Intentional Catholicism, Intellectual Rigor, Human Flourishing, and Authentic Community, blending classical humanities with innovative science in a deeply Catholic culture centered on Holy Mass and virtue formation.

Best For: Families seeking a rigorous, authentically Catholic K5- 8th grade education in a close-knit community in Taylors
Location: 1209 Brushy Creek Road, Taylors, SC
Website: popcatholicschool.org

At the YMCA Judson Community Center, children thrive in a safe, nurturing environment where learning happens through play. The year-round, DSS-licensed childcare program uses the HighScope Curriculum to build confidence, creativity, and school readiness through hands-on exploration and meaningful experiences, giving every child a strong foundation for the future.

Questions Parents Are Asking About YMCA Judson Preschool:

Do I need a Y membership to enroll? No, the YMCA Judson Preschool program is open to all families regardless of Y membership status. Complete the Preschool Interest Form to learn more.

What curriculum does the program use? The HighScope Curriculum, a research-based, play-driven preschool program with a focus on Kindergarten readiness skill building.

Best For: Families in the Greenville area seeking an affordable, year-round, play-based preschool for ages 3–5
Location: YMCA Judson Community Center, Greenville, SC
Website: ymcagreenville.org/Judson

At Giggles Drop-In Childcare, preschool isn’t just childcare; it’s a play-based learning experience that builds confidence and school readiness. Our program combines structured routines, hands-on activities, early literacy, and social development to help children grow, explore, and prepare for kindergarten, all guided by experienced, nurturing teachers. Conveniently located in the Pelham 85 Shopping Center with plenty of space for discovery and play both indoors and outdoors.

Why Families Love Our Preschool:

• Kindergarten readiness through structured play tailored for early learners
• Consistent routines, small groups, and nurturing teachers for individualized attention
• Flexible scheduling — part-time or full-time to fit your family’s needs
• ABC Quality Certified; childcare vouchers accepted

What does the preschool program look like? A play-based curriculum with structured routines, hands-on activities, early literacy, and social development, all designed to build school readiness and confidence.

The staff is absolutely amazing. Miss Denise is one of the best, most involved directors we have had the honor of knowing in years of needing childcare. Miss Lindsay, Miss Kylah and all other staff are very attentive and caring when it comes to the kids.

— Giggles Preschool Parent

Best For: Families seeking flexible, play-based preschool care with summer and after-school options in Greenville
Location: Pelham 85 Shopping Center, 3620 Pelham Rd, Suite 1A, Greenville, SC 29615
Website: gigglesdaycareinc.com

At First Presbyterian Academy Preschool, each child receives instruction with sensitivity toward small class sizes and varying developmental stages.

In addition to a challenging academic program, students are also nurtured in their social and emotional needs according to a biblical worldview. Related Arts classes (for appropriate ages) include Music, Physical Education, Art, Chapel, and Spanish.

Question Parents Asked Most About First Pres Academy:

What is the learning philosophy? FPA combines structured learning with hands-on, play-based activities, from sensory science exploration to art inspired by Bible stories. Teachers foster curiosity, creativity, and independent skills in a joyful, Christ-centered setting.

What safety measures are in place? All staff undergo DSS background checks; the campus features locked doors, armed security guards, security cameras, and intercom systems.

Over the past two years, First Presbyterian Academy has become nothing short of family. The way the entire faculty and staff care about developing each child is beyond a blessing. We have seen our son learn and grow beyond what we ever could have imagined was possible in a pre-kindergarten program. The greatest joy, though, is daily hearing of biblical truths he learned that day.

— Jared and Carey Martin

Best For: Families seeking a Christ-centered, academically strong preschool. Shannon Forest Campus: 829 Garlington Road, Greenville, SC
Downtown Campus: 200 W. Washington Street, Greenville, SC
Website: firstpresacademy.com

Sans Souci Academy is a K3, K4 and K5 school. At Sans Souci Academy, we believe young children learn through play! The classroom has centers (such as House, Block, and Art Center, etc.) which provide learning opportunities for social experiences, imaginative play, and creativity. The students have daily opportunities for gross motor play on the playground or gym activities. Small Groups are a time when Math and Literacy is the focus, but activities are presented in an age-appropriate and fun, exciting way.

We can’t wait to partner with you to help your child grow! 

Questions Parents Ask About Sans Souci Academy Preschool:

What is the learning philosophy? Play-based learning through imaginative centers, daily gross motor activity, and small-group math and literacy time, with a strong emphasis on social and emotional development as the foundation for academic success.
Is this a faith-based program? Yes. Sans Souci Academy is a ministry of Sans Souci Church; small and large groups integrate Christian values into all activities.

Best For: Families seeking an affordable, faith-rooted, play-based K3–K5 program in north Greenville
Location: 3100 Old Buncombe Rd, Greenville, SC

For registration, go to the San Souci Academy website. Also, for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility contact us at: academy@sanssoucichurch.org or 864.233.4558. 

Since 2010, Carolina Prep School has been inspiring young learners to Engage, Explore, and Excel. As Greenville’s only nonprofit school of its kind, we are proud to provide a nurturing environment where children grow academically, socially, and creatively.

Every child in our K2 through K4 classes participates in STEM, Music, and Art, giving them opportunities to think critically, express themselves creatively, and explore hands-on learning. All students also enjoy Spanish instruction, opening doors to language and cultural exploration from the very start. At Carolina Prep, we value strong partnerships with families and a safe, supportive community where every child is known, encouraged, and celebrated.

Questions Asked About Carolina Prep School:

What curriculum does Carolina Prep use? The Core Knowledge Curriculum and Creative Curriculum for Preschool provide a solid academic foundation while allowing child-led exploration and developmental assessment for each child’s unique needs.
What enrichment programs are included? Art, Physical Education, STEM, Music, and Spanish five days per week, plus on-site extracurriculars including Dance, Soccer Shots, and Tumblebus gymnastics.

Best For: Families seeking a preschool with all-inclusive tuition and small class sizes in Greenville
Location: 212 Roper Mountain Rd Ext., Greenville, SC 29615
Website: carolinaprepschool.com

Come see why so many families choose Carolina Prep School. Schedule your tour today and give your child the foundation they deserve.

At UU World of Children, our goal is to nurture the whole child—fostering academic growth, social-emotional development, and practical life skills. In our mixed-age classrooms, children ages 3 to 6 thrive in a Montessori-inspired environment, choosing their own work and learning from one another.

We emphasize independence and guide students with Maria Montessori’s philosophy of “help me to do it myself.” We also provide two healthy snacks and ensure plenty of outdoor playtime daily.

Questions Parents Ask About UU World of Children:

What makes UU World of Children unique? UU World of Children is the only Montessori-inspired program in Greenville that includes both early care and aftercare as core parts of the program, with a 3.9:1 student-to-teacher ratio, one of the lowest in the Greenville area.

Best For: Families seeking an inclusive, accessible, Montessori-inspired program for ages 3–6 with sliding-scale tuition and year-round care
Location: 1135 State Park Road, Greenville, SC 29609
Website: uuwoc.com

St. Matthew UMC Preschool is an outreach ministry of the church that serves the community. It provides a safe, happy, structured program in a Christian environment. We encourage children to grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. St Matthew UMC Preschool is a place where children learn to work and play with others, develop skills at individual rates of growth, and express ideas through the many different activities.

Register: For further information, to register, or to tour the preschool, please contact Christina Via, Director, at 864-242-2880 or cvia@stmatthewumc.net
Best For: Families seeking an affordable, faith-rooted, structured preschool program for ages 2K–4K in Greenville
Location: 701 Cleveland Street, Greenville, SC
Website: stmatthewumc.net/preschool

Our K3/K4 preschool blends art, nature, music, social emotional learning, and outdoor play with a proven curriculum to ensure children are confident and ready for Kindergarten!

The Meyer Center offers an early education program for preschool children with developmental delays and disabilities.

The program includes occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and music therapy, as well as academic and developmental programming.
Admission requires evaluation by an admission team to determine if the child qualifies for these services

For the 2026/2027 school year going forward
The Meyer Center will offer a 4K Inclusion Program, which “offers something far richer: a carefully designed learning environment where typically developing children build school readiness skills alongside children who have disabilities — and the research is clear that both groups thrive.”- The Meyer Center

Offers: Infant – K5
Practices an Abeka curriculum

Prince of Peace Catholic School offers a nurturing environment, fostering faith and a love of learning, preparing minds for lifelong success. Voted Best of the Upstate.

Offers: K3- K5; Hands-on, project-based curriculum

Offering full-day childcare for children 12 weeks through kindergarten. Also offering after-school childcare for kids up to 12 years old.

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School in Greenville offers a classical program through the Catholic faith for children in Kindergarten through 12th Grade.

Offers: K2 – K5, half day with 3 or 4 day options

Offers: 2 and 4 day programs for toddlers-4 year olds

Offers: Infants through kindergarten. Located in the Five Forks area.

Primrose School of Midtown Greenville offers balanced learning and curriculum for infants through Kindergarten.

Offers: Toddler -K5

Offers: Ages 1 – 4

Offers: K2, K3, K4 (ages 2 – 5)

Offers: Moms Day Out (9 am – 2 pm Monday through Friday) for birth-2 and preschool program for K3-K5

Offers: Infant-K4, half day

St. Mary’s Catholic School in Greenville offers academics and programming for children in 3K through 8th grade.

Carolina Preparatory School in Greenville offers small class sizes, creative teaching, and a nurturing environment for 6 weeks old through 5th grade.

Primrose School of  Greenville offers balanced learning and curriculum for infants through Kindergarten.

Upstate Montessori Academy offers a Montessori education for students in 3K through 4th grade. 3K has a half-day or full-day programs, and 4K through 4th grade has a full-day program.

Offers: MMO, K3, K4 with multiple schedule options
Late stay options are available

Offers: Parent’s Day Out program and K3-K5

Affiliated with Taylors First Baptist Church.

Hampton Park Christian School in Greenville offers curriculum, education, and programming for K5 through 12th Grade.

Offers: Montessori inspired teaching and child development, full day. Ages 3 through Kindergarten are welcome.

This school offers half day preschool and full day kindergarten options.

Full day childcare program for children 6 weeks through 4 years of age, plus an after-school program.

The after school program offers children aged 5-12 foreign language and culture exploration through the Passport to Adventure Club.

Offers: 3-4 years old, various ministry preschool programs throughout the week.

Offers: Programs for infants through K4.

Full day childcare for children 6 weeks through 4 years of age.

Offers: A half-day drop-in program for kids 6 months – 5 years

Offers: Kindergarten – 12th grade in child-centered classrooms, with a Lower School dedicated to grades Kindergarten – 4th grade.

Offers: Care for preschool through Kindergarten. Contact the center directly for more information.

Offers: Full-day childcare for 6 weeks through 5 years old.
Also offers after-school care for kids up to 12 years of age.

Offers: Montessori education for ages 3 – 6.

Offers: Programs for 6 months – 5 years old

La Petite Academy locations provide daycare and preschool for ages ~6 weeks–12 years, with variable weekly tuition based on age and schedule. There are two locations in the Greenville area.