Half Day Preschools: Greenville, SC and Upstate, SC

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.

Founded by Mallika Vejay in 1977 as a way to support working families with a quality educational program. With over 45 years of continued service, the Montessori School of Mauldin is the longest-running Montessori School in the Upstate. Montessori teachers are trained through the Association Montessori International, the organization founded by Dr. Maria Montessori.

 Top Questions Parents Ask About Montessori School of Mauldin:

What makes this school’s Montessori approach authentic? AMI-certified, with founder Mallika Vejay trained by trainers directly certified by Maria and Mario Montessori themselves, one of the most direct Montessori lineages in the Upstate.

Best For: Families seeking an authentic AMI Montessori education from infancy through middle elementary in Mauldin
Location: 205B East Butler Road, Mauldin, SC 29662
Website: mauldinmontessori.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 fosters 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.  

One of the most important things San Souci Academy focuses on is social/emotional goals such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperatively playing.  Once children have mastered most social/emotional, age-appropriate goals, then they are able to really focus on academic success—whether that’s now or later. 

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

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. 

The Goddard Schools of Simpsonville and Greenville serve students 6 weeks to elementary school age. These locations provide a NAEYC standard which is recognized at a national level as providing the highest level of early childhood care for young children.

At The Goddard School, highly educated teachers create individualized opportunities for exposure to new ideas and materials for children to embrace authentic learning in its most natural way- through play and exploration. From engaging with science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) concepts to growing socially and emotionally, children are having fun while learning. Goddard’s safe and caring environment gives children the space to make connections and experience authentic learning, so they will become school-ready, career-ready, and life ready.

Questions Parents Are Asking About The Goddard School:

What makes Goddard’s curriculum different? The Wonder of Learning® program was created by early childhood development experts to empower children to explore their natural curiosity through personalized lesson plans focused on whole-child development.
Are after-school and summer programs available? Yes.  After-school care and summer programs are available at the Pelham Road location, including transportation from select schools.

Best For: Families seeking a nationally recognized, play-based early childhood program from infancy through elementary in Greenville and Simpsonville
Location: Three locations: Greenville Pelham Road (106 Stone Village Drive), Greenville (downtown area), and Simpsonville Five Forks.

For more information about our national award-winning schools contact us at the number above or visit the website, www.goddardschool.com .

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.

Why Families Love Our Preschool:

• Kindergarten readiness through structured play tailored for early learners.
• Consistent routines, small groups & nurturing teachers for individualized attention.
• Flexible scheduling options — attend part-time or full-time to fit your family’s needs.
• ABC Quality Certified — a mark of exceptional early childhood care and now accepting childcare vouchers.

We’re conveniently located in the Pelham 85 Shopping Center with plenty of space for discovery and play both indoors and outdoors.

Preschool Summer Fun:
Our preschool continues through the summer with a themed Preschool Summer Camp (ages 2–5), featuring hands-on activities, full-day options, and outdoor play so little ones stay engaged and confident all season long.

School aged kids:

For school aged kids we offer a full after school program with pick up from local schools and a great field trip based summer camp program.

Ready to Learn More?
Tour our center, meet our team, and see firsthand how we support early learning and joyful childhood experiences in Greenville. Spots fill quickly — contact us today! 864-252-4252 or visit our website. {https://www.gigglesdaycareinc.com/locations/greenville-sc-pelham-road/preschool-program-greenville-sc/}

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.

Offers: K2-K4, elementary K5- 8th Grade

Our objective at Abiding Peace Academy is to provide exceptional education, instilling a love of learning in each student by nurturing his or her intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional and physical development in a safe, loving, Christian community; while imparting a strong faith in the truth of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Abiding Peace Academy can make a difference in your child’s life. You’ll love being a part of this warm and safe community, and you’ll be rewarded as you watch your child have fun growing each day.

Schedule a tour and find out more at Abiding Peace Academy. 

Questions parents ask about Southside Christian School preschool programs:

What does the preschool curriculum include? SCS emphasizes hands-on learning across early academics (letters, numbers, reading, math, and science), social skills, fine and gross motor development, and daily Bible stories, memory verses, prayer, and chapel participation.
How is faith integrated into the school day? Christian values are woven throughout every part of the day, including daily Bible time, chapel designed for young children, and teaching kindness, service, and God’s love through a biblical worldview across all activities.
How does SCS prepare children for kindergarten? The curriculum focuses on pre-reading and early math, writing readiness, problem-solving, and social maturity. A Kinder Prep program is also available for advanced readiness.

Best For: Families seeking a Christ-centered private school education from early childhood through high school
Southside Christian Website: southsidechristian.org
Location: 2211 Woodruff Road, Simpsonville, SC 

At Ivybrook, we celebrate each child’s unique capabilities to empower children to explore and discover, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Is Ivybrook a daycare? No. Ivybrook Academy is a private preschool focused on academic, social, and emotional development. The half-day schedule emphasizes high-quality learning experiences rather than extended childcare.
What makes Ivybrook’s curriculum unique? Ivybrook blends Reggio Emilia and Montessori philosophies with individualized assessments, creating a curriculum that adapts to each child’s unique strengths. The classroom environment itself is considered a “third teacher,” designed with calming colors and natural materials to promote curiosity and focus.

I have high expectations when it comes to my child and Ivybrook has met or exceeded all of them. My 2-year-old has grown and learned so much in their care, and her language and social skills are flourishing. She loves going to school, and I love that I can send her to a loving, caring, trustworthy environment.

— Ivybrook Parent 

Best For: Families seeking an innovative, half-day private preschool rooted in Montessori and Reggio Emilia for ages 18 months through Kindergarten
Five Forks Campus: 303 Highway 14, Simpsonville, SC 29681 | (864) 661-0050 | leslie.davis@ivybrookacademy.com
Website: ivybrookacademy.com

Offers: K3 – 8th grade

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 offers half-day Early Education programs as well as half and full-day options for our K5 classes. After-school care is available until 3 pm for K3 and K4 students and until 5:30 pm for K5-8^th grade.

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!

Visit our website to see how Mitchell Road Christian Academy can partner with your family. Click here to learn about our admissions process. Call 864-268-2210 or email admissions@mitchellroadchristian.org for more information. We look forward to meeting you!

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.

Eligibility: Our preschool program is for children ages 2K, 3K, or 4K (child must be program age by September 1).
Hours: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

We also offer a late-stay program for one additional hour. Your child may stay until 1:00 pm every day or occasionally. Reservations are required.Register: For further information, to register, or to tour the preschool, please contact Christina Via, Director, at 864-242-2880 or cvia@stmatthewumc.net

Offers: Infants through K4

Park Place Children’s Center offers exceptional care and pre-school education to children ages six weeks old through K4. Full-time and part-time spots are available. The developmentally appropriate curriculum includes a monthly assessment of each child to ensure that important milestones are being met. Our campus includes a gym, library, Enrichment Room and three age-appropriate playgrounds. Spanish is also taught daily. An on-site chef prepares a nutritious and delicious breakfast, lunch and snack each day. Safety is the top concern for our qualified staff as they provide excellent learning opportunities for all of our students.

Find out more at Park Place!

Lightbridge Academy of Greenville is proud to be open and serving families in the Upstate as the first Lightbridge Academy location in South Carolina. Conveniently located at 201 Waldo Leslie Lane, our state-of-the-art early childhood education center was thoughtfully designed to support both children and working families.

Locally owned and operated, Lightbridge Academy of Greenville serves children from six weeks through Pre-K. Our mission is rooted in creating a nurturing, learning-focused environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to grow.

Our programs include infant, toddler, preschool, Pre-K, and backup care. Through our proprietary Seedlings® Early Childhood Education Curriculum, we focus on the development of the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—within secure, well-staffed classrooms.

We are committed to easing the demands of busy families by offering industry-leading technology, including ParentView® internet monitoring and the Lightbridge Journey app, which keeps parents connected to their child’s day in real time.

More than just a childcare center, Lightbridge Academy of Greenville is a true community partner. We are actively enrolling and welcome families to tour our facility and experience our Circle of Care firsthand.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

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

At Our Saviour Lutheran School, we believe that every child is a unique and valuable individual created with purpose and potential. We are committed to nurturing the whole child (mind, body, and heart) through an inclusive environment where kindness, respect, and compassion flourish.

Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a rich balance of free play and structured activities, preparing children academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten and beyond.

We believe in strong partnerships with families and one another, working together to ensure every child feels seen, heard, and loved.

Questions Parents are Asking about Our Saviour Lutheran School:

What is the learning philosophy? A joyful, play-based approach where children build confidence, independence, and strong friendships through exploration, creativity, and nurturing teacher relationships.

What are the class sizes like? OSLS emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention, ensuring each child receives individualized support and care throughout their day.

Best For: Families seeking a warm, faith-rooted Lutheran preschool with flexible scheduling and small class sizes near Wade Hampton Blvd
Location: 2600 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29615
Website: oslspreschool.com

For over 30 years, Holy Cross Academy has been working with families to create a safe yet exciting environment for kids to thrive. At HCA, exceptional care means offering a greater teacher-to-child ratio, each room being equipped with creative learning spaces, all staff being CPR and First Aid certified, and providing well-balanced snacks, breakfasts, and lunches while your child is with us!

Questions Parents Are Asking About Holy Cross Academy:

What is HCA’s background? A non-profit ministry of Holy Cross Episcopal Church with over 30 years of service, licensed by the Greenville County Department of Social Services. The campus also features updated video surveillance throughout for added security.

Best For: Families in Simpsonville seeking faith-based full-time childcare from infancy through elementary, with built-in after-school pickup from local schools
Location: 203 East College Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681
Website: holycrosskids.com

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN ACADEMY PRESCHOOL

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.

We offer two convenient campus locations – our campus on Garlington road offers preschool for grades K3-K4. Our Downtown Campus offers preschool for grades K3, K4, and Transitional K5.

Inquire at firstpresacademy.com

Offers: Toddler (half day) – Middle School

Five Oaks Academy is accredited by the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) and is the only Montessori school in the area that offers a cohesive program from toddler through eighth grade. With over 36 countries represented, the global community within Five Oaks Academy (FOA) and its unique research-based approach to education give students an educational experience you won’t find anywhere else.

FOA is a welcoming environment that focuses on creating original thinkers and encourages students to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Understanding that each child has his own learning style and interests, students at FOA are treated as individuals. A low student:teacher ratio allows each child to receive a customized education. Students explore mathematics, literature, history, science, geography, and the arts in a creative and research-based manner.

Along with a challenging academic curriculum, the program fosters the development of time management skills and helps students learn to prioritize their responsibilities. Additionally, students discover and develop their own unique talents and strengths. Most importantly, FOA strives to foster students’ curiosity and love of learning so they become lifelong learners. Our goal is for our students to have success not only in the classroom but in the real world as well.

Find out more at Five Oaks Academy!

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

Offers: preschool program for ages 2-5.

Offers: Infant-K4, half day

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!

Offers: Half-day preschool for ages 3 – 5 years old, Monday through Thursday
School runs from 9 am – 1 pm.

Art, dance, and motor skill development are built into the curriculum.

Offers: Care for children ages 1-3, as well as K4 and K5 with 2, 3, 4 or 5 day enrollment options.

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

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

Offers: Mothers Day Out (children under 2) & Half Day Preschool for children 2-4 at the Christian Academy of Simpsonville

Offers: K3 (2-3 half day a week classes), K4 (3-5 half day classes), K5 (half day or extended day) 

Offers: Infant & Toddler Classes, Twos, Threes, and Fours Preschool Half Day Classes with 2 day – 5 day a week options
Affiliated with Episcopal Church of the Advent

Greenville Classical Academy models classical education in a Christian environment and strives for excellence in academics as well as in every other aspect of life. Offers K4 – 12th grade.

K4 & K-5 are morning schedule with extended care option.

Offers: Preschool classes for children 2 – 4 years old and Kindergarten
Affiliated with St. James United Methodist Church

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: Childcare and Kindergarten. Ages infant through 6 years old.

Elementary-based summer camps with various themes throughout the summer.
Preschools “mini” camps are available for ages 3 -5

WonderHere Anderson provides play-based, project-based learning where children explore, create, and grow through hands-on experiences, individualized learning, and a joyful, childhood-centered environment.

Offers: Preschool for children 12 months old – 4 years old
Affiliated with First Baptist Lyman Church

Offers: Programs for children ages 6 weeks – 5 years and after school elementary care

Offers: Half day preschool classes from 3 months of age – kindergarten
Affiliated with Anderson Mill Road Baptist Church

Offers: Preschool for infants through 4-K with half day and full day options, 3 day and 5 day options
Affiliated with First Baptist Spartanburg

Offers K2 – K4 and Mother’s Morning Out programs.  Siloam Christian Preschool’s desire is to provide an educational experience that nurtures the “whole” child in areas of physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual development.

Offers: Classes for 3-year-old preschool through 12th grade
Affiliated with Westgate Baptist Church

Offers: Infants & Toddlers, K2, K3, K4  half day programs, 2 -5 day options available.

Offers: Year round preschool options for babies (6 months and up) through 4K
Morning or afternoon preschool offered.
Affiliated with Trinity United Methodist Church

Offers: Montessori inspired classrooms for children ages 6 weeks – 5 years, along with elementary after school programs

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.

Parents’ Morning Out for ages 8 weeks–4 years, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 9 am–1 pm.

Safe, fun program with play, music, crafts. Registration required, care. Pricing begins at $175 per month.

Offers: 6 weeks through 12 years

Offers: 2 day K2, 3 day K3, and 5 day K4 & K5 (hours 9 am – 1 pm), and High 5’s transitional Kindergarten.

Offers: Classes for one and two year olds, as well as K3, K4, K5 and Mothers Day Out. 2-5 day options half day

Offers: Programs for 6 months – 5 years old

Offers: Mother’s Morning Out through 4-year-old kindergarten half-day classes
Affiliated with Reidville Road United Methodist Church

Offers programs for children aged 6 weeks through grade K4
Also offers after-school care and summer programs.
Contact 864.244.0405 for more information about their after-school program.
They have two Greer locations.
They offer pickup from local schools nearby.

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

Offers: K1 (12 months) up to K4

Mauldin Christian Academy focuses on Christian education to help encourage spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social growth in students.

September-May School Year available for preschool, elementary, and afterschool.
Year round day care available for infant – K4.

Offers: Ages 1 – 4

Offers: Infant – K4 (Half and Full Day)

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

Central Preschool for the Arts – Geared for children 3 months to age 4, Central PFA, at Central UMC, playfully educates through emersion in art, music, and movement.

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

Offers: Half day preschool for children 6 months of age through 4K
Affiliated with First Presbyterian Church

Offers: Preschool classes for children 6 months old through kindergarten
Affiliated with Westminster Presbyterian Church

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

Offers: Full-time care for ages 2 – K3, Part-time care for K4-K5, and after-school care.