K5 programs

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

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 CCES different from other Upstate schools? CCES offers a unique academic journey from Primer (K5) through 12th grade, from the IB Primary Years Program in Lower School to Advanced Placement and IB courses in Upper School, with a 100% college acceptance rate and SAT scores that consistently outpace national averages.

Is financial aid available? Yes! Tuition assistance is available for families who qualify. Visit cces.org/admission/financial-aid to learn more.

Best For: Students K5–12th grade whose families want rigorous IB and AP academics within a values-driven, community-centered school
Location: 245 Cavalier Drive, Greenville, SC
Website: cces.org

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

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.

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

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 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

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 2.5 through Kindergarten
Five Forks Campus: 303 Highway 14, Simpsonville, SC 29681 | (864) 661-0050 | leslie.davis@ivybrookacademy.com
Website: ivybrookacademy.com

Offers: Educational childcare, preschool and after-school programs for children 6 weeks to 12 years old.

For 50 years, The Sunshine House has been helping children build a solid educational and social foundation – with all the joy of childhood mixed in!

It’s more than a daycare. The Sunshine House offers top-rated childcare for children 6 weeks to 12-years-old with a focus on overall development – from developing social-emotional skills and physical health to providing a strong academic foundation for their future.

The Sunshine House prepares children for a lifetime of learning with the nationally recognized, award-winning Creative Curriculum®, their exclusive Seeds of Literacy program, plus additional instruction in Spanish and sign language.

With classroom cameras and photo and video updates in the MySunshineHouse app, you can have peace of mind that your child is learning and having fun!

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

Five Oaks Academy is accredited by the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) and is the only Montessori school in the area offering a cohesive program from toddler through eighth grade. With over 36 countries represented, FOA’s global community and research-based approach give students an educational experience you won’t find anywhere else. A low student-teacher ratio ensures each child receives a customized education, with students treated as individuals who develop problem-solving skills, time management, and a genuine love of learning.

Question Parents Ask About Five Oaks Academy:

What subjects do students explore? Mathematics, literature, history, science, geography, and the arts — all in a creative, research-based manner alongside Spanish, Music, Art, and Garden and Wellness.

Best For: Families seeking an authentic, internationally diverse Montessori education from toddler through middle school in Simpsonville
Location: 1101 Jonesville Road, Simpsonville, SC
Website: fiveoaksacademy.com

Offers: Early education and childcare programs for children 6 weeks to 12 years old in a STEAM-focused environment.

Where Bright Futures Begin!

Whether your goal is school readiness, early education, socialization, or simply love and care while you’re at work, our programs give your child a solid academic foundation and the tools to be successful beyond the four walls of school and in all aspects of life.

At Foundations, we focus on school readiness, socialization, STEAM, literacy, confidence-building, and creativity. We help your child become a confident, creative thinker and work to instill a life-long love of learning.

• Cameras in all classrooms
• Photo & video mobile app updates
• School-readiness, literacy, and Spanish programs
• Innovative technology for early childhood classrooms
• State of the art playgrounds and building

Simpsonville | 7 Magnolia Cove Drive, Off Harrison Bridge Road | 864-256-0404
Greer | 100 Sudduth Farms Drive, Off Highway 14 | 864-881-7868
Boiling Springs | 1235 Parkside Acorn Drive, Off Highway 9 | 864-392-3029
Anderson | 404 Lithium Lane, off Hwy 81 beside Ryobi & TTI | 864-712-0671

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

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 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

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. Transitional Kinder program between Pre-K 4 and Kindergarten is 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 

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. 

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 .

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.

Questions Parents Ask About Abiding Peace Academy Preschool:

What is the enrollment process? Visit with the director first, then return a completed enrollment form with the $300 registration fee. K3/K4 families also complete online registration. Parents of new students attend a one-time informational session with the pastor before the school year begins.

What makes APA different? Small school size, strong parent-teacher communication, field trips, outdoor play, performances, and a warm Christ-centered community where every child is known and nurtured.

Best For: Families seeking a warm, faith-rooted Lutheran academy with small class sizes for preschool through 8th grade in Simpsonville
Location: 401 Batesville Rd, Simpsonville, SC
Website: apacademysc.org

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

Offers: K2- Kindergarten, Mothers Morning Out (K1)
Mothers Morning Out is 3 hour days; K2-Kindergarten is 4 hour days

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

Offers: Infant – K5
Practices an Abeka curriculum

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

Affiliated with Taylors First Baptist Church.

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

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

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

Mountainview Christian Academy in Cowpens is affiliated with Mountain View Baptist Church and provides Christian education for 4K – 12th grade.

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

Offers: Classes for 3-year-old preschool through 12th grade
Affiliated with First Baptist North Spartanburg

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.

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: Montessori education for ages 3 – 6.

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

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

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

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

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: Classes for one-year-olds through kindergarten
Affiliated with United Methodist Church of the Covenant

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

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

Offers: Classes for 2K preschool through 12th grade.

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

Offers: Toddler -K5

Launching in Fall 2025 with K5-2nd grade, this private school is Greenville will offer a Christ-centered curriculum.

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

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 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: Montessori and non-denominational Christian education for children 14 months old through kindergarten

Offers: Infant through 5k

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

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

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

Offers: Infant – K5
Practices an Abeka curriculum

Offers: Montessori education for children 8 weeks old through 8th grade

Southside Christian School (SCS) partners with Christian parents in providing an excellent education consistent with biblical truth.  Our Early Education includes students from Pre-K2 through Pre-K 5.

Offers: Infant – K4 with 2, 3, and 5 day per week options along with full or partial day.

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

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School is religiously affiliated with St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. The school offers curriculum and programming to help develop the spiritual, academic, physical, and social growth of each child in 4K through 8th Grade.

Offers: Classes for 3-year-old preschool through 12th grade

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

Offers: Infants to 5K

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

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

Program Hours: Full-day childcare for ages 4K – up. Contact the school directly for more information.

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

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

Offers: Muslim culture and Arabic language immersion school. Preschool through 8th grade accepted.

Preschool’s “mini” programs 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: Care for preschool through Kindergarten. Contact the center directly for more information.

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

Preschool and daycare in Greer, SC that offers childcare for ages 6 months – 5 years old.(888) 991-4222