The 2026 KABOOM Awards: Discover Greenville’s Best

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp is proud to be named a finalist for Best Afterschool Program in the Upstate! Our weekly afterschool classes for kids ages 4-14 provide a dynamic blend of process art and art history, creating an enriching experience that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression.

At Yellowbobbypins, we go beyond traditional art lessons, incorporating elements of math, science, and reading into each project. Whether students are exploring the works of famous artists, experimenting with new materials, or diving into creative storytelling, every class is an opportunity for young minds to connect the dots between art and the world around them.

What sets us apart is our emphasis on the process of creating, rather than just the finished product. This approach allows students to embrace exploration, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their individual creative journeys. With a focus on kindness, inclusivity, and collaboration, Yellowbobbypins Art Camp provides a fun, supportive environment where kids can grow, learn, and express themselves through art.

Join us at Yellowbobbypins Art Camp for a drop-in class, weekly classes, or an unforgettable summer camp—where learning becomes an adventure, creativity sparks growth, and the joy of art inspires every moment!

Kangaroo Jax is a locally owned indoor playground in Greenville, South Carolina, offering a fun and safe play space for kids ages 2-12. Our family-friendly facility features bounce houses, soft plays, and carnival rides, perfect for active play and birthday parties! We’re open seven days a week with affordable open play rates and easy party packages, making Kangaroo Jax one of Greenville’s favorite destinations for children’s entertainment!

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate (TCMU) is one of the region’s top destinations for hands-on family fun and learning, and a nationally recognized one at that. Recently named a Top 5 Children’s Museum in the United States by Travel + Leisure, TCMU blends imagination, education, and play in ways that keep kids curious and families coming back.

With 80,000 square feet of interactive exhibits and immersive environments, TCMU invites families to spend time together while exploring over 30 exhibits through experiences designed just for growing minds. From creative studios and STEAM-focused challenges to ever-evolving exhibits, no two visits feel the same.

Beyond daily museum play, TCMU offers engaging field trips, camps, birthday parties, and special programs that make learning exciting and accessible for children of all ages. At its heart, TCMU is a place where play has purpose encouraging creativity, confidence, and connection while making learning feel joyful.

Giggles Childcare is proud to be a Kaboom finalist for best childcare again in 2026, offering high-quality, flexible childcare designed to support Greenville families. Our ABC Quality-rated program provides a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, play, and grow. Families love our new outdoor play space, featuring hands-on activities that encourage creativity, movement, and exploration. We offer full-time and part-time childcare, extended hours, and affordable rates, and we proudly accept childcare vouchers, making quality care accessible for more families.

You can register online at www.gigglesdaycareinc.com. Feel free to give us a call with any questions. 864-252-4252.

Parkkonen Photography is an upscale boutique studio off of main street inTaylors, with outdoor options. We specialize in family photography, with a true specialty in newborns. Our studio is fully stocked with everything you need for your session—clean props, wraps, outfits, backgrounds, and plenty of setup options—so you don’t have to stress. Also, we don’t limit you to only 10–25 images. After your session, you’ll receive an online proofing gallery with 45+ professionally edited images (often more, depending on the session) so you can view your favorites and decide what you’d like to purchase.

We are honored to be named a finalist for Best Preschool for the third year in a row! Our preschool offers a high-quality, nurturing environment where children learn through purposeful play, hands-on activities, and caring relationships. As an ABC Quality–rated preschool, we follow best practices that support early learning, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness. With experienced teachers, small group learning, and consistent routines, families can feel confident their children are receiving attentive, developmentally appropriate care every day.
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To learn more or enroll, give us a call at 864-252-4252 — we’d love to welcome your family!

I am a photographer who loves working with families and documenting real connection. My sessions create space for genuine moments and captures families just as they are in their season of life. I aim to capture each season in a way that feels timeless and true to the people in front of my lens.

Most real estate agents rely on rushed photos, generic descriptions, and a “one size fits all” approach. In a competitive market, that lack of intention costs sellers leverage and leaves buyers guessing.

Brayton & Team treats real estate like a private launch, not a checklist. With a decade of branding expertise, we elevate every listing through refined photography, editorial storytelling, and strategic digital placement designed to reach the right audience. Buyers receive the same level of clarity and strategy, cutting through noise with calm, informed guidance.

Homes present stronger, sell smarter, and attract better aligned buyers. Purchases feel confident, intentional, and well timed. The entire experience is elevated, efficient, and designed around your advantage. Brayton & Team delivers more than representation. We deliver results that feel as good as they look.

Speaking Life provides speech-language and occupational therapy services to children in the greater Greenville, SC area through clinic-based, community-based, and in-home therapy services.

Speaking Life’s vision is to provide a safe and loving environment for children to flourish through child-led, relationship-based therapy. We believe that every child has innate value and potential for growth. Our therapists foster improved skills by integrating evidence-based practice into collaborative, fun, and engaging therapy that makes children want to come back week after week.

Commonly addressed skills:
• Speech production
• Language comprehension and expression
• Augmentative and alternative communication use (use of speech-generating devices/apps, sign language, and low-tech communication supports)
• Fine motor
• Sensory processing (hypo- and hyper-reactivity to sounds, touch, smells, tastes, lights)
• Emotional regulation
• Adaptive behavior (life/social skills, dressing, toothbrushing, toileting)
• Play skills
• Executive functioning (attention, memory, problem solving, planning, organizing)
• Feeding and swallowing

If you have concerns about your child in any of these areas, we would love to support your family!

South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT) is proud to be recognized as a finalist in Best Performing Arts Program! This honor reflects SCCT’s unwavering commitment to excellence in theatre, education, and community engagement. For over 35 years, SCCT has brought inspiring performances, accessible programming, and transformative theatre experiences to children and families throughout the Upstate.

SCCT is dedicated to fostering creativity, empathy, and a sense of belonging in all who step through its doors. With productions ranging from beloved classics to innovative new works, SCCT provides audiences with opportunities to laugh, learn, and grow together. Beyond the stage, SCCT offers year-round theatre education programs, camps, and outreach initiatives designed to empower young people and ensure that the magic of theatre is accessible to everyone.

We are a multi-generational farm that encourages connection, curiosity, and community. As we wander together on the land we foster wonder and delight in the people around us, the places we are, and the gift of the present. Through field trips, classes, parties, and summer camp – Shipshape Farm educates through fun outside.

Freedom Blast is proud to be one of the City of Greer’s signature summer celebrations, bringing the community together to honor independence, unity, and hometown pride. At the heart of this beloved event is a deep appreciation for the military members and veterans who have served and sacrificed to protect our freedoms.

For years, Freedom Blast has welcomed residents and visitors alike for an evening filled with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks display. Designed for all ages, the event provides an opportunity for the community to come together in gratitude and remembrance, celebrating the freedoms we enjoy while recognizing those who made them possible.

More than just a fireworks show, Freedom Blast reflects Greer’s commitment to honoring service, fostering community connection, and celebrating our nation’s spirit.

Zuber (UBER the ZOO) is a mobile petting zoo and pony ride service. We do birthday parties, church/school events, festivals, summer camps, employer events, weddings, and more! Our animals include goats, rabbits, chickens, alpacas, donkeys, mini cows, and ponies. Follow us on social media!

At Hollowed Earth, creativity is for everyone. Our classes are intentionally designed to make clay accessible as a recreational activity rather than a specialized pursuit. Through guided instruction, flexible class options, and a welcoming atmosphere, participants are empowered to explore creativity without pressure or prior experience. We hope to foster connection, mindfulness, and personal expression, offering a meaningful outlet for both individuals and families.

Greenville Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered credit union located in Greenville, South Carolina, with over 35,000 members, six branch locations, and 100+ employees. All member accounts are insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), an agency of the federal government.

The credit union was founded by nine employees from the School District of Greenville County as an educators’ credit union in 1968. In 2001, the credit union approved a conversion to a community-based charter to serve anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Greenville County.

Are you looking for somewhere to have your child’s birthday that is indoors but also has lots of room? Check out Giggles!! We have 4600 square feet of indoor play space complete with a treehouse playground and a new outdoor playground and garden.

You can rent the entire facility for your own PRIVATE party. That’s right you don’t have to worry about other kids or people. Parties are held on Sundays when we are closed to the public so you have the whole place to yourself and a party hostess to help with whatever you need. And the best part is that you don’t have to clean up afterwards. 

Call us to book today! 864-252-4252.

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp stands out as the ultimate birthday party destination in the Upstate, offering stress-free and unforgettable art parties for kids aged 2-14. Specializing in paint parties, this studio transforms celebrations into artistic adventures, ensuring each child goes home proud of their unique creation. The children enthusiastically declare, “This is the best party ever!” creating lasting memories for the birthday child.

Yellowbobbypins’ goal is to engage all party guests in happy creating while celebrating the birthday child. The carefully curated art activities cater to various ages, fostering creativity and joy. From custom sensory play to expertly guided activities, every detail is designed to make the experience unique and well-executed.

After the hour-long art event, it’s time for cake and presents, creating a seamless transition from creative exploration to traditional birthday festivities. Parents consistently express their admiration for the camp’s ability to provide a distinctive celebration where every child not only has fun but also leaves with a sense of pride in their artistic accomplishments.

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp isn’t just a birthday party; it’s a personalized, artistic journey that ensures smiles, unforgettable moments, and artistic achievements for every young participant.

Studio Green is a music studio in Spartanburg, South Carolina that’s built around one simple mission: creating a love of music in all generations. We work with everyone from toddlers to adults through private lessons, early childhood classes, choirs, and themed camps.

Our focus isn’t just on notes and technique, but on helping students feel confident, supported, and excited to make music at whatever stage they’re in. We aim to be a warm, welcoming space that feels more like a musical home than a formal studio—where families can grow together and music becomes something they enjoy for life.

The Safe Harbor Resale Shop is integral to Safe Harbor’s mission to provide a continuum of services for survivors of domestic abuse and their children.

Our clients receive vouchers to shop for themselves and their children free of charge and all sales help to fund our programs and services for survivors and the community, including emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, support groups, classes, and community prevention and outreach efforts.

Come visit us to shop or donate, and be sure to follow us on social media!

At Clare’s Creamery, we have a passion for sharing our love of ice cream with everyone we meet. We strive to create a tradition celebrated with valued friends, family and neighbors originating from these core principles: Small batch ice cream hand-crafted in Greenville, South Carolina Recipes made the way we like them (and we hope you like them too) Quality ingredients sourced from the best local & national suppliers Welcoming environment & prices that are affordable to all our neighbors

Hub City Lactation provides compassionate, evidence-based infant feeding support to families across Spartanburg and the Upstate. Our small, dedicated team is TOTS-Specialty Trained and committed to helping parents feel confident, informed, and supported from pregnancy and the first feed through weaning.

We offer a full spectrum of services, including prenatal preparation, breastfeeding, bottle-feeding and pumping support, solid food introduction, milk supply care, and guidance for oral motor functional concerns. Our team provides tongue, lip, and buccal tie evaluations, oral motor habilitation, and structured support before and after release procedures. We also serve the community through free support groups, group classes, and ongoing family education.

Our office is located at 2992 Reidville Road in Spartanburg, SC, and we accept select health insurance plans. For more information or to schedule a visit, please call 864-209-1064 or visit www.hubcitylactation.com

Hub City Lactation is honored to walk alongside families during one of life’s most meaningful and transformative seasons.

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp is a vibrant process art studio where creativity thrives through a curriculum inspired by both historical and contemporary artists. We offer strong technical instruction to children aged 2-14, fostering their artistic growth in a fun and engaging environment.

Our programs include weekly art classes, summer camps, one-day camps, birthday parties, and preschool playgroups. Students revel in the joy of creating, while parents are consistently impressed by the remarkable skills and confidence their children develop.

At Yellowbobbypins, we turn artistic exploration into a delightful adventure!

The Mill at Fountain Inn is a community gathering spot in the heart of downtown Fountain Inn. The venue is home to Fountain Inn Brewing Co., an on-site brewery with a pizza kitchen, and an upstairs event space, a large green space with one of the Upstate’s largest outdoor screens and plenty of space for kids to play, a food hall with 7 delicious food vendors, and a flexible indoor common area with additional seating and space for private events and birthday parties.

Ember Modern Medicine is a family medicine direct primary care practice in downtown Greenville. We offer a comprehensive, tailor-made approach to your healthcare. At Ember, we’re bringing back truly relational care with your doctor.

After the school day ends, we make afternoons easy. We pick up children directly from school and bring them to our 4,600-square-foot facility at 3620 Pelham Road, where they can relax, refuel, and recharge.

Children enjoy a snack and homework help in our dedicated after-school classroom, followed by a fun group activity and plenty of free play and outdoor time until it’s time to head home.

We provide school pickup from Pelham Road Elementary, Brushy Creek Elementary, Buena Vista Elementary, Mitchell Road Elementary, and Green Charter School.

We’re proud to have been voted Best After-School Program in both 2024 and 2025 and a finalist in 2026.

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To learn more or enroll, give us a call at 864-252-4252 — we’d love to welcome your family!

One of the few Greenville orthodontists with advanced military and academic training, Dr. Tollison has served as a U.S. Air Force dentist and now leads with precision in private practice. His expertise spans orthodontic biomechanics, digital imaging, and 3D printing. In 2025, he was appointed to the American Association of Orthodontists Committee on Technology (CTECH), guiding innovations that enhance patient care nationwide.

Dr. Tollison proudly calls Greenville, South Carolina home, raising his family and building his practice in the community where he grew up. His mission is clear: provide expert orthodontic care with integrity, precision, and compassion. Every patient is treated like family, and every treatment plan is personalized for comfort, efficiency, and lasting results.

If you are searching for orthodontists near me, schedule your free orthodontic consultation today and see how Dr. Tollison’s expertise can transform your smile.

Challenge Island is an award-winning program specializing in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities and camps. With a focus on creativity, learning, and critical thinking, Challenge Island programs help prepare kids to excel at school and teach real-world skills at the same time. We offer a variety of programs for ages 4-14, as well as teambuilding challenges for adults!

Programs include onsite field trips, camps, afterschool enrichment classes, Girl Scout workshops, family engagement and parental involvement programs, book series programs, and more! Best part is we bring the fun to you!

In the summer we offer fun camp themes that kids love from Arcade Mania, Space, and the very popular Slimetopia series camps- just to name a few!

Check out our website to learn more about active programs being offered or to inquire about hosting an event with us!

BridgeWay Station is a vibrant, all-ages destination for families, friends, and fun — and we’re thrilled to be named Best Date Night Activity by Kidding Around SC! This immersive town center blends stunning architecture with a lively culinary and lifestyle scene, anchored by 12 locally owned eateries.

Whether it’s grabbing a beer and playing pinball bowling at the brewery, enjoying an upscale dinner at Tavola, Rotie by Stella’s, or Restaurant Rocco, dancing the night away at salsa night on Cabanas’ rooftop, or savoring a late-night dessert and glass of champagne at Old Europe Desserts — there’s always something in store for a memorable date night here.

Visitors can explore diverse dining, shop local boutiques, hit the gym or nail salon, and even work or live right on site — all in a seamlessly integrated community setting. With a year-round lineup of farmers markets, live music, and family events, BridgeWay Station has quickly become one of Upstate South Carolina’s favorite places to dine, shop, work, live, play, and relax.

Southern Cheer Elite is more than a cheer and tumbling program—it is a place where confidence is built, character is shaped, and young athletes learn what it means to show up for themselves and their community. Based in Lyman, South Carolina, Southern Cheer Elite serves athletes of all ages and skill levels, offering cheer, tumbling, and performance-based programs that emphasize both athletic excellence and personal growth.

At Southern Cheer Elite, athletes are taught discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership in an environment that is encouraging, inclusive, and empowering. Coaches are committed not only to proper technique and safety, but to developing strong, resilient young people who believe in their ability to grow and succeed—on the mat and beyond it.

Deeply rooted in community involvement, Southern Cheer Elite actively participates in local events, service projects, and outreach initiatives, creating opportunities for athletes to give back and lead with purpose. Families are welcomed as partners, and every athlete is celebrated for who they are and who they are becoming.

Southern Cheer Elite is proud to be a positive force in the lives of its athletes—building strength, confidence, and community one cheer at a time.

Capturing memories since 2014, K. Elizabeth Photography is a Family, Weddings & Lifestyle Photography company. Wherever your story takes you, or whatever chapter you’re in, let me be the one who documents it for you to cherish for a lifetime.

Each session is tailored to fit your vision and captured with a “whatever it takes” approach bringing out natural smiles and laughs through my stress free poses and prompts. Accessing your images after the session is simple, easy, and included with your fun session with me! You can reach out directly to me to start planning, or book online at your own convenience.

Yellowbobbypins Art Camp, where creativity knows no bounds and kids can’t wait to get their hands messy! Our art studio is a magical space for kids ages 2-15, where they can explore a wide range of materials—from drawing and painting to clay, fiber arts, and more. Grounded in art history and children’s literature, each session introduces students to famous artists, both modern and historical, inspiring them to create their own masterpieces in a fun and safe environment.

We offer Preschool Playgroups, where young artists enjoy a favorite picture book followed by 5-6 creative stations for hands-on fun, plus weekly art classes, half-day camps during school breaks, and week long summer camps with exciting, unique themes.

Parents rave about our birthday parties, and we’ve proudly earned the title of Best Birthday Party from Kidding Around Greenville Media for two years in a row! Parents tell us their kids count down the days until their next class, and on art class mornings, getting out of bed is a breeze!

Located at Hampton Station in Greenville, Yellowbobbypins Art Camp is a place where kids build confidence, creativity, and independence—all while making memories they’ll cherish.

Shriners Children’s Greenville treats over 85 different orthopedic conditions, from routine to rare. World-class care is offered to patients regardless of their family’s ability to pay. All services – including clinic appointments, physical and occupational therapy, orthotics and prosthetics, as well as surgery – are located under one roof. Injury care appointments are available within 24 hours; meanwhile, patients in need of specialized care (scoliosis, cerebral palsy, limb deficiencies, spina bifida) may call Shriners Children their medical home until age 18.

Discover exceptional childcare at Kids ‘R’ Kids of Pelham Medical Center! Our state-of-the-art facility offers a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment where children learn, grow, and thrive. With experienced teachers, a nationally accredited curriculum, and a focus on whole-child development, we support every child’s unique journey.

Conveniently located at Pelham Medical Center, we provide flexible programs for infants through pre-K, ensuring peace of mind for busy families. Enroll your child today and experience the Kids ‘R’ Kids difference!

Wild Oats Photography, owned by Morgan Underwood, has been capturing real, raw emotion in beautiful true-to-color imagery since 2024. Specializing in families, maternity, newborns, and weddings, Morgan is passionate about preserving life’s most meaningful milestones with authenticity and care. Her approach centers on connection and storytelling—documenting the in-between moments, quiet details, and joyful celebrations that make every story unique. Through timeless images, Wild Oats Photography creates tangible memories that allow clients to relive their most precious moments for years to come.

Pearl Center provides families with support of neurodiverse learners through educational therapy and home school classes. We offer educational therapy that targets the cognitive functions with a focus on developing independent, lifelong learners. Class are small in size and approach the content standards from an individual needs perspective. Students are also taught how to think and provided strategies to enhance critical thinking and decision making.

We’re excited to be named a finalist for Best Baby/Toddler Program in the Upstate! Our Wee Create Playgroup (Ages 2-5) offers a fun, nurturing environment where toddlers and preschoolers thrive, with caregivers staying to enjoy a stress-free, joyful playtime together.

In each session, you’ll help your child strengthen gross and fine motor skills, practice prewriting, explore simple science and math, and foster creativity—all while developing social skills and classroom etiquette.

Ready to join the fun? Sign up today on our website and give your little one the gift of creative play and learning at Yellowbobbypins Art Camp!

Taylors Elementary is a proud Leader in Me Lighthouse School and US News and Report Best Elementary School! We serve approximately 775 students in grades K5-5th from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds.

Each year, as a LIM School, we set Wildly Important Goals (WIGS) to improve our academic performance. These WIGS are measured on an individual and classroom level so that we can meet our annual schoolwide goals. Students participate is school-wide leadership roles and work to implement the Seven Habits in his or her daily life.

Taylors is a diverse learning community with highly qualified faculty and staff who promote student-centered instruction. We strive to identify the strengths and learning needs of all students. Our staff regularly participate in professional development activities, improving their craft to improve student achievement and success.

We offer a wide range of programs and clubs during and after school. Each student has the opportunity to participate in Covey Clubs that interest them at no charge. Our PTA takes an active role in supporting our school initiatives as well as strengthening relationships with local businesses and community members.

Our school belief system embraces every child as a leader with unique genius and talents. We strive to tap into those individual strengths to help them shine! We truly believe “Greatness Starts Here.”

We are a multi-generational farm that encourages connection, curiosity, and community. As we wander together on the land we foster wonder and delight in the people around us, the places we are, and the gift of the present. Through field trips, classes, parties, and summer camp – Shipshape Farm educates through fun outside.

Sounds of Carolina is a community-focused music education studio dedicated to nurturing confident, creative musicians of all ages. We offer high-quality instruction in strings, piano, voice, early childhood music, and group ensembles, with programs designed to meet students where they are and help them grow.

Our teaching philosophy emphasizes strong fundamentals, joyful music-making, and meaningful connections between students, teachers, and families. From early childhood classes that encourage family participation to private lessons and performance opportunities for developing musicians, we strive to create an encouraging, inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

At Sounds of Carolina, music is more than a skill. It is a lifelong gift that builds confidence, creativity, and community.

At Cornerstone Ballet we believe in building a strong dancer from the inside out. Our mission is to provide dancers with a professional quality dance education in a safe, encouraging and uplifting manner. We strive to not only build a sound dancer but to also create a program that fosters the development of self esteem, positive body image, responsibility, work ethic, and love for the art of ballet.

We are a multi-generational farm that encourages connection, curiosity, and community. As we wander together on the land we foster wonder and delight in the people around us, the places we are, and the gift of the present. Through field trips, classes, parties, and summer camp – Shipshape Farm educates through fun outside.

Dance Without Limits is thrilled to be a finalist for the 2025 Kaboom best dance studio in the Upstate!

DWL is a dance studio serving children and adults of all abilities ages 18 months and up. We offer ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and acrobatics classes. Our classes are adaptive and inclusive of people with disabilities or special needs. We are a non-competitive and family-friendly studio with multiple performance opportunities available to our students, including two annual recitals. We also offer fun dance birthday parties and summer camps.

We are excited to offer dance classes in two locations to better serve the Upstate area – Greenville and Simpsonville!

At Dance Without Limits, we believe dance is for everyone, and everyone can benefit from and deserves the chance to dance. We’ve put the fun back in kids extracurriculars by removing the pressure and stress of a hyper-competitive environment. Join us for a free trial today and experience why we’ve been recognized as the best!

Swim Lessons Save Lives!

And at Goldfish Swim School, we are committed to the mission to make waves for water safety and keep children in our communities safer in and around the water! We are the premiere swim school brand in the country as we deliver the GOLDEN experience to our fishies and families!

Featured at Goldfish:
• Small class ratios
• Engaging and water safe curriculum that delivers the Science of SwimPlay
• Flexible class times
• Multiple membership plans
• 90-degree, shiver-free pool
• Retail, snack, upgraded amenities
• Digital skills evaluations
• Online portal and app
• Family swims
• Special events
• Birthday parties
• FREE community water safety presentations – we are passionate about water safety education! Contact us to book!

In every splash, breath and kick, we teach and embrace water safety. From back floats to treading water, we focus on life-saving skills that make a difference.

One swimmer at a time, we instill a love and respect for the water. At Goldfish Swim School, we do what we do every single day because we know that Swim Lessons Save Lives! Call today at 864-565-8700 or email us swimgreenville@goldfishss.com.

Are you looking for something fun for the kids to do indoors? Look no further! Giggles offers over 4600 square feet of indoor play space with plenty of room for your busy kids. We even have our very own indoor treehouse playground. What’s even better is that you can drop off and let them play while you get a little time to yourself. Its a win-win!

We are open early in the morning and late in the evening as well as all day on Saturdays. Just drop in any time. 864-252-4252.

We solve learning problems at STRIDES Tutoring. Other programs focus on homework, but our tutors improve basic reading and math skills, all one-on-one. Each child has a program tailored to the needs of that child, taught by a tutor committed to the goals of that child. These tutors meet kids in Upstate libraries, ready to encourage each child to achieve success. If you have a library nearby, we may have a tutor there.

We welcome ages 6-20 of all financial levels. Our Scholarship Fund is open for those of low income. Many of our students are bilingual or have special needs, but all need help to compete academically with their peers. Our tutors meet with students in person or online, at least twice weekly.

For twenty-one years in Upstate SC, we have established a reputation for helping struggling students rise to grade level quickly. Our students become successful doctors, attorneys, teachers, barbers, mechanics, and carpenters. A future that once looked bleak becomes a stable and rewarding life. We love solving learning problems for the citizens of the future!

Southern Dance Connection is a place where kids are known, encouraged, and given the space to grow. For more than 20 years, Southern Dance Connection has been serving families in the Greer, South Carolina community by providing dance classes for ages two through adult in an environment that feels welcoming, supportive, and fun.

At Southern Dance Connection, dance is about more than learning steps or preparing for performances. It’s about building confidence, learning responsibility, and discovering what you’re capable of through hard work and creativity. Students are taught strong technique and age-appropriate skills, but they’re also reminded that effort matters, mistakes are part of learning, and every dancer’s journey looks different.

Community is a big part of who Southern Dance Connection is. Dancers regularly perform at local events, participate in service projects, and take part in outreach efforts that allow them to give back. Families are treated like partners, and relationships formed at the studio often last for years.

Southern Dance Connection is proud to be a place where children can grow, move, and belong — both on and off the dance floor.

Our summer camp is Giggles-On-The-Go! We go on awesome field trips every single day of our our summer camp. Some exciting places we visit include Shipwreck Cove waterpark, Kangaroo Jax, Roper Mountain Science center and so many more! Our low prices include 8 hours each day plus all activities, lunches and snacks. You never have to pay anything extra.

We are proud to have been voted best summer camp in 2024 and 2025 and a finalist again in 2026.

Spaces are limited to 28 campers each day so your child will get the individual attention that they deserve. Our early bird special starts February 15 and is a discount of $600 off for the whole summer. Don’t miss out!

Please feel free to call us with any questions. 864-252-4252.

The Family Effect works tirelessly to reduce addiction as a leading cause of family collapse and harm to children in our area by supporting evidence-based programs at the Phoenix Center. These programs provide a safety net for our community’s most vulnerable children and preserve hope in families all over the Upstate.

The Family Effect and the Phoenix Center strengthen the family unit by focusing on the root cause of family collapse- addiction in the home. Outcome data indicates that families who participate in our services use less alcohol and other drugs after completion, they are more stably housed, work more consistently, and have fewer interactions with law enforcement.

The only way we can accomplish this, though, is by raising funds and recruiting volunteers for these effective, research-based programs. This goes to show that only when we come together to heal a family do we all get better. We would love to have you as part of our family!

The Art Cart SC is a community-centered mobile arts business bringing the joy of art right to your doorstep; making creativity accessible, meaningful, and fun for children and families across Upstate South Carolina.

One of the cornerstones of The Art Cart SC’s work is its preschool program, Fine Arts Friends; a fine motor focused, fine arts experience designed especially for young learners. Through playful, hands-on projects, children strengthen motor skills while being introduced to both classic and contemporary art masters, from Monet to Matisse. The program engages preschoolers in age-appropriate art exploration and sparks imagination, confidence, and curiosity.

The Art Cart SC is also known for its mobile art bus, a traveling art studio that brings classes, parties, and creative pop-up events directly to schools, neighborhoods, and community celebrations. In addition, The Art Cart SC creates vibrant murals that brighten local schools and businesses, as well as colorful spirit rocks that help families and schools celebrate milestones, birthdays, and moments of pride. Through education, public art, and mobile creativity, The Art Cart SC continues to color its community with creativity, heart, and connection.

Roper Mountain is the place to bring your families for a hands-on and engaging experience whether it’s during the school year for field trips or during the summer for Summer Adventure and Summer Camps. Just ask other families in the area about their experiences and you’ll see why Roper Mountain continues to be a “must-see” experience in the upstate and beyond.

The beautiful 62-acre campus contains an array of state-of-the-art educational facilities including a Planetarium and Observatory, Marine and Ecology labs, a Rainforest, a Living History Farm, Dinosaur Adventure trail and a new Environmental Science and Sustainability Center.

Families can attend numerous events throughout the year including Friday Starry Nights, Afternoon Explorations, Summer Adventure, Laser Days of Summer, Summer Exploration Camps, and seasonal holiday laser shows. Regardless of age, you’ll surely find a plethora of engaging activities and fun for everyone to enjoy.

Best Sports Program – Finalist

The only private swim school in the Upstate, Swim Lessons with Mary has been delivering exceptional, 1-1 swim instruction for the past 12 years. Swim Lessons with Mary lessons are designed to build confidence and mastery in the water for swimmers of all ages and abilities. The program is rooted in the belief that 1-1 instruction is key to effective learning, providing personalized attention that helps each swimmer progress at their own pace. This individualized approach ensures that lessons are tailored to the unique needs and goals of the student, starting with self rescue skills and continuing through stroke development.

The instructors at Swim Lessons with Mary are not only highly skilled and experienced but are also deeply passionate about instilling confidence in their students. This passion shines through in every lesson, creating a supportive and encouraging environment where swimmers can overcome fears and develop a lifelong love for the water. The benefits of this one-on-one setting are numerous, including improved safety, faster skill acquisition, and the ability to adapt the lesson to the swimmer’s comfort level and learning style.

With a focus on self rescue, water safety, stroke proficiency, and confidence-building, Swim Lessons with Mary is committed to providing an exceptional swim lesson experience for all in the Upstate.

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.

A Step Above Dance Academy has been teaching the Upstate to dance since 1990. At A Step Above, we provide quality instruction with personal attention. Our experienced instructors have trained award-winning dancers and fostered a supportive community where every student can thrive.

We offer classes in tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary, musical theater, hip hop, lyrical and heels. Our programs include classes for preschoolers just starting out, recreational dancers who love to perform, dedicated students seeking an in-depth experience in our nationally recognized Company, and adults who wish to begin or return to dance. Preschool classes focus on nurturing creativity and building movement fundamentals, providing a joyful introduction to dance. Recreational performance classes give dancers the chance to shine on stage, developing confidence and teamwork through regular performance opportunities.

Our Company training is designed for committed students who want advanced technique and competition experience in a supportive, nationally acclaimed environment. Adult classes are open and welcoming to all skill levels, creating a friendly space to learn, improve, and enjoy the art of dance—whether you’re new or returning after a break. We invite you to join our dance family. See what makes A Step Above different from the rest!

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas is a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping families together and close to the medical care their children need. Founded in 1989 in Greenville, South Carolina, the organization provides a comforting “home-away-from-home” for families whose children are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. By removing the burden of lodging costs, RMHC of the Carolinas allows families to focus on what matters most—their child’s health and well-being.

The Ronald McDonald House offers overnight accommodations, home-cooked meals, private bedrooms, shared kitchens, laundry facilities, play areas, and supportive communal spaces. Families are never turned away due to inability to pay, ensuring care and compassion are accessible to all. In addition to the House, the charity operates a Ronald McDonald Family Room within Prisma Health Children’s Hospital–Upstate, giving families a place to rest, recharge, and remain close to their hospitalized child.

Community support is central to the organization’s mission, with volunteers, donors, and corporate partners helping sustain its programs and services. RMHC of the Carolinas also fosters youth engagement through its Teen Leadership Board, which empowers high school students to develop leadership skills while supporting the charity through fundraising, service, and advocacy.

Girls on the Run® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designed to enhance participants’ social, emotional and physical skills to successfully navigate life experiences. Our fun, interactive lessons meet the unique needs of participants of all abilities and backgrounds.

Our programs run for ten weeks in the Fall and Spring semesters for girls in 3rd – 8th grade, and facilitated by highly trained, caring coaches. Each season ends with a 5K event, celebrating every participant’s achievement and growth.

We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.