Charleston, SC

The Sunshine House offers comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Their experienced teachers implement Creative Curriculum and Frog Street Press programs, with low student-teacher ratios ensuring individualized attention. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. What sets them apart is their long-standing reputation in the community, with highly qualified staff holding early childhood degrees and ongoing professional development. They provide real-time updates to parents through the Brightwheel app and maintain excellent safety records with regular inspections and emergency preparedness training.

The Goddard School employs a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which balances academic readiness with social development. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive continuous training. The facility features secure keypad entry, CCTV monitoring, and age-specific learning environments with modern educational materials. What distinguishes Goddard is their focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities even for young children, along with enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. They maintain excellent teacher retention rates and strong parent partnerships through regular communication and portfolio assessments.

Bright Horizons implements their proprietary World at Their Fingers® curriculum, which emphasizes emergent curriculum based on children's interests and developmental stages. Their highly educated teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and thoughtfully designed classrooms that encourage exploration. What makes them exceptional is their strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and their partnership with Harvard researchers to develop best practices. They offer comprehensive enrichment programs including gardening, cooking, and music, while maintaining some of the lowest staff turnover rates in the industry through competitive compensation and professional support.