About Us
Mission
Our mission is to provide affordable, accessible, high quality education and childcare services to children from diverse ethnic, socio-economic, and family backgrounds.
Philosophy
At UU World of Children, we believe that early education should be joyful, meaningful, and deeply rooted in respect for the whole child.
Montessori-Inspired Learning
We follow Montessori principles that encourage self-direction, independence, and responsibility. Through individual and group activities, children develop strong social and cognitive skills at their own pace, guided by caring, attentive teachers.
A Deep Connection to Nature
We believe that the natural world is one of a child’s greatest teachers. Outdoor learning is an essential part of our philosophy. Nature supports physical, emotional, and cognitive growth, offering endless opportunities for wonder, discovery, and play.
Inclusive & Supportive Care
As a full-day, year-round child care center, we provide wrap-around care that supports working families—offering consistency, structure, and community for children throughout the day.
A Place for Every Child
We welcome and celebrate children from all socio-economic backgrounds, family structures, and cultural traditions. In our classrooms, children learn together, play together, and grow together—building empathy, respect, and a sense of shared community.
Rooted in Compassion, Not Doctrine
We foster a spirit of compassion, kindness, and mutual understanding, welcoming children from all religions and belief systems. We help children explore values like respect, peace, and empathy in ways that are inclusive and developmentally appropriate, without religious instruction.
Nonprofit
While UU World of Children shares space and values with the Greenville Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, and our mission is aligned with theirs, we operate independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Educational Philosophy
The heart of our educational philosophy is the development of each child’s full human potential. Every child is treated as a unique individual, encouraged to make choices, explore freely, and take ownership of their learning. With this freedom comes responsibility—true independence is built through self-discipline and consideration for others.
Our classrooms are carefully prepared environments, guided by teachers who serve as facilitators rather than instructors. Learning happens through all five senses using hands-on, often self-correcting materials. Mixed-age classrooms allow children to learn from and support one another, developing social awareness and leadership skills.
Children learn because they want to learn—not for praise or reward, but for the joy of discovery. We emphasize doing one’s best over competing with others. Montessori materials help children build focus, organization, and a sense of purpose. As they move through the classroom choosing their own work and workspace, they also build independence, self-respect, and confidence that lasts a lifetime.
We Prioritize
Outdoor Play
We believe nature is one of the best teachers. Our outdoor environment is more than just a place to run and play—it’s a space for exploration, discovery, and connection. Whether they’re observing bugs, climbing trees, or playing games, children strengthen their bodies and minds through daily outdoor experiences that spark wonder and support healthy development.
Healthy Habits
We believe that wellness starts early. We support children’s physical well-being by offering balanced snacks and daily opportunities for active play. Through nutrition education, movement, and modeling positive choices, we help children build healthy habits that support both body and mind—laying the foundation for a lifetime of well-being.
Montessori Education
Our classrooms are filled with rich, inviting Montessori materials that children use independently and with purpose. Each subject area—practical life, sensorial, language, math, and cultural studies—is designed to support cognitive development while fostering independence, coordination, and concentration. Children choose their work, learn at their own pace, and take pride in their progress. Mixed-age classrooms promote leadership and collaboration, as children naturally teach and learn from one another.
Social & Emotional Development
We support children’s social and emotional growth by helping them build self-awareness, confidence, and empathy. Our classrooms are safe, nurturing spaces where children learn to recognize and express their emotions, solve problems peacefully, and develop meaningful connections with others. Through intentional guidance and modeling, we teach self-regulation tools that help children manage big feelings, make thoughtful choices, and navigate everyday challenges with growing independence and resilience.
Community
At UU World of Children, we know that strong family connections enrich the learning experience. As a parent-participation school, we require volunteer involvement and invite families to take an active role in our community. Whether it’s helping in the classroom, supporting events, or sharing special skills like yoga, gardening, storytelling, or art, every family has something meaningful to contribute. Together, we create a vibrant, connected environment where children—and community—can flourish.
Come see us for yourself!
