Where Every Child Is A Precious Jewel

Nurturing young minds since 1998 with holistic care that supports social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.

Our Programs

Diamonds (Infants)

6 weeks - 18 months

Individualized care that promotes sensory exploration and early development.

Rubies (1 Year)

12 - 24 months

Encouraging independence and discovery through play-based learning.

Topaz (2 Years)

2 - 4 years

Fostering their growing independence, communication, and exploration.

Emeralds (Preschool)

4 - 5 years

Kindergarten readiness through structured learning and creative exploration.

Amethysts (School Age)

5 - 12 years

Before/after school care and summer programs with academic support.

Our Unique Curriculum

Cognitive Development

Age-appropriate activities that stimulate problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

  • STEM activities
  • Early literacy
  • Math concepts

Social-Emotional Learning

Building confidence, self-awareness, and positive relationships with others.

  • Conflict resolution
  • Emotional regulation
  • Teamwork skills

Physical Development

Activities that promote fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and healthy habits.

  • Outdoor play
  • Yoga for kids
  • Nutrition education

About Little Gems

Established in 1998, Little Gems has been providing quality care for children in Shelby and Boiling Springs, NC. Our holistic approach nurtures the whole child - social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.

We're proud to be 5-star accredited facilities by the NC Department of Early Childhood Education.

A Day at Little Gems

Morning Schedule

  • 6:30

    Arrival & Free Play

    Children arrive and engage in supervised free play

  • 8:00

    Breakfast

    Nutritious meal to start the day

  • 8:30

    Circle Time

    Morning meeting with songs, stories, and calendar

Afternoon Schedule

  • 12:00

    Lunch

    Healthy meal with fruits, vegetables, and proteins

  • 12:30

    Nap Time

    Quiet rest period for all children

  • 2:30

    Afternoon Activities

    Art, music, outdoor play, and learning centers

What Parents Say

"

Little Gems has been amazing for my daughter. The teachers genuinely care about each child's development and well-being.

- Sarah J., Shelby, NC

"

As a working parent, I appreciate the consistent communication and updates about my child's day.

- Michael T., Boiling Springs, NC

"

Both of my children attended Little Gems from infancy through preschool. The kindergarten readiness program gave them such a strong foundation.

- Lisa M., Shelby, NC

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Environmental Stewardship

Energy-efficient facility, non-toxic cleaning products, natural outdoor play spaces with native plants, and comprehensive recycling/composting programs.

Social Resilience

Inclusive environment, competitive wages for staff, low turnover rates, and curriculum that teaches environmental concepts through hands-on projects.

Nutrition

Wholesome meals made with natural ingredients, limiting artificial additives and excessive sugars. We prioritize local, seasonal foods to support health and local farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions

We're open Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM to accommodate working parents' schedules.

Yes! We provide nutritious breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks daily. All meals are prepared with natural, wholesome ingredients and we accommodate dietary restrictions.

We maintain ratios better than state requirements: 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, and 1:10 for preschoolers. This allows for more individualized attention.

Yes, we accept state subsidy at both our Shelby and Boiling Springs locations. Please contact us for more information about the enrollment process.