2026 Best of the Holy City READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS KIDS & FAMILY
01 Jul 2026
Voted on by our readers, these award-winning attractions, standout shops, and essential services are part of what keeps Charleston among the most beloved places to live in the country

Let’s give a round of applause to those who show up for Lowcountry families with care, creativity, and a genuine understanding of what it takes to raise children here. It starts with the essentials: compassionate care from Dr. Lisa Hughes, a pediatrician families rely on, and bright, welcoming smiles from Coastal Kids Dental, where even the youngest patients feel at ease. For working parents, dependable environments like The Sweetgrass School and Charleston Bilingual Academy offer not just supervision, but enrichment—spaces where curiosity is encouraged and confidence can grow. Education, of course, is at the heart of it all. James Island Christian School stands out for its commitment to shaping well-rounded students, while experiences beyond the classroom matter just as much. Whether it’s finding the perfect outfit at Southern Belles or discovering imaginative play at Wonder Works, these local favorites bring a sense of joy and personality to everyday moments. These are the names parents trust and share, the places that become part of family routines, and the professionals who understand that caring for children means caring for the community as a whole. Because it really does take a village!
BEST CHILDREN’S APPAREL
Southern Belles
BEST CHILD CARE
The Sweetgrass School
BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST
Coastal Kids Dental & Braces
BEST PEDIATRICIAN
Dr. Lisa Hughes
BEST PRESCHOOL
Charleston Bilingual Academy
charlestonbilingualacademy.org
BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL
James Island Christian School
BEST TOY STORE
Wonder Works
