Understanding Your Options For Childcare & Early Education

Childcare & Early Education in Hawaiʻi: Understanding Your Options

Finding quality childcare and early education can feel overwhelming for families in Hawaiʻi. Options vary by type, cost, and availability, and while spaces may be limited, there are several pathways parents can explore to find the right fit for their keiki. Licensed programs are overseen by the State Department of Human Services (DHS) and typically serve children from birth through age six. Below is an overview of the types of care available, along with local resources to help guide your search.

Preschools & Group Child Care Centers

Preschools and Group Child Care Centers (GCCC) provide a structured environment for young children and often include daycare nurseries. These programs are popular among families because they give children the chance to interact with peers and multiple educators in a group setting. Many preschools operate on a full-day schedule, and tuition is usually charged monthly.

Looking for childcare? PATCH Hawaiʻi is the state’s childcare resource and referral agency, helping families connect with licensed providers and programs. Parents can search the PATCH database directly or call their local office for one-on-one support.

Home-Based Child Care

Many families prefer home-based care for its smaller setting, mixed age groups, and often more flexible approach. Options include:

  • Family Child Care Homes (FCCH): Care is provided in the caregiver’s home for up to six unrelated children, with no more than two children under 18 months at a time. FCCH programs meet state health, safety, and training standards, including Pediatric First Aid and CPR.

  • Licensed-Exempt Homes: These programs are not required to be registered or licensed unless they receive childcare subsidy assistance. When subsidies are accepted, providers must meet health and safety standards such as background checks, training, and inspections. Licensed-exempt homes can care for up to two unrelated children in addition to their own, with a maximum of six if receiving subsidies.

State-Funded Programs

Hawaiʻi also offers state-supported early learning opportunities, including:

  • EOEL Public Pre-K: The Executive Office on Early Learning collaborates with the Hawaiʻi Department of Education to provide high-quality Pre-K programs for 3- and 4-year-olds at select public schools. These programs focus on physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and language development.

    • On Kauaʻi, programs are available at:

      • ʻEleʻele Elementary

      • Kapaʻa Elementary (2 classrooms)

      • Kekaha Elementary

      • Kīlauea Elementary

    • Apply online: EOEL Application

    • Multilingual applications: EOEL Resources

  • Public Charter School Pre-K Programs: Hawaiʻi’s charter schools offer culturally responsive, community-driven Pre-K options, often incorporating Hawaiian language, place-based education, and family engagement.

    • Example: Ke Kula Niʻihau O Kekaha (spaces available). Call (808) 337-1289 to apply.

Family Support Programs

For families caring for children at home, Play and Learn Groups—also known as Family Child Interaction Learning (FCIL) programs—provide a balance of parent education and child development support. These programs strengthen family bonds while offering keiki early learning opportunities.

Programs on Kauaʻi include:

  • Partners in Development Foundation: Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschool

  • INPEACE Keiki Steps

Building Strong Foundations

Every family’s childcare journey looks different, and Hawaiʻi offers a range of pathways to support parents and keiki during the early years. Whether through preschools, home-based care, state-funded Pre-K, or family learning programs, the goal remains the same: helping children grow, learn, and thrive in a safe, supportive environment.

For more resources and assistance, families are encouraged to reach out to PATCH Hawaiʻi or explore local early learning programs in their community.