Choosing the right preschool is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child. Hawaii is home to a wide variety of early learning programs, each offering unique approaches to education, development, and care. Whether you’re looking for a play-based environment, a program that fosters creative thinking, or a school that emphasizes social-emotional growth, this directory will help you explore the many options available across the islands. To help you navigate this decision, be sure to read A Parent’s Guide to Preschool, where you’ll find valuable tips and insights on how to select the best preschool for your child’s needs.
Alphabetland
Ages 2 to 5
Alphabetland is a locally owned early learning center offering quality daycare and preschool programs for children ages two to five. Since 1971, their programs have provided a strong learning foundation that includes social-emotional development, language and literacy, motor development, and general knowledge through creative arts, social studies, math and science activities tailored for each age group. Children at Alphabetland are exposed to multi-sensory instruction, hands-on learning, critical thinking, co-operative learning, and differentiated instruction through flexible learning styles.
For more information, please visit AlphabetlandPreschoolHawaii.com or call one of their three locations to schedule a tour.
Central Union Church Preschool
Ages 2 to 5
Central Union Church’s Preschool program (CUPS) has proudly served children ages two through five since 1928. CUPS Christian-based early childhood program promotes spiritual, cognitive, socio-emotional and physical growth in a nurturing, caring environment. Their Ohana toddler program serving two-year-olds offers flexible part and full-time options for families and is a wonderful start for children preparing to enter school for the first time. Before and after-care is available, as well as extracurricular activities in sports, music, foreign language and more. We recommend that parents arrange a visit to tour the campus prior to applying.
Visit CentralUnionPreschool.org to learn more.
Christian Academy
Ages 3 through 12th Grade
Christian Academy is a private Christian school which offers classes from preschool through high school. Founded in 1981 as a ministry of First Assembly of God, the school seeks students who will benefit from varied programs designed to encourage maturity in spirit, mind, and body. Christian Academy’s biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to mold students to be Christ-like through the Principle Approach®, which is America’s historic Christian method of Biblical reasoning that makes the truth of God’s character and His Word the basis of every subject.
For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit CAPatriots.org.
The Cole Academy
Ages 6 Months to 6 Years
The Cole Academy is a family-owned and operated preschool with multiple locations in Hawaii. Their specialized academic and social curriculum prepares children for success and kindergarten readiness, including early reading, math, foreign language and infant-toddler sign language. Along with full- and part-time enrollment options for reduced tuition, The Cole Academy also welcomes requests for alternative schedules to suit busy parents’ needs.
There is no application fee, and interested families are encouraged to visit TheColeAcademy.com to find their nearest location and schedule a tour.
Early Achievers
Ages 2 to 6
At Early Achievers Preschool Hawaii, learning is made fun and meaningful through a balance of quality education and child-led exploration. The caring and dedicated staff are highly qualified and participate in ongoing training to provide the best possible education. Each milestone and success is celebrated as keiki prepare for Kindergarten and beyond. With newly renovated facilities offering spacious classrooms and a large playground, Early Achievers ensures a clean and safe environment for every child. Watch them flourish in a nurturing and achievement-driven atmosphere! Rolling applications are currently being accepted.
For more information, please visit earlyachievershawaii.com.
Hale Keiki School
Ages 3 through 6th Grade
Hale Keiki School is a small private school comprised of just over 200 preschool through sixth grade students. HKS takes pride in delivering a quality early childhood education for students in a safe and nurturing environment. Their ohana setting is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and accountability, prioritizing children’s social, emotional and academic growth. Preschool and prekindergarten programs balance developmental activities and pre-academic skills, with curriculum shaped to meet the needs of each student through multisensory and hands-on learning. HKS also offers a variety of after-school enrichment programs.
Please visit HaleKeikiSchool.org for more information.
Hanalani Schools
Preschool through 12th Grade
Nestled on six acres in Mililani, Hanalani is a private Christian school that prepares children in preschool through 12th grade for college and beyond. Their Early Childhood program for three and four-year-olds features strong, age-appropriate academics that focus on developing the whole child, socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Teachers build a strong academic foundation for young learners by providing a rich educational experience through integrated technology, cooking experiences, music classes, physical education, group time and more. Students at Hanalani receive individualized attention and care while also developing important social skills with their peers. Financial aid is available.
Interested parents can learn more at Hanalani.org.
HBA Early Learning Centers
Mililani Mauka Ages 2.5 to 5
Nuʻuanu Ages 3 to 5
Hawaiʻi Baptist Academy Early Learning Centers provides a nurturing, healthy, and stimulating Christian environment. Through hands-on experiences and engaging learning opportunities, we meet each child’s individual needs and support their growth academically, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. We believe that working together as a team not only builds community but is vital in helping children grow to be their best. Daily communication, weekly updates, parent-teacher conferences, and special parent events are just a few ways that we partner with families to strengthen relationships and enrich learning experiences. If you are looking for a supportive program where your child can learn and grow, we invite you to learn more about our Early Learning Centers in Mililani Mauka (ages 2.5-5) and Nuʻuanu (ages 3-5). At HBA, children develop confidence, curiosity, and character within a caring community that is grounded in Christian values and welcoming to all families.
Visit HBA.net to learn more and schedule a tour.
Hongwanji Mission School
Ages 3 through 8th Grade
Founded in 1949 as the first Buddhist school outside of Japan, Hongwanji Mission School strives to nurture compassionate, responsible and successful learners through comprehensive programs that enable students to excel in the high school of their choice. Instruction is highly personalized, guided by Buddhist values, and provided in a safe atmosphere with a low teacher-student ratio. Hongwanji’s preschool curriculum addresses each child’s needs, interests, feelings and ideas to nurture an enthusiasm for learning. A typical week’s schedule includes classes in art, physical education/swimming, music, literacy, and Japanese language, with over 30 after-school programs also available. Prospective families are encouraged to visit the campus as part of the admissions process.
Visit HongwanjiMissionSchool.com for more information.
Kaimuki Christian School
P2 through 12th Grade
Since 1968, Kaimuki Christian School’s preschool has laid the foundation for achieving its mission of educating each child to his or her God-intended potential. Children flourish in a safe, nurturing, and close-knit environment while also being a part of a larger school community. A fun and loving atmosphere created by our dedicated teaching staff helps young minds to grow and know that they are loved by God. Children develop their independence, social skills, and math & and reading readiness skills as they prepare for elementary school and learn to love school. After-school care, intersession care, and summer programs are offered. For two-year-olds, part-time options are available. Applications are now being accepted.
Visit kaimukichristianschool.org to schedule a personalized in-person tour.
Kama’aina Kids
Infant through Prekindergarten
Discover an enriching learning environment for your child at Kamaaina Kids Preschool! With a comprehensive curriculum, experienced teachers, and a focus on promoting social, emotional and cognitive development, their programs provide a strong foundation for your child’s early education journey. Each classroom is arranged to allow children the opportunity to explore and investigate their surroundings. Infants and toddlers learn through daily routines and activities that incorporate playing with toys, dabbling in art, enjoying stories, tasting and preparing food, exploring sand and water, having fun with music and movement, and going outdoors. As kindergarten approaches, pre-reading and pre-math skills get more attention. Kama’aina Kids offers preschool programs in a variety of settings in order to ensure that they are in the neighborhoods where parents work and live.
Visit KamaainaKids.com to find a location near you.
Kawaiahaʻo Church School
Ages 2 through Kindergarten
In the heart of downtown Honolulu, Kawaiahaʻo Church Preschool offers a nurturing, faith-rooted start for keiki ages 2 to kindergarten. As part of Kawaiahaʻo Church School, this Montessori-inspired program blends hands-on learning with Hawaiian cultural values and Christian teachings. With small class sizes, a bilingual English and Hawaiian language environment, and a warm community ethos, children mature not only in cognitive skills but in heart. Families appreciate its downtown convenience, safe campus, and the school’s long legacy of educational care dating back to 1975. For parents seeking a preschool that integrates faith, culture, and academic readiness, Kawaiahaʻo stands as a treasured option among Honolulu’s early education choices.
Keiki Care Center Of Hawaii
Ages 2 to 5
At Keiki Care Center of Hawaii (KCCOH), children learn through play, as their core philosophy is structured around their motto, “Enhancing Joyful Learning.” Keiki Care Center believes that each child is an individual with their own individual needs. KCCOH conducts parent conferences and produces a customized portfolio for each keiki. Their knowledgeable and experienced teachers have created a supportive and nurturing environment to help students form a positive foundation for lifelong learning.
Limited spaces are currently available, but they welcome families to visit KeikiCareHawaii.com to learn more and schedule a tour.
Keiki O Ka ‘Aina
Infant to 5 Years Old
Keiki O Ka ‘Aina’s (KOKA) mission is to educate children, strengthen families, enrich communities, and perpetuate culture. Parents are encouraged to be their keiki’s first and best teacher, setting a standard for family-based education. KOKA’s preschool programs interweave Montessori activities with Hawaiian values, traditions, culture, and language. Teachers support children’s natural enthusiasm to learn and play in a developmentally and age-appropriate atmosphere. Children learn through art, discovery, and movement, using the ‘aina (land) as a natural classroom. At KOKA, everything is done in a balanced, stimulating and enriching environment, while providing families with the support systems and resources they need to become self-confident, self-determined and self-sustaining.
Visit KOKA.org to find your nearest location.
Lanakila Baptist School
Ages 3 through 12th Grade
Lanakila Baptist Schools (LBS) has been educating children in prekindergarten through twelfth grade for over 50 years. Their well-rounded, biblically based college preparatory program of study emphasizes mastery of the fundamentals, which are vital to each student’s success in academia. At LBS, your child will become an informed, discerning individual, who is equipped with the knowledge and critical reasoning skills that enable success in future academics, career pursuits, and life. Reading is emphasized in prekindergarten so that students are prepared for elementary school. They offer a low teacher to student ratio, affordable tuition, and guaranteed academic success.
Visit LBSWarriors.com for more information and admission requirements.
Maryknoll School
Ages 4 through 12th Grade
At Maryknoll School, Hawaii’s largest coeducational prekindergarten through 12th grade Catholic private school, each student receives personalized instruction and guidance to develop the knowledge, skills and character to thrive in a global society. Prekindergarten students work on reading, writing, math concepts, critical thinking, letter/word recognition, addition & subtraction, patterns, problem-solving, building social skills, sharing, and more. Teachers at Maryknoll believe in creating a warm and loving environment where children can learn about themselves, gain an understanding of others, and develop strong self-esteem.
Space is currently limited, but interested families are encouraged to visit MaryknollSchool.org to learn more.
Mary, Star Of The Sea Early Learning Center
Ages 2 to 6
Mary, Star of the Sea (MSOS) Early Learning Center provides quality early childhood education within a Catholic Montessori environment. MSOS supports faith-filled and personalized learning to meet the developmental needs of each child. With enriching and spacious indoor and outdoor learning environments, children have opportunities to acquire global, 21st century learning skills such as collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking and communication skills, as well as the development of the whole child, socially, personally, physically and intellectually. Enrollment is open year-round on a space available basis.
Please visit StaroftheSeaELC.org for an online virtual tour or more information.
Montessori Community School
Ages 2 through 6th Grade
Montessori Community School is an independent, non-sectarian school that has provided quality Montessori education for children ages two through twelve for over 50 years. Their authentic Montessori program fosters independence and enhances decision-making, critical thinking, and time management skills. Through an inviting and engaging learning environment, Montessori-credentialed teachers nurture all aspects of a child’s development to cultivate well-rounded individuals, developing skills for life.
Visit MontessoriHawaii.org to find out more about the application process and schedule a Campus visit.
Mo‘O School
Ages 3 to 12
Mo‘O School’s preschool program offers a gentle and natural transition from home to school for children beginning at age 3. Rooted in authentic Montessori principles, the Primary environment is calm, nurturing, and thoughtfully prepared to support each child’s independence and curiosity. Located in beautiful Mānoa Valley, the school offers multi-age classrooms where younger children learn from older peers, while older students develop leadership and empathy as they guide and assist their classmates. Every day includes time outdoors, where children explore, observe, and discover something new in the natural world and develop a deep connection to the ‘āina. Mo‘O’s preschool supports the development of practical life skills, early language and math foundations, and social-emotional growth through hands-on, meaningful work. Find out more information at www.mo-o.org.
Find out more information at mo-o.org.
Pali Preschool
Ages 2 to 6
At Pali Preschool, each child is recognized as a unique individual and treated as a contributing member of the group. Within a Christian setting, students engage in stimulating, hands-on experiences that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. A rich curriculum includes music, art, literature, pre-reading, math, writing, science, and social studies to support whole-child development. Children also enjoy a weekly music class led by a dedicated music teacher and gather for a chapel service every other week with the pastor, further enriching their school experience. With an emphasis on building self-esteem, keiki are encouraged to express their feelings with confidence and acceptance. Conveniently located near downtown Honolulu, the Nuuanu campus features spacious indoor and outdoor areas, individual classrooms, and a gymnasium.
For additional information, please visit PaliPreschool.org.
Rainbow Schools
Kahuku, Kaneohe, Mililani, Wahiawa: Ages 2 to 5
Honolulu: Ages 3 Months to 5 Years
Rainbow Schools is a non-profit organization of early childhood education centers that has been serving the families of Oahu with quality programs since 1972. At Rainbow Schools, learning is treated as a natural accomplishment of living and should be a joyful and positive experience. The teacher’s role is to focus the learning already taking place in a child’s life by guiding them toward four goals: basic skill development, a deeper awareness of the world and their place in it, creative expression, and the ability to make effective choices. Strengths and abilities are emphasized, and tasks are broken into steps which are developmentally appropriate. Rainbow Schools provides nutritionally appropriate breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Interested families are encouraged to call any of their five locations to schedule a tour.
Visit RainbowSchools.com for more details.
Sacred Hearts Academy Early Learning Center
Girls, Ages 3 to 6
Students enrolled in Sacred Heart Academy’s Early Learning Center learn by exploring, inquiring and “doing” in a safe and nurturing environment stocked with hands-on activities. Preschool and kindergarten students engage in interactive activities that incorporate multiple academic areas collaboratively, including reading, social studies, science, technology, engineering, art, music, math, and physical education. Understanding that each child is unique, the Academy accommodates individual needs, interests and learning styles. In addition to extracurricular activities, ELC students can extend their dynamic explorations in their after-school care program. The ELC also operates during intersessions, holiday breaks, and through the summer.
Learn more at SacredHearts.org.
Saint Andrew’s Queen Emma Preschool
Ages 2 to 5
For over 150 years, Saint Andrew’s Schools has successfully helped children to discover their most expansive and courageous selves and use their talents for the greater good. Queen Emma Preschool begins the whole-child foundation for learning in the early years with joyful play through hands-on, constructive and developmentally appropriate experiences. In an environment of play-based learning, teachers nurture the development of the whole child through age-appropriate activities. Children contribute their own ideas, use their own problem-solving strategies, and often pursue their own interests. Applications are accepted year-round as space becomes available.
Learn more at StAndrewsSchools.org.
St. Clement’s School
Ages 3 to 6
Since 1949, St. Clement’s School has successfully provided children with high quality preschool and kindergarten experiences that help them transition from toddlers to elementary students. Early education at St. Clement’s is rooted in the Christian faith as interpreted by the Episcopal Church, and welcomes and respects children of all religious, ethnic and economic backgrounds. With a low teacher to student ratio, supportive teachers are committed to guiding students into becoming responsible young adults. Need-based financial aid is available.
Space is currently limited, but interested parents are encouraged to visit StClem.com for more information and to schedule a tour.
St. Joseph Parish School
Ages 4 through 8th Grade
St. Joseph Parish School, in collaboration with the home, church, and global community, provides quality Catholic education in a safe and caring family environment. The teachers and staff believe in supporting and assisting parents by nurturing the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, cultural and physical growth of the whole child. Students are prepared to achieve their full potential to be morally responsible citizens, effective communicators, active Christians, and lifelong learners. St. Joseph Parish School’s prekindergarten program is designed to provide a solid foundation for successful kindergarten readiness and lifelong learning.
Visit StJosephWaipahu.org to learn and to download an application.
St. Patrick School
Ages 3 through 8th Grade
The focus of St. Patrick School’s Early Learning Program is to provide a solid foundation for success in present and future learning. This is accomplished through four major areas: the individual child, teaching strategies, an integrated curriculum and a solid parent-teacher relationship. St. Patrick School inspires children to imitate Jesus and Mary by developing hearts of compassion and forgiveness. Teachers create a positive learning environment through programs and extra-curricular activities that foster life skills in leadership, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. Morning and after-school care is available.
Applications are available at School.SaintPatrickHawaii.org, and there is no testing fee for preschool applicants.
Sounds Of Success Preschool
Ages 2.5 to 5
Sounds of Success Preschool is a unique program that specializes in providing an integrated program of early childhood education and individualized speech-language therapy. The school adheres to the Hawaii Preschool Content Standards and their speech pathologists are American Speech-Language Hearing Association certified. In addition to their language-enriched learning curriculum, teachers follow the Creative Curriculum to help prepare students for future school success. SOS also offers a prekindergarten class with a kindergarten curriculum for late born 4-year-olds that can’t attend kindergarten just yet, as well as on-site after-school speech-language therapy services for children ages 2 to 18 years old. Sounds of Success Preschool offers full- and half-day options for all children and provides a “home away from home” environment.
For more information, visit SOSPreschool.org.
Stepping Stones Academy
Ages 6 Weeks to 6 Years
The mission of Stepping Stones Academy is to guide children into becoming happy, confident and independent learners. Their curriculum is child-initiated and teacher-directed, designed to encourage active exploration and optimum learning for each student. Each day a daily age-appropriate progress report is completed and sent home. The contents of the progress report may include activities, special progress or achievements, food eaten, or even the number of diaper changes. Full-time hours are offered for ages six weeks to six years; with a shorter school day option for ages three and up; and a half-day option for two-year-olds.
Visit Stepping-Stones-Academy.org to find your nearest location, take a virtual tour, and learn more about their programs.
Wesley Children’s Program
Ages 12 Months to 5 Years
Sponsored by the Wesley United Methodist Church, Wesley Children’s Program provides part-time and full-time childcare for preschool aged children 12 months to 5 years old. Their center offers a secure and stimulating environment where children can explore, learn, and grow under the supervision of dedicated and experienced educators. Project-based learning is implemented through hands-on, age-appropriate activities using the Creative Curriculum framework. Wesley Children’s Program also offers after school and seasonal care options for children in kindergarten through 6th grade.
Learn more at WesleyUMCHawaii.com.
YMCA Preschool & Early Learning Center
Ages 2 to 5
At the Y, it’s more than just daycare — it’s the beginning of a lifelong love of learning. Our Preschool and Early Learning Programs provide a nurturing environment where caring teachers build on each child’s strengths to foster self-confidence, social skills, and emotional well-being. The Y’s part-day early learning enrichment program for children ages three to five helps toddlers transition from a home care setting to a formal preschool experience. For families seeking a full-day option, YMCA Leeward Preschool and YMCA Pali Nu‘uanu Preschool welcome children ages two to five, offering engaging opportunities that nurture cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and creative growth. Each program is designed to ensure children are well prepared to enter school and thrive. And coming soon, the Y will open a new preschool in Kailua, expanding these opportunities even further for Windward families.
For more information, visit YMCAHonolulu.org.
Common Preschool Accreditation Acronyms
- AMS: American Montessori Society
- AWSNA: Association of Waldorf Schools of North America
- DHS: Hawaii’s Department of Human Services
- HAIS: Hawaii Association of Independent Schools
- HCPS: Hawaii Council of Private Schools
- NAEYC: National Association for the Education of Young Children
- NCEA: National Catholic Educational Association
- NLSA: National Lutheran School Accreditation
- NECPA: National Early Childhood Program Accreditation
- WASC: Western Association of Schools & Colleges
- WCEA: Western Catholic Educational Association
