by Jen Townsend, VP of Youth Development, YMCA of Honolulu
Families in Kailua will soon have a new place where their youngest keiki can learn, grow, and thrive. The YMCA of Honolulu is excited to open a brand-new preschool site in Kailua, created especially to nurture curiosity, friendships, and a love of learning.
Once open, the new school will be able to provide services for up to 65 children. With a dedicated team of 10 teachers, the new Kailua preschool will offer small class sizes and ratios tailored to each age group: 3-to-1 for infants (ages six weeks to 18 months), 5-to-1 for toddlers (ages one to two), 8-to-1 for preschoolers (ages three to four), and 10-to-1 for pre-kindergarten (ages four to five).
Each classroom is designed to be a bright and welcoming space for children to feel at home. Classes are organized around themes like Little Safari and Honey Bees & Sunflowers, sparking curiosity, teamwork and discovery. Cozy reading corners, art tables, science centers, and play areas invite exploration and collaboration, while child-sized furniture and natural light foster independence and comfort.
The curriculum blends The Creative Curriculum, a play-based and research-driven approach that promotes social, emotional, and creative growth, with SPARK Early Childhood Curriculum, a program of structured physical activities to build gross motor skills, coordination, and teamwork. Together, these programs ensure children are supported in all areas of development.
YMCA of Honolulu also offers preschool and early learning centers for ages 2–5 at Kaimuki-Waialae, Leeward, Mililani, Nuʻuanu, and other communities. Each location offers a safe, nurturing environment focused on kindergarten readiness, social-emotional development, and whole-child growth.
By combining trusted YMCA programs with expanded supports, the new Kailua preschool—and all YMCA early education sites—are giving families greater access to high-quality, affordable learning environments where children can thrive.
