NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 Hawaii Parent 41 he time has come to choose an education center for your child, and if you’re like most parents, you’re feeling the pressure and wondering where to begin. Every parent wants to be confident in deciding on the best program, but there are so many considerations to take into account when interviewing and choosing a school that it can feel overwhelming. Choosing a school for your child doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, the choice can be broken down into two essential components – being informed and being prepared. The best place to start is with what you know best: your own family’s needs and, most importantly, your child. KNOW YOUR NEEDS For many families, preschool is an essential part of life and allows us to work while our young children are safe and cared for. First things first, break down the process by thinking about how each school will fit into your daily life. Learn the basics of each program: location, hours, tuition costs. Ask yourself if it’s important for the preschool to be near your home and your work. What are their hours, and does this work with both yours and your child’s schedules? What is included in tuition costs, and is this fee reasonable with your budget and expectations? Prepare for any upfront registration costs and look into waitlist times. Answering each of these questions will help you narrow down and eliminate any that do not work for you right away. From here, you’ll know which schools you’d like to tour. KNOW YOUR CHILD The most important person to consider in this process is your child. They will be the one spending their time at the facility you choose, and considering their needs and wants will make your decision that much easier. First, how old is your child? Your child’s age will determine the type of program they will enroll in and will guide your feelings on curriculum as well as determine variations in price. Younger programs, for instance, generally charge higher tuition due to higher costs. For a younger child, supervision may be your first priority – to keep them safe and happy – while for older, more independent pre-K children, education will certainly come first. Next, think about your child’s interests: Art? Science? Hands-on activities? Imaginative play? What brings out their smile? KCAA Preschools is the resource on preschool for the Hawaiian Islands. Their President, Christina Cox, suggests, “Thinking about the happiness of your child will no doubt bring about a good choice. Will my child be safe and be happy? Make friends T
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