82 Hawaii Military Guide • Summer-Fall 2026 YOUTH EDUCATION Learning, which serve three to four-year-olds at select public school campuses across the island. In addition, options like Head Start, family child care homes, and military-affiliated programs provide more flexible or specialized care depending on eligibility and location. With hundreds of licensed programs ranging from small home-based settings to larger structured schools, parents on Oahu can find a preschool environment that supports their child’s early learning, creativity, and overall development. SPECIAL PROGRAMS Finding a quality school at your new duty station is essential for maintaining a strong academic foundation, especially for children who experience frequent moves. Hawaii offers several programs designed specifically to support military families and ease the transition into a new school system. On the HIDOE website, visit the Enrollment section and click on Military Families Partners and Resources. There, you’ll find helpful information on initiatives like the Joint Venture Education Forum and the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3), both of which are designed to support continuity and address the unique challenges military-connected students may face. A+ PROGRAM Out-Of-School-Time (OST) programs provide a safe venue for students between the end of the school day and the availability of their family and/or caregivers. These may also extend to evenings, weekends, holidays and intersessions (including summer). Among these is the A+ Program. Available for children in Kindergarten through grade six, A+ provides these students with time to complete homework, and participate in enrichment and physical activities such as arts, crafts, drama, dance, sports and games. The A+ Parent Handbook includes more information about the program. click on Military Families Partners and Resources. CHILD FIND Child Find is a program under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that ensures children with suspected developmental delays or disabilities are identified, located, and evaluated as early as possible. In Hawaii, this free service is available to children from birth through age 21, regardless of the severity of the concern or whether the child is enrolled in public school. The goal is to connect families with early intervention or special education services that support each child’s unique needs and long-term success. Referrals can be made by parents, teachers, doctors, or caregivers, and begin with a screening process followed by a comprehensive evaluation if needed. A formal diagnosis is not required to start the process, but eligibility for services is determined through evaluation. In Hawaii, Child Find plays a critical role in ensuring all children have access to the support they need to thrive. MMAA GG AA ZZ II NN EE •• WWEE BB SS II TT EE •• II NN SS TT AA GG RR AA MM @hawaiiparent HAWAIIPARENTMEDIA.COM Local Events, Kid Friendly Activities, School Resources, Giveaways, and so much more! THE #1 TRUSTED RESOURCE THE #1 TRUSTED RESOURCE FOR HAWAII FAMILIES FOR HAWAII FAMILIES
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