The Best Daycare Centers in Kihei, HI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kihei. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kihei
Kama'aina Kids - Kihei
Kama'aina Kids
Kama'aina Kids is Hawaii's largest locally-owned childcare provider with a strong reputation for quality early childhood education. The Kihei location offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates Hawaiian culture and values with developmentally appropriate learning activities. Their experienced staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and holds degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure indoor learning environments and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. They emphasize social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities while providing nutritious meals and maintaining rigorous safety protocols. Their long-standing presence in the community and commitment to Hawaiian cultural integration make them a top choice.
Daycare Services:
Sunshine Schools Early Learning Center - Wailea
Sunshine Schools
Located just minutes from Kihei in neighboring Wailea, Sunshine Schools offers a premium early learning experience with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development. The center features state-of-the-art facilities including age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms, and dedicated art and music areas. Their highly qualified teachers implement research-based educational approaches that foster cognitive, social, and physical development. The center maintains exceptional health and safety standards with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, individualized attention to children, and the nurturing environment that promotes confidence and curiosity.
Daycare Services:
Montessori School of Maui - Makawao
Montessori School of Maui
While located in Makawao (approximately 25 minutes from Kihei), Montessori School of Maui serves families across Central and South Maui and is renowned for its authentic Montessori education. The school offers a complete developmental continuum from infancy through elementary years, with specially trained AMI-certified teachers guiding children through hands-on learning experiences. Their beautiful campus features purpose-built Montessori classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, gardens, and play areas. The curriculum emphasizes independence, respect for others, and natural learning through discovery. Families from Kihei appreciate the school's commitment to developing lifelong learners, its peaceful environment, and the strong sense of community among students, teachers, and parents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kihei, HI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kihei, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Kihei, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, which is higher than the national average due to Hawaii's high cost of living. Prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, staff-to-child ratios, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Hawaii offers the Child Care Connection Hawaii (CCCH) subsidy program for eligible families based on income, employment, or education requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's highly recommended to apply for subsidies early, as funding can be limited, and to inquire directly with individual providers about any private scholarship opportunities or payment plans they might offer.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Kihei, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Kihei can be notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. High demand coupled with limited facility space contributes to this challenge. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists, even for centers that aren't your top choice. Maintain regular contact (every 2-3 months) with the centers to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in South Maui, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a more home-like environment.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a registered family childcare home in Hawaii, and how do I verify a provider's status?
In Hawaii, licensed childcare centers are larger facilities inspected by the Department of Human Services (DHS) for compliance with strict standards on staff qualifications, group sizes, safety, and curriculum. Registered family childcare homes are smaller, home-based operations caring for up to six children; they must also meet DHS health and safety standards but have different operational rules. To verify a provider's licensing status, you must use the official Hawaii DHS "Child Care Finder" website. This public database allows you to search by location (like Kihei) and view the provider's license type, status, any non-compliance history, and capacity. Never enroll your child without confirming their current, valid license or registration.
Are there daycare options in Kihei that incorporate Hawaiian culture and outdoor learning, given the island environment?
Yes, several childcare options in Kihei and the broader South Maui area intentionally incorporate 'āina-based (land-based) learning and Hawaiian cultural values. Look for programs that include activities like basic ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language) words, music, stories of Maui nui, native plant gardening, and ocean safety education. Some centers also emphasize outdoor play and learning in their daily schedules to take advantage of Kihei's sunny climate, with shaded areas and water play being common. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their cultural curriculum and how they integrate respect for the local environment and Hawaiian host culture into their daily routines.
What should I look for in a daycare facility in Kihei regarding emergency preparedness for events like tsunamis, hurricanes, or vog (volcanic smog)?
Given Hawaii's unique environmental hazards, this is a critical question. A reputable Kihei daycare should have a detailed emergency plan that is regularly practiced. Key things to ask about include: their designated tsunami evacuation zone and route (Kihei has clearly marked zones), shelter-in-place procedures for hurricanes or vog events, and how they account for all children during an evacuation. They should have emergency supplies (food, water, first aid) for at least 72 hours. Also, inquire about their communication plan for parents during and after an event. Facilities should be willing to walk you through their procedures and may even have partnerships with nearby hotels or community centers for higher-ground evacuation if they are in a tsunami inundation zone.