Find child care, get school-ready, and support your keiki’s learning at home.
Explore trusted tools, programs, and resources for Big Island families with children ages 0 to 5.
Resources FOR PARENTS & FAMILIES
Resources For Families & Parents
Find Child Care
Need help finding and paying for child care?
Looking for care that fits your child — and your life? From licensed Family Child Care (FCC) homes to child care centers and ʻohana (relative) care, there are trusted options right here in your community. Each setting offers something different — from flexible hours to small group learning. The best choice is the one that works for you — and we’re here to help you find it.
🔍 Explore Your Child Care Options
Use PATCH’s search tool to explore licensed family child care, centers, and ʻohana care options in your area.
👉 Search Child Care with PATCH
Preschool Open Doors (POD):
Apply for state tuition assistance for 3–4-year-olds.
Child Care Subsidies (CCCH):
Income-based subsidies for eligible working families.
👉 Visit DHS Child Care Program
💲 Paying For Child Care
Learn & Play at Home
🎨 Age-Based Activities (0–5 Years)
Fun, simple activities designed to support your child’s development at every stage. From tummy time to story play, each activity helps build skills through everyday moments.
📊 Printable Milestone Charts
Track your child’s growth with easy-to-use charts based on key developmental milestones. Print by age and celebrate progress along the way.
📘 HELDS Family Guides
These guides show what young children are learning at each age and how you can support them at home. Based on Hawai‘i’s Early Learning and Development Standards.
Check HELDS Family Guides
Support for You
🧑🏫 Parenting Classes
Build your parenting toolkit with free classes led by experienced educators. Learn practical strategies for behavior, routines, and bonding — all in a supportive environment.
🧠 Mental Health Resources
Your well-being matters. Find counseling, stress support, and local mental health services designed especially for parents and caregivers.
🧑🤝🧑 Peer Support Groups
Connect with other parents who get it. Join peer groups to share experiences, swap advice, and remind yourself you’re not in this alone.
Check The lists Of Peer Support Groups
Help Paying for Child Care
🧸 Preschool Open Doors
Give your child a strong start. This program offers tuition subsidies for families with 3- and 4-year-olds in the year before kindergarten. Applications are open during specific windows each year — don’t miss your chance!
💼 Child Care Connection Hawaiʻi (CCCH)
Need help paying for care while you work or go to school? CCCH provides monthly subsidies to eligible families to reduce the cost of licensed child care. Assistance is based on income and household needs.
🔎 Find Local Help Through PATCH
Not sure where to start? PATCH offers free support to help families understand child care options, apply for subsidies, and connect with local providers. Their team is just a call or click away.
Finding Child Care
Get Ready for Kindergarten
✅ Kindergarten Readiness Checklist
Wondering if your child is ready for school? This easy-to-follow checklist covers basic skills, routines, and behaviors teachers look for. Use it to build confidence and fill in any gaps together.
📅 Preschool-to-Kindergarten Transition Timeline
Big changes are easier with a plan! Our timeline shows what to expect — and when — in the year leading up to kindergarten. From registration to emotional prep, it’s all mapped out for you.
🖍️ Free Printables for School Prep
Make getting ready fun! Download coloring pages, activity sheets, and simple learning games that help your child practice key skills at home. All designed with school success in mind.
Free Printables for School Prep
Talk to Someone
📞 Real People, Ready to Help
Have questions or just need someone to talk to? Reach out through our contact form or connect directly with support staff. You can also call trusted hotlines like the Parent Line or PATCH for free, confidential guidance.
Get Help From Support Staff
Visit Our Hotline Patch Link
Local Programs & Events
🚼 Baby STEPS Outreach
Join free community events focused on early childhood learning and development. Baby STEPS offers hands-on activities, resources, and fun for parents and keiki alike.
📚 Library Programs
Enjoy storytime, crafts, and early literacy programs at your local library. These free sessions are a great way to bond, learn, and meet other families.
📆 Local Events Calendar
Looking for things to do with your child? Our calendar is packed with upcoming workshops, playgroups, and family-friendly events across the community.
View Calender
View Library programs
FOR PROVIDERS & EDUCATORS
Launch & License Your Program
📝 Steps to Get Licensed
Starting your child care business begins with getting licensed. Learn the process, required documents, and who to contact — so you can open with confidence and meet state regulations.
💵 Grants & Startup Support
Need help with startup costs? Explore available grants, funding programs, and tools designed to support new providers and family child care businesses.
🏢 Support from DOH & Baby STEPS
Get guidance from the Department of Health and Baby STEPS outreach programs. These partners offer technical help, forms, and community-based support to help you launch and grow.
Link To DOH
Visit Baby Steps Help
Start your childcare business
Marketing & Outreach Help
📢 Grow Your Program with Smart Outreach
Need help filling your child care spots? Learn how to attract families, boost visibility with easy social media tips, and customize beautiful flyer templates in Canva. These tools are designed to help you promote your program like a pro — even if you’re just getting started.
Check The Canva Flyer Templates
Learn How To attract Famlies
Regulations & Compliance
🛡️ Stay Compliant and Informed
Keep your program running smoothly with up-to-date DHS memos, training updates, and important regulatory news. Access clear licensing guidance to help you meet requirements with confidence — whether you're just getting started or maintaining your status.
Check The DHS memos Complence
Professional Growth
🎓 Training & Certification for Child Care Providers
Stay qualified and confident in your role. Access PATCH training for professional development, get certified in CPR and First Aid, and use our compliance calendar to stay on top of deadlines. Training keeps your care safe, effective, and up to date.
Download PATCH training
Tools for Providers
📄 Free Templates
Simplify your daily operations with printable templates for intake forms, meal menus, and daily activity sheets. Easy to customize and ready to use in your program.
🛠️ Downloadable Tools
Access a collection of tools to help you manage enrollment, track progress, and stay organized. From checklists to planning guides, these downloads support your day-to-day work.
Download Free Template
Local Resources & Support
👥 Baby STEPS Peer Network
Join a community of child care providers who share ideas, resources, and real-life support. Baby STEPS connects you with others who understand the challenges and joys of early childhood care.
📞 Contact Our Support Team
Have questions or need help with your program? Our dedicated team is here to support you with personalized guidance and quick answers.
🏛️ County-Level Aid
Explore local funding, resources, and services available through your county. From emergency grants to business support, these programs are designed to help providers succeed in their communities.
Get Help From Support Staff