Kauai Welcomes First Infant and Toddler Care Center

A significant milestone for early childhood education was marked on September 25, 2023, with the opening of Kauai’s first Infant and Toddler Care Center, operated by Child and Family Service (CFS). This new facility, situated in the former Immaculate Conception School building, aims to provide dedicated support for infants and toddlers aged birth to three years.

The announcement of the center’s opening was celebrated at a gathering that included CFS staff, local government officials, and community members. Among the attendees were CFS President and CEO Amanda Pump, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda, and Senate President Ron Kouchi. The event highlighted the importance of expanding access to early childhood education in the region.

“This is the first Head Start Infant and Toddler Center on Kauai,” said Novelyn Hinazumi, CFS director of Kauai programs. “This program is critical to building a strong foundation for lifelong learning, health, and success of our keiki. By opening the Lihue IT Center, CFS will now be able to serve more infants and toddlers in a center-based format while also augmenting existing home-based Early Head Start support.”

The newly established center is now accepting applications for infants and toddlers, adhering to federal guidelines for Early Head Start participants. Eligible families include those with children from birth to age three, pregnant individuals, and those meeting specific income criteria, such as recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or those experiencing homelessness.

CFS has been offering Head Start programs on Kauai since 2000, focusing on children aged three to five. The new Infant and Toddler Care Center expands their services to younger children, aligning with the federally supported Early Head Start program. This initiative is designed to foster healthy development in low-income families by providing early childhood education, home visits, family support, and access to health and nutrition services.

For those interested in learning more about the program or checking eligibility requirements, further details are available on the CFS website at www.childandfamilyservice.org. The establishment of the Lihue IT Center represents a significant commitment to enhancing early childhood education and support for families in Kauai, ensuring that the youngest community members receive the nurturing they need for a successful start in life.