THE COLE ACADEMY
Inclusive Early Learning & Family SupportInclusive Early Learning at The Cole Academy
We welcome and care for all children and families, provided that each child’s individual needs can be safely met within our required teacher-to-child ratios. We believe that every child deserves a safe, nurturing, and inclusive early learning environment. We proudly serve neurodivergent children, those with developmental delays, children in foster care, and children with unique medical needs. Our experienced teachers and supportive administration work closely with families and outside specialists, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), early intervention providers, and support teams, to ensure every child thrives in our care.
Supporting Resource Caregivers and Children in Foster Care
The Cole Academy proudly welcomes children in the foster system. We recognize the dedication of resource caregivers and are committed to helping families access consistent, high-quality child care. We accept all external state and federal child care subsidies, including the Hawaii Department of Human Services Child Care Subsidy Program and Preschool Open Doors, which help eligible working or studying resource caregivers cover tuition costs. If tuition assistance is still needed after external subsidies are applied, The Cole Academy provides internal subsidies to further support foster families who need quality, consistent child care for the keiki in their care.
Resources for Foster Families
1. DHS Child Welfare Services (CWS)
Oversees resource family licensing, support, and child welfare services.
Phone: (808) 586-4994
2. Resource Caregiver Warm Line
Dedicated support line for resource caregivers.
Oahu Phone: (808) 545-1130
Neighbor Islands / Big Island / Kona Toll-Free Line: 1-866-545-0882
INCLUSIVE SUPPORT
Support for Families and Children with Intellectual or Developmental Delays or Disabilities
We proudly serve neurodivergent children, those with developmental delays, and children with unique medical needs. Because every child learns at their own individualized level, our play-based curriculum is aligned with the Hawaiʻi Early Learning Development Standards (HELDS). This approach prepares children for kindergarten and beyond while giving our teachers the flexibility to tailor instruction for every unique learner. Research shows that inclusive classrooms benefit children of all abilities by fostering empathy, social growth, and enriched learning for every student in our care. Our experienced teachers and supportive administration work closely with families and outside specialists, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), early intervention providers, and support teams, to ensure every child succeeds.
NEARBY ASSISTANCE
Local Resources
We know that families often have questions or need guidance on their child’s developmental journey. Here are some local resources and pathways available:
- For Children Under Age 3 (Early Intervention): If your child is under age 3 and you have questions about their development, you can contact Early Intervention directly; no doctor’s referral is needed.
- Oahu: (808) 594-0066
- Neighbor Islands (Toll-Free): 1-800-235-5477
- For Children Age 3 and Older (DOE Special Education Services): If your child is 3 or older and you have concerns about their development, you can contact your home-area public school, turn in a Form 101 requesting a free educational assessment, and see if they qualify for preschool special education services.
- Pediatrician Support: Families can always consult their pediatrician for developmental screenings, guidance, and medical referrals.
- Child and Family Service (CFS): Providing community-based social services, family strengthening programs, child abuse prevention, domestic violence emergency services, and therapeutic counseling.
- Hawaiʻi CARES 988: Free 24/7 mental health support, crisis intervention, and emotional navigation.
- Special Parent Information Network (SPIN): Free family resources, special education guidance, and information for children with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
WHY
Families Choose The Cole Academy for Inclusive Childcare
Every child is unique. Our goal is to provide a welcoming, nurturing environment where children of different abilities, backgrounds, and developmental needs can learn, grow, and thrive. Families choose The Cole Academy because they value:
- A safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment
- Individualized support for each child’s development
- Experienced teachers who understand diverse learning needs
- Open, ongoing communication with families
- Collaboration with BCBAs, RBTs, early intervention providers, and other support professionals
- A play-based curriculum designed to help every child grow at their own pace
Whether your child is neurodivergent, experiencing developmental delays, in foster care, has unique medical needs, or simply benefits from additional support, our team works closely with your family to understand your child and help create a positive early learning experience.
Find Childcare That Supports Your Child
Finding the right childcare environment for a child with unique needs can feel challenging. You deserve a school that listens, communicates, and sees your child as an individual.
At The Cole Academy, we partner with families and support teams to better understand each child’s strengths, needs, and developmental goals—while providing the consistent care, relationships, and early learning experiences every child deserves.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Inclusive Childcare
What is inclusive childcare?
Inclusive childcare provides children of different abilities, developmental needs, backgrounds, and circumstances the opportunity to learn and grow together in a supportive early learning environment. The goal is to recognize each child as an individual while providing the care, structure, and developmental opportunities they need to thrive.
Does The Cole Academy welcome neurodivergent children and children with developmental delays?
Yes. The Cole Academy welcomes neurodivergent children and children with developmental differences or delays. Our team works with families to understand each child’s individual strengths, needs, routines, and developmental goals and to determine how we can best support them within our early learning environment.
Can my child’s BCBA, RBT, or other specialist work with The Cole Academy?
The Cole Academy works collaboratively with families and outside support professionals, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), early intervention providers, and other members of a child’s support team. Families are encouraged to discuss their child’s current services and support needs with our team.
Does The Cole Academy care for children with medical needs?
Children with individual medical needs may be able to attend The Cole Academy depending on the specific support required. We encourage families to speak with our enrollment and administrative team so we can learn more about their child’s needs and determine what accommodations and support may be appropriate.
Does The Cole Academy accept children in foster care?
Yes. The Cole Academy proudly welcomes children in foster care and works to provide resource caregivers and foster families with consistent, nurturing childcare. We understand that stability, routine, and strong relationships can be especially important for children experiencing transitions.
Are childcare subsidies available for foster families or children with additional needs?
Eligible families may qualify for state or federal childcare assistance programs, including Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services childcare subsidies and Preschool Open Doors. Additional tuition assistance from The Cole Academy may also be available for qualifying families. Our team can help families understand which resources may apply to their situation.
What should I do if I am concerned about my child’s development?
Families with children under age 3 can contact Hawaiʻi Early Intervention Services directly to request information or an evaluation; a physician referral is not required. For children age 3 and older, families can contact their local Hawaiʻi public school to learn about special education evaluation and services. Your child’s pediatrician can also provide developmental screenings, guidance, and referrals.
How does The Cole Academy support children who learn differently?
Our play-based curriculum is aligned with the Hawaiʻi Early Learning and Development Standards (HELDS) and allows teachers to support children at their individual developmental levels. Teachers use observation, communication with families, and collaboration with support professionals to help create meaningful learning experiences for each child.
Will my child receive one-on-one care at The Cole Academy?
The Cole Academy is a group childcare and early learning environment and operates within required teacher-to-child ratios. While our teachers provide individualized attention and adapt learning experiences whenever possible, families whose children require dedicated one-on-one support should discuss those needs with our team so we can determine the appropriate support plan.
How do I know if The Cole Academy is the right fit for my child?
The best first step is to talk with our team and schedule a tour. Tell us about your child’s strengths, routines, developmental needs, medical considerations, and any services they currently receive. This allows us to learn more about your family and discuss how The Cole Academy may be able to support your child.
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Request a Tour
Please call or text the enrollment line at 808-469-8900, or email sally@thecoleacademy.com to set up a tour.