Lei Day Celebration Wednesday, May 1 Known all over the world as the symbol of aloha, the 96th Annual Lei Day celebrates the lei and artistry of Hawaii’s lei makers. The theme this year is Komo mai kāu māpuna hoe, or “dip your paddle in”. Held at Queen Kapiolani Park and Bandstand, the annual celebration includes entertainment by the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association, crafts, lei vendors, food vendors, plus a lei-making contest that features participants of all ages. Visit HonoluluParks.com for more information. Family Hui’s Tea On The Vine Sunday, May 5 Come help us celebrate 10 yea ..read more

by Elizabeth Hodge Everyone wants to organize and clean their home, but finding the time and executing the process is often a different story. Just thinking about it can be overwhelming and stressful. However, the ability to focus and think is affected by the spaces around us. Numerous studies have proven that a chaotic and messy environment has a direct correlation to stress levels, which affects our overall health. It can be  difficult to focus and relax when our minds are overstimulated and distracted. Our brains tend to favor order, reducing the competition for attention and mental lo ..read more

by Karen K.C. Gibson Does achieving peaceful and patient parenting seem impossible, given the emotional meltdowns, endless worries, and constant challenges of raising children? Discovering the Positive Intelligence (PQ) Program founded by Shirzad Chamine was a game-changer for me as a parent coach, transforming my approach to achieving peaceful and patient parenting. His innovative research-based tools teach you how to silence the inner voices that steal your peace. The sages, which I call “parenting superpowers”, strengthen the part of your brain that sabotages you. The pressure to succeed ca ..read more

HIFF ‘Ōpio Fest Friday, April 5 – Sunday, April 7 The Hawai’i International Film Festival introduces HIFF ‘Ōpio Fest, a youth film festival dedicated to highlighting short films crafted by young filmmakers across Hawai’i. Held at Consolidated Theatres Kahala, this free, family-friendly event promises a captivating showcase of creativity and talent. For more information, visit hiff.org. Onizuka Day of Exploration Saturday, April 6 Experience the 8th annual Onizuka Day of Exploration! With 100+ hands-on activities and workshops, this event offers something for all ages. From robotics to Hawaiian ..read more

by Makayla Dilliner ʻOhana is a Hawaiian word that, while most can recognize its meaning, only some are privileged enough to live out the word. There are many keiki who are not able to reside in the safety of their parents. Yet, the thrill and love of being a parent reaches far beyond the bond between biological circumstances. It doesn’t take being from or living in Hawaii for parents to agree that there is no limit to the love that one can have for their children. Biologically bonded or not, your child is forever yours. When choosing to add a new member to the family, there are different path ..read more

Discover an array of enriching summer activities and educational opportunities for your keiki. We’ve put together a list of summer programs in Hawaii to help you find the perfect fit for your child’s interests and goals. Whether they’re seeking academic enrichment, artistic expression, or athletic prowess, there’s a program waiting to ignite their passion and make this summer unforgettable! Assets School Join Assets School this summer and experience how we can make a difference for your child! Camp Ke Kula Pa’ani promises kids in grades K-8 a fun-filled time focusing on sports, games, art clas ..read more

by Jenny Ostlind, CSCS, NSCA, Membership and Healthy Lifestyle Program Executive, YMCA of Honolulu Incorporating fun, fitness, and family bonding time into your children’s daily routine can be simpler and more enjoyable than you might think. Living in Hawaii, we are fortunate to have access to an assortment of indoor as well as outdoor activities year-round. Enjoying the beach twice a week, running a mile, kicking a ball further than ever, shooting hoops are just a few ideas. Improvement of mental health, agility, coordination, stronger bones and muscles, better focus, quality of sleep, teamwo ..read more

It’s time to celebrate Easter with fun events and family-friendly activities! From delightful egg hunts to photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out these exciting events happening on Oahu. JABSOM Easter Eggstravaganza March 10, 3:00pm – 5:00pm John A. Burns School of Medicine Grand Lawn Sponsored by the JABSOM Alumni Association, the event features an Easter egg hunt, large animal petting zoo, photos with the Easter Bunny, cookie decorating, popcorn, cotton candy, and more! Children 1-17 years are $25.00, adults are free with a paid child’s ..read more

by Karen K.C. Gibson Do these conversations sound familiar: “NO! I won’t go, and you can’t force me!” “Shut up! You don’t understand me and never will!” “I hate you! I wish I had a different mom/dad!” Why does it feel like the sweet baby we once carried in our arms, cherishing their wrinkly toes, pure innocence, and intoxicating newborn scent, mysteriously transforms into a wild child? When children have emotional outbursts, these may be signs that they haven’t yet developed the skills to cope with feelings like frustration, anxiety, and anger. Handling big emotions in a healthy and mature way ..read more

Spring break is around the corner, and it’s time to plan some exciting activities to keep your kids entertained and engaged. From day care programs to enrichment activities, there are many options to ensure your child’s spring break is both fun-filled and enriching. Ben Franklin Crafts Experience the thrill of creativity at HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts! Encourage your young artist to explore the world of crafts through mixed media. Date and Time: March 18-22, 2024, 10am to 11am Ages: 8 and up Fees: $75 for in-person, $85 for virtual Learn More Hawaii Academy Enjoy structured gymnastics less ..read more