Kauai Family Magazine Holiday 2022

When we gather, we give.

Holidays can be stressful and expensive, but we’re here to help you manage your finances during this time of the year.

Gather FCU offers personal loans for

shopping. Let us help you make

giving a little easier on

Aloha, As the holiday season is upon us, we shift our focus to our family, friends, and our community. Let us celebrate the many blessings in our lives. We have so much to be grateful for, and I hope we can take the time out of our busy schedules to help those in need.

By sharing our time and aloha with others, we can ensure that our extended ‘ohana and our community are well cared for, which allows us to enjoy the holiday season responsibly and to the fullest.

On behalf of my family, the Office of the Mayor, and the County of Kaua‘i, I thank Kaua‘i Family Magazine for its wonderful service for our community. Mahalo and aloha to your staff and ‘ohana, and I wish all of you continued blessings into the new year.

With warmest aloha,

DEREK S. K. KAWAKAMI

Mayor, County of Kaua‘i State of Hawai‘i

This issue represents the thirteenth anniversary of our magazine, and we are delighted to reach this milestone with you.

We would like to take this time to thank YOU-our readers and our advertisers. We love bringing you togetherKauai Family Magazine is a great resource to share.

As the publisher, I hope to continue to lead an effort at making the well being of our community Keiki to Kupuna - especially those who have been overlooked because of challenges or other factors - a priority not just for our publication, but also for our island as a whole.

In short, you can expect Kauai Family - the magazine from Hawaii’s “Garden Isle” and most trusted professional support of the County of Kaua’i and the Department of Education-to continue to put our children’s health, safety, and education first. I invite you to share with us how we can continue to address the issues that matter most to you in these pages.

Please don’t hesitate to let us know how we can be the resource you trust for the most reliable ohana and parenting information.

You can contact us at chrissys@kauaifamilymagazine.com

As the holiday season is upon us, we at Kaua’i Family Magazine wish a healthy, joyous, and blessed time spent with your ohana into the new year.

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Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau’oli Makahiki Hou!

to

Family

Go-To Resource for Kaua'i Families

Chrissy Chrissy Schechter, Publisher chrissys@kauaifamilymagazine.com

We have so much to be thankful for!

MESSAGE FROM DANIEL HAMADA Interim Kauai Complex Area Superintendent

Aloha, With the new school year well underway, I would like to recognize the tremendous work schools are doing as we returned to inperson learning. Students are back into the routine of attending classes, spending time with their friends and classmates as well as participating in extracurricular activities. Mahalo for the critical support that parents, guardians and our entire Kauai community provides in supporting our students. This collective effort continues to play that critical role in supporting every student to succeed. I appreciate your dedication as we merge from the challenging pandemic-impacted school years and now return to a more normal educational setting.

As Interim Complex Area Superintendent, my highest priority is ensuring that every student receives a quality education. Our teachers, support staff and administrators remain dedicated to ensuring that all students are truly prepared for college, careers and citizenship. Happy Holidays and wishing everyone a wonderful New Year. Stay safe, healthy and strong as we end the 2022 year.

Sincerely, DANIEL S. HAMADA Interim Kauai Complex Area Superintendent

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Healing

Jason Blake

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Leah Ragsac, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Malama Pono Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

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The

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Wailua Bay Creator’s

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Roasting Your Holiday Turkey

TURKEY

KAUAI

Waipa

Kaua i S tyle Celebrate the Season

November

Old

November 18 -

Hawaii Children’s

808-246-8985

November

Dover

Michael’s,

November

5k

November

December 2 Lights on Rice Street Parade 6pm-8pm

Downtown Lihue 6:00pm Parade starts at 6pm and starts from the Vidinha Stadium and travels up Rice Street to the Historic County Building. Get there early for best seats and bring a chair and please pick up your trash after the parade

December 3

Flip The Switch at Hofgaard Park See Waimea Town Light Up! 6:30pm Mayor Kawakami will flip the switch to power on Waimea Town with festive lights. Tsunami Taiko, DC Fire Knife and a visit by Santa for free picture taking will help herald in the holiday

FREE activities for the keiki.

December 10

9th Annual Kauai’s Breakfast

Gaylords at Kilohana 8:00am-10:00am

Call 808-639-5656

Santa,

KAU

i

December 10

Kauai Made Holly Jolly Holiday Fair 10:00am- 2:00pm Sheraton Coconut Beach Get a jump start on our website at kauaimade.net

December 16 & 18 Weekend Winterland Mini-Night Light Parades will travel through westside neighborhoods Hanapepe/Ele’ele December 16 Kekaha December 18

December 17

Annual Waimea Lighted Christmas Parade

Electrified FUN! 6:30 PM FREE From illuminated floats to glo-stick marching units you'll see the westside community full of holiday cheer! The annual Waimea Light Parade travels down Main Street at 6:30 pm and ends at Hofgaard Park with a holiday concert featuring Kaua'i Kollab in the center of town! The Waimea Bridge will close at 5:00pm and reopen at 8:00pm. Both the parade and concert are FREE.

December 18

Photos with Santa (and his horses) 2:30pm – 4:30pm Healing Horses Kauai, Kapaa bypass Rd. $15. Come take your holiday photos with a horse. We paint the horse. You bring the camera. Healinghorseskauai.org 808-634-3896

December 25 FREE Christmas Dinner 12:00pm until food runs out Chicken in a Barrel, Kapaa location (next to Kapaa Neighborhood Center) 808-823-0780

December 31

Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration

Poipu Beach Park 5:00pm-8:30pm Event includes food trucks, a familythemed movie in the park and spectacular display of fireworks at 8:15pm. The event is FREE of charge and open to the public. Food Trucks arrive at 5:00pm. Bring lawn chairs and beach blankets. visit www.poipubeach.org

the

St.

Saturday,

9:00am-2:00pm

Kauai Island

Saturday, November 26, 8:00am - 2:00pm Saturday, December 3, 8:00am - 2:00pm

Kauai Veteran’s

Wailua

Sunday,

8:30am-1:00pm Nov.

National

Lihu’e kauaiislandcf@hotmail.com

Thursday, December 1; 10am-4pm

www.ntbg.org/aloha

Kauai Handworks

Saturday,

Kauai

8:30am

Kauai

Saturday, December 10; 10:00am –2:00pm Sheraton

www.KauaiMade.net

By Kurt Akamine

TO OHANA PACIFIC HEALTH

WE ARE ONE OHANA

We first started serving our island community here on Kauai in 2001. Since then, we have grown in our ability to better fulfill our mission, Caring for Kupuna.

Ohana Pacific Health (OPH) is the largest post-acute care organization in the state providing quality care to Hawaii’s kupuna. Founded in 1998, we are locally owned and operated. Today, OPH includes 15 healthcare entities throughout the state of Hawaii. Our teams are mission-driven, and we are united by our core values as One Ohana.

We offer home health services on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island.

At Stay at Home Healthcare Services on Kauai, we believe that health outcomes are best achieved when people are cared for in the comfort of their homes. From Kekaha to Haena, our team serves individuals and families who need support in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, home

care aid services and medical social work.

As part of our home and community-based services we also provide adult day health programs on Oahu, Maui and Kauai. Our Kauai Adult Day Health program offers daily enrichment activities for kupuna who live at home and provide some rest for their caregivers during the day. We understand that caregivers need a break from their daily

duties, and we are happy to provide the venue for them to do so. Our adult day health program include activities, social connection, healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. All of our programs include a nurse on the team to provide additional medical assistance and administer medication if needed. We also have a Registered Dietician and Licensed Social Worker to help guide the care.

We have three skilled nursing facilities on Oahu, two on Maui, one on Hawaii Island and two here on Kauai. We offer a range of services provided by a team of physicians, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, dietitians, social workers and activities coordinators. We work toward maintaining an individual’s maximum level or independence and activities of daily living. We coordinate transportation needs, work with your health plans, and provide nutritious and tasty meals. For individuals who return home and rehabilitation, we their train caregivers and aim to restore their health, range of motion and “activities of daily living“ so a return home will be possible.

On Kauai we have two skilled nursing care locations.

Hale Kupuna Heritage Home in Omao is tucked into a lush green neighborhood on the southside of the island. This facility offers short-term, long-term, respite and hospice care and the location provide a peaceful home away from home for those transitioning from the hospital.

Garden Isle Rehabilitation and Nursing is centrally and conveniently located in Lihue within the Wilcox Medical Center.

Garden Isle Rehab provides an array of short-stay, long-term, respite and hospice care. Our team of physical, occupational and speech therapists provide excellent inpatient rehabilitation services.

Both Hale Kupuna Heritage Home and Garden Isle

Rehabilitation and Nursing are CMS rate 5-star facilities.

We carefully select quality team members and together we make sure that you and your ohana will receive the highest level of care. Our goal is for all of you to have the best quality of life. We strive to achieve the Ohana Experience, i.e. an organizational culture based on operational excellence and genuine care, for all those who walk through our doors. Our deep roots and local values guide us and inspire us to care for generations to come.

When you choose Ohana Pacific Health, you welcome us to become part of your caring Ohana.

For more information www.OhanaPacific.com

“OUR DEEP ROOTS AND LOCAL VALUES GUIDE US AND INSPIRE US TO CARE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME”

Helping Seniors You Care for Enjoy Their Holiday Season

By Caryn Sakahashi

All of us will soon be wrapped up in the holiday spirit, gift giving, family gatherings, and too much food. We all experience during the holidays some level of stress, possibly from last minute shopping, arranging family gatherings, or even family conflicts. Sometimes the senior in the family is often neglected by other family members, and it is important that everyone understands the needs of their family member.

It is sometimes difficult for the senior to participate with the family due to physical limitations. Often they live alone, which requires the family to make an out-of-the-way trip to see them. It is important to discuss with the family how they would like to involve their loved one. Put yourself in their place as they may feel useless and burdensome, but remind them they are loved. Remember not to act like what you do for them is a duty. There is also the emotional side of the season which can be very difficult. In their

eyes, they see the holidays as a point in their lives they may not see again. With the family support it may be good to reflect and reminisce about the past gatherings and spend quality time together. Photo albums can bring such joyful moments of past celebrations and occasions. Although this may be a little sad, it does pull together how their life has been and what a wonderful legacy they have created with producing a wonderful family and creating such wonderful memories.

Ginger Turmeric Cinnamon Tea

What Ails

Here is a wonderful recipe for a ginger and turmeric tea. We were given the recipe at a dinner with friends.  We loved its taste and started to make it ourselves. After months of drinking it without much critical thinking about why it was making us feel better, I decided to do a little research on its ingredients. Below is the recipe and a brief review of the impressive health benefits of the simple and common ingredients. The main ingredient is fresh ginger root. Ginger has been known for hundreds of years to decrease nausea particularly nausea associated with motion sickness and the morning sickness of pregnancy.

It has also been shown to improve asthma, joint pain and recently there has been evidence about its ability to lessen the mental decline associated with aging.

By Dr. Lee Evslin

Fresh turmeric root is the second ingredient. Turmeric is found in curry powders. The active ingredient is curcumin. A review of the studies on turmeric was conducted by the University College Medical School in London and they found that turmeric has been found to:

◆

Have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities

◆ Nourish the good bacteria in your intestines (prebiotic qualities)

◆

Improve digestion

◆ Improve liver, respiratory, and blood sugar regulation problems

The next ingredient is cinnamon. A recent article in The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society gives evidence that cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, decreases body fat  and increases lean muscle mass.

The final ingredients are cloves, peppercorns, anise and cardamon.

Fun Things to do with Grandparents

We live in a high tech world with kids constantly on their cell phones and playing video games, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get their attention to do something non-tech oriented. Kids love learning something new that was “cool” a long time ago, and finding out about their family’s history. And grandparents are the perfect person to do these activities with them.

Get out the baby albums—not your grandchild’s, but their parents. They enjoy seeing their parent as a peer (rather than the person who tells them to clean up their room). Tell them about their mom or dad’s first steps, first word, or anything he or she did that was naughty or funny.

Playing games such as Monopoly, Scrabble, or Chinese checkers

provides hours of fun and quality time. Grandchildren enjoy competing against grandparents and seeing them make mistakes, or losing a game on purpose makes it all fun.

Bonding can take place over a video or chess game. The grandkids can then become the teachers and can show you what they like and how they do things. And if you don’t catch on, that will only make it more fun for the grandkids.

Encourage reading. If the library has a story hour, plan to take them and then go to the children’s section and browse with your grandchild and share with them your favorite books.

“Bonding can take place over a video or chess game.”

Inflation is Rising – Should I Still Buy a Home?

By Leah Ragsac, Kauai Realty, Inc.

World events and government spending has led to soaring inflation. The Federal Reserve has only one tool in its arsenal to curb and reduce this trend – raising interest rates. While contemporary home buyers are accustomed to interest rates in the 2-4%, older homeowners remember being excited to get one as low as 8%. As home mortgage interest rates are creeping up, potential home buyers are asking if they should still try to buy a home.

First thing to consider is affordability. A higher interest rate will impact Buyer’s qualification, potentially reducing their spending power. Yet, home prices are also beginning to soften, so it’s possible that this correction will reduce any possible impact from rising rates.

Secondly, home ownership has been a strong hedge against inflation historically. Buying a home locks in the cost of the largest budgetary portion of your expenses – your housing cost. As the cost of living continues to increase, rents will also rise, continuing to add pressure to an already strained household budget.

Finally, things change. do not last, home prices eventually rise, and home mortgages can be refinanced. Most homeowners move every 5-7 years and so potential home buyers should plan for this timeframe when making decisions.

Is this still the right time to buy a home? Inflation does have an effect, but it does not necessarily mean that one needs to hold off on a good home purchase.

Building A Community of Hope

Our Mission

Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, rooted in the gospel of Jesus, exists to carry out the social mission of the church by serving the people of Hawai‘i, regardless of their faith or culture.

We are a community of hope that promotes the dignity of each person by helping others empower themselves. We provide a wide range of social services with compassion and a commitment to excellence. Through our programs and our advocacy for social justice, we lovingly serve all people, especially those with the greatest need.

In the Hawaiian spirit of ‘ohana, we join with parishes, agencies, and community groups. We welcome all people of goodwill to share our mission.

Our Core Values

In all our services, decisions, and relationships, we commit to live these core values:

Dignity of each Person calls us to reverence the God-given life and dignity of each person at every stage and condition of life.

Compassion calls us, as sisters and brothers, to be present with others in their suffering and need, and to serve with a caring spirit.

Social Justice calls us to be a community of hope that works to achieve the common good, promotes individual rights and responsibilities, and advocates on behalf of those with the greatest need.

Commitment to Excellence calls us to serve competently and collaboratively.

Make a Splash into Water Education

By: Kauai Department of Water

Water education is an important part of understanding how this amazing natural resource provides growth for our communities, services homes, and allows the environment to thrive every day.

Kaua`i hosts the largest and only water education festival in Hawai’i, called the Make a Splash with Project WET (Water Education Today) Festival and it features a wide range of interactive water lessons for fifth grade learners. It is an annual event coordinated by the Department of Water (DOW) as a part of their outreach program to educate consumers about water.

Providing water education early on can help keiki make informed decisions about their water future. You can start by discussing simple ways to save water in your home. Practicing conservation as a family is a great introduction to water education at any age. For more information, please call 808-245-5461 or email ProjectWETHawaii@kauaiwater.org.

The Department of Water thanks the following agencies for their contribution towards the success of the Make a Splash with Project WET Festival held on Sept. 15, 2022:

American Water Works Association – Hawai'i Section Carollo Engineers, Inc.

City & County of Honolulu – Storm Water Branch DLNR – Aquatic Resources, Kaua`i Branch East & West Kaua`i Soil and Water Conservation Districts Grove Farm Land Corporation Hawai'i Rural Water Association

NOAA, Marine Animal Rescue Program

Kapa’a High School JROTC Program Kaua`i Board of Water Supply Kaua`i Bus Kaua`i Farm Bureau

Kaua`i Invasive Species Committee Kodani and Associates Engineers, LLC. The Nature Conservancy

For more information about DOW's education and outreach programs, call 808-245-5455.

Tips for Avoiding Emergency Veterinary Visits During the Holidays

Like most people, my pets are a huge part of my family. I want them to enjoy the holidays with me and my friends. But if you really love your pets you must act as their guardians. They cannot possibly be expected to understand that all that wonderful food doesn’t mean it’s time to pig out. Human food is not good for dogs and cats.

When I was in veterinary school the animal nutritionists there told us that “the higher the percentage of human food that a dog or cat ate the greater the likelihood that said animal was malnourished.” I have two recent graduates that work with me on occasion and have asked them if the schools still say that and they confirmed that they do.

DO NOT GIVE YOUR PETS YOUR FOOD. Stick to dog food for dogs and cat food for cats and you will almost always be OK.

• There are of course occasional pets that have special needs, but those are actually fairly rare and even then there is a huge selection of commercially prepared diets that are prepared and balanced by professionals.

• But it isn’t just foods that can cause trouble. I happen to have parrots, but the same things that are true for me and my parrots are true for people with other types of pets. While I love them dearly I realize that they simply can’t be

trusted not to chew on things around the house. Electric cords for holiday lights look like great chew toys to them, but one bite through the insulation and it could be bye bye birdie.

Some of the flowers and other holiday plants are toxic also. Poinsettia, holly, mistletoe, lilies and daffodils are all toxic. Even the humble Christmas tree with its pine oils can be mildly poisonous. If you use recreational drugs by all means keep them away from your pets. If you have a question ask your vet or call the ASPCA poison control center at 800 548-2423. They will charge you a

By Scott Sims DVM

modest fee, but are a

• Please, if you are traveling

make sure that

care of you

can either get a hold of you in an emergency or has some idea of how far you would like to go to provide emergency care.

• When people come to visit, doors that are normally closed can be left open by mistake. Doors and gates left opencan lead to pets getting out and either getting lost or injured.

• Cars and pets don’t mix well. And drivers that hit them can be injured as well. Be aware. Lock them up where they can’t get let out by mistake. Keep them and others safe.

My pets are a big part of my family and my life. My world would be a poorer place without them. I’m sure your world would be less without your pets. Be smart, be careful with your friends and families (both human and animal) and have a wonderful and joyous holiday season.

Holid ays

Four years ago, we began our “Journey to Excellence” to continuously improve our healthcare services on Kaua`i... this includes:

Making the patient experience our top priority.

Our employees are committed to excellence, striving to provide premier healthcare with a customer service heart.

Creating a great place to work. Employees are our most important resource and deserve the best work environment we can create. It is through this effort that we can assure a positive patient experience.

Modernizing our aging hospitals and clinics. Creating our ideal patient experience requires facilities that are clean, modern, comfortable, and easily accessible.

Lance K. Segawa, FACHE, MPH, NHA Regional Chief Executive Officer HHSC Kaua`i Region

We are proud to celebrate one of our physicians, Dr. Bernard Riola, being named a Hawaii Healthcare Hero for 2022! The Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award program is an annual program sponsored by the Healthcare Association of Hawaii which recognizes healthcare professionals across the state doing exceptional work. Dr. Riola is a Pediatrician at the Clinic at Waimea and was nominated by a parent of one of his patients. His passion, heart, and clinical competency really defines Dr. Riola. He truly represents the best of Kaua`i and our journey to excellence!

“I don’t feel like I do anything extraordinary. I come in, do my work, and care for my patients like they are family. I am blessed to be in a profession where I can help keep kids healthy and guide them to adulthood so they can reach their full potential. None of this would be possible without the support of the hospital administration, my colleagues, and my support staff. They make my job easier and enjoyable, so thank you.”

Bernard Riola, MD

The Clinic at Waimea (808) 338-8311

Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation (HHSC) is the State of Hawaii’s hospital system with facilities on every island. HHSC Kaua`i Region operates Kaua`i Veterans Memorial Hospital, Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, and the Kaua`i Region Clinics. With optimism we look forward to 2023 as our journey to excellence continues.

Bernard Riola, MD Pediatrics

High quality healthcare is passionate people making a difference.

The Value of Perseverance

THOMAS EDISON FAILED 1,000 TIMES before he invented the lightbulb.  What would the world be like if he did not have perseverance and just gave up?  Perseverance refers to continuing to try even when a task becomes challenging.  Perseverance is important in learning new skills, trying unfamiliar sports, or finding novel learning strategies.  It allows us to make new friends, take on challenges, and learn from mistakes.  Children without perseverance expect immediate results and gratification.  As important as perseverance is for children, unfortunately it does not come naturally.  However, as Theodore Roosevelt said, "Nothing worth having comes easy."

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO TEACH CHILDREN PERSEVERANCE.

Be their biggest cheerleader - when your child appears to be losing hope or having anxiety over a task, tell them that you believe in them and encourage them to keep trying.  Be sure to emphasize their effort rather than the end result, and give specific feedback on how they might improve.

Avoid being a 'helicopter parent' - these types of parents are overprotective and over-controlling.  Try to give your kids space and a chance to succeed, and most importantly, resist

coming to their rescue when they fail.  When they fall off their bike for the third time and scrape their knee, your first instinct might be to say, "Are you okay?  Let’s call it a day.", but the better thing to say is, "You'll be okay.  I know you can do it, don't give up!"

Let Them Choose - obviously, if a child has an interest in something, they will be more motivated to put the effort into it and persevere.  Of course, it’s okay to introduce activities you are familiar with, but avoid forcing activities that you prioritize onto your children.  Let them try a wide variety of experiences and let them figure out what they like.

By Bernard Riola, M.D., Pediatrician KVMH Waimea, alumnus Saint Theresa School

Model perseverance - point out challenges you face in your day-to-day life and how you continue to try even though it's challenging.  Consider trying out a new hobby, instrument, or sport along with your child so you can both experience how perseverance and hard work leads to improvements over time.

Teach the difference between perseverance and perfectionism - no matter how hard your child tries to be the smartest, fastest, or strongest, there will always be someone better than them.  Children need to learn to deal with this and understand that the goal is to always try their best, not to be the best.  If they always expect to be the best and are not satisfied with anything but perfection, this will lead to an unhealthy, unrealistic view of the world.

Start small - setting a long-term goal is always a good way to provide direction and motivation, but it can sometimes make kids feel anxious or discouraged that they will never get there.  Break things down into smaller steps that they can achieve over time.  For example, their goal might be 'become a great basketball player', but this requires working on dribbling, shooting, endurance, strength training, learning strategy, etc.  Making small improvements over time is the best way to achieve their goals.

Take breaks - when kids appear overwhelmed, stressed, or angry, there is nothing wrong with taking a break before continuing.  You cannot make progress when you are mentally or physically exhausted.  These breaks are a good time to reflect on progress already made, and review or modify goals.  Sometimes it also means it is time to work on other aspects of their activity, or strategize other ways to work towards their goals.

Back to Nature In Our Backyard

Grab your kids, and head outside to embrace nature’s beauty. Whether we choose to walk through a botanical garden, explore a local hike, kayak, or simply observe animals in their natural habitat, spending time in nature is a great way to free our minds and restore our inner calm. We promise you won’t regret it.

Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon (Halemanu-Kokee Trail):

If you’re interested in hiking, visit Kokee Natural History Museum. Its exhibits provide an overview of the natural and cultural history of Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park. If you’re hiking with kids, the Kaluapuhi Trail is a good choice. No matter where your hike takes you, make certain to stop at the Waimea Canyon Overlook for a glimpse into the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Kilauea Point Lighthouse and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge: First lit up in 1913, Kilauea Point Lighthouse is now a fun destination for history buffs and photographers alike. Situated within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, the sky is alive with seabirds. Tucked amongst the native vegetation you’ll see nesting birds, and if you’re lucky, eggs or chicks, too.

Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls

Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls: If you’re up for an adventure, paddle up the Wailua River in a kayak to Secret Falls. The river winds through lush overgrowth and is rife with jumping fish. Just when you think your arms might fall off from paddling, you’ll beach the kayaks and head out on a muddy hike to Secret Falls. The hike is over rough ground, but it’s not difficult. Secret Falls will take your breath away — as will the cold, cold water in the pool below. You’ll have time to take in your surroundings, and maybe a picnic lunch, before you head back to the kayaks and the trip downriver.

Dental

By Drew Pigao, R.D.H. Kalaheo Dental Group

are

not

naughty

be roasting, and

houses will

As the holiday season begins, Kalaheo

some dental tips to

this year.

TAKE MORE TURKEY: Turkey is a holiday food that is great for your teeth. It is a good source of phosphorus and protein, which can help your body fight sugar bugs and prevent cavities. Adding healthy foods to your holiday plate will strengthen your teeth.

BE CAREFUL WITH CANDY CANES: From candy canes to peppermints, be cautious as hard candies can crack or fracture teeth. Just like ice, letting these candies dissolve can prevent tooth damage. Though one or two candy canes may be okay, make sure you and your keiki brush your teeth after eating them.

DRINK WATER: Holiday activities call for lots of energy, but avoid drinks like sodas, juices, and sports drinks that have lots of sugar.

HAVE A ROUTINE: Though it’s a busy time of the year, always brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes. If anyone in your ohana is due for a dental cleaning or dental work, schedule it soon. School breaks are a great time to make these appointments.

the Holidays Rainbow Plaza 2-2514 Kaumualii Hwy., Suite 204 Kalaheo, HI 96741

(808) 332-9445

Reading Success Begins at Home

Effective readers are grown, not born. All parents hope their child develops into an enthusiastic reader with a love of literature. Studies show that from our earliest days, children are acquiring language skills and learning how to read. The more children know about language and literacy before they arrive at school, the better equipped they are to be successful readers.

Effective readers are grown, not born. All parents hope their child develops into an enthusiastic reader with a love of literature. Studies show that from our earliest days, children are acquiring language skills and learning how to read. The more children know about language and literacy before they arrive at school, the better equipped they are to be successful readers.

How can you help set your child up for reading success in school? The work begins at home. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends you start reading aloud to your child by at least 6 months of age, although many families start at birth. Below are six ways you can help your child develop early literacy and a life-long love of reading.

How can you help set your child up for reading success in school? The work begins at home. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends you start reading aloud to your child by at least 6 months of age, although many families start at birth. Below are six ways you can help your child develop early literacy and a life-long love of reading.

Talk to your child

Talk to your child

It may seem obvious, but oral language development precedes written language skills. Talking to your children beginning at birth exposes them to language - and this is an important building block for early reading success. According to researchers, there is a

It may seem obvious, but oral language development precedes written language skills. Talking to your children beginning at birth exposes them to language - and this is an important building block for early reading success. According to researchers, there is a

strong correlation between a child’s academic success and the number of words their parents spoke to them at age three. Talk with your child about your day, share stories from work, and use interesting language. Name things that you see around you. These activitiesbuild vocabulary and an understanding of how language works - important early reading skills!

strong correlation between a child’s academic success and the number of words their parents spoke to them at age three. Talk with your child about your day, share stories from work, and use interesting language. Name things that you see around you. These activitiesbuild vocabulary and an understanding of how language works - important early reading skills!

Read to your child

Reading to your child is likely the single most important thing you can do as a parent to encourage your child’s reading readiness. Read to your child from their earliest days. Make a nightly routine of reading together, make sure your child

Read to your child

Reading to your child is likely the single most important thing you can do as a parent to encourage your child’s reading readiness. Read to your child from their earliest days. Make a nightly routine of reading together, make sure your child

has age-appropriate books available, and regularly visit libraries. Children who are read to daily thrive at home and at school.

has age-appropriate books available, and regularly visit libraries. Children who are read to daily thrive at home and at school.

Talk with your child about the books you read

Talk with your child about the books you read

As soon as they are ready, talk with your child about the books you are reading at home. Encourage discussion by asking about a picture in the book, pointing out an interesting detail, or asking your child what might happen next in a story. Interactively reading aloud is an important early language experience for young children. While reading aloud offers great benefits to growing readers, reading and discussing text offers significantly more potent benefits.

As soon as they are ready, talk with your child about the books you are reading at home. Encourage discussion by asking about a picture in the book, pointing out an interesting detail, or asking your child what might happen next in a story. Interactively reading aloud is an important early language experience for young children. While reading aloud offers great benefits to growing readers, reading and discussing text offers significantly more potent benefits.

Play with language

Play with language

Singing songs, saying riddles, and making up rhyming pairs can be fun ways to help your child develop early language skills. The sing-song rhymes of books like those from Dr. Seuss build phonological awareness in young children. When children have frequent pleasant experiences with words and text, they build a love not just for reading, but for exploring, learning, and thinking deeply.

Singing songs, saying riddles, and making up rhyming pairs can be fun ways to help your child develop early language skills. The sing-song rhymes of books like those from Dr. Seuss build phonological awareness in young children. When children have frequent pleasant experiences with words and text, they build a love not just for reading, but for exploring, learning, and thinking deeply.

Talk to your child’s teachers about the books they read at school

Talk to your child’s teachers about the books they read at school

When it’s time to look for a school, be sure to find out if your child’s school is

When it’s time to look for a school, be sure to find out if your child’s school is

providing a linguistically rich learning environment filled with a large, varied selection of reading materials. Do the children have regular opportunities to read, listen to good reading, talk about reading, and write about reading? Be sure to ask about the books they are reading at school so you can have discussions about them at home with your child.

providing a linguistically rich learning environment filled with a large, varied selection of reading materials. Do the children have regular opportunities to read, listen to good reading, talk about reading, and write about reading? Be sure to ask about the books they are reading at school so you can have discussions about them at home with your child.

You read, too!

You read, too!

When you spend time reading - whether it’s a novel, magazine, or business journal - you lead by example. Our children imitate what we do, so ensure that your child sees you reading, hears you talking about what you are reading, and sees you writing about what you are reading. Choose books to order online, or visit the local library together.

When you spend time reading - whether it’s a novel, magazine, or business journal - you lead by example. Our children imitate what we do, so ensure that your child sees you reading, hears you talking about what you are reading, and sees you writing about what you are reading. Choose books to order online, or visit the local library together.

The time you have at home together allows you to invite your child to a lifetime of learning. The above suggestions can be integrated into the normal course of your days together. There is no need to plan or design classroom type work at home. Simply build a linguistically rich environment filled with engaging books you enjoy together. With a foundation like this, your child is likely to thrive when he or she arrives at school. Don’t stop reading together when school begins; keep this up at home. Many children will allow family to read to them at bedtime even into their earlyteen years.

The time you have at home together allows you to invite your child to a lifetime of learning. The above suggestions can be integrated into the normal course of your days together. There is no need to plan or design classroom type work at home. Simply build a linguistically rich environment filled with engaging books you enjoy together. With a foundation like this, your child is likely to thrive when he or she arrives at school. Don’t stop reading together when school begins; keep this up at home. Many children will allow family to read to them at bedtime even into their earlyteen years.

Your Journey to Parenthood: Breastfeeding

Kandi Bloss, RN, BSN, Maternity Education Coordinator Hawaii Health Systems Corporation – Kauai Region

Breastfeeding is not always easy at first. It can be quite challenging for some moms and babies. It is well worth seeking a lactation consultant for help and advice. Here are some of the more common questions I get:

How do I know if my baby is getting enough? Baby is eating at least 8-12 times a day, by day 4 is having 5-6 wet and dirty diapers. If your baby seems satisfied after feeding.

How can I tell when my baby is hungry? Babies do not watch the clock to feed, but they will give cues such as sucking on their hands, turning their head side to side, smacking their lips or fidgeting.

Will I make enough milk? It is rare a mother does not make enough milk to feed her baby. The more you breastfeed the more milk you will make.

Does my baby need extra water or vitamins? Your baby does not need any extra water or vitamins. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients and hydration your baby needs.

Is breastfeeding painful? Breastfeeding should not be painful. You can experience some discomfort as you get the hang of it but ongoing nipple pain is not normal. I recommend seeking a lactation consultant to help evaluate your babies latch.

Are there foods I should or should not eat? There is no list of foods to avoid. Foods that tend to make you gassy can make baby gassy too. You can eat raw fish, deli meats and soft cheese while breastfeeding just not when pregnant. Caffeine and chocolate in moderation. Obviously, avoid alcohol, tobacco or illicit drugs.

As the Maternity Education Coordinator at HHSC Kauai Region, I look forward to being part of your journey to parenthood. Call (808) 651-7898 to register for childbirth education classes and to answer any of your breastfeeding questions.

S T Y L E S

WHAT IT IS AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

Does your child love reading and writing? Do they have a knack for music? When they tell a story do they tend to use their whole body to describe what happened? Are they drawn to groups or do they prefer to work alone? These traits can give a clue about your child’s learning style. A learning style is the method a person uses to learn and should be used to maximize learning. It’s important for parents to understand their child’s learning style so that they can help them find study methods, environments, and activities that help them learn best. (www.classroom.com)

Visual

Visual learners prefer seeing pictures and images to learn new things. They usually have good spatial awareness skills. Kids with this learning style understand maps and have a good sense of direction. They usually love doodling and drawing. Study habits best for these learners are to write information down, underline or highlight as they read, use colorful diagrams, charts, and pictures to enable them to visualize what they want to remember.

Auditory

People who are auditory learners are typically drawn to music. They may

sing, play a musical instrument, or have the ability to pick individual musical instruments out of a piece of music. They may hum, sing, or tap their feet while they work. Using music and rhythm to remember information can be helpful for kids who have this learning style. It might also be helpful to record and playback things you want to remember, or read and recite information aloud.

Verbal

Kids with a verbal learning style can easily express themselves in both speaking and written communication. Verbal learners have a strong understanding of the  meaning of words and will consistently

seek out new words to master which they will later use to communicate with others. Try using acronyms or reading information aloud while learning new things. Role playing can also be helpful for the verbal learning style.

Physical

Kids who prefer using their bodies, hands, and sense of touch prefer the physical learning style. Many of these learners enjoy drama, dancing, woodworking, or exercise. They would rather go for a run or walk when something is bothering them than sit at home and think it through. These kids use hand gestures and body language to communicate and are very aware of the world around them. Sitting and listening to a lecture can be a challenge for kids who prefer a physical learning style so they will often fidget and look forward to when they can move around. Try actually incorporating the physical objects they are learning about or allowing movement whenever possible. Writing, drawing, and using flashcards can also be helpful for kids who have this learning style. Frequent breaks can help the physical leaner feel more prepared for study time. You can also try standing while reading, using a computer for studying, or making review into a gross-motor style game.

Logical

Kids with a logical learning style generally excel in math and critical thinking. They can recognize patterns and commonalities in seemingly unrelated content. They often understand and work complex calculations in their

head. Problems are usually tackled in a systematic way and they enjoy creating lists, agendas, charts, and procedures. Kids with this learning style will retain information if they understand the logic behind it. They need not simply memorize information but truly understanding the concepts and reasons for the information to retain them long term.

Social

People who are drawn to the social learning style love working in groups or participating in classes. They enjoy sharing their ideas with others and listening to what others think. Kids with this learning style are good at both verbal and nonverbal communication and understand others as well. People typically like being around the social learner and seek their advice or input when faced with problems. They prefer to work through challenges in a group and will often be found staying after class to chat with friends. Kids with this learning style will enjoy role playing, studying in groups, or sharing what they have learned with others.

Solitary

People with a solitary learning style often prefer working alone and enjoy thinking and reflecting on things. They tend to be independent, introspective, and private. They are good at focusing on a task and have strong concentration skills. They may also enjoy keeping a journal to reflect on personal thoughts and feelings. Kids with this learning style prefer to study alone in quiet spaces.

Understanding your child’s learning style is important so you can help them get the most out of their education while identifying any ways to handle challenges that may occur because of their preferred learning style. Also, parents can use this to their advantage to appeal to their child’s interests when learning new things.  Don’t be surprised if your child seems a combination of learning styles as this is very common. When caring adults understand a child’s strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning, it can only improve their experience at school and their study habits at home.

Kitchen Fun: No-Bake Treats

How do you simplify cookie-making with the kids this season? With nobake treats, or course! These whimsical confections from The Seaside Baker deliver fun in the kitchen and frostingfilled faces, but streamline the process if you're short on time (since there's no baking involved.)

Christmas Wreath Cookies

These cookies are so easy, even your littlest ones can participate. Start with purchased cookies, grab some festive decorations and let creativity flow. Find suggested shopping list and instructions on how to make each cookie shown here at theseasidebaker.com.

Grinch Fudge

How can you possibly be grumpy while eating fudge? Well, you can't, which makes Grinch Fudge and oxymoron. But seriously, your heart may grow three sizes when you discover how easy this festive fudge is (no candy thermometer required.) Your family will be singing "fah who foraze" around the tree in no time. Get the recipe at www.theseasidebaker.com.

How to Help Youth Become More Active

by Lindsay Fernandez Richardson, MS, LMHC through the Kauaʻi Resilience Project

Participating in a few different extracurricular activities can help young people improve their mental health, perform better in school, and learn important life skills. Youth who are involved in community or school groups learn social skills and build positive connections with peers and caring adults. Activities such as exercise, creative arts, and religious or spiritual involvement have the added benefit of directing young people away from situations that encourage risky behavior.

Here are some ways to help children and teens choose the right activities for them:

1. Work together. Help youth research and review options for extracurricular activities. Try looking into local resources for ideas, such as community magazines or bulletins. Ask school staff or fellow community members for suggestions.

2. Be curious and understanding. Ask about young people’s interests and be considerate of their personalities. Though youth may need gentle encouragement to try something new, try balancing this with an open mind as you help them choose activities that suit their unique interests and needs. For example, to support teens who are very anxious about public speaking, encourage them to try an art class if joining a theater club seems overwhelming.

3. Suggest a variety of options. Creative activities, such as music lessons, weaving, or cooking, are helpful for youth well-being. Youth also benefit from being a part of athletic activities such as paddling or volleyball, organizations like volunteer groups or student government, and religious or spiritual groups.

4. Try a bit of firmness. While everyone needs time for rest, set limits in order to prevent too much idle time out with friends or at home. Consider making a rule that youth consistently participate in at least two activities of their choosing.

Source: 40 Developmental Assets® www.searchinstitute.org

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Create Healthier Traditions this Holiday Season

By Erica Noel, M.D, Kauai Medical Clinic

“Spending quality time interacting with one another strengthens our family relationships and keeps us active and healthy!”

During the holidays, most of us focus on seasonal sweets and treats. This year, why not shift gears and plan an activity out of the house that involves the whole family?  “While most holiday celebrations center on food, this time of year is truly about being together with our family and friends,” says Dr. Erika Noel, a pediatrician with Kaua‘i Medical Clinic in Līhu‘e. “Spending quality time interacting with one another strengthens our family relationships and keeps us active and healthy!”

Even simple activities, like a hike or bike ride, can be special when you make the time to do it as an ‘ohana.

“An hour of physical activity every day – whether done all at once or broken up into short bursts – helps balance out the holiday treats and keep energy levels up during a fun but exhausting time of year,” Noel says.

Other ways to start fitness-focused family traditions this holiday season include:

• Instead of watching the big game on TV, play touch football in the yard. The anticipation of besting your big brother or seeing your daughter score a TD will be all the motivation you’ll need to get off the couch.

• Head to the beach or park for a holiday picnic. One of the perks of living on Kaua‘i is that it’s warm and sunny year-round. Take advantage of the 75-degree weather with an al fresco feast followed by some festive fun like building a “sandman” or cardboard-sledding down a grassy hill.

• Go on a walking tour of the neighborhood light displays. Snap a few photos in front of your favorite winter wonderland scenes and upload it to Facebook or Instagram so your friends and family on the mainland can see how you’re helping to create a #HealthierHawaii.

No matter how you stay active over the holidays, the most important thing to remember is to keep things fun and interesting.

For more fun, local fitness and nutrition ideas for keiki year-round, visit HealthierHawaii.org.

Holiday Art Contest

January 15th

One of you will win the book Honu and Hina by Patrick Ching and Friends

Geckos.

15th

One of you will win the book Honu and Hina by Patrick Ching and Friends

Geckos first came to Hawaii aboard the Polynesian voyaging canoes. They were tan or brown varieties.

In recent years bright colored geckos have been brought to Hawaii like this one originally from Madagascar.

Draw the Mo'o

The Hawaiian word for lizard is mo’o.

Step 1: FORMING- Form up the gecko by softly drawing circles and ovals and lines. Remenber to press softly as these lines will just be a guide to follow before adding your final details.

Step 2: OUTLINING- Using the circles and lines as a guide, make adjustments and do your final outlines for your gecko.

Step 3: SHADING and COLORING - Using crayons or colored pencils, color your mo’o whatever color you want!

Email your art to:

by January 15th. One of you will win the book Honu and Hina by Patrick Ching and Friends.

It's easy to submit your art for our contest. eMail us, and include your name, age, grade, school and phone number.

this one

the

just

It's easy to submit your for our contest. eMail us, include your name, age, school

Many parents confess to yelling at their kids upwards of ten times a day.

Parents say they do this most of all because they want their children to listen but they get zero cooperation. When promises, pleading and threats no longer work, yelling can feel like the only option. Especially if time is short, behaviors are out of bounds, and big power struggles break out yelling becomes the go to way to get kids to start listening.

The problem is that yelling at kids really doesn’t help them focus on what you want them to do.

Why this backfires:

A natural defense mechanism for children is to “tune out” yelling. It’s a highly charged input. Children might yell back or they might even laugh in response, but they aren’t internalizing the message. Frequent yelling can trigger symptoms of anxiety in children and can lead to a negative cycle of communication that is difficult to break.

Here are some pro-active strategies to try if you want to reduce yelling and encourage your kids to listen and cooperate:

Set limits early on Sometimes we dread the potential tears, conflict or protest that may come with setting a limit, so we avoid setting the limit in the first place. The problem? This practice of avoidance until the last minute leads to frustration and resentment on our part. Then we yell and our child startles, cries or disconnects.

Simple Tips

Setting a limit sooner means the problem is eliminated well before it grows and triggers yelling.

Keep your Limits AND remember to validate feelings

Setting limits sometimes means children feel upset. Keeping limits however helps children learn to trust our guidance. While we cannot own or change our children’s feelings, we can strive to accept them, empathize and lead confidently.

It’s very helpful to validate feelings and then trust that your child will be able to feel her feelings and move on.  Here is a conversation I had with my four year old recently:

me: “Can you please set the place mats on the table?”

four year old (with creative excuses): “Oh..but my legs hurt! And I’m playing with my playmobil!”

me (showing interest): “Oh no, your legs hurt? What’s going on with them?”

four year old (being honest!): “Ugh, I just don’t feel like table setting mama. it’s so boring!”

me (validating): “uhm.uhm..you don’t feel

Adjust expectations

Young children touch everything, preschoolers ask WHY around 300 times a day, school aged children often have no interest in doing homework when WE think it’s the time to do it.   When expectations are in line with our children’s abilities (in that moment!) the better they can follow through with our requests and yelling is no longer necessary.

Ask questions that invite cooperation  Questions can motivate kids to take ownership over their own tasks. What do you still need to do before ________?”  is one favorite way to motivate children.

This kind of question works because it invites cooperation while still allowing children to feel capable and competent.

like it. It is boring. I understand. And it’s dinner time. So what’s your plan to get your job done?”

four year old: “I don’t wannnna. I don’t mama.”

me: “it’s a boring job. you don’t want to do it. Could you make it a fun job?”

four year old (understanding my request wasn’t changing): “Can my playmobil princess do it? You, know, with my help?”

me: “yes!”

In practice this means that  “WHY HAVEN”T YOU BRUSHED YOUR HAIR YET AND WHERE ARE YOUR SHOES, OMG WHY ARE YOU NOT MOVING YOUR FEET…. LET’S GO!!!!!”  simply becomes “What do you have left to do before leaving the house?”

This works because  “Yelling grows children’s defenses while clever language grows their cooperation.”

Connect before making a request

Children are much more likely to follow through with a request when it is done face to face, even better at or below their eye level.  This is a very safe and connected way to make a request. What’s more, when you speak kindly you are modeling a wonderful way for your child to interact with classmates, siblings, teachers and friends.

Photo Credit: Manuel Henriques and Todd Fuerte

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Kaua'i Ocean Safety & Hazards

Are you serious?!? Holiday issue already? I won’t give away my age but I will comment that once we pass 70, the years go by ever more quickly, at the same time that we start realizing that there might not be all that many left. A challenging combo.

I’m going to write about some other challenges, those of being a water safety advocate in Hawaii. The biggest challenge of course is that this is Hawaii! This is a dream destination for people who are bundled up in winter conditions. Since I live here I

sometimes picture the beautiful white snow fantasies that we see in paintings and photos and on Christmas cards — and at ski resorts if you’re among the fortunate who get to visit these. But truth is I lived in a New England city, New Haven Connecticut, during the years I went to college and medical school and most of the days are overcast and grey and cold with drizzle if not full-on sleet, with sidewalks covered either with melting snow (known as slush), or with sheet ice that is inviting you to fall and get hurt.

The beauty after a snow storm lasts only for a day before the white snow turns to gray slush that has had truckfuls of shoe-ruining salt poured onto it in order to keep the roads passable.

March, the safest assumption is that the “off season” is between Memorial Day and Labor Day. So, please continue to be vigilant as you read this, and please stick with the wise saying “Please swim near a Lifeguard.”

By Monty Downs, MD Kauai Hospice Medical Director

By Monty Downs, MD Wilcox Hospital ER Doctor

The southside beaches are the ones that are typically NOT exposed to the swells coming from the North, barring a wraparound condition that can sometimes happen.

So yes, let’s go to Hawaii. Gentle trade winds, sunny days, cool evenings with maitai’s if you drink alcohol, and of course beautiful beaches offering all kinds of water recreation.

And please don’t be too offended if a Lifeguard calls out on his bullhorn to tell you “You shouldn’t go in the water here today. You should drive to the Southside if you want to get wet.” NOTE: The southside beaches are the ones that are typically not exposed to the swells coming from the North, barring a wraparound

We all know the drill. Visitors who are clueless about beach and ocean hazards, and who might or might not be in the greatest physical condition, head right for the beaches. And some get in trouble. Bad trouble. Note: I carefully use the word “clueless” instead of “stupid” or “dumb”, since I have seen Nobel Prize winners get in bad trouble in our shore breaks and rip currents. A second challenge is consistent and

condition that can sometimes happen.

Residents, who have experience with our ocean hazards, are less likely to be a victim of the effects of a monster swell, and this may explain why 75% of drownings on Kauai are visitors.

accurate messaging. For example, let’s assume we simply stick up signs at all our beaches that say “Danger. Rip currents, Hazardous Shorebreak.” And then a visitor goes to a beach and it happens to be a flat calm day, what we call “water ski water”, and the visitor thinks “This Danger sign is a bunch of baloney. This water is like my backyard swimming pool.”

The visitor may be correct. The water probably isn’t dangerous that day. But by the next day, or even by that very evening, the winds and the chop may have kicked up and there are rip currents all over the place, wanting to pull you out over your depth and with waves breaking onto you. Very dangerous situation for someone from the streets of New Haven!

The point is that our carefully crafted warnings, no matter the medium, can lose their credibility. The visitor thinks “This warning was over the top and inaccurate.

Interestingly, on Oahu it’s more like 50% visitors, 50% residents. Why this difference? My understanding is that with the population of Oahu being nearly one million residents compared to Kauai’s about 70,000 residents, the math tells you that there will be more residents getting in the ocean, and into ocean-related trouble, on Oahu than on Kauai.

"THE GOAL IS TO HAVE READERS THINK A BIT BEFORE THEY JUMP IN, AND THAT WAY AVOID TRAGEDIES THAT CAN RUIN A FAMILY."

Kaua'i

Hazards

Of all the statistics that have been gathered about drownings in Hawaii and on Kauai, there is one that stands out like a very sore thumb: Visitors who drown while snorkeling outnumber residents who drown by snorkeling by a ratio of 20:1!

The reasons for this have been carefully looked at, and they are summarized in a published article by Dr. Philip Foti and others in the March 2022 online edition of the Hawaii Journal of Health & Social Welfare. Some factors that might contribute to this tragic statistic include the quality of the equipment used, the physical condition of the snorkeler, the experience (or lack of) of the snorkeler, the lack of familiarity with how to manage ocean currents, and — here’s an interesting one — the amount of time back at sea level after a long flight from the mainland.

Why should I bother about all these warnings when what I’m seeing is as calm as a lake on a windless day?”

Tailoring the warnings to that day’s actual conditions is therefore a worthwhile goal, and there are websites and social media sites that try to achieve this. E.g. @kauailifeguards, @ kauaioceansafetybureau, hawaiibeachsafety. com, kauailifeguards.com, there are others.

A third huge challenge has to do with snorkeling. Any of us who have snorkeled or scuba dived know that there is an amazing and beautiful world underneath the water’s surface. A significant percentage of our visitors arrive here wanting to catch some glimpses of this world. Some have snorkeled or scuba-dived before, some haven’t. Either way, they’re going to do it, with or without studying the areas they plan to carry this out.

The physiology of this last factor has to do with the super-thin alveolar membranes in our lungs. These are the membranes that allow oxygen to pass from inhaled air into the red blood cells in our bloodstream capillaries. The membranes are microscopically thin and fragile to begin with, and they are rendered even more delicate when in high altitude. This sets us up for something called “non cardiac pulmonary edema”, if we over exert ourselves and have not allowed our membranes to stabilize by being at sea level for at least 24 hours. Therefore, good advice is to not snorkel for at least 24 hours after arriving even if you are an experienced snorkeler.

Yet another challenge is that snorkelers can drown right in front of people who don’t even realize it’s happening. There is no arm waving, no yelling for help. This is because of something called “Instinctive Drowning Response.” You can also look this up online.

you a parent with kids enjoying a few hours at the beach, with some swimming involved? Are you a big wave surfer? Are you someone who’s aging and enjoys surfing smaller waves? Are you a canoe or kayak paddler? Are you a recreational snorkeler? Are you someone who likes to scuba dive to put fish on the hibachi? Do you enjoy night diving? And more. To describe the answer to each of these scenarios would require a

What happens is that as we breathe in against the resistance of a too-thin snorkel (try breathing through a straw for 5 or 10 minutes), our brain starts feeling the effects of not getting enough oxygen. These effects can cause our brains to be foggy and this fogginess takes away the nerve connections to our muscles. Basically we are weakened, without us even realizing it’s happening, to the extent that we can’t even wave our arms or yell for help.

Well, this piece certainly offers up some sobering thoughts and challenges to consider for the Holiday Season. The goal isn’t to be a negative. Rather the goal is to have readers think a bit before they jump in, and that way avoid tragedies that can ruin a family. This, I strongly believe, is a very positive goal.

What I really want to extend is my Best Wishes for a wonderful and safe Holiday Season.

learn to swim. Make yourself aware of hazards. (Rip currents, hidden rocks and such). Swim at Lifeguarded beaches. Don’t swim alone if you do make the choice to swim at an unguarded beach. If you are an adult with children swimming, make sure ONE adult is designated as water watcher. (You can rotate this responsibility every half hour if you want). That means staying off your cell phone and not drinking alcohol and not chit-chatting with your friends. Eyes glued to the children! We have

LIFEGUARDED BEACHES

Northshore, Haena Hanalei Pavillion...........

Haena Beach

Northshore, Hanalei Hanalei Bay Pine Trees

Northshore, Hanalei Kee Beach

Northshore, Haena Anahola Beach Eastside, Anahola

Kealia Beach

Eastside, Kapa`a Lydgate Beach

Eastside, Wailua Poipu Beach

Southshore, Poipu Salt Pond Beach Westside, Hanapepe Kekaha Beach Westside, Kekaha

Our family will take care of yours.

There’s no need to leave Kaua‘i to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to high-risk pregnancies, we work with you to honor your birthing plan. We even provide free virtual childbirth classes and a virtual lactation support group. If needed, we also offer immediate and seamless connection to maternal fetal medicine specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children.

OB-GYN services are also available at the KMC Kapa‘a clinic. WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity.