Call 808-250-2990 or email ads@mauifamilymagazine.com
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS
Email info@mauifamilymagazine.com
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
Email calendar@mauifamilymagazine.com
We at Maui Family Magazine want to inform, celebrate and participate in the nurturing and guidance of Maui’s children. We explore ways for parents to spend quality time with their children while also giving them information on health, safety and education. Maui Family Magazine is printed quarterly as Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter editions. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher. All submitted materials become the property of Maui Family Magazine. Mahalo! Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Cover ‘Ohana: Baby at Ali‘i Lavender Farm, Kula
Cover Photography: Sean Michael Hower @howerphotos
RAISING KEIKI MAUI STYLE
CONTRIBUTORS
Get to know our contributors. This issue we ask them to share: What are you looking forward to in 2025?
Kalia Kelmenson
mauimindandbody.com | @thesaltinus
“I'm looking forward to new adventures connecting with people and places on Maui and around the world.”
Kalia Kelmenson helps women remember their spark and strength and reclaim adventure as a way of life. She shares how growth is practice of patience on page 10, how to spring clean your mind on page 40, and ways to ride the waves of emotions on page 46.
Harriet Witt
“I look forward to joining hands with new friends in moving beyond the myth of materialism.”
Harriet Witt was the astronomer to the outdoor Maui Film Festival in Wailea throughout its 20-year existence. She leads the “Sunset and Stargazing Cruise” for the Pacific Whale Foundation every Saturday and can be reached for private stargazing via harriet@passengerplanet.com. She offers some ideas to celebrate Earth Day on page 16.
Maile Crewdson
@littlemauifamily
“I'm delighted that I get to homeschool my kids! The four of us are working on a children's book that is one part story and one part recipes, and it's exciting to see if we finish it in 2025.”
Maile Crewdson is a Maui mom of three keiki with severe food allergies and a former teacher. You may have seen her on Food Network's "Great Chocolate Showdown" where she won big. Enlist your kids' help to make her gluten-free, allergy-free Meyer Lemon Bundt Cake on page 22.
Jessica Gleason
@hsplshigov
“In 2025 I am looking forward to connecting with more people in my community and continue practicing taking care of myself so that I can continue the work of helping others.”
Jessica Gleason is the Holoholo Bookmobile Librarian at Wailuku Public Library. She has been a library worker since 2003 and is an advocate for inclusive, diverse, and accessible information, with a particular interest in social-emotional learning and the healing power of stories. To explore emotions and feelings, she recommends books on page 12.
hawai‘i’s longest running weekly
Keiki Hula Show
& SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Over $372,000 Has Been Awarded to Our Graduates
For 57 years the Napili Kai Foundation has strived to preserve the Hawaiian culture by passing it on to Maui’s keiki through the teaching of dances, language, history, arts and crafts of Polynesia. Our keiki perform in the weekly keiki hula show at the Napili Kai Beach Resort and participate in travel every 2-3 years. This program is available free of charge to keiki ages 6-18.
Now offering free ukulele and drumming lessons to our keiki members.
For membership information contact Kumu Hula Kathy Ralar through our website:
Our Keiki
Noticing Signs of
Growth
By Kalia Kelmenson
As a parent, you are constantly witnessing obvious signs of growth. From the moment you learned you were expecting, you recognized milestones of your child growing and developing. It’s astonishing to watch a newborn baby learn how to inhabit their body, begin to smile at you, and then learn how to crawl, walk, and run.
Our growth, in contrast, can seem achingly slow. We think we’ve learned something, and the next thing we know, we’ve slid back into our old patterns.
Nature can help us here. Look at the plants around you. Imagine the energy that goes into creating growth in a plant. The next time you are near a tree or another woody plant, look for the nodes of new growth that indicate the plant is alive. They begin as subtle bumps pushing through the rough exterior. It takes time and energy for that little node to burst through and become a blossom, a leaf, or a new branch.
As adults, our growth is often just as subtle. It might begin with a desire within you to make a change. This yearning is not something you can see, it is simply felt inside of you. You might begin to make plans for how to make that change. You may even begin to take action on that change, only to be discouraged because the results you are hoping for seem elusive.
For example, you might decide to want to start taking better care of yourself. As a busy parent, it’s often challenging to fit time for yourself
into a schedule full of driving all over the island for practice, playdates, and events. But you know that if you could just fit in a little time for exercise and eating better, your energy would be better and you would feel more balanced, more able to meet the challenges that show up. If you keep this end goal in mind, you can begin to look for small ways to incorporate care of yourself into the schedule. Maybe it’s walking around the soccer field once before getting back in the car, perhaps it’s making yourself a plate of food at breakfast so you don’t forget to eat, or it could be winding down at the end of the day with a meditation or a simple stretching session.
Similar to the tiny node pushing its way to the surface, these small shifts may feel inconsequential. But over time, as you remain committed to this idea of your future self, full of energy, capacity, and resilience, these small shifts will begin to feel more substantial. Let yourself notice the subtle signs of growth in how you feel.
Kalia Kelmenson helps female leaders live with purpose and passion without losing themselves along the way. She grew up on Maui and returned home to raise her keiki, who are now young adults. She is the creator of The Salt in Us and founder of Maui Mind and Body. mauimindandbody.com Follow her on Instagram at @thesaltinus
Growing and Learning at Your Library
BY JESSICA GLEASON, HSPL LIBRARIAN
Stories are a safe space to start talking about difficult emotions and behaviors with your keiki. Books that tell a story about what it’s like to feel an emotion can help children feel seen and help them make choices about how to cope and problem-solve. Here are some ideas for what to read when you want to talk about feelings:
• Big Bright Feelings series, by Tom Percival
Explore different stories about feelings, friends, perseverance, and self-acceptance.
• I'm books, by Michael Ian Black
A little girl, a potato, and a flamingo (strange as it may seem), help each other to work through challenging emotions.
• The Rabbit Listened, by Cori Doerrfeld When Taylor's block castle is destroyed, all the animals think they know just what to do, but only the rabbit quietly listens to how Taylor is feeling. Also available as an eAudiobook.
• I Am, I Can: 365 Affirmations for Kids, by Wynne Kinder
A collection of 365 daily affirmations includes special mindful movements, inspiring people and events in history, and activities to help bring affirmations to life.
• Grow Grateful, by Sage Foster-Lasser
Grow Happy; Grow Kind, by Jon Lasser
Explore gratitude, happiness, and kindness with Kiko. Includes Reader's Note with advice for parents and caregivers.
• Take a Breath, by Sujean Rim
Bob the bird keeps trying to fly but is beginning to worry that he will never succeed when Crow comes by with a suggestion to "just breathe."
• 100 Things Series, bby Amy Schwartz
Remember, discover, and celebrate all the things you know how to do, love to do, and
have fun doing with friends. 100 Things That Make Me Happy also available as a Read-Along eBook
• Growing My Garden: Keiki Self-Care Toolkits available at Wailuku and Makawao Libraries and the Holoholo Bookmobile. Geared toward ages 4–7, the kits include a discussion guide, both fiction and non-fiction books, and take-home activities on topics like identifying emotions and practicing mindfulness, gratitude, and compassion.
Other ideas to spark a love of reading, learning, and growing:
• Attend a storytime at your library! Engage with your child by joining in on action rhymes, songs, and creating art and crafts. This is also a great opportunity for children and caregivers to play, socialize, and connect with others.
• Go online at www.librarieshawaii.org to:
• Get more book recommendations by clicking on the “Read” tab to download book lists for different age groups and on topics like “Books that Teach Social Emotional Skills”.
• Encourage a love of reading with Bookflix, an interactive video storybook program for parents and caregivers to experience with their children.
Be sure to visit your nearest public library and sign up for a library card! Access our digital resources available 24/7 at www.librarieshawaii. org. And come ask library staff for help finding what you are looking for!
Watercolor & Recycled Newspaper Flower Craft
BY TASHA COMPOS
At ARTLab Maui we love finding new ways to use recycled materials to make art. Using newspapers is a great way to reduce waste while creating something beautiful. These vibrant recycled newspaper flowers are a perfect activity for Spring, easy and fun for artists of all ages. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Materials
• Newspapers
• Liquid watercolors (or watercolor paints mixed with water)
• First lay newspapers out on a table and fill dropper bottles with liquid watercolors (If you’re using regular watercolor paints, mix them with water to get a liquid watercolor effect).Tip: Cookie sheets make great art trays to contain mess.
• Use liquid watercolors to paint shapes and designs on the newspaper. Droppers or
pipettes are fun and a great way to develop fine motor skills but paintbrushes will also do the job!
• Once dry, use scissors to cut out flower petal shapes. Even layers of simple circles make adorable flowers. Cut strips of paper for the stem and leaves.
• Once all parts are dry, assemble the flower by gluing the petals around the center, the stem at the bottom, and the leaves on the sides.
• You can mount your flowers on construction paper, use them to decorate cards, or even create a flower garland!
This craft is simple, fun, and full of creative possibilities. Plus, it's a great way to use recycled materials in an eco-friendly way!
Tasha Compos is the owner of ARTLab Maui in Kihei offering art classes from 1-years old to adult. To learn more, visit artlabmaui.com.
Spice Up Your Stream
Looking for the latest Maui news and events for your family, craft and recipe inspiration, and creative activities for your keiki? Follow Maui Family Magazine.
Earth Day: April 22 is an Opportunity for Wonderment
BY HARRIET WITT
Kids are capable of wonderment that we often wish we still had. Fortunately, our wonderment wakes up at the sight of the photo that inspired millions of folks to participate in the first Earth Day back in 1970 (inset). When we share this image with our kids, we recognize our Earth as the only planet known to the universe that supports human life. We also recognize our Mother Earth as our Spaceship Earth - as the being who is spinning us around her axis every 24 hours. Yes, if our planet could speak English - or if we could understand her language - we might hear her saying, “What you humans call ‘sunrise’ is actually me spinning you toward the sun.” We might also hear her saying, “What you humans call ‘sunset’ is actually me spinning you away from the sun.” The action is with us, not with the sun.
We can cultivate our awe at this by inviting our kids to join us in facing east at dawn and aligning our bodies with our planet’s daily rotation. We can also invite our kids to join us in facing west at dusk and aligning our bodies with our planet’s daily rotation. While we’re doing this, it’s fun to remember that our Earth is rotating around her axis at 1,000 miles per hour. When we somatically connect with our planet’s motion, we remind ourselves that our Earth is a heavenly body - and she deserves to be treated as such.
Now that we’re thinking globally, we’re ready to act locally in ways that support the health of the heavenly body which is the ultimate source of all health. Here are some ways to do this:
• Bring your family and your cloth shopping bags to a local farmers’ market. It’s best to eat food that’s grown on island because food that’s not grown here must be shipped or flown here, and that generates transportation pollution.
• Food that’s grown organically is best because farming that uses pesticides and herbicides destroys the soil microbes that keep soil healthy. Soil that has lost its health due to non-organic practices cannot produce healthy crops.
• Learn more at www.projectlocavore.com which partners with many Maui businesses to provide you with recipes and other kinds of support for honoring our Earth by eating locally grown food.
• Check out mauihub.org and purchase locally grown food online. If you chew your food slowly while you are also thanking our Earth for growing it, you’ll get more out of it!
Harriet was the astronomer to the outdoor Maui Film Festival in Wailea throughout its 20-year existence. She leads the “Sunset and Stargazing Cruise” for the Pacific Whale Foundation every Saturday and can be reached for private stargazing via harriet@passengerplanet.com
Photo: NASA astronaut Bill Anders' iconic image of Earth rising over the Moon's horizon on Dec. 24, 1968.
Hawai‘i Nature Center Returns to Maui
Echoes of laughter muffled against the backdrop of a rushing river, excited exclamations of newfound discoveries, the soft pitter patter of small feet along earthen trails as keiki learned in nature for the day. For 30 years, this scene could be found in ‘Īao Valley as the Hawai’i Nature Center (HNC) partnered with local schools to bring keiki outdoors for hands-on science field trips and during school intercessions, for its popular Nature Adventure Camps (NAC). Except for 3rd grade programs which were held in collaboration with our long-time partners at Keālia Pond NWR, HNC’s school and NAC programs were primarily held in ‘Īao Valley. Since 1992, HNC has had the honor of working with roughly 100 schools, 60% of which were Title 1, and connecting 3,500 keiki to nature each year.
Following the sale of its ‘Īao property in 2022, the Hawai’i Nature Center is excited to announce that we are relaunching both our School and NAC programs in 2025 in a “mobile” model. With the goal of making programs more accessible island-wide, HNC has been forming partnerships with various sites and landowners to connect keiki to a variety of habitats. School programs are resuming in February and while programs will closely follow past curricula, teachers can choose from a variety of sites that best fit their needs.
HNC is also excited to collaborate with the amazing staff at Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge to relaunch our Nature Adventure
Camps in June. Keālia Pond will serve as a home base where campers arrive and depart each day. One day will be spent on-site at the Refuge, and four days will involve field trips across the island to learn and explore different microclimates, ahupua’a, and ecosystems.
Rachael Taylor, HNC’s Maui Program Manager, who was born and raised on Maui and is a Seabury Hall alumna, has been spearheading HNC’s relaunch. Taylor previously helped manage an environmental education non-profit in Colorado that followed a very similar “mobile” model, and she is humbled to have the opportunity to bring this work back home to Maui.
The relaunch of HNC’s programs on Maui would not be possible without the generous support of our partner organizations, schools, families, former staff, and the warm welcome from the community as our programs return. Mahalo nui loa.
To learn more about HNC’s School Programs and Nature Adventure Camps, please visit: www. HawaiiNatureCenter.org
How to Address Hitting Behaviors
BY KIEGAN BLAKE, O.T.
Any behavior, including hitting, is a form of communication and also hints at what may be going on for your child inside their body and emotional world. Hitting is never a socially acceptable behavior, so it is best addressed by building alternate skill sets. Here are a few reasons for hitting:
1. Your child saw someone else hit and wants to try it out. Let your child know they can use their words to tell you what they want/ need/feel and then create daily opportunity to do so.
2. When your child hits, they may like it because it guarantees immediate attention from you. Create a designated daily time to engage with your child so they can get that need to connect with you met in a positive way.
3. Your child is active and likes to use force both when happy and when upset . Identify and plan activities that include forceful arm movements such as swimming, punching a hanging stuffie bag or monkey bars. In addition, you can introduce 3 levels of force (light, medium and hard) and role play different situations such as wrestling with medium force
4. Another kid hits your child and they feel like they have to hit back. Help your child identify alternate options such as, tell them to STOP, walk away and talk to an adult. You can role play this to practice.
5. Your child gets revved up and it is easier to hit than to slow down and use words. When your child is in an elevated state, they will act impulsively (we all do) so you need to role play how to take a break (walk away) and/
or tell an adult. Create a sweet cozy space at home and designate a little time every day to “chill” to give your child practice in gearing their body down to a calm state. Once they are calm, you can then talk about what happened.
6. Your child is sensitive and is easily frustrated and/or disappointed and it spurts out of their body through hitting. Introduce a kid friendly venue for talking about their feelings (book, pictures, stuffies with emotional expressions). Create a 3 step plan with your child in advance: when they get upset, have a safe alternate physical activity they can do, give them a cozy space to calm down, and follow up by talking or drawing out what was so upsetting to them.
You want your child to know that having big feelings is normal, and you always want to hear about them, but that hitting is not a safe or okay way to express them. You can help your child build the skills of calming themselves and verbalizing their feelings as a replacement for hitting.
Kiegan Blake is an Occupational Therapist, Behavioral Specialist, and Director of Maui Center for Child Development. For more information, please call 808-873-7700 or visit MauiChildDevelopment.com.
Kiegan Blake
M.A. ED., OTR/L
Kiegan works with families statewide providing assessment, direct therapy, and consultation for home and school programs, as well as Mentorship & Trainings to professionals in Hawaii, nationally and internationally.
Trained in Developmental and Behavioral Interventions, Kiegan has been an Occupational Therapist for over 25 years, opening the Maui Center for Child Development in 2003.
Therapy for Children to Teens
Learn practical and effective parenting strategies while having fun on our stateof-the-art equipment!
Occupational Therapy to Improve your child’s…
• Motor Skills to increase independence & confidence
• Sensory Processing for better coping skills
• Handwriting Skills
• Social Skills to read non-verbal cues, hold social conversations, be flexible and negotiate
• Self-Regulation Skills to develop strategies to self-calm
• Feeding Sensitivities Learn to expand food tolerances
• Behavior for success at home, school and with friends.
Recipe and Photo by Maile Crewdson
This local fruit-infused, gluten-free cake makes a joyful centerpiece at Easter and can be dressed up with homegrown herbs, edible flowers, or more fruit. I like to use Meyer lemons straight off our tree but any fresh lemons will work. This is a beginner-friendly recipe to make alongside your kids, and it’s allergy-friendly. Win-win!
Ingredients
Bundt Cake
• 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder (gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 13/4 cups granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole plain yogurt, room temperature
• 1 tsp each, lemon extract and vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
Bundt Cake
1. Preheat oven to 350º F.
2. Generously grease a 10–12 cup bundt pan in every crevice with either nonstick spray or butter and a little dusting of flour.
3. Whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, fresh lemon zest, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a separate larger bowl, cream butter, and sugar for about 3 minutes at medium speed with an electric mixer or vigorously by hand.
5. Pour in lemon juice, then eggs (one egg at a time), mixing well between each egg. Once all eggs are combined, add in the yogurt and extracts and stir well.
6. Slowly fold in your dry ingredients in that separate bowl you set aside. Stir until combined.
7. Pour the batter into the bundt pan filling about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for about 45 minutes at 350ºF, checking for doneness at the 35 to 40-minute mark, then every 5 minutes after.
9. When a toothpick inserted toward the center of your cake comes out clean, the cake is done. Once baked, allow the bundt pan to cool for about 15 minutes.
10. Place a large inverted plate or cake stand on the bundt pan and flip the bundt pan and plate together. It should easily be released.
Stovetop Simple Syrup
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon extract (optional)
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• 4 oz cream cheese, room temp
• 4 tbsp butter, room temp
• 11/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 to 3 tbsp lemon juice
Stovetop Simple Syrup
1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water with 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
2. Over medium high heat, bring your saucepan to a gentle boil.
3. Once the liquid is boiling, turn the heat to medium and gently stir the liquid for about a minute to dissolve the sugar in the water.
4. Remove your saucepan to cool.
5. Pour in 1 tsp of lemon or vanilla extract, if using.
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Beat together the cream cheese and butter for about 2 minutes.
2. Slowly add in your powdered sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice, beating to combine.
Assembling the Bundt Cake
Once the cake is cooled, pour simple syrup along the top of your cake. Use as much or as little as you like. This will help keep your cake moist and flavorful. Next, top with the lemon cream cheese frosting (if using) and decorate with more fresh lemons, garden herbs, or edible flowers.
MAUI FAMILY MAUI
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Alexander Academy of Performing Arts
808-878-8970 • alexanderacademy.info
Queen Ka’ahumanu Center & Blue Mango Yoga
Join Alexander Academy for the 2024–2025 dance season. Classes for kids ages 2+ include ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary, acro, flexibility, and hip hop. Adult classes available. AAPA aims to provide accessible high-quality dance instruction and performance opportunities to the Maui community. Through the art and discipline of dance, we empower students to embody the aloha spirit, identify their self-respect and compassion, and feel connection. Visit our website to learn more and enroll today.
West Maui Dance
Citizens Church Lahaina • Text or call 775-781-0568
Open registration at West Maui Dance located at Citizens Church Lahaina. We offer classes for ages 3 through adult. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Bollywood, lyrical. Limited class sizes.
Momentum Dance Maui
808-866-0212 • momentumdancemaui.com
230 Hana Hwy. Unit 4, Kahului Ages 3–Adult
Join Momentum Dance Maui for the 2024–2025 dance season at their brand-new Kahului location! Classes include creative movement, pre-ballet, hiphop, jazz, contemporary, tap, and more. Momentum Dance Maui aims to inspire well-rounded and enthusiastic dancers through excellent training for both the pre-professional dancer and recreational student. We believe in creating a safe and positive environment where dancers can thrive. Call for more information or visit our website to conveniently register online today.
Perpetuating Hawaiian culture through the children of Maui since 1966. Membership in our cultural program is open to keiki 6–18 and is free of charge. Now offering free ukulele lessons, taught by Jason Jerome of Lahaina Music. Contact Jason directly at 808-283-4792 for details. For membership details, contact Kumu Hula Kathy Ralar through our website.
Kihei Dance Connection
808-281-8084 • kiheidanceconnection.com kiheidanceconnection@gmail.com 381 Huku Lii Place, #102, Kihei HI
We offer a variety of classes with something for everyone in your family; we have adult ballet, jazz, Zumba, UJAM/Groove3, Polynesian dance, West Coast Swing, to name a few. Keiki classes include mommy-and-me, pre-ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and hula. We also have fun kids' events like movie night drop-off, themed dance parties, and birthday dance parties. Our goal at Kihei
Arts Calendar
Dance Connection is to provide a fun and safe environment for everyone to express themselves through their love of dance.
Evolution Dance
2050 Main Street, Wailuku • evolutiondancemaui.com
Join Evolution Dance Academy for the 2024–2025 dance season at our Wailuku Arts District building at 2050 Main St.! Creative movement, hip-hop, Breakdancing, jazz, contemporary, tap, and more. Evolution offers training that is rooted in creativity and expression. Our mission is to build a community that provides opportunities to connect, create and collaborate through the art of dance. With love at the center of everything we do, we welcome all who come through our doors and onto our dance floor. We nurture each individual dance journey and strive to create a supportive community who will become a safe place to explore, learn and celebrate together. Call for more information, visit our website, or search for our app "Evolution Dance Maui."
Maui Academy of Performing Arts
808-244-8760 • mauiacademy.org
2050 Main Street, Wailuku
Theatre Classes • Ages 5–Adult
From keiki to kupuna, MAPA theatre classes help build confidence, stimulate creativity, and encourage exploration of the world around us. All experience levels welcome. Spring classes include Musical Theatre, Improv, and Acting. MAPA teaching artists are highly trained in theatre and education with decades of professional experience. Join us for our 50th year of providing high-quality performing arts classes for our Maui community!
Maui Onstage
808-868-0333 • mauionstage.com
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center (Across from Lens Crafters)
Students of all levels will explore elements of theater including vocalization, character development, music, movement, dance, and ensemble-building. Classes and camps include acting, improv, and musical theater for all ages. Register at mauionstage.com.
In Lahaina: After-school classes, workshops, school-break and summer camps
Ages 5–adult
We offer performing arts experiences for the children and adults of the West Maui community while also cultivating and nurturing local artists
in the production of their original works. Visit ttmwestmaui.org to learn about upcoming classes and camps.
Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center 808-572-6560 • huinoeau.com
2841 Baldwin Ave, Makawao
Spring Classes & Camps • Ages 2.5–Adult Classes are online & open for registration! The Hui offers classes, workshops, and camps for all ages and artistic abilities. Taught by professional teaching artists, Hui classes include programs in drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, jewelry, ceramics, glassblowing, Hawaiian arts, and more! The Hui also brings exceptional teaching artists to Maui as part of our Visiting Artist program. We offer classes for all ages, including family classes designed for multiple generations to participate in the arts together.
ArtLab Maui programs include: creativity building, drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and more. Providing quality teacher-led programs with engaging process-based art activities, where kids learn, play and create! Let’s get a little messy and make some amazing art! Visit us online to see the current schedule and to enroll.
Aloha Open Marketplace, 1794 S Kihei Rd., #10, Kihei
Kindermusik classes: ages birth - 10 years
Private lessons: ages 7 years – adult Kindermusik by Tamara for keiki and private lessons by Dan Anuenue Music Maui to continue their musical journey. Whether you are just beginning or a seasoned musician there is something for everyone. Kindermusik is the world’s leader in childhood music & movement education. Based on decades of research, activities are carefully & creatively designed to enhance children’s cognitive, language, physical, creative, and social-emotional development.
Come have fun at Kupono Music Studio! Private lessons are available in piano, voice, ukulele, violin, guitar & other instruments. Play any style of music you desire in private, air-conditioned comfort on gorgeous high-quality instruments.. Affordable prices, and flexible scheduling.
La-ti-Da School of Music & Creative Arts
808-280-2784 office, 920-227-3406 text la-ti-daproductions.com aloha@la-ti-daproductions.com • @latidamusic 133 Makawao Ave, Makawao HI
Ages 3 months–Adult
La-ti-Da offers early childhood and preschool music classes for ages 3 months–6 years as well as private and group music lessons for age 7+ on various instruments. We believe in creating an uplifting environment for children to explore the world of creativity. We strive to motivate kids through interactive learning, movement, games and innovation, inspiring confidence and teamwork.
Private Violin Lessons in Central Maui • Ages 6–Adult • Flexible times, beginning & intermediate students.
Experienced & patient teacher. Innovative teaching methods follow the interests & learning style of each student, keeping their passion for music alive. Contact Cambria Moss. If you do not have a violin yet, please call before shopping for one.
Celebrating 50 years of theatre for youth at MAPA!
Education Education
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Little Hoku Montessori
220 Moi Place Kihei • littlehoku.com
Open House • February 1, 2025
Discover how our Montessori program can benefit your child and explore our classroom environment. To sign up for the Open House, please email us at info@littlehoku.com. We look forward to meeting you and sharing what makes Little Hoku Montessori Academy special.
Ke Kula ‘o Pi‘ilani
875 ‘Īao Valley Road, Wailuku www.kekulaopiilani.com • 808-214-5006
Open House • February 6, 2025 • 5pm–7pm
Ke Kula ‘o Pi‘ilani‘s open house which is on February 6, 2025. Applications are open January 1, 2025.
Montessori School of Maui 808.573.0374 • momi.org 2933 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao, HI 96768
Open House • Saturday, March 1, 2025 9am–11am
Interested in learning more about the value of a Montessori education for your child? Complete an Online Inquiry at momi.org/admissions to join us.
Doris Todd Christian Academy 808.579.9237 • office@doristoddchrisian.org 519 Baldwin Avenue, Pā’ia
Doris Todd Christian Academy (PS–Grade 8)/ Maui Christian Academy (Grades 9–12) offers personalized tours to show you our campus, and for you to meet our wonderful teachers and staff! Please reach out to Jessica in our office at 808.579.9237 / office@doristoddchrisian.org to schedule a time that is convenient for you. You can also visit our website at www.doristoddchristian.org to get to know us better. We look forward to hearing from you!
Hawai‘i Technology Academy 808-676-5444
K–12 • 535 Lipoa Parkway, Suite 200, Kihei hi.myhta.org/campuses/kihei/ K–8 • 200 Kapalua Drive, Lahaina hi.myhta.org/campuses/lahaina/ Campus Tours and Virtual Information Sessions starting February. HTA is a tuition-free public charter school that allows students to follow their own unique paths to success. We offer our innovative program in Lahaina and Kihei, plus in our fully virtual G4–12 distance learning program. Admission for the next school year opens on Feb. 5. Contact the campus for more information or email enrollment@myhta.org.
Education Calendar
Camp Ho‘ohana Adventure Camp
Maui Adventure Spring Break Camp
Ages 11–14, grades 6–8 • March 17–21, 9am–3pm
$390 + $60 Supply Fee
Financial Assistance Available
Join us for guided tracking & trailblazing, horseback rides, shelter building, spear-making and metalwork, archery, land restoration, optional camp out, and more!
Pā‘ia Youth & Cultural Center
808-579-8354 • pyccmaui.org
Pā‘ia Bay, Pā‘ia
Free membership for youth at Pā‘ia Youth & Cultural Center – Drop-In & Life Skills Programs
Year-Round. Membership is FREE! • Ages 9–19
Kihei Youth Center
131 S Kihei Rd #B, Kihei, HI 96753 • 808-879-8698 kiheiyouthcenteronmaui@yahoo.com
The mission of Kihei Youth Center is to strengthen the community through positive youth and family development by providing educational, recreational, vocational, cultural, social, and prevention programs in a safe, healthy and nurturing environment embodied by Native Hawaiian values.
Learning Endeavors
808-793-3322 • learningendeavors.org
2679 Wai Wai Place, Suite 202C, Kīhei
(Across from the South Maui Community Park) Camps, Classes, and Events. Hands-on Science, Creative Arts, Outdoor Exploration, Digital Storytelling, & STEM/STEAM
See our website for details on weekly after school classes, camps, puppet shows, and other events offered. Visit learningendeavors.org or contact us: info@learningendeavors.org or 808793-3322.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Maui 808-298-4781 • bbbshawaii.org
Open Enrollment for Big Brothers
Big Sisters of Maui
Youth (ages 6–16 years old) and adult volunteer mentors are matched in a one-to-one friendship based on gender, interests, personalities, and geographic locations. Volunteers are carefully screened and trained to create a positive impact by sharing their friendship, guidance, and support. Pairs meet two to three times per month
to spend quality one-on-one time together and form meaningful memories through little everyday moments like sharing a slice of pizza and getting shave ice. Matches are professionally supported by one of our staff members who also provide resources and support to the entire family unit. If you are interested in enrolling your child or becoming a volunteer mentor please e-mail us at ctomas@bbbshawaii.org or call 808-298-4781.
Maui Center for Child Development
808-873-7700 • MauiChildDevelopment.com MCCDmaui@gmail.com 244 Papa Place, Suite 102, Kahului
Kiegan offers a wide array of therapy services for children and their families including occupational therapy, behavior management, sensory processing therapy, social and motor skills, and more. She is known throughout the islands for delivering results with her highly specialized therapies and state of the art equipment, and has helped hundreds of families find innovative solutions. She provides comprehensive and outstanding quality to Hawai‘i’s families and communities.
Family Hui Hawaii
808-230-7112 • FamilyHuiHawaii.org
Family Hui Hawai‘i provides families with opportunities to connect, share and learn from one another through our in-person or virtual parent support groups. Our Maui Parent Cafes are peerled sessions run by other parents online, and our Maui Neighborhood Hui are parent-led group series in your own community. Our free programs are for all Maui families. Follow our IG at family.hui.hawaii, FB Family Hui Hawaii, website at familyhuihawaii.org, text hui to 70138 for free developmental texts and updates.
Maui ‘Ohana Collective is an educational non-profit, providing Waldorf-inspired and ‘Ohana-based curriculum and activities to students in grades 1–6. MOC serves as a community resource center that provides educational blocks or drop in classes, along with cultural festivals and resources to families who seek alternative education. Among our resources lives Laulima Garden ‘Ohana— our operational farm and living classroom for regenerative agriculture education
Education Calendar
for children and families. Our diverse community invites educators to receive access to indoor and outdoor learning and workshop/tutoring spaces, along with an opportunity to offer their workshops and classes to our students.
La Leche League International Maui mauidoula@hotmail.com RSVP for details and meeting location
4th Thurs/month • 11:30am–1:45pm
La Leche League International provides worldwide support to promote breastfeeding. Free lactation support group talk story, encouragement, and information. Accredited Leader: Mary Jane P. Bennett IBCLC.
Learn CPR Save Lives 808-740-2770 • Learncprsavealifehawaii@gmail.com Learncprsavelives.com
Flexible classes throughout the year in CPR, AED, first aid, conscious and unconscious choking, basic life support classes for health care providers using American Heart Association as well as American Red Cross guidelines. Students 12 years old and older. Recommended for babysitting. I guarantee you will leave your class with the skills necessary to effectively administer CPR for first aid to babies or adults.
Reading Tutoring
248-564-1999 • cindyteachesreading.com
Cindy Shuster
Personalized one-on-one tutoring for beginning readers and readers needing extra support to achieve grade level. Students are initially assessed to establish their knowledge of letters and sounds, concepts about print, and writing skills. Lessons are then designed around the child’s ability level. Children are guided through lessons that include reading, word work, and writing strategies. The goal for each lesson is to build confidence, independence, and a love of reading.
Gakuen Japanese Language School
1828 Vineyard St, Wailuku Grades K–8 will immerse themselves in the Japanese language and culture, learning to read, write, and speak, all while enjoying traditional folk songs. The curriculum also includes engaging activities like Undoukai (Cultural Field Day), calligraphy, origami, and making staple Japanese foods such as somen nagashi, mochi,
cone and maki sushi, okonomiyaki, along with Spam musubi making, and more! Classes run from 3–5 PM on Mon, Tues, Thurs, and Fri; and from 2–4 PM on Wed. For more info, contact Principal Reverend Murakami at 808-244-0406 or shinkai528@gmail.com.
East Maui Watershed Partnership 808-573-6999 • eastmauiwatershed.org
Let us bring the watershed to you with various online presentations and quizzes! Students will learn what a watershed is and why they are important. In-person hikes and volunteer service trips may be available, but are subject to COVID-19 limitations.
Hawaii State Public Library System
Your library card gives you access to free digital resources available 24/7. You can check out eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers as well as stream movies, documentaries, and TV series. Parents and caregivers can also access BookFlix for Kids, Scholastic Teachables, streaming movies, TV series, and Story Time and Virtual Programs featuring your local librarians. Please visit www.librarieshawaii.org to find out about our current services, or feel free to stop by or call your nearest library during open hours. Library staff is here to help!
Wailuku Public Library
808-243-5766 • www.librarieshawaii.org 251 High Street, Wailuku
808-873-3095 • www.librarieshawaii.org 90 School St., Kahului
Baby + Health
Spring Into Wellness
By Tabitha Tatum
Nature-based tips for your baby’s growth and development
As spring graces Maui with its lush greenery and vibrant blooms, it’s the perfect time to nurture your baby’s growth in harmony with the island’s natural beauty. As a nature-based pediatric Occupational Therapist specializing in yoga and holistic methods, I’ve seen first-hand how early experiences with nature support development. Here are some gentle, nature-inspired tips to help your baby thrive this spring.
Sensory Exploration in Nature
The island’s beaches and parks offer endless sensory opportunities. Let your baby feel soft sand, hold smooth pebbles, or touch leaves. These experiences support their sensory systems and lay the foundation for motor skills.
Gentle Yoga for Babies
Try simple yoga-inspired movements outdoors. Use “Happy Baby” pose on a blanket under a tree or gentle tummy time stretches to nature’s soothing sounds. These activities encourage motor development and relaxation.
Nature Walks for Bonding
Take your baby on a stroll through gardens or along shaded beach paths. Point out flowers, birds, and trees, describing colors and sounds to stimulate their growing brain. Nature walks combine sensory stimulation with bonding time.
Create a Nature Basket
Fill a small basket with safe, natural items like seashells, driftwood, or fragrant flowers (ensure they’re non-toxic). Let your baby explore these under supervision to spark curiosity and sensory engagement.
Foster Emotional Connection
Use spring’s rhythms to connect emotionally. Sing lullabies inspired by ocean waves or tell simple stories about animals and plants you see. These moments nurture your bond and introduce emotional regulation through natural themes.
Outdoor Family Time
Spend time as a family lying on a picnic blanket, listening to the breeze, or playing peek-a-boo under a tree. These simple activities support emotional growth while creating cherished memories.
By incorporating these practices into your spring routines, you’re supporting your baby’s development and fostering a lifelong connection to the natural world. If your little one has unique needs, adapt these activities to suit them. Let’s nurture your baby’s journey with nature’s gifts, one mindful moment at a time.
Tabitha Tatum, MOT, OTR/L, RYT-200 is an occupational therapist and yoga teacher. She is the founder of Bloom Yoga & Nature-Based Therapy. Contact her at hello@bloomyoganaturetherapy.com.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect keiki from serious diseases. Staying current on immunizations safeguards your child’s health and helps prevent illnesses from spreading in our community. But if your family has missed some vaccines — or you’re unsure if your child is up to date — it’s never too late to catch up.
Vaccines work by stimulating your child’s immune system to recognize and fight certain diseases, reducing their risk of illness. And when your child is protected, they also help protect people who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical conditions. So getting up-todate on vaccines keeps all of us healthier!
Start by scheduling a visit with your family doctor or pediatrician to check your child’s immunization records and flag any missing shots. Your provider can work with you to create a catch-up plan that prioritizes the most urgent vaccines for your child.
It’s also a good idea to review the CDC’s recommended vaccine schedule so you know which immunizations your child may need and when. These include:
• Birth to 2 Years: Vaccines for hepatitis B, rotavirus, MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis), polio, chickenpox, and more.
• 4–6 Years: Boosters for DTaP, MMR, polio, and chickenpox.
Is Your Keiki Up to Date on Immunizations?
BY TRAVIS GLENN, MD, FAMILY MEDICINE, GLENN FAMILY MEDICINE, MAUI MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER OUTPATIENT CLINIC
• Teens: Booster for DTaP, vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningitis.
• Yearly: Flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine.
If your child has fallen behind, don’t panic. Healthcare providers can often combine multiple vaccines in a single visit so you can catch up faster. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend an accelerated schedule, especially if your child is at higher risk for certain diseases or if you plan to travel to places where specific infections are more common. Keep a record of your child’s immunizations as you get caught up, and note the type of vaccine, the date given, and any side effects.
While vaccines are safe and severe reactions are rare, some children have mild side effects, including soreness at the injection site, low fever, or fatigue. These symptoms indicate that the immune system has been activated and the vaccine is working. Side effects can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medicine and go away after a day, but if they persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
Vaccines are an important way to protect your child’s health now and in the future. If you have questions about your child’s immunizations, contact your pediatrician or visit the CDC’s website for the latest guidance. By staying informed and being proactive, you can ensure that your child is fully protected and set them up for a healthy future.
Visit mauihealth.org/vaccineguide to learn about how vaccines work, their benefits, and how they protect your keiki and the community.
GET YOUR KEIKI UP TO DATE ON
IMMUNIZATIONS
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect keiki from serious diseases. Staying current on immunizations safeguards your child’s health and helps prevent illnesses from spreading in our community. But if your family has missed some vaccines — or you’re unsure if your child is up to date — it’s never too late to catch up. Review the CDC’s recommended vaccine schedule so you know which immunizations your child may need and when. These include:
• Birth to 2 Years: Vaccines for hepatitis B, rotavirus, MMR (measlesmumps-rubella), DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis), polio, chickenpox, and more.
• 4-6 Years: Boosters for DTaP, MMR, polio, and chickenpox.
• Teens: Booster for DTaP, vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningitis.
• Yearly: Flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines are an important way to protect your child’s health now and in the future. By staying informed and being proactive, you can ensure that your child is fully protected and set them up for a healthy future.
To learn more, visit: mauihealth.org/kidsvaccines
Spring Clean Your Mind
BY KALIA KELMENSON
As the Winter turns to Spring, the deeply wired impulse to throw open the windows and clear out the closets begins to stir for many. For families with growing kids, it’s a time to go through the toys and clothes, passing along what has been outgrown and making space for the next phase of development and the growing minds, limbs, and torsos.
In the flutter of clearing out board books and building blocks, it’s easy to miss the opportunity for some internal spring cleaning of your mind. We all develop certain patterns of thoughts and beliefs as we navigate through life. Some of them are helpful, and some are decidedly not. Let the energy of Springtime support you in becoming more intentional about the stories, ideas, and beliefs that shape the way you live.
An important first step is to practice mindfulness. We can’t know what those subconscious stories are unless you slow down enough to notice them. You don’t have to sit cross-legged or stop what you are doing. Begin by simply immersing yourself fully in whatever you are doing. If you’re making dinner, let yourself feel the texture of what you’re touching, smell the different components, and listen to sounds you hear (taste is of course a great option here as well.)
By bringing yourself more fully to the present moment, you can begin to hear the running commentary happening in your mind. You can choose to turn up the volume as if you were listening to a radio station.
Once you hear your thoughts, write them down. Catch as many as you can, imagining that you are simply taking dictation. Once you have some of those thoughts down, you can begin to examine them.
Ask yourself these 3 questions: Is it kind? Is it true? Is it useful?
Often what is running on repeat in our minds has none of those qualities. You can choose to change the station in your mind by writing a new script. Turn to a new page and consider what you most want to hear. If this feels difficult, imagine you’re talking to your own child or supporting a close friend.
Replacing the voice of the inner critic with a voice of self compassion can help you navigate through challenging times as well as enjoy the sweet moments more fully.
Kalia Kelmenson helps female leaders live with purpose and passion without losing themselves along the way. She grew up on Maui and returned home to raise her keiki, who are now young adults. She is the creator of The Salt in Us and founder of Maui Mind and Body. mauimindandbody.com Follow her on Instagram at @thesaltinus
Preparing Your Child for a New Sibling
A new addition to the family can be an exciting but challenging time for older siblings. The more we prepare them for what to expect, the better we can manage the range of emotions and reactions they may experience. Being honest and including your child as much as possible in the process will help your child feel safe and confident about what changes may occur.
When you are pregnant, answer questions with age-appropriate answers. It is recommended to share the news with children once the baby starts to show. If you are experiencing things like morning sickness or changes your children may recognize, it may be better to share the news earlier to avoid anxiety or fear about what is happening. Use your instincts to know what is best for your family.
Although it is natural to emphasize the positives that come with a new addition to the family, be realistic with your children. Be as specific as is appropriate for your child. You may share the work involved with caring for a baby, such as changing diapers and feeding them or how much attention they need to stay safe.
Involving your children in the preparations for the baby also helps them feel a part of the changes. They can help shop and decorate for the nursery, or help come up with ideas for naming the baby.
When the baby does arrive, pay attention to your other childrens needs. Set aside time to spend with them alone and ensure that rituals that are important to them, such as reading a book together before bed, continue even after the baby arrives.
Be prepared for your children to regress in behaviors or act out. This is a natural and common reaction. Toilet-trained children may start asking for a diaper or having accidents. Older children are driven by fairness and equality, and some may see a baby receiving favoritism. The more they are involved and their feelings are recognized, the more they will adapt to the changes and joys that come with a new sibling.
Imagine your morning routine. Things are rolling along pretty smoothly: waking up, making breakfast, prepping lunches, getting everyone rolling. Along the way, one of the kids starts giving you some attitude, maybe it’s an eye roll or some kind of remark that lands wrong.
You recognize that you’re actually pretty angry with that response from your child. If you pause, you might actually notice that the level of anger doesn’t really match the situation. So, you take a deep breath and carry on with the morning program, making sure everyone has what they need for the day, outburst averted.
At some point, you’ll want to circle back to those feelings. If we don’t allow our emotions to have a pathway for release and continue to push them aside, we risk either having them triggered in an outburst or they may start to show up as physical symptoms.
Negative emotions, as the name suggests, are not considered pleasant, but that’s mostly because we don’t have the tools for letting ourselves experience them. We also don’t always understand the lessons they have for us.
As humans, we are meant to experience a full range of emotions. Anger and sadness are just as important as happiness and excitement. How we deal with difficult or unpleasant emotions is also important.
Riding the Waves of Difficult Emotions
BY KALIA KELMENSON
Rather than feeling like sadness, anger, or guilt is a nuisance or a distraction, let the emotion be a guidepost towards what you really need.
When an emotion arises (or perhaps later in the day when you can take a moment to yourself), let yourself be with the sensation of the emotion. Be fully present and let those sensations have their time. The sensation of emotions is like waves. In fact, they typically roll through you in 90 seconds.
Once you let the sensations move through you, name it, being as precise as possible. Emotions are messengers, telling us when our needs are either being met, as in the case of positive emotions, or not being met.
There are universal human needs that we all share. Needs such as safety and community, autonomy, empathy, and rest. Spend some time examining where your needs are being met, and also where they are not. When big emotions surface, ride the wave of the sensation and then explore the message it is delivering.
As you begin to recognize these messages, you can adjust factors in your life to better align with your needs.
Kalia Kelmenson helps female leaders live with purpose and passion without losing themselves along the way. She grew up on Maui and returned home to raise her keiki, who are now young adults. She is the creator of The Salt in Us and founder of Maui Mind and Body. mauimindandbody.com Follow her on Instagram at @thesaltinus
Why Cybersecurity is Important for Your Family
In today's digital age, protecting your personal information online is just as important as locking the doors to your home. While "cybersecurity" might sound like something best left to tech experts, it's something anyone can practice.
For parents, understanding and applying basic cybersecurity measures can safeguard not only your personal information but also your family’s financial well-being and peace of mind.
Here are five easy steps to boost your cybersecurity and protect what matters most:
1. Create Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense against hackers. A good password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays or names, and never reuse the same password for multiple accounts. If managing numerous passwords sounds overwhelming, a password manager can securely store and organize them for you.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. Even if someone guesses your password, they won’t gain access without a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or generated by an app. Enabling 2FA is a simple step that can make a big difference in keeping your accounts secure.
3. Be Aware of Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are designed to trick you into sharing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. They often come in the form of emails or messages that appear to be from trusted sources like your bank. Always verify the sender before clicking on any links or sharing personal information. If something feels off, trust your instincts and double-check.
4. Keep Software Updated
Keeping your devices and apps up to date might seem like a hassle, but those updates often include crucial security patches to protect you from cyber threats. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure your devices are always running the latest, most secure versions.
5. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Make it a habit to review your financial accounts for unusual activity. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to your financial institution right away. Quick action can prevent small issues from becoming big problems.
By practicing these simple steps, you can create a safer online environment for yourself and your family. Cybersecurity isn’t just for tech professionals, it’s a life skill that anyone can master to protect their loved ones and their peace of mind.
For more free financial education resources, visit mauicountyfcu.org/resources/financial-education
MAUI ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS
MAPA Celebrates 50 Years & Builds a
New Home
From humble beginnings 50 years ago as an after-school drama program, Maui Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA) has grown into one of Hawaii’s largest nonprofit arts organizations. Originally called Maui Youth Theatre, MAPA has served more than one million participants in service to its mission of “enriching individuals, building community and connecting our world through the performing arts.”
Over the past 50 years, three generations of keiki have participated in MAPA’s Academy program. In addition to building performing arts skills, students gain confidence, empathy, and communication skills that help them succeed in school and beyond. MAPA currently offers theatre classes for all ages, from keiki to kupuna, and partners with Evolution Dance Academy to offer classes in ballet, hip hop, contemporary, jazz, and tap.
MAPA’s partnership with Maui schools goes back to the 1980s. In the Voices program, K–12 students enhance their reading comprehension and reading response skills through drama classes taught by MAPA’s professional teaching artists who collaborate with classroom teachers to tailor the residencies to each grade level’s specific needs.
MAPA’s Educational Theatre Tours bring live theatre directly into schools island-wide. Performed by professional actors, MAPA’s tour
shows reach 7,500 students in grades preK-5 annually. The plays use music and humor to share messages relevant to young keiki. The current tour, Pigs from the Sea, is a new musical based on a true story about Okinawans helping one another after a disaster.
Rounding out MAPA’s programming are its Broadway-quality theatrical productions featuring professional actors working sideby-side with Maui’s best talent. Since 1974, MAPA has produced more than 500 theatre productions, including musicals, classics, comedies, and dramas presented in venues across the island, from the 1,200-seat Castle Theater at Maui Arts & Cultural Center to MAPA’s intimate 40-seat Living Room.
MAPA is the proud new owner of three buildings on Main Street in the heart of Wailuku. The buildings house MAPA’s Main Street Arts Project, a performing arts campus designed to anchor Wailuku’s emerging arts district. The crown jewel of MAPA’s Main Street Arts Project is the Naylor Family Theatre, a 185-seat theatre currently under construction and slated to open in mid2025. Located in the former National Dollar Store, the Naylor Family Theatre will feature a performance space with a reconfigurable seating system and state-of-the-art audiovisual and lighting systems. Also housing rehearsal studios, dressing rooms, new restrooms, and a rooftop photovoltaic system, the venue is suitable for a wide range of events including theatre, music, dance, comedy, and film.
MAUI NUI BOTANICAL GARDEN
Incorporating native plants into your garden celebrates the natural heritage of your region, supports biodiversity, and conserves water. Below are some tips on how to do it effectively: Research native Hawaiian species. What native plants are already growing in your neighborhood? Identify common plants native to the area you steward, focusing on those suited to your garden's specific conditions, such as soil type, sunlight, and rainfall.
Start small. Begin with a few native species to observe how they adapt to your space. Take your time learning new plants—fruit doesn’t ripen as soon as the seed sprouts!
Use native Hawaiian plants for landscaping functions. Do you need erosion control? Windbreaks? Shade? Learn about Indigenous farming methods that have worked in Hawaii for centuries before the introduction of monoculture.
Understand your microclimate. If you don’t already know, learn about the ahupua‘a your garden is located in. Also ask: What is the elevation? What are the light, wind, and moisture conditions? What is (or was) the botanical history of that place? Use searches such as the USGS Mapping Plant Species Ranges to see if a native species was found historically in your area.
Join the community. Ecosystems are not just vegetal, but social as well. Participate in native plant workshops or volunteer at local botanical gardens to learn and share knowledge about
Integrating Native Plants In Your Landscape
BY CAITLIN DUQUETTE MAUI NUI BOTANICAL GARDENS
native Hawaiian plants. Literature about ahupua‘a systems and farming methods can be hard to come by. Cultivating relationships and talking story with experienced growers may be your best bet.
Create layers of vegetation. Mimic natural native ecosystems by incorporating groundcovers, shrubs, and canopy trees.
Source plants responsibly. Directly purchase or receive plants from reputable native plant nurseries, such as MNBG. Avoid wild harvesting, which can harm limited natural populations and is illegal for endangered species.
Practice water conservation. Native plants are often drought-tolerant and require less water once established. Use techniques like mulching to retain soil moisture and remember new, small root systems need more frequent watering.
Maintain your garden. Remove invasive species that compete with native plants. Use natural fertilizers like compost and avoid chemicals that may harm local ecosystems.
Celebrate seasonal rhythms. Take the time to kilo. Observe and enjoy the natural cycles of growth, blooming, and fruiting, which can inspire deeper connections to the native plants in your garden. Planning to consume or work with the plant materials grown in your garden? Kilo can be applied here as well.
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens (MNBG) is committed to preserving the rich native plants and cultural heritage of Maui Nui. By fostering appreciation of native and Polynesian-introduced plants, MNBG offers a space where people can gather to explore and appreciate the vital role these plants play in our economic, social, and cultural well-being. Visit mnbg.org for more information.
Maui 5K Returns
March 2nd to Raise Funds for Local Schools
Sunday, March 2, 2025 • 7 am–9 am Mā’alaea
Maui Ocean Center will present the 14th annual Maui 5K from 7 to 9 a.m. Sunday, March 2. Proceeds from the event go directly to the community, providing funding for local schools.
Participants have the option to take part in a 5K run through Mā’alaea or walk an alternate milelong loop. For those who can’t attend, a virtual run or walk is also offered.
“Maui Ocean Center is once again proud to be the presenting sponsor for the Maui 5K,” said Tapani Vuori, the aquarium’s general manager. “Join us to support Maui Nui schools while connecting with the community and getting some exercise.”
Maui 5K co-founders Arlene and Jon Emerson started the race to not only help raise money for schools, but also to get the entire ‘ohana outside and active. “New for 2025, you may now select to run the 5K race timed or untimed,” said Arlene Emerson. “The entry fee is a little less and there are no awards for untimed runners, but you still get all of the same goodies as everyone else.”
Runners and walkers can indicate which school they’d like to support on their registration form. Online registration closes Feb. 26 at maui5k.org.
Last year, a record number of Maui residents and visitors — about 1,300 — ran and walked in the 13th annual Maui 5K, raising nearly $70,000 for Maui County schools.
Hosting the Maui 5K and other community events is one of the many ways that Maui Ocean Center is more than an aquarium. Additional events planned this spring at Maui Ocean Center include a St. Patrick’s Day themed “Sharks After Dark” 21-and-older date night on March 15 and the family-friendly “Earth Night” celebration on April 26 (see calendar for details).
Strawberry U-Pick Patch Opens on February 1
Kula Country Farms, 6240 Kula Hwy., Kula
Spend the day picking strawberries with your family. The perfect activity for quality time and a tasty reward! Baskets will be given in the farmstand. The patch opens February 1st and will run through the end of June. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays 9 am to 3 pm.
Visit kulacountryfarmsmaui.com for details.
NĀ LEO PŪLAMA O MAUI
38th Annual Ho‘omau Benefit Concert
Saturday, March 29, 2025 • 9 am–Sunset
Maui Nui Botanial Gardens, Kahului
Nā Leo Pūlama o Maui is hosting the 38th Annual Ho‘omau Benefit Concert on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens from 9:00 AM to sunset. This signature event features performances by the keiki of Pūnana Leo o Maui, hālau hula, and local entertainers. The event highlights Hawaiian cultural practitioners, local business vendors, 'ono food, and a keiki zone. Additionally, there will be a silent and live auction to support Nā Leo Pūlama o Maui's mission.
Nā Leo Pūlama o Maui is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that supports Pūnana Leo o Maui, a Hawaiian Medium Education Preschool dedicated to ensuring that the Hawaiian language lives in Hawai‘i and beyond. The
event is expected to draw attendees who come together to celebrate the important work of Pūnana Leo o Maui and the 41-year commitment of ‘Aha Pūnana Leo to the Hawaiian language movement. The theme for Ho‘omau 2025 is "He ‘a‘ali'i kū makani mai au" (I am a wind-withstanding ‘a‘ali'i), symbolizing the resilience and strength of our people. As Kumu Kālia of Pūnana Leo o Maui shares, "Just like the ‘a‘ali'i plant, we are here at Pūnana Leo o Maui, ho‘i i ka piko, being grounded in our ‘Ōlelo and culture. We have chosen this path for our ‘Ohana and will always kāko‘o ke kula ‘Ōlelo aloha a me nā ‘Ohana i kēia pūnana kūpa‘a."
Ticket prices are $15 presale and $20 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Kahu Kili Namau‘u at (808) 2837733 or via email at kili@ahapunanaleo.org.
Stay updated on this special event by following us on Instagram @hoomau_maui and Facebook at Ho‘omau Maui.
Growing Independence
Dear Cici is a family resource for accurate informaton about sex and relationships. Email your questions to info@mauifamilymagazine.com.
Dear Cici,
My daughter is acting more and more distant, often just staying in her room and being more private about everything. I want to give her space, but how do I talk to her about this without further pushing her away?
I feel you, this is a hard one.
Why is this happening? At around 12 years old, kids begin to go through the process of separation and individuation. Separation is when teens start to distance themselves emotionally from their parents and seek more independence. Individuation is the development of a unique/ distinct sense of self that is separate from their parents. Both of these things need to happen in order for our teens to successfully navigate the world on their own.
Why does it hurt so much? It’s easy to feel rejected or dismissed when our teens start to push us away. Adolescence can be an awkward and even painful experience for both parents and kids. It is a time of transformation and at the end of it, we hope to have a young adult who is confident and independent while maintaining a secure and loving relationship with their parents.
What can I do?
Acknowledge your child’s need for independence. Letting go of control and allowing teens to make their own decisions can be scary. You have spent years caring for this person and doing your best to keep them alive and now you have to allow them the freedom to make their own choices and learn from their mistakes. Clear and flexible boundaries. Boundaries will help them to feel safe as they begin to practice more independence. As teens demonstrate
maturity and gain your trust, the boundaries can adapt. At the same time, you have to respect your teen’s boundaries and their growing need for privacy.
Find opportunities for connection. This one has been helpful in my house; participating in common interests such as volunteering, playing sports, or being creative together can help you connect with your teen outside the usual routine. Circle back and clear the air. Arguments and disagreements are unavoidable and no one knows how to push our buttons better than our kids. After a blow-up, step away and come back when you and your teen are calmer. Acknowledge your part of the disagreement and take responsibility for your feelings (“I was frustrated. My feelings were hurt and that’s why I got angry”). By doing this you are modeling healthy communication and relationship skills and your teen will appreciate your vulnerability.
Hang in there, just as you survived the terrible twos, you and your kid will get through the turbulent teens. Although your child may be pushing you away she still needs your guidance and support. Checking in with her occasionally will let her know that you are available if she needs you.
Cecilia Ortiz, LCSW is a clinical social worker and a mom. She has nearly 20 years of experience including working with kids, teens and adults in the areas of sex education, abuse, trama and prevention.
Homemade Granola
One of my fondest memories as a kid was when there was something delicious in the oven, usually a baked good or a pie my mom would indulge us with on rare occasions. One of my favorite treats that was always a solid snack was homemade granola. Over the years, I‘ve figured out some hacks to make some epic granola that checks all the boxes,
B y Maja Liotta
including a secret ingredient that is praised for its ability to detox the digestive tract. The addition of some dried fruit always adds a nice touch. When bananas are going bonkers, consider doing a batch in the dehydrator or oven at low heat, adding them to your finished product, and throwing in some dried goji berries for contrast and that pop of color.
Ingredients
• 4 cups rolled oats (not the quick cook kindthink old school)
• 2 cups shredded coconut
• 4 tbsp psyllium husk
• 1/2 cup of each: pecans, walnuts, mac nuts
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp salt
• Additional: dried bananas, goji berries, dried pineapple, dried mango. Have fun with the fruit combos!
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 370 F.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a big bowl.
3. Mix wet ingredients (coconut oil, agave, maple, cinnamon, salt) on stovetop in saucepan and heat until well mixed. Pour over dry ingredients, mix well.
4. Pour mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet, and use the backside of a similarly shaped baking sheet to press the mixture into the sheet, creating a “crust”. I prefer my granola kinda chunky, so this allows pieces to bond together with the help of the sweeteners and the psyllium husk.
5. Bake until golden brown (about 20 minutes, keep an eye on it as all oven are different, maybe check at 10 minutes and go every 3 minutes thereafter until desired golden toasty color). Nuts will be toasted.
6. Remove and let cool. Break into bits and store in airtight containers.
Chef Maja Liotta is a private events chef, nutritional therapist, and executive chef for The Ridge Maui. She is a momma to three awesome kids and loves to enjoy her island home. When not creating in the kitchen, she can be found hunting down waves or frolicking with turtles at her local beach park, Ho’okipa.
Maui Family Maui Family
Sports Sports
Calendar Calendar
Island Athletics Maui
808-385-4066 • islandathleticsmaui@gmail.com https://portal.iclasspro.com/islandathleticsmaui 106 Kane Street, Suite 101, Kahului
Island Athletics Maui offers a wide range of classes from our parent & tot program, preschool gymnastics, tumbling, recreational gymnastics for ninja tumbling ages 1 & up years old, and camps!! At IAM we desire for all of our athletes to be Inspired to learn and grow, that through their developed self-confidence and experience they can Achieve their goals that they have set for themselves, and through effort and Motivation, they may be able to see their dreams take flight!
Gymnastics Classes • Pre-K through Elementary Island Wide • Year Round
Maui Tumblers Mobile Gymnastics offers recreational gymnastics classes island-wide,
special Ninja Nights, and private events. Check out our website for a full list of locations near you.
Keiki Soccer Pros
808-633-4070 • keikisoccer.com
Island-wide
Keiki Soccer Pros is Maui’s most fun, exciting soccer program. Our professional, creative, caring coaches your child will love. We have been teaching soccer in Maui to thousands of kids over the past 20 years. Visit our website to find out what classes are available.
Vertical Sports Maui is dedicated to inspire and equip youth through sports. World-class sports programs are made accessible to all on a donation basis. Visit our website or contact us to register!
Tennis at Kalama Park 808-250-3656 • citanmaui@gmail.com
Kalama Park Tennis Courts, Kīhei Courts 3 and 4 near the ocean
Beginning skill building, movement, and strategy, combined in a fun atmosphere. Skill-based, not age. Call and reserve with Coach Barb at 808250-3656. Class size will be limited to 8 students. Check the monthly calendar posted at the park. Wailea Tennis Club • 7–18 years of age Tuesday thru Thursday 6 progressing classes from 3 USPTA coaches. Limited class sizes.
Swell Health swellhealthcoaching@swellhc.com www.swellhc.com • Island Wide, various locations depending on service
Swell Health Coaching is Maui’s first familyfocused health coaching company. We ignite a passion for healthy living in children, setting them up for a lifetime of activity and adventure. Through positive psychology and strengthsbased coaching, we transform kids into confident, knowledgeable water enthusiasts. Whether they’re splashing in the pool or exploring the ocean, our sessions ensure they have fun while staying safe. Our lifeguard-certified coaches bring a wealth of experience, making every session engaging and memorable. Contact us today and ask about the Aqua Bundle!
Swim with Hoku 808-384-9626 • swimwithhoku.com
Island-wide classes and private instruction Swim in 10 days or less. Accepting students age 32 months and older (younger children will be considered on a case by case basis). Check our schedule for additional classes at swimwithhoku.com.
Maui Float On Swim Lessons floatonswim@gmail.com • MauiFloatOnSwim.com
Mobile Private Swim Lessons
Maui's premier mobile swim school, our mission is rooted in teaching the JOY of the water. Our swim lessons teach safety and swim skills with engaging games and exercises. As a mobile swim company, we teach at YOUR private pool location, bringing everything you need for a great lesson! Offering Intro to Water classes for babies and toddlers, 1:1 Private Swim Lessons, SemiPrivate Swim Lessons, or custom Group Swim Lessons, we have many options to fit your unique needs. All of our Swim Instructors are highly experienced, with a background in competitive swimming and 5+ years of experience teaching (as well as holding relevant safety certifications). Book directly at mauifloatonswim.com or email us your request for a hotel or condo lesson. We can't wait to swim with you!
Maui Ki Aikido
194 S. Market, Wailuku • mauikiaikido.com
Children in Ki-Aikido enjoy fun classes that incorporate movement with social cooperation, calmness training and self-confidence building. Keiki, Ages 6 to 11-Thursdays 6:00 to 7:30 pm and Saturdays 8:30 to 10:00 am. Teens 12 to 18 – Tuesdays 5:00 to 6:30 pm. Visit us at
mauikiaikido.com and the Shunshinkan Dojo, 194 S. Market, Wailuku.
Maui Taekwondo & Hapkido Center
808-344-5244 • info@mauitaekwondo.org
Mauitaekwondo.org • 300 Ohukai Rd. Bldg. 3, Units 313-314 *Behind Shell on Pi’ilani Hwy in Kihei & 790 Eha St., Wailuku
We offer a variety of classes from ages 2–18+. Taekwondo and Hapkido are Korean forms of martial arts that offer more than just a fitness program. It is structured to promote discipline, build self-confidence, and encourage focus while learning the skills of self-defense.
Hitter’s Paradise Indoor Training Facility
808-877-7091 • hittersparadisemaui.com
250 Alamaha St. (behind Goodwill), Kahului
Hitter’s Paradise is Maui’s premier indoor baseball and softball training facility catering to the needs of players from t-ball through the collegiate level. Our 11,000 square-foot facility includes 7 batting cages, 2 pitching lanes, a weight and fitness area, and flex space to allow for indoor fielding practice. Our professional coaching staff offers year around batting, fielding, and pitching lessons; group clinics, and camps during school holidays and summer break. Call or stop by and take your game to the next level!
We are a basketball training facility conveniently located in Kahului. We offer multiple basketball programs year round for keiki ages 4 years old to high school. We offer introductory classes, group training sessions, leagues, skills clinics and more! At Uptempo Athletics Maui, we want to go beyond just teaching the basics and skills of the game of basketball, we want to encourage a life long love for the game for all players who come into our basketball facility. We hope to see your keiki playing and training with us soon!
MAUI FAMILY MAUI FAMILY
Events Events
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Chinese New Year
Saturday, February 1, 2025 • 9 am – 3 pm
Maui Mall Village, Kahului
Free community & family festival at the Maui Mall Village Good Luck Lion Dance by Maui Chinese Martial Arts Academy, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Dragon Dancers by Kalimaya, Keiki Chinese Costume Parade, keiki art contest, Chinese food & handmade crafts, Chinese altar table, Chinese calligraphy.
First Annual HeartFest Maui
February 1, 2025 • 10 am to 8 pm
Maui Family YMCA, 250 Kanaloa Ave, Kahului
This free, family-friendly event is dedicated to promoting heart-health through fitness and the values of Scouting. Hosted by and benefiting Scouting Unit 49 and the Maui Family YMCA, this event will feature health screenings, fitness demonstrations, games & prizes, raffle prizes, live entertainment, local vendors & food trucks, and a triathlon for all to come and challenge or cheer on the Scouts, open to all ages and fitness levels! For more information, contact heartfestmaui@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @HeartFestMaui.
Roots School Children’s Fair Celebrates Harry Potter
Get out your magic wand and enter the wizarding world of Harry Potter at Roots School’s annual Children’s Fair! This annual event will
take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m., at Roots School in Haiku. Fun for the whole family includes Harry Potter-themed games, crafts, book sale, cake walk, face-painting,balloon-twisting, food and more! The Children’s Fair also features a fabulous online auction with hotel stays, restaurant certificates, spa experiences and more. For more information, check out our website at www.rootsmaui. org, email development@rootsmaui.org or call 808-250-7988.
Whale Tales is an educational and fundraising event presented annually by Whale Trust, to promote and support scientific research and education. Presentations from researchers, photographers, and artists from around the world. For more information or to register, visit whaletales.org.
38th Annual Ho‘omau 2025
March 29, 2025 • 9 am - sunset Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, 150 Kanaloa Ave, Kahului • IG: @hoomau_maui FB: Ho‘omau Maui Nā Leo Pūlama o Maui will host their 38th anniversary event, Ho‘omau 2025 on Saturday, March 29th at the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens in Kahului from 9:00 a.m. to sunset. This is their annual benefit concert to support the Hawaiian language immersion preschool students at Pūnana Leo o Maui in Kahului. Tickets are
Events Calendar
$15 presale and $20 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Kahu Kili Nāmau‘u, at 808-283-7733 or at kili@ ahapunanaleo.org.
St. Anthony School Bazaar
April 5, 2025 • 9 am–2pm 1618 Lower Main St, Wailuku
Food, games, prizes, local vendors, live auction, and entertainment. There will be free parking and free admission for all.
Community Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 12, 2025 • 10 am–2 pm
Montessori School of Maui, 2933 Baldwin Ave., Makawao
Fun and learning for the whole family! Join us for interactive booths by local environmental organizations, hands-on arts & crafts, live music, giveaways & more! Free and open to the entire Maui Community.
Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center
2841 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao huinoeau.com
Family Funday: Mindfulness Art - Neurographics and Zentangles (ages 5+)
Saturday, February 8, 2025 • 10 am–2 pm “Family Funday” workshops are designed for children and an adult parent or guardian to create artwork together! In this month's Family Funday, participants will have the opportunity to relax with a meditative artistic experience. Using zentangle or neurographic techniques, participants can get as focused on intricate patterns and the details of their piece as they desire before finding expression with the addition of watercolor. All skill levels are welcome with age-appropriate materials. Tuition: Members: $20 / Non-members $25 / Supply Fee: $5
Art Affair 2025: Vintage Poolside — A Retro Sunset Soirée
Saturday, March 1, 2025 • 4:30 pm–8:30 pm
Create a splash and dive into giving at Hui No‘eau's signature fundraising event, Art Affair 2025 - Vintage Poolside: A Retro Sunset Soirée. Join us for an elegant evening centered around the iconic Hui reflection pool, all in support of visual arts education in Maui County. The evening will feature gourmet cuisine, live music, dancing,
and both live and silent auctions. Enjoy performances by Nuff Sedd, Barefoot Minded, and Kalo DeLeon, as you dance the night away. Inspired by the allure of retro Palm Springs, guests are encouraged to don their finest and most playful vintage attire. This is a 21+ event. Visit huinoeau. com to purchase tickets.
Blood Bank of Hawaii
Blood Drive on Maui
Cameron Center, 95 Mahalani St., Wailuku
Tuesday, March 18 from 9 am – 7 pm
Wednesday, March 19 from 8 am – 6 pm
Thursday, March 20 from 6 am – 3 pm
Appointments are required, as they no longer accept walk-ins and it only takes about 1 hour. The process is easy and safe, and it is recommended that donors be well-hydrated and have something to eat before they come in to donate. To schedule an appointment, visit bbh. org or call 808-848-4770.
Maui Ocean Center
192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku mauioceancenter.com
‘Ōlelo Night: February 8, 2025
Join us on February 8, from 6 to 9 pm to celebrate the history of the Hawaiian language and culture! ‘Ōlelo Night features storytelling, traditional music, and fun activities that bring the spirit of Aloha to life. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage, connect with others, and enjoy a night filled with community spirit. Visit mauioceancenter.com to reserve your tickets.
Maui 5K: March 2, 2025
Maui Ocean Center will host the 14th annual Maui 5K on March 2 at 7 am. In September 2019, Maui Ocean Center became the official title sponsor for the Maui K. Last year, the Maui 5K raised nearly 70K for Maui Nui Schools. If you want to sign up, donate, or volunteer at this year's Maui 5K, visit maui5K.org.
Sharks After Dark: March 15, 2025
Join us for a special St. Patrick's Day edition of Sharks After Dark! This 21+ event takes place on Saturday, March 15, from 6:00 to 9:30 pm. Enjoy live music, dancing, Irish-inspired food and beverages, diver presentations in the aquarium's 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit, and the Humpbacks of Hawai 3D experience showing
throughout the evening. Visit mauioceancenter.com to reserve.
Earth Night: April 26, 2025
Maui Ocean Center will host Earth Night on April 26, from 6 to 9 p.m. This family-filled evening will feature live music, ocean-themed activities led by marine naturalists, and diver presentations in the Open Ocean exhibit. Kids will enjoy digging for fossilized shark teeth and learning about marine life during an up-close coral-feeding.
The Color Festival Hawaii
April 26, 2025
The Color Festival Hawaii is a celebration of life and the vibrancy of community, inclusive of ages and abilities. We invite you and your family to come play, create, and pay tribute to the rainbow that is Maui and Hawaii, shining with the diverse colors of our connected humanity.
‘Ohana Festival
April 26, 2025 • hooikaikapartnership.com
Hosted by Ho‘oikaika Partnership in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Designed for families eligible for services offered by partner agencies, this free event promises a day of fun activities, valuable community resources, music, and giveaways. For more information, visit https://www.hooikaikapartnership.com
Seabury Hall Craft Fair 2025
Saturday, May 10, 2025 • 9 am - 4 pm (always the day before Mother’s Day)
Seabury Hall, 480 Olinda Road, Makawao
The Craft Fair transforms the school's upcountry campus into a bustling marketplace filled with Maui’s best artists, jewelers, crafters, floral gifts, a silent auction, live music, food, and treats.The Craft Fair is the school’s largest fundraiser event, with proceeds going to financial aid programs. Admission is $10 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Parking: Free parking is available; premium parking is $20. Visit for More Information visit seaburyhall.org/craft-fair.
Maui Town Parties
Wailuku 1st Fridays
Come to Market Street every First Friday of the month for live music, local food, art, jewelry, fashion, and so much more! 6 pm–9 pm.
Kihei 4th Fridays
Town Party at Azeka Mauka in the heart and soul of Kihei from 6 pm–9 pm.
Join the keiki of the Napili Kai Foundation as they perform every Tuesday in the Hale Aloha Pavilion at the Napili Kai Beach Resort. 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., doors open at 5 p.m. Show tickets: $10 adults, $5 for keiki 6-12 (under 6 years old free).
Kula Country Farms
808-878-8381 • kulacountryfarmsmaui.com
Located at 6240 Kula Hwy, across from Rice Park
Strawberry U-Pick Patch
February through May
Springtime is Strawberry U-Pick time at Kula Country Farms. This annual tradition happens from February until May, so bring your children and make a day of strawberry picking. Have fun while teaching your keiki about where their food comes from!
Kula Country Market
Every 3rd Saturday
Local artisan market held every 3rd Saturday at Kula Country Markets.
Maui Mall Village
808-877-8952 • mauimall.com
Join us for family-friendly fun throughout the season: Orchid shows, an Easter celebration, and more. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @ MauiMall or visit our website at www.mauimall. com for more details.
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Keiki Club
Every 3rd Saturday of the month • 10 am–11 am
Queen Ka’ahumanu Center, Kahului
Queen Ka’ahumanu Center + Handmade Gifts & Decor presents Keiki Club every 3rd Saturday at the QKC center court! Enjoy a time of crafting and creativity with your keiki. Spaces are limited. Reservations required.
Art by Bailey Onaga
Planning a Party… at Fun Factory
Maui Mall
Fun Factory is a family fun center with the latest video games, redemption games, and an impressive prize gallery. Book a minimum of ten people for unlimited games for 90 minutes. We love the ease of planning an event here and the variety of games at Fun Factory keeps kids (and adults!) entertained. There are two Fun Factorys on the island, one at Maui Mall Village and the other at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Mall.
Address
Maui Mall Village
70 E Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center
275 W Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului
Contact funfactorygames.com • 808-873-6229
Age recommendation? 6+
How to Book
Call 808-873-6229 or book through the online form at funfactorygames.com. Make sure to read the FAQs before booking. The required deposit fee of $50 will be refunded only if canceled 7 days before the event. The remaining balance of your party must be paid in full at check-in.
Tips
• Book at least one week in advance
• You may bring balloons/decor to dress up tables, but you cannot bring pinatas, confetti, or wall decorations.
• Bring wet naps to clean hands before eating.
• Kids often forget to eat at Fun Factory and want to take advantage of all the games. Take a couple of short breaks for food to remind them there's food, but there is no guarantee they will eat!
• There is an outdoor community space outside of Fun Factory at Maui Mall for kids who may need a break from the arcade.
• Double the party fun and host a movie (Regal Theatres is right next door at Maui Mall) then continue the fun at Fun Factory
Food & Beverage: Bring your own. Food must stay within the designated areas.
Amenities
• Tables inside and outside (at Maui Mall)
• Mall bathrooms nearby
Cost
$25 per person/minimum 10 people. 60 max. If more guests arrive than you planned, you can always purchase more cards.
What does it include
Upon arrival, guests will receive a card with unlimited play for 2 hours on red/white/blue games and 25 merchandise games (flashing blue). The cards do not include cycling yellow swiper games.
*Details are subject to change. Contact Fun Factory for details.
