January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 3 Guide To Party Planning on page 36. January/February 2025 Contents 8 Island Events & Family Fun 36 Guide To Party Planning! Over-the-top kids’ parties can stress parents and kids alike. Simplify, focus on fun, and include your child in planning to make birthdays memorable. 64 Keiki Great Aloha Run Hawaii Pacific Health’s 41st Annual Event Raises Funds for Elementary Schools' Fitness, Nutrition and Wellness Programs. 70 The Best Birthday Presents Choosing birthday gifts can be tricky. Focus on age-appropriate, high–quality presents matching a child’s interests or non-toy options like quality experiences. 102 Teething Tots: What to Expect Dr. Diep offers advice on teething relief, debunks myths, and provides guidance on hygiene and when to seek help. 122 Cultivating Social and Emotional Skills Amy Vorderbruegge highlights emotional growth through activities, understanding feelings, and building empathy to develop resilience. 130 From Diapers to Degrees Hawaii Medical College helps parents return to school with flexible programs, personalized guidance, and financial aid. 150 Making “Mom Friends” Mom friends offer support and comfort, helping moms navigate challenges and find relief. Joining groups like Baby Hui builds valuable connections.
January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 5 Publisher: Charles Harrington • Assistant Publisher: Janis Harrington Production Director: Joel Lovingfoss • Managing Editor: Makayla Dilliner Contributing Writers: Stephanie Lopes, Karen K.C. Gibson, Tanni Haas, Ph.D., Dr. Vinson Diep, Nancy Arcayna, Jenny Ostlind, Kyle Kakuno, Sara Tiller, Makayla Dilliner • Illustrations: Dennis Fujitake • Cover: Doug Peebles Next Issue: March/April: Health & Safety/Summer • Advertising Deadline: January 13 Phone: 808-728-3341 • 350 Ward Ave, Suite 106-304, Honolulu, HI 96814 publisher@hawaiiparent.media • www.HawaiiParentMedia.com Contents January/February 2025 82 Kickstart the New Year: Tips for a Healthier, Happier Family Kickstart family wellness with daily movement, shared meals, quality sleep, outdoor fun, screen limits, gratitude, hydration, and healthy habits together. 92 Reparenting Your Inner Child Heal childhood wounds by reconnecting with your inner child through reparenting, playful activities, mindful reflection, and compassionate emotional care. 112 Raising Environmentally Conscious Kids To raise environmentally-conscious kids, integrate habits—saving water, reducing waste, reusing items, and respecting nature —into daily routines for a greener future. 140 Life Lessons from the Stage: Develop Teamwork & Responsibility Through theatre, young performers gain life skills—teamwork, responsibility, resilience, self-awareness, time management, and adaptability—preparing them for success on stage and in life. Page 92 Page 140 Page 82 Page 112
The HDS Tooth Fairy will remind her fans to take good care of their teeth and gums, and also be around for photos. CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER HDS TOOTH FAIRY FUN DAY! February 2 Tooth Fairy Fun Day is Hawaii Dental Service’s signature event for keiki and their parents. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and this annual event helps raise awareness of oral health for children. This year’s Tooth Fairy Fun Day will take place at the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center in Kakaako. HDS participating dentists will provide free dental screenings for children and share helpful tips for parents. For more information, visit www.hdstoothfairy.com. 8 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025
10 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 JANUARY HAWAII YOUTH OPERA CHORUS SPRING SEMESTER ENROLLMENT January 4, 11 & 18 Hawaii’s most advanced and oldest community choir fosters the performing arts through choral music, utilizing world music and honoring Native Hawaiian Culture. Open enrollment for Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus’ 63rd season will be held for K–12 students on the first and second Saturday in January, with no previous experience required. For more information, please call 808-521-2982 or visit www.hyoc.org. PEARL HARBOR AVIATION MUSEUM WALT DISNEY STUDIOS AND WORLD WAR II EXHIBITION Check website for more details The day after Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941, Walt Disney opened almost his entire studio to support the war effort. View this collection and learn just how Disney illustrators helped win the war at the Walt Disney Studios and World War II Exhibition on display now through December at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The exhibit is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is included with a general admission ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pearlharboraviationmuseum.org. Children’s voices lifting in song, enriching lives through the power of music and friendship.
Festival in Mo'ili'ili is a celebration of Hawaii's beloved local and Japanese New Year traditions. This festival features food, cultural demonstrations, and entertainment for the entire family. The event is free and open to all ages. For more information, visit www.jcchawaii.org. JAPANESE CULTURAL CENTER OF HAWAII NEW YEAR’S OHANA FESTIVAL January 13 The 31st Annual New Year's Ohana 12 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 The 31st Annual New Year's Ohana Festival in Mo'ili'ili
14 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Kids in the Kitchen event, where they can discover the joy of cooking by creating and eating kid-friendly treats. This is a drop off program recommended for children ages 6-12 years. Limited spaces are available but stay tuned for similar events throughout the year. Learn more and register at www.discoverycenterhawaii.org. HAWAII KIDS CAN K-12 PARENT AND SCHOOL EXPO January 25 As part of National School Choice Week 2024, the Inaugural Hawaii K12 Parent and School Expo held at Windward Mall is designed to help families make firsthand connections with each other and local learning partners. This is an exciting opportunity for schools and organizations to showcase their unique contributions to Hawaii's education ecosystem. For more information, visit www.hawaiikidscan.org. Kids in the Kitchen at Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center. CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Check website for more details Chop, stir, pour and mix! Begin a lifelong culinary adventure for your child at Hawaii Children' s Discovery Center’s
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16 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 PATCH HAWAII PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS PROGRAM Apply by January 31, 2025 PATCH Hawaii is a free resource hub for families, child care professionals and communities of Hawaii. Their mission is to support and improve the quality and availability of care for the young people of Hawaii through programs such as Preschool Open Doors, which provides monthly preschool tuition subsidies to qualified families. For more information on Preschool Open Doors, contact PATCH Hawaii, which partners with the Hawaii Department of Human Services to provide the program, at patchhawaii.org. FEBRUARY PUNAHOU SCHOOL CARNIVAL February 7 & 8 Punahou School invites keiki and ohana of all ages to visit the annual Punahou Carnival on their campus. This year’s theme is “Explore the Shore ‘24”. Fresh malasadas, delicious Hawaiian food, keiki games, E.K. Fernandez carnival rides, silent auction, art gallery and live entertainment are among the many draws for the annual Carnival, which dates back to 1932! Admission to the Carnival is free and parking is available on campus on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit www.punahou.edu/carnival. Join the fun at the annual Punahou School Carnival on February 7 & 8! Enjoy fresh malasadas, keiki games, carnival rides, live entertainment, and more—fun for the whole family!
18 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Valentines Day photos with Theo the Bus at Kapolei Commons. KEIKI GREAT ALOHA RUN February 8, 2025 The camaraderie and festive fun found at the annual Keiki Great Aloha Run are reasons enough for families to sign up. The fun run starts at 7:30 a.m. at Ala Moana Regional Park. Participants can join in activities and obstacle courses at the park following the race. Hawaii’s premier run for kids is part of the Great Aloha Run, which is scheduled on Monday, February 17, 2025. This 8.15-mile foot race kicks off at 7 a.m. at Aloha Tower and finishes at Aloha Stadium. The deadline to register is January 29, 2025. Over the years, the fun run has raised more than $150,000 for local elementary schools. Learn more and sign up today at greataloharun.com. HAWAII CONVENTION CENTER AMAZING COMIC CON ALOHA March 14-16 Amazing Comic Conventions brings the best in pop culture and anime to the fans of Honolulu in this special 3-day expo event at the Hawaii Convention Center. The guest roster is jam packed, including the creator of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and voice actors of some of your child’s favorite characters. Purchase tickets online at www.amazingcomicconaloha.com. KAPOLEI COMMONS VALENTINE’S PHOTOS WITH THEO THE BUS February 10 & 11 Love is in the air! Theo the Photo Bus is returning to Kapolei Commons this Valentine's Day weekend! Bring your sweetheart, keiki, extended ohana and your furry friends for some picture-perfect moments. The Photo Bus staff will assist with the photography so please bring your own camera or mobile device. No reservation is required and it’s free! Find Theo the Bus outside Regal Kapolei Commons on February 10 and 11 and get up to 5 free photos taken with your loved ones. Please visit www.kapoleicommons.com/events and follow @theothebushawaii on social media to stay up to date on this event and more. Lace up for an energizing day of fun and fitness! Registration is open for Hawaii Pacific Health’s Great Aloha Run.
20 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS HO'OLAULE'A FESTIVAL February 22 Held on the grounds of Konia Field, the 99th Annual Kamehameha Schools Ho'olaule'a Festival features keiki games, food and beverage vendors, crafting and lei booths, a country store, live entertainment and more. With fundraising goals for student enrichment and to strengthen the Kapalama K-12 ohana, this year's theme is “Kupa'a no kakou”, meaning "we are resilient." For more information, visit www.ksbe.edu. ONGOING WAIKIKI AQUARIUM NATIVE HAWAIIAN PLANT TOUR Join volunteer Alice Roberts for a personal guided tour of the Aquarium’s native Hawaiian plant gardens, where she will be highlighting 16 of the plants. A complete plant guide book is available in the Waikīkī Aquarium’s Volunteer Office, or you can print out your own Hawaiian Plant Guide map for the tour by to Waikiki Aquarium’s website. IOLANI PALACE KAMA’AINA SUNDAYS Experience the vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture at Kama’aina Sunday, a free event held on the second Sunday of every month at Iolani Palace, where families and friends come together to create lasting memories. Guests can explore the Palace while enjoying live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and tasty food from local eateries. Each event will be themed around a topic highlighting a different aspect of Hawaiian culture. Attendees are encouraged to bring their picnic blankets and chairs. For more information, please visit iolanipalace.org. FAMILY HUI It takes a village to raise a child and a Hui to raise a parent. Family Hui works to support and encourage families to meet the challenges of raising children to ensure all children are thriving, healthy and safe. Family Hui is best known for its peer-led neighborhood groups and virtual “Parent Cafe” drop-in sessions which you can join from the comfort of your own home. Through these meet ups, parents share and learn from one another. For more information on their different events and activities, visit www.familyhuihawaii.org. Celebrate resilience at the 99th Annual Kamehameha Schools Ho'olaule'a Festival on February 22!
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22 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 facepainting, live music and much more. Located in the Sears parking lot at Pearlridge Center-Wai Makai, with ample parking available. Come hungry, leave happy! For more information, visit www.farmloversmarkets.com/pearlridge. BISHOP MUSEUM PLAYING WITH LIGHT EXHIBIT Check website for more details Playing With Light, created by Scitech and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, combines light and play in this fun exploration into light technology. Picture walking through a tunnel, illuminated by 20,000 individual LED lights. Now imagine being able to manipulate those lights to follow your every movement! Keiki and ohana will also be able to see their shadows come to life with computer vision technology; explore a walk-in kaleidoscope; and be challenged to dodge lasers as they try to get to their next destination. To purchase tickets, visit www.bishopmuseum.org. PEARLRIDGE FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Pearlridge Farmers’ Market features over 45 vendors offering locally grown fruits, vegetables and plants, delicious food, freshly made treats, keiki activities, Enjoy delicious food every Saturday at Pearlridge Farmer’s Market.
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24 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 HAWAII ACADEMY MONTHLY FAMILY FUN NIGHTS Honolulu Gym: First Fridays Pearl Harbor Gym: Second and Fourth Saturdays Need a night off? Hawaii Academy opens its doors so keiki (and participants of all ages) can immerse into gymnastics or general fitness activities while parents spend quality time alone. For $10/hour, ages 6 and up can revel in a safe and inspirational atmosphere at the Honolulu Gym (808-842-5642) from 8-10PM (First Fridays) and at the Pearl Harbor Gym (808-422-2223) from 5-8PM (Second and Fourth Saturdays). For more information, visit www.hawaiiacademy.com. Hawaii Academy’s monthly family fun night where keiki immerse into gymnastics and fun.
26 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 SWEET LAND FARM NOW OPEN ON THURSDAYS Nestled on Oahu’s north shore is the island’s only certified commercial goat dairy farm and the most adorable place you’ll ever visit. Sweet Land Farm’s mission is to educate our youth about the farm and the importance of agriculture to our island. With no farm entrance free, they are now open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up for a tour at the farm store, where you can also find delicious homemade goat cheese, cheesecake and other goodies. Visitors leave the tours stimulated by the experience and captivated by the friendly goats. For more information, visit sweetlandfarmhawaii.com. Bring the family to Sweet Land Farm to meet their friendly goats!
28 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 NEW STORYBOOK STATION NOW OPEN AT PEARLRIDGE CENTER Step into a world of imagination and beautiful handcrafted surroundings at Storybook Station’s newest location now open at Pearlridge Center. Your little ones can transform into fairies, pirates, mermaids, dragons and more, by getting a detailed fantasy makeover performed by one of Storybook’s fantasy stylists. Storybook Station is Oahu’s trusted source for all your party entertainment needs. Go to storybookstationhawaii.com to learn more and book today. ANNOUNCEMENTS BALLET HAWAII SUMMER INTENSIVE Check website for more details Join Ballet Hawaii for three exhilarating weeks of dedication, development, and delight beginning June-July 27. The annual summer intensive offers three levels of training: Advanced, Intermediate, and Young Dancers. For more information, visit www.ballethawaii.org. Creating magical moments with princesses, superheroes, and more— making every party special with high-quality characters and entertainment.
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30 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 YMCA SPRING DAY CAMP March 18-22 The YMCA offers enriching intersession full and half-day programs for elementary students on break. Activities include recreational swimming, sports and games, arts and crafts, music and dance, stories and drama, and weekly excursions. Call your local Y for more information or register online at www.ymcahonolulu.org. KAMA'AINA KIDS SPRING CAMP Check website for more details At Camp Kamaaina Kids, children in grades K-6 have the opportunity to build friendships, learn new skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Their intersession day camps provide adventure and curriculum focused on developing skills through fun hands-on activities and projects. Register online at www.kamaainakids.com. The YMCA offers spring school break activities that include recreational swim, sports and games, arts and crafts, music and dance, stories and drama, and weekly excursions.
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32 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 WAI KAI LINEUP LEARN TO SURF & PADDLE The LineUp at Wai Kai’s popular Na Opio Kai (“ocean youth”) program teaches kids the fundamental skills of surfing and paddle sports through wave and lagoon activities such as surf sessions, outrigger canoes, SUP, kayaks, and surf skis. The program also includes lessons on water safety, waterman etiquette and much more. Afterschool, weekend, and school holiday break programs are available through August 2024. Learn more and book today at www.atthelineup.com/na-opio-kai-kidsmulti-lesson-bundle. Riding the waves and learning essential water skills—Na Opio Kai kids embrace the ocean through surfing, paddling, and water safety.
34 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Christian Academy / Co-ed Grades PreK-12 Jan 10, February 7, March 7 www.capatriots.org Saint Patrick School / Co-ed Grades PreK-8 January 11, Feb 8 www.stpatrickhawaii.org Assets School / Co-ed Grades K-8: January 16 Grades 9-12: January 23 www.assets-school.org Sacred Hearts School / Co-ed Grades PreK-12 January 19, February 23 www.sacredhearts.org Le Jardin Academy / Co-ed Grades PreK-12 January 25 www.LeJardinAcademy.org Trinity Christian School / Co-ed PreK-1 January 25 www.tcskailua.net Rosary Preschool / Co-ed Grades Preschool January 26–February 1 www.rosarypreschool.com St. Elizabeth School / Co-ed Grades PreK-8 January 26 www.steliz-hi.org Malamalama Waldorf / Co-ed Grades PreK-8 Jan 28, Feb 25, Mar 11 www.hawaiiwaldorf.org Saint Theresa School / Co-ed Grades PreK-8 February 2 www.stshi.org Hanalani Schools / Co-ed Grades PreK-12 February 8 www.hanalani.org Saint Louis School for Boys Grades K-12 February 23 www.saintlouishawaii.org Visit www.hais.us/open-houses for more information.
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36 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 As parents, we want our kids to feel special on their birthdays. So it’s easy to get caught up in planning the perfect party. Before you know it, you’re worrying about one-of-a-kind cakes and Pinterest-perfect decorations. Will a simple bounce house be enough for the kids? If you find yourself treating birthday parties as a competitive sport, you’re not alone. Over–the–top kids parties are getting more popular. One survey party company found that one in seven parents spent more than $1,000 on their child’s birthday! Expensive parties and sky-high expectations aren’t a recipe for enjoyable party planning. Parents often find themselves by Sara Tiller
January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 37 worrying about the party instead of enjoying it. When you’re stressed out, it’s hard to enjoy your child’s big day. What’s worse, a parent’s stress can make the birthday less fun for your child. So cut down on the stress of party planning by putting yourself in your child’s shoes. What are the memorable events at their friends’ parties? What do they have the most fun doing? Pinterest-perfect decorations probably aren’t at the top of their list! Get your child involved in the planning to connect before the party. The things your child wants – and what they don’t care about – might surprise you. Once you know what you both care about, focus on those parts of the party. Focusing on the most enjoyable parts of a birthday is a great way to cut down on party planning stress. If you love baking, making and decorating your child’s cake might be a great idea. If not, buying a cake may be a better idea. Costco offers sheet cakes with a variety of popular decorations. Princesses, dinosaurs, and beach decorations are sure to be a hit with the kids. At the same time, cut down on the parts of party planning you dislike. If you hate cleaning, consider having the party away from the house. Many parks and beaches are free; you can reserve picnic tables at other sites for a small fee. If you’re short on time, many places on Oahu offer party packages for kids. The Children’s Discovery Center in Honolulu is a popular location that offers party packages. Their “Birthday Bash” package includes pizza, juice, crafts, and admission to the discovery center. The Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are also popular birthday party spots. You might look at other places that offer party packages, like the Wet‘n’Wild Water Park. There are many other ways that you can cut down on party planning stress. Here are more tips to help you focus on your kids and enjoy the party planning process. BABIES AND TODDLERS Most babies and toddlers won’t remember their birthday parties. But these first few birthdays can be a big deal for mom and dad. Get a friend to take pictures or videos at these parties. This way, you’ll be able to focus on your baby. Remember to think small and simple when you’re planning birthday parties for young kids. Separation anxiety kicks in around this age. Most one-year-olds want to stick close to mom and dad. Toddlers and preschoolers can also get overwhelmed easily. Small parties can help them feel comfortable. TIPS • Plan birthday parties for right after your child’s nap. This way your toddler
Finding and sticking to a simple theme can help cut down on party planning stress. Good themes could be a favorite sport, animal, or color. These themes are broad enough that you’ll be able to find related decorations easily. They’ll also help to make the day memorable for your child. And because they’re classic, your child is likely to be interested in them for a while. TIPS • Decide on a reasonable number of guests. A good rule of thumb is your child’s age, plus one. • If your child has a close friend with a birthday around the same time, team up with his parents to have one big birthday party. • Think of party planning as a way to connect with your child. Find age-appropriate things you can do together, like decorating cupcakes or making goody bags. Including him in the party planning can will be refreshed and excited to celebrate. • Consider a drop in, open house style event. This allows other families with young kids to work around their schedules. It also helps keep your baby or toddler from getting overwhelmed. • Skip party favors. At this age, party favors tend to be a choking hazard. • Keep party food simple. Chicken nuggets, pizza fingers, and fruit are all great choices. • Choose cupcakes as an easy-toserve alternative to cake. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN Once your child starts school, birthday parties can become more than you bargained for. In some places, it’s common to invite your child’s whole class. If you want a smaller party, consider handing out invites outside of school. You can also use evites, or simply text other parents, to make this easier. “Avoid competitive games, since young kids tend to feel bad if they don’t win.” Many places on Oahu offer party packages for kids. 38 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025
also help you manage his expectations. • If the birthday boy has siblings who might get jealous, make sure that a close friend or your spouse is around to provide backup. They can keep an eye on the kids while you take care of the sibling. • Avoid competitive games, since young kids tend to feel bad if they don’t win. If you’re worried about bad sportsmanship, offer crafts as an alternative to games. OLDER CHILDREN As kids get older, it’s more common for parents to drop them off and pick them up after the party. Make the party more enjoyable to you by enlisting a friend to help you watch the kids. Make sure parents know when they should be back to pick up their kids. TIPS • Consider throwing birthday parties every few years, and alternating them with other fun events like sleepovers. • Request RSVPs and include a date that guests should reply by. That way, you won’t need to feel bad about following up when no one has replied. • Older kids often know what they want at their parties, and are old enough to help plan. Pick two or three things that you both enjoy, and focus on planning those. If you and your son love games, spend some quality time together picking out games to play. • If you’re worried that kids will get bored, have a few extra party games on hand. A scavenger hunt, balloon stomp, or photo booth with props from the dollar store are all fun and affordable ways to keep the kids entertained. • Plan the party for after lunch to avoid making lunch for all the guests. You can set up a table with self-serve snacks, juices, and water instead. Planning a party without a meal can also make the day easier on kids with allergies. “Finding and sticking to a simple theme can help cut down on stress.” January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 39
BARBERS POINT BOWLING Looking for an exciting and affordable place for your next special event? Barbers Point Bowling Center is the place for you! For birthday parties and other celebrations, bowling parties are fun for all ages. Their hourly standard party rate includes unlimited bowling with additional party upgrades available, such as Glo Bowling and a private room for you and your guests to use. Food and beverages can also be purchased at their convenient snack bar, The Prop Stop. Just give them a call and reserve a date! For more information, visit their website at barberspointbowling.com. BAY VIEW MINI-PUTT Bay View Mini-Putt & Zipline is the perfect venue for all types of occasions and celebrations, including graduations, baby luaus, company retreats, birthday parties, fundraisers, retirement parties and more. Located in Kaneohe, they offer wholesome fun for everyone, for those who are young and those who are young at heart. Receive special discounted rates on mini golf and zipline when booking a party of 10 people or more! You are “good to go” with Bay View Mini Putt. They offer several large and private party areas with catering options available. For more information, go to bayviewminiputt.com. We have party rates available along with a private party room for you and your guests to use. Call Barbers Point Bowling Center at 808-673-2695 to reserve a date! 40 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025
42 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 FUN FACTORY Fun Factory’s family entertainment centers have been making fun for families throughout Hawaii and across the U.S. since 1977. They take great pride in creating an exciting environment where families and friends can share good times together. Whether it’s playing the latest and most popular video games, winning tickets on a myriad of prize redemption games, selecting a prize from the hundreds of items on display at the prize gallery or participating in their many promotional activities, guests of all ages can count on Fun Factory to provide the very best in fun. Visit funfactorygames.com for more information. BIG CITY DINER In addition to being a local favorite for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Big City Diner can also cater for your next celebration. They have a private event room for 20-50 guests at BCDWindward Mall and an outdoor private patio at BCD-Pearlridge, both with free parking. There are a variety of fresh buffet options, or if you want to create your own menu, Big City Diner also provides individual platters for the majority of the items on their menu. Six bento combinations are also available for parties, which makes planning, mealtime, and clean up easy! For more information, call their catering director at 808-657-7711, or visit bigcitydinerhawaii.com. AND YOU CREATIONS Enjoy the beauty of Hawaii with And You Creations. Specializing in ocean and land tours across Oahu and Big Island, And You Creations is home to the experience of a lifetime. For a staycation with the family, bring your keiki to watch whales or dolphins or even have an unforgettable dive snorkeling with the turtles! Lunch included! As for their land adventures, And You Creations offers an “Oahu Circle” tour filled with various locations, food and experiences across the island. Along with exploring the outdoors, And You Creations tours guided hikes of Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike and Tantalus Lookout (healthy lunch included) and Waimea Waterfalls Hike and Swim (breakfast and lunch included). But the fun does not stop there! Custom and private boat charters, deals and promotions are also available! For more information visit their website or call (808) 696-4414 to learn more! Families and friends share good times together.
46 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 their highly qualified instructors will teach fundamental gymnastic skills, facilitate games, and supervise obstacle courses tailored to your group. A typical party includes 90 minutes of gym time and 30 minutes for eating. You are welcome to bring your favorite foods and decorations; they will provide the tables, chairs and cleanup. For more information or to make a reservation please call 808-842-5642 (Honolulu), 808-422-2223 (Pearl Harbor), or 808-676-2222 (Waipahu). CHUCK E. CHEESE’S Chuck E. Cheese’s, where “A Kid Can Be a Kid,” specializes in birthday parties where the birthday child is the center of attention. They have 4 tiers of party packages to fit every family’s budget and needs. To book a party, there is a minimum of 10 people. If you’ve been to Chuck E. Cheese’s before, it’s worth another visit because the memories made here last a lifetime. To make a birthday reservation please contact the stores directly; Honolulu (808-851-7400), Pearl City (808-455-1448), Kapolei (808-762-7414). Let them take care of all your birthday party needs! HAWAII ACADEMY Hawaii Academy offers children and adults the opportunity to participate in fun, highly active and quality parties in a safe and educational environment. Guests can jump, swing, tumble and climb at the bestequipped rebound facilities in the Pacific! With gyms in Honolulu (Kalihi), Pearl Harbor (JBPHH-military only), and Waipahu (Lighthouse Outreach Center),
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48 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 GUNSTOCK RANCH Located on the North Shore, Gunstock Ranch is the perfect spot for family-friendly activities and beautiful venue spaces. They cater to all types of events, and they don't limit the number of guests you can invite. You can even bring your own food! Their amenities are unique and exciting, including a petting zoo, pony rides, a playground, and a campfire pit. Additionally, Gunstock Ranch offers specialty packages such as group trail rides and off-road UTV tours. This is also a great field trip destination! To book a party and for more information, contact their event specialist at 808-341-3995 or visit gunstockranch.com. Gunstock Ranch is the perfect spot for family-friendly activities.
50 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 ic wall, zipline and tube slide, toddler room, state-of-the-art interactive drawing spaces and more! Located at Ward Village in Honolulu and our new location in Kapolei, Kids City is also the perfect place for birthday parties and field trips. For more information, call 808-888-2700 or visit www.KidsCityHawaii.com. HAWAII DANCE BOMB Hawaii Dance Bomb offers facilitated Silent Disco Parties for children aged 5-12, where everyone wears headphones and grooves to the music without disturbing neighbors. You can choose to have staff help you set the party up, or you can run the party on your own with headphone delivery available anywhere on Oahu. Kids are sure to be engaged with up to 90 minutes of interactive games, an amazing DJ, dancing, disco and laser lights. Parents are free! Silent Disco Parties are wireless so they can be held inside or outside. For more information, visit hawaiidancebomb.com. See you on the dance floor! KID CITY HAWAII At Kids City, Hawaii’s popular indoor luxury playgrounds, children ages 7 months to 13 years old get to play, explore, innovate, and interact with a variety of unique and fun play sections. Kids can jump for joy on the air castle and in the ball pool, explore the jungle gym, magnetKids City has great party venues for both children and adults! Make your party easy and fun! All in One party venue in Hawaii.
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52 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 KEIKI KINGDOM Keiki Kingdom is the biggest indoor playground in Hawaii, offering a multilevel play structure, separate area for younger children, party rooms, slides, climbing walls, ball pits, sand box and much more. It is fully air-conditioned and supervised by trained staff to keep your kids safe and happy. Keiki Kingdom’s main indoor playground is for children 13 years and younger, and toddlers have a special gated section with fun activities specifically designed for them. Reserve a party room or buy-out the entire facility to celebrate your child’s next birthday or other event! For more information, visit keikikingdom.com or call them at (808) 515-3454. JOLENE’S HAWAII Jolene's features fresh and exciting takes on classic sandwiches and more using only the best ingredients. Their bread is baked in-house daily, and their brisket is smoked for at least 18 hours. Jolene’s popular “Buttah Lobster Roll” is packed with cold lobster, crisp lettuce and tangy pickled veggies, all nestled in a fresh-baked New England-style roll. Bursting with hints of garlic butter and lemon, it's a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss. Jolene’s is an ideal location for hosting private events and special occasions. Enjoy great food, friendly staff, big portions, affordable prices and daily happy hour at Jolene’s. Call 808-236-1010 or visit JolenesHawaii.com. Keiki Kingdom is the biggest indoor playground in Hawaii.
54 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 in your group. With a wide selection of quality party entertainment, Magical Touch offers activities for all kinds of events including birthday parties, baby showers, fundraisers, holiday parties and more. Last-minute reservations are welcome! For more details, go to partyentertainment-hawaii.com. ROCK ‘N FUN Book your party with Rock ‘N Fun in Kapolei and enjoy a memorable experience filled with entertainment, fun and food. While the kids play the latest games, you can sip a cold beer at the bar and watch your favorite sports team. Or show ‘em how it’s done with your classic arcade favorites. All you need to do is load up your Good Times Card with credits to start having a blast and earning prizes. Plus, with Johnny Rockets on the scene, delicious burgers, shakes, and fries are never far away. Book today at rocknfunhi.com. MAGICAL TOUCH Create an unforgettable occasion by offering fun and creative additions to your next event with the help of Magical Touch. Face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon twisting, magicians, and more; there are attractions available that will appeal to everyone
56 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Looking to add the modern touch to your party? Their Modern Photo Booth gives you and your guests the ability to watch the fun as it happens right before the photo is snapped! For all booths, Oahu Photo Booth offers custom backgrounds! Visit their website for more information! SEA LIFE PARK Make your child’s birthday extra memorable and fun this year by celebrating at Sea Life Park. Enjoy access to all the park exhibits and shows, eat a special birthday cake, and celebrate in your own private party area. They will take care of all the planning and preparation so that you can simply celebrate alongside your child, stress-free! Make the day extra special with the Dolphin Aloha Experience package or visit Storybook Station’s new “Tails and Scales” mermaid makeover bar! Kamaaina discounts are available. Browse Sea Life Park’s birthday party packages to find the perfect one for your group at sealifeparkhawaii.com/groups. OAHU PHOTO BOOTHS Ready for your close up? Get ready for a night of fun with Oahu Photo Booths! Home to the “Party Cube” and “Modern Photo Booth,” jazz up your party with inflatables, masks, props and other favors to capture your amazing event! A “supersized” inflatable booth that creates bright colorful memories with an LED light background, Oahu Photo Booth is proud to offer the largest Party Cube in the business with the capacity of up to 40 people and you can now add your own background!
58 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 PANIOLO PARTIES From pony rides and petting zoos, to costumed characters, party games and more, Paniolo Parties is a great option for your next event. They also offer carriage rides - perfect for cowboy or princess themed bashes - magic shows, clowns, and face painting. Coming from Los Angeles where their sister company, Fantastic Parties operates, Paniolo Parties can customize any event, from children’s birthday bashes and holiday parties to corporate events and more. Visit panioloparties.com for more information. SWEET LAND FARM Nestled on Oahu’s north shore is the island’s only certified commercial goat dairy farm and the most adorable place you’ll ever visit. Sweet Land Farm’s mission is to educate our youth about the farm and the importance of agriculture to our island. Visitors leave the tours stimulated by the experience and captivated by the friendly goats. They are open to the public on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is no farm entrance fee. Sign up for a tour at the farm store, where you can also find delicious homemade goat cheese, cheesecake, and other goodies. For more information, visit sweetlandfarmhawaii.com. Saddle up for fun with Paniolo Parties— pony rides, magic, face painting, and more! Perfect for any event.
60 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 can help you to plan the perfect event, offering healthy and delicious catering options for groups of 20 people up to a full buyout of The LineUp for a private event for up to 750 people. Former or current pro surfers are even available for teaching and/or sessions. They can package outdoor recreational activities for your group at both the Wai Kai Wave and the Wai Kai Lagoon. The possibilities are endless! For more information visit atthelineup.com. WET N WILD Celebrations are meant to be fun, and with Wet ‘n Wild’s group packages, you can relax and enjoy your day at the water park as everything is taken care of! Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, family reunion, graduation, or any other special occasion, Wet ‘n Wild caters to all types of group celebrations and events and can provide the flexibility to help you create your own perfect party. Visit wetnwildhawaii.com for more information. STORYBOOK ENTERTAINMENT Storybook is Oahu’s trusted source for all your party entertainment needs, with over 350 high quality character hosts to choose to match your theme, skilled face painters, balloon artists, glitter tattoos, caricature artists, stilt walkers, assembly packages, mad science parties, foam and bubble parties, glow parties and more! Need a venue or a unique idea for your little one’s big day? Visit their Fantasy salon and all-inclusive party venue, Storybook Station, located inside the Windward Mall. Your little ones can transform into fairies, pirates, mermaids, dragons and more, by getting a detailed fantasy makeover performed by one of Storybook’s fantasy stylists. To learn more, visit storybookstationhawaii.com. THE LINEUP AT WAI KAI The LineUp at Wai Kai is the perfect venue for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, holiday parties, sports clubs, fundraisers, reunions and more. The LineUp’s Group Sales and Catering team
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64 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Get ready to lace up those sneakers and join the fun! This year’s annual Keiki Great Aloha Run is just around the corner, promising a day of excitement, energy, and family bonding. Whether your child is a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event celebrates health, fitness, and community spirit. With age-appropriate race categories, plenty of post-race activities, and a vibrant and supportive atmosphere, it’s the perfect way for families to enjoy the outdoors together. “Don’t miss out on a memorable day – sign up today and let’s make this year’s Keiki Great Aloha Run the best one yet,” said Carole Kai Onouye, co-founder and president of the Great Aloha Run. First-Time Runners Share Their Story The Foulchag family were first-time participants of the Keiki Great Aloha Run last year. “I was looking for an activity my kids could join. It was a fun experience for them. Oahu is a big place with many families searching for affordable, enjoyable activities for their kids, but such events can be hard to find,” said Samuel Foulchag, who joined the fun festivities with his wife, Charity Faith Ileyagisiug and their three children. “The location worked well for me, it felt safe from traffic, and I liked that the whole family could join in. I’m always trying to get my kids out of the house to enjoy physical activities,” he said. Samuel shared that the kids love activities like racing. “They enjoy competing whenever they can. It’s an important part of our routine,” he added. “Whenever we take part in events like this, especially larger ones, it boosts their confidence and strengthens our family bond.” A Fun Day with a Bigger Purpose The smiles, laughter and camaraderie found at the annual Keiki Great Aloha Run by Nancy Arcayna The Great Aloha Run has raised $17 million in support of more than 150 Hawaii nonprofits over the past 41 years.
at Magic Island are reason enough for families to sign up. The 1.5-mile fun run starts at 7:30 a.m. on February 8th at Ala Moana Regional Park. Participants can join in activities and obstacle courses at the park following the race. Although the official run is at Ala Moana Regional Park, it can be a bit of a trek for families from the West side, North Shore or Windward areas. To accommodate this, schools can organize their own races on campus, providing a fun opportunity for students to participate with their classmates in their own backyard. Supporting Local Schools Funds raised benefit local elementary school fitness, nutrition, and wellness programs. If a minimum of 10 participants per school register for the Keiki Great Aloha Run at $25 per person, $15 of each registration returns to that keiki’s school. Over the years, the fun run has raised more than $150,000 for local elementary schools. Schools that prefer to host an on-campus Keiki Great Aloha Run can call the GAR office at 808-5287388 by January 24th or visit GreatAlohaRun.com for more information. Carole Kai Onouye and her team visit participating schools and present a kick-off event to get students fired up to run while raising money for their school. 66 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Every year, thousands of families lace up to walk, jog, or run for an energizing day of fun and fitness. “The 1.5‐mile fun run starts at 7:30 a.m. on February 8th at Ala Moana Regional Park.” “Participants can join in activities and obstacle courses at the park following the race.”
Join the Fun and Make a Difference “The Keiki Great Aloha Run is right around the corner and it’s going to be an absolute blast!” said Kai Onouye. “But it’s not just about fun; it’s about making a positive impact on our community. By participating in this event, we’re creating lasting memories while raising essential funds for our local schools. So, lace up your running shoes, get ready to cheer, and let’s make this event a wonderful day of fun and support of our community.” “Our journey of raising funds for local charities has been marked by hope, compassion, and the unwavering support of our community,” said Kai Onouye. “I’m filled with excitement about the ongoing opportunities to serve and positively impact our beloved island community. As we continue carry on this local tradition, it’s a way to give back to the community and keep its spirit alive for future generations.” For more information or to register, visit GreatAlohaRun.com. Hawaii’s annual premiere run for kids is part of the Great Aloha Run, which is scheduled on Monday, February 17th. This 8.15‐mile foot race kicks off at 7 a.m. at Aloha Tower and finishes at the Aloha Stadium. 68 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 The Foulchag family were first-time participants of the Keiki Great Aloha Run last year. “Funds raised benefit local elementary school fitness, nutrition, and wellness programs.” Ready, set, GO! Age-Appropriate Fun for Keiki The keiki run features three courses for various age groups, limited to the first 1,000 participants. The shortest loop is for children 6 and under and strollers, the middle-length loop is for 7 and 8 year olds, and the longest loop is reserved for 9 to 12 year olds.
TENNIS LESSONS 15+ LOCATIONS ACROSS OAHU Kids and Adult Classes To Sign Up, Visit: www.ustahawaii.com/classes Email: playandlearntennis@hawaii.usta.com Play And Learn Tennis is powered by U.S. Tennis Association
70 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 The big birthday bash is this weekend and the difficult question remains: What are you going to get for a present? “We just had a party where a fiveyear-old got a Mercedes (a tiny one of course) which she drove all over her party. It was extravagant and probably not in most people’s spending range...” shares Casey Thompson Fortuno at Storybook Entertainment. While most young children would love a Mercedes, finding a reasonably priced by Stephanie Lopes
January/February 2025 HAWAII PARENT 71 gift that the child will adore and the parents will approve is always the objective. Before you go shopping all around town and end up arriving late to the festivities, a little knowledge about gifts for all ages can guide you to the perfect present. TOP TIPS FOR THE BEST GIFTS Age appropriate gifts are essential. Safety and enjoyment are more likely if the gift is designed for that age. Note that safety standards require toys with choking hazards to be labeled for ages three and up,
made of high-quality materials, which withstand years of abuse. Also, more realistic and less babyish-looking toys have a greater possibility of being used year-afteryear. Lexie, another 3rd grader at Maryknoll, has been sleeping with her favorite, high quality gift. She says, “My favorite birthday present I ever got was a teddy bear because I like to sleep with stuffed animals.” Consider non-toy gifts. In a culture saturated with consumerism, many houses may already be overflowing with toys, and with limited space for storage and only so many hours in the day to play, a non-toy gift may be the perfect present. Classes for music, dance, riding, or drawing or memberships to the zoo, aquarium, art museum, Sea Life Park or Wet ‘N Wild could be excellent and unique gifts to encourage a child’s interso if a toy is labeled with two and up, then it is usually also safe for a one-year-old. Attention spans also vary by age, so it is best not to purchase a two-year-old something made for a twelveyear-old if you want them to enjoy it now. What are the child’s interests? Ask the parents or even the child about their interests: What do you like to do in your free time? Do you like sports, arts, electronics, animals or trips? Knowing a child’s interests makes buying great gifts easy. Kawai, a 3rd grader at Maryknoll School who loves bunnies, was given a bunny as a birthday present. “That was my favorite birthday present because a bunny is my favorite animal.” Multifunctional and high-quality toys are better investments. The best toys are not only engaging but also long lasting – both in quality and interest. Invest in toys 72 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 Here is a pie chart of the best presents, according to Maryknoll third graders. “Consider the child’s ages and interests, the parent’s desires, and the quality of the gift.”
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74 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 kisses. Gifts that continue to nurture baby’s natural curiosity and development while maintaining safety make great gifts. To build strength, pulling, pushing and rocking toys are a clever idea. Many of these toys also have extra play features, such as music, moving pieces, or sorters, which children can enjoy for a couple more years. The traditional toy blocks still continue to entertain children, while also building core strength, spatial relationship skills and even the fundamental concepts of physics and math. Hand-made or personalized items are also special presents for a first birthday. A knit rattle or blanket or personalized print can be treasured throughout a young child’s life. Around one year is also the time of ests. You could also give a trip – either to the movies or Chuck E. Cheese’s or to the mainland and beyond, allowing for family time and fun. After surveying 3rd graders at Maryknoll, the non-toy gift of trips was in fact the second most popular present ever received. Maximus expounds, “My favorite birthday present was going to San Diego to visit my cousins. Why I wanted to go there is because I do not see them much.” FIRST BIRTHDAY PRESENT IDEAS First baby luaus are a blast – to celebrating baby’s first year and continued health, and to also applauding the wonderful parents. By the time baby is one, most children have figured out how to sit up, crawl, and even pull up to stand. If not already, they soon will be walking and speaking their first words and also giving hugs and “Invest in toys made of high-quality materials, which will withstand years of use.” Knowing a child’s interests makes buying great gifts easy.
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TODDLER AND PRESCHOOLER PRESENTS Toddlers and preschoolers are already beginning to grow up too quickly. Gifts that are fun, stimulate learning and creativity, and allow for individual growth and even challenges are promising ideas. Games like floor puzzles or Guess Who can promote communication, and more books, like popup books for toddlers, or easy chapter books for older preschoolers, can help children to be ready to start Kindergarten. Toys that encourage imagination or creativity are great for this age. Art easels equipped with washable markers, paper, paints and more are a source of fun and learning and can be used for years if high quality. Puppets or pretend food help to stimulate little imaginations and can be used alone or with playmates. Little girls adore dress-up kits. teething. Some popular teething presents are amber teething beads, reported to soothe teething pains and made with safety measures against choking. Sophie giraffe toys are popular high-quality teething toys with beautiful colors. Bath time and bedtime toys are also fun presents. Young ones will enjoy shapes of all sizes, toy boats, and rubber ducks in the bath. For bedtime, books are excellent for babies and beyond and are essential for language and social development. For short attention spans, board books with vibrant pictures and interactive elements are best. Do not forget the parents. It is also appropriate to buy a needed necessity for mom and dad, such as a new car seat or highchair, or even a personalized gift like a retreat to a spa, which is sure to be enjoyed after baby’s first year. 76 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2025 “Do not be afraid to ask children or the parents what the child likes best.” In the long run, no present will compare to the priceless time spent together.
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