Kauai Family Magazine Fall 2026

Fall 2026

202N7OW!

ENTEARGE 23

SMARTPHONES FOR KIDS ARE THEY READY?

!

N U F S U LO O O A B F P

FALL FESTIVALS

HALLOWEEN EVENTS

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

2026 EST. 2013

Cover winners, Charli Camacho & Haven Galvez | KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

Calling All Young Artists: 2027 Calendar of Student Art Contest KIUC is accepting electronic artwork submissions for the 2027 calendar.

No physical submissions are accepted, but most of our traditional rules apply.

For more information, please visit the Calendar of Student Art page on KIUC’s website, kiuc.coop/calendarcontest.

The deadline is Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

KIUC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Fall 2026

3

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR Aloha!

I hope all Kauaʻi families had a wonderful and refreshing summer!

As we gear up for the Back-to-School season, we all must play an active role in our children’s lives. Our fantastic and talented keiki are constantly observing, absorbing, and developing, and they need the love and guidance of their loved ones.

We must model positive behavior, foster their aspirations, promote safety, and nurture their well-being.

Mahalo nui loa to the publisher and contributors of “Kauaʻi Family Magazine” for continuing to support our families by sharing important information, articles, and available resources. Wishing you the very best for the upcoming school year! Make sure to study hard, have fun, and stay safe!

As I begin my final school year serving as your mayor, I am especially grateful for the privilege of working alongside the families of this island. It has been one of the great honors of my life to help care for our keiki and our community, and I look forward to all that this year holds for the Garden Isle.

With Warmest Aloha,

Derek S. K. Kawakami Mayor, County of Kaua‘i State of Hawai‘i 4 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

KAUAI POLICE KAUAI POLICE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE (KPAL) (KPAL) Keep an eye out Keep eye out for an Pickleball for signups Pickleball signups coming soon! coming soon!

JOIN OUR TEAM JOIN OUR OUR TEAM TEAM JOIN TEAM TEAM BECOME A GUARDIAN OF YOUR ʻOHANA! We at the Kauaʻi Police Department are inviting you to be part of something bigger — a community of protectors safeguarding our cherished ʻOhana.

Our officers don’t just uphold the law; they defend our families, ensuring safety and security for all. Now, it’s your turn to join us and become a guardian of your Together, let’s makeare a difference what matters most.

We atʻOhana. the Kauai Police Department inviting you and to beprotect part of something bigger

BECOME OF YOUR YOUROHANA! OHANA! BECOME A A GUARDIAN GUARDIAN OF

We at the Kauai Police Department are inviting you to be part of something bigger — a community of protectors safeguarding our cherished Ohana. Our officers — a community of protectors safeguarding our cherished Ohana. Our officers don’t just uphold the law; they defend our families, ensuring safety and security don’t just uphold the law; they defend our families, ensuring safety and security for all. Now, it’s your turnDispatcher to join us andI become a guardian of your Ohana.

• Emergency for all. Now, Services it’s your turn to join us and become a guardian of your Ohana.

Together, let’s make a difference and protect what matters most.

• Police Records Technician I and Together, let’s make a difference protect what matters most.

OPEN POSITIONS

• Fiscal Officer II OPEN POSITIONS OPEN POSITIONS • Police Services Officer •• Police PoliceEvidence Evidence Custodian Custodian II • Parking Enforcement Worker •• Police Evidence Clerk Police Evidence Clerk • Public Safety Worker I •• Police Services Officer Police Services Officer

Worker II 18 years old to apply.

PSO I•(Cadet) fullSafety time position must be • Public Public Safety Worker Parking Enforcement Worker Police••Services Officer II (PSO II/Recruit)—Must Parking Enforcement Workerbe 21 years old to apply.

•• Emergency Emergency Services Services Dispatcher Dispatcher II

GREAT BENEFITS GREAT GREAT BENEFITS BENEFITS

ALL POSITIONS ALL POSITIONS ALL POSITIONS ARE ON CONTINUOUS ARE ARE ON ON CONTINUOUS CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT RECRUITMENT RECRUITMENT ForFor additional recruitment info: For additional recruitment For additional recruitment info: additional recruitment info:

joinkauaipd.com joinkauaipd.com joinkauaipd.com joinkauaipd.com (or(or scan QRQR code at right) right) (or scan QR code at right) (or scan QR code at scan code

orreach reach outout to Lt. Lt. orreach reach out to Lt. Tavares or out to Matt Tavares or to Matt Tavares mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647 mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647 mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647 mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647

Fall 2026

5

MESSAGE FROM THE KAUA’I COMPLEX AREA SUPERINTENDENT LEILA MAEDA-KOBAYASHI, SUPERINTENDENT Aloha Kaua’i Families and Students, Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! I hope your summer was filled with sunshine, rest, and memorable moments with family and friends. There is always excitement in the air as the new school year begins and I am honored to kick off another year together.

Students, this year is a blank canvas. It brings a whole new chapter of things to learn, challenges to conquer, and new ways to grow into who you are meant to be.

Welcome to the new families joining our Kaua’i School District ‘ohana for the first time. We are so grateful you are here, and we can’t wait to get to know you.

An exceptional school year doesn’t just happen - it is built by the people inside our classrooms, offices and our campuses. My sincere appreciation goes to our teachers and school staff. The love, energy, and genuine care you pour into our students every single day is what makes our schools feel like a second home. Thank you for always going above and beyond.

As we step into this new year, I want to echo a thought I shared in my end-of-year message. I encouraged our students to truly make connections to this beautiful island they call home. Kaua’i is not just where we live; it is a teacher in its own right.

My hope for our students this year is that you take what you learn inside the classroom and use it to better understand, appreciate, and care for our island community. Look for ways to connect with the history, the land, and the people around you. When you anchor your education to your home, your learning takes on a whole new meaning.

Let’s make this a year of deep connections, big dreams, and wonderful growth.

Welcome back!

With warmest aloha,

Leila Maeda-Kobayashi 6

Leila Maeda-Kobayashi Kauaʻi Complex Area Superintendent

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

State Departmentof ofEducation Education Stateof of Hawai’i Hawai’i - Department

2026-2027 2026-2027 OFFICIAL SCHOOL SCHOOL CALENDAR OFFICIAL CALENDAR www.kauaischools.org www.hawaiipublicschools.org

AUGUST AUGUST 2026 2026

M TT W TH F SS M

DECEMBER NOVEMBER OCTOBER SEPTEMBER DECEMBER NOVEMBER OCTOBER SEPTEMBER 2026 2026 2026 2026 2026 2026 2026 2026

22 33 44 55 10 11 11 12 12 99 10 17 18 16 17 18 19 19 16 23 24 23 3024 31 25 26 30 31 25 26 11 22 6 7 8 9 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 20 21 22 23 27 28 29 30 27 28 29 30 4 5 6 7 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28 25 1 26 2 27 3 28 4 18 29 10 3 11 4 9 10 8 15 16 17 11 18 15 23 17 24 18 25 22 16 22 30 24 25 29 23 29 30 1 2 6 7 18 29 7 15 8 16 9 6 13 14 21 15 22 16 23 20 14 13 28 22 29 23 30 27 21 20 27 28 29 30

6 6 13 13 20 20 27 27 3 3 10 10 17 17 24 24

SS 11 Students’ Students’Work WorkYear Year 77 88 1ST 1STSEMESTER SEMESTER 14 14 15 15 August August3,3,2026 2026 21 21 22 22 to to 28 28 29 29 December 18, 2026 18, 2026 December 44 55 Students’ First Day 11 12 Students’ 11 12 August 3 First Day 18 19 August 3 18 19 Statehood Day 25 26 Statehood 25 26 August 21 Day

1 1 8 8 15 15 22 22 29 29 5 5 12 12 19 19 26 26

2 3 2 3 9 10 9 10 16 17 16 17 23 24 23 31 24 30 30 6 31 7 6 7 13 14 13 21 14 20 20 28 21 27 27 28

3 4 5 3 11 4 12 5 10 10 11 19 12 17 18 17 18 26 19 24 25 31 25 26 24

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August 21 Labor Day Labor Day 7 September September 7 Fall Break Fall Break October 5-9 October 5-9 Election Day November 3 Election Day November 3 Veterans Day November 11 Veterans Day November 11 Thanksgiving November 26 Thanksgiving November 26 School Holiday November 27 School Holiday November 27 Winter Break Dec. 21-Jan. 1 Winter Break Dec. 21-Jan. 1 Christmas December 25 Christmas December 25

Summer 2026 Fall 2026

77

ALOHA FALL

IT’S THE END OF SUMMER This transitional time of year means new routines, new activities, maybe new schools.

This issue is chock full of tips and treats for the whole family, from enrichment to education, to health and wellness.

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS The Annual Harvest Festival (Oct. 3) is an absolute can’t-miss, offering food, rides, booths and free pumpkins (p. 12-13).

Check out our favorite family happenings (p. 16-17) for fairs, festivals, parades, costume contests, events, celebrations and more!

BACK TO SCHOOL Set your child up for school success by connecting with your child’s teacher (p.54), find ways to create a stress-free after school routine (p.62). Deciding when to give your child their first smartphone, pros and cons (p.50).

Welcome Pi’ikoi Youth Center, a new home for Kaua’i’s youth and families, offering free youth fitness classes, mentorship, and homework support, (p.59).

HEALTH AND SAFETY Check out Kaua’i Healthy Living Fall Celebration (Sept.19), offering help tips from a doctor, vendors, food, entertainment, free giveaways for the entire family (p.40-41). It’s more important than ever to have a hurricane evacuation plan, page 32. Keep your ‘ohana healthy and take a fun family hike, explore our 7 favorite nature spots (p.42).

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Chrissy Schechter GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Keri Atchley

COPY EDITOR

Noah Schechter PRESIDENT OF SALES

Chrissy Schechter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Monty Downs, MD Michael Lutwin, DDS Douglas Mailman, MD Erika Noel, MD Joel Punzal, OD Leah Ragsac & Lisa Ledesma Michael Landon Smith, MD ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

advertising@kauaifamilymagazine.com KAUA’I OFFICE 808-639-5656 KauaiFamilyMagazine.com info@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

Next Issue: Winter 2026 Advertising Deadline: September 15, 2026 Kaua’i Family Magazine is published quarterly as Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter editions.

Copyright © 2026 Kaua’i Family Magazine

All rights reserved. No portion of Kaua’i Family Magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Kaua’i Family Magazine assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements.

Fall on Kaua’i is full of beauty and wonder!

I hope this issue of KFM provides you with memorable ways to spend your fall and valuable resources to aid your health, safety and well-being.

Mahalo, Kaua’i, for allowing Kaua’i Family Magazine to be a part of your ‘ohana!

Chrissy

Chrissy Schechter, Publisher

chrissys@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

8

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Mahalo to Aunty Patty Lyons for providing a fun photo shoot at your farm for our cover kids, Charli and Haven!

PAGE

2 Bring your entire family to the Harvest Festival! 1

FALL FEATURES

16 FALL FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS Exciting Events for the ‘Ohana

WHAT’S INSIDE 23 KAUAʻI KEIKI

2027 Cover Kids Search is On!

22 HALLOWEEN EVENTS

26 KAUAʻI KŪPUNA

34 CAREGIVERS

32 KAUAʻI SAFETY

46 LIGHTHOUSE PARENTING

42 KAUAʻI HIKES

FaBOOlous Festivals, Parades & Treats!

The Greatest Love of All

Hurricane Evacuation Plans

Learn How to Guide From a Distance

50 CHILD’S FIRST PHONE:

Family Favorite Nature Spots to Explore

59 KAUAʻI ʻOHANA

ARE THEY READY?

Pros and Cons of Smartphones for Children

42

Protecting Your Mind & Body

Keala Foundation New Pi’ikoi Youth Center

Maha‘ulepu Heritage Trail

4 miles (round trip) Highlights: Located on the sunny south shore, this coastal trail offers stunning views of limestone cliffs, tide pools, and hidden beaches.

The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for beginners, while the dramatic scenery keeps it exciting for all ages.

Tips: Wear sturdy shoes, as parts of the trail can be rocky, and there’s little shade.

Kuilau Ridge Trail

Sleeping Giant (Nounou) East Trail

34

50

1.8 miles (one way) Through it all, caregivers keep at it. Love has to be mo Highlights: This popular trail on the island’s east side leads to a scenic than an emotion, it has to be an action, and there’ lookout with panoramic views of the coastline and valleys. The gentle switchbacks make it manageable for beginners, though the final stretch may be steep for younger kids.

Tips: Start early to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water.

Wai Koa Loop Trail

4.5 miles (loop) Highlights: Nestled in the north shore’s 2 miles (one way) lush landscapes, this leisurely hike takes Highlights: This trail offers a gentle you through a working farm, past a ascent through lush rainforest serene mahogany forest, to the historic Some require that the caregiver be with sweeping views of the Wailua bedside Stone oftheir photo opps.24/7 – or else they THE Valley.

PEOPLE WHO ARE BEING CARED FORDam. Lots at The wide, well-maintained might get agitated and fall out of also come in a host of very different shapes and sizes.

Tips: Check for trail access permissions path is perfect for families, and

Fall 2026

9

“When I g

witness careg

visit our advertisers

20 20 26 26

Education Education and and Schools Schools Kauaʻi Christian Kauaʻi Christian Academy Academy ..................................... ..................................... 28 28 State of Hawai‘i Dept of Education Education & Enrichment State of Hawai‘i Dept of Education ................... ................... 7, 7, 63 63 Boys and Club Kauaʻi ....................................

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72 Inpeace Hō‘ike..................................................................

Kaua’i Community Media ................. 72 68 Child & Family Service ...........................................

73 Child & Family Service ...........................................

73 Public Libraries ...................................60 AGKaua’i ‘Ukulele Academy ............................................

29 AG ‘Ukulele Academy ............................................

29 Painting Paradise ..........................................69 Kauaʻi ‘Opio & Keiki Orchestra ..............................

28 Kauaʻi ‘Opio & Keiki Orchestra .............................. 28 Keala Foundation ..........................................59 Brandi-Ann Uyemura ............................................

32 Brandi-Ann Uyemura ............................................ 32 Keiki O Ka ‘Āina ............................................49 University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa .................................

47 University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa................................. 47 Child & Family Service ..................................44 Hawaiʻi State Public Libraries ..........................30, 33 Hawaiʻi State Public Libraries..........................30, 33

Family Hui Hawai’i ........................................48

Health & Medical Medical Services Swim Kaua’i Aquatics ....................................73 Health & Services Hawaiʻi Dental Service ..........................................

55 Hawaiʻi Dental Service .......................................... 55 Regency Puakea Assisted Living ...........................

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34 Regency ...................29 Hale Kūpuna Heritage Home ...............................

34 Hale Kūpuna Heritage ............................... 34 ‘Ohana Pacific HealthHome ....................................24 HHSC Kauaʻi Region .......................35-37,40-41,46 HHSC Kauaʻi Region .......................35-37,40-41,46 Punzal Vision ................................................57 Kalāheo Dental Group ........................................... 71 71 Kalāheo Dental Group Garden Isle Rehab &...........................................

Nursing........................24 Kauaʻi Medical Clinic .............................................

70 Kauaʻi Medical Clinic ............................................. 70 Kaua’iHealth Adult........................................................

Day Health ............................... 80 24 Wilcox Wilcox Health ........................................................ 80 Home Health Kaua’i ......................................24 Jason Blake Blake Health Health Insurance Insurance ..............................

39 Jason .............................. 39

Hale Kūpuna Heritage Home ........................24

Summer Programs and Events Events 40,41 HHSC Kaua’i Region...........................25, Summer Programs and Bon Dance Schedule .......................................18, 42 Kālaheo Dental Group ...................................65 Bon Dance Schedule .......................................18, 42 Heiva i Kauaʻi ...................................................18, 42 Kaua’i Medical Clinic .....................................52 Heiva i Kauaʻi ...................................................18, 42 Kōloa Plantation Days ............................

9,12-13, 42 Wilcox Health................................................80 Kōloa Plantation Days ............................ 9,12-13, 42 Lawai Beach Resort MiniInsurance Golf ............................... ...............................

23 Lawai Beach Resort Mini Golf 23 Jason Blake Health .......................29 Kōloa Plantation Days Family Fun Run ..........31, Kōloa Plantation Days Family Fun Run ..........31, 42 42 Dance Dance Fusion Fusion Studios Studios Presents: Presents: JUMANJI JUMANJI........... ........... 27 27 Kaua’i Family Magazine is able to provide Keiki Keiki Fishing Fishing Tournament Tournament ..................................... ..................................... 43 43

Wilcox Wilcox Keiki Keiki Bike Bike & & Safety Safety Day Day.............................. .............................. 31 31 Aloha Glo Mini Golf ...............................................

Fall Festivals & Events Aloha Glo Mini Golf ............................................... 22 22 PMRF Fest Kukui Freedom Grove Center ..................................14,1542 PMRF Freedom Fest ........................................19, ........................................19, 42 Back to Bash ..............................................

Back to School School Bash .............................................. 21 21 Harvest Festival ........................................12,13 Kukui Grove Center ....................................14-15, 21 Kukui CenterFestival ....................................14-15, Kaua’iGrove Mokihana ..............................1921 Family Discovery Nights ........................................

26 Family Discovery Nights........................................ 26

Matsuri Festival ............................................18 Wilcox Halloween Keiki Parade ....................21 Summer Youth Camps Summer Youth Camps Kaua‘i Christian Academy Fall Festival ..........21 County County of of Kauaʻi Kauaʻi Summer Summer Youth Youth Programs Programs ......... ......... 24 24 Wings & Woodlands Exhibition ....................7825 KPAL Sports Programs ...........................................

KPAL Sports Programs ........................................... 25 HHSC FallKeiki Celebration ............................40, 41 Junior Junior & & Keiki Lifeguard Lifeguard Programs Programs....................... ....................... 24 24 International Day of..............................................

Peace ............................1823 Kauaʻi Kauaʻi Sailing Sailing Camp Camp ..............................................

23 Forest Camp .............................................

FamilyAkamai Discovery Nights ...............................4822 Forest Akamai Camp .............................................

22 Kids Kids Coral Coral Reef Reef Camp Camp............................................ ............................................ 22 22 Kauaʻi Dance House ..............................................

Community Partners Kauaʻi Dance House .............................................. 23 23 Timbernook Camp.................................................

Kaua’i Complex Area DOE ...............................631 Timbernook Camp.................................................

31 Anaina Hou Camp ............................

Anaina Hou Community Community Camp ............................ 27 27 Kaua’i Police Department ...............................5

County of Kaua’i Office of the Mayor ..............4

Community Partners Community Partners Kaua’i District Health ....................................32 Kauaʻi Complex Area DOE ........................................6 Kauaʻi Complex Area DOE ........................................6 CountyPolice of Kaua’i Agency ........................................5 on Elderly Affairs ...28 Kauaʻi Department Kauaʻi Police Department ........................................5 County of Kaua’i Department of Water ........33 County ce of County of of Kauaʻi Kauaʻi Offi Office of the the Mayor Mayor.......................4 .......................4 County of Kaua’i Fire Department ................5838 County County of of Kauaʻi Kauaʻi Agency Agency on on Elderly Elderly Affairs Affairs........... ........... 38 County ofKauaʻi Kaua’i Waste Management ..........31 County County of of Kauaʻi Department Department of of Water Water ................ ................ 48 48 Gather of Federal Credit Union ..........................3 County Kauaʻi County of Kauaʻi Parks Parks & & Recreation Recreation...............24, ...............24, 39 39 County of Waste Management .................

Kaua’i Island Utility Cooperative ....................2 County of Kauaʻi Kauaʻi Waste Management ................. 49 49 Gather Federal Credit Grove Farm ..............................................76,77 Gather Federal Credit Union Union ....................................3 ....................................3 Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative.......................

2, Deja Vu Surf Hawai‘i ....................................56 Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative.......................

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Range Facility ........................3926 Kauaʻi 26 Deja Surf Deja Vu Surf Hawaiʻi Hawaiʻi ..............................................

20 LeahVu Ragsac, Realtor.............................................. .....................................3020 Grove Farm .......................................................64-65 Grove .......................................................64-65 Kaua’iFarm Bakery ................................................19 Pacifi Pacificc Missile Missile Range Range Facility Facility...........................19, ...........................19, 67 67 Leah Ragsac, Realtor ..............................................

Leah Ragsac, Realtor.............................................. 54 54

quality local content because of the Kauaʻisupport Family Magazine is able to provide quality local content because of continued our advertisers.

Kauaʻi Familyof Magazine is able to provide quality local content because of the continued support ofand our advertisers Please support local businesses Please support local businesses the continued support of ourtell advertisers Please support local businesses them you saw them in Kaua’i Magazine! and tell themFamily you saw them in Kauaʻi Family Magazine!

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Why advertise with Kaua’i Family?

With over 16 years of experience, the team at Kaua’i Family knows what works to reach local parents who want the best for their ‘ohana. We’ll help you set and accomplish goals within your budget to engage our active audience.

Special Tribute to Melissa McFerrin-Warrack - Page 12

16 YEARS

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KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

Summer 2026

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YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN ON KAUA I

2027

NOW! ENTER E 23

SMARTPHONES FOR KIDS

FA

2026 HEALTH & WELLNESS

ARE THEY READY?

PAG

N!

FU BOOLOUS

FALL FESTIVALS

HALLOWEEN EVENTS

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

GUIDE

TONS OF FAMILY FUN CAN’T MISS EVENTS ISLAND DAY TRIPS SUMMER CAMPS & MUCH MORE!

2026 EST. 2013

Cover winners, Charli Camacho & Haven Galvez | KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

KAUA’I’S MOST

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Cover winners, Lexi & Kobi Gregorius | KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

MEET OUR COVER KIDS PAGE

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Celebrate the Season

Kaua'i Style

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Fall 2026

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Food Distribution • Sports • Community

•

Bring your entire family to the Harvest Festival!

The fun stops here!

HARVEST FESTIVAL Saturday, October 3, 2026 10AM - 3PM Hanapēpē Athletic Field

Keep updated on

KEKAHA THE PLACE

Pumpkins, Food, Entertainment, Rides and more!

M ERIDIAN PACIFIC COMMUNITY ADVOCACY

UI Hawaii Consulting, LLC

Health • Culture • Education • Tourism

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Fall 2026

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Fall 2026 15 Fall 2026Fall Fall 2026 2 22026

F A L L

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

August

Ultimate Trail Run

Sat., Aug.1, 7am Ōma’o Track Ultimatehawaiiantrailrun.com

Heiva i Kaua’i

Sat., Aug. 1 & Sun., Aug. 2, 9am-5pm Tahitian Dance Competition Kapa’a Beach Park Food & craft vendors Admission $8; 12 & under free Heivakauai.com

Back to School Movie Night

Sat., Aug. 8, 6pm Kukui Grove

Nā Pali Challenge Sat., Aug. 8 Hanalei Pier Racenapali.com

East Side Summer Carnival

Fri., Aug. 28 & Sat., Aug. 29, 5pm-10pm Kapa’a Beach Park

Farm Fair Tribute & Fun Fair

Sat., Aug. 29, 11am-4pm Kukui Grove Events are subject to change without notice. Always call

16

September Kaua’i Marathon Keiki Run

Sat., Sept. 5, 8am-10am Presented by Wilcox Health Grand Hyatt Kaua’i

The Kaua’i Marathon & Half Marathon Sun., Sept. 6, 6am-1pm Poipu Rd., Koloa Thekauaimarathon.com

Hawai‘i Line Dance Festival & Craft Fair

Fri., Sept. 11 & Sat., Sept. 12, 5-10pm Kaua’i Veterans Center Hawaiildf.com

Kaua’i Relay for Life American Cancer Center Sat., Sept. 12, 4pm-9pm Kaua’i Philippine Cultural Center Relayforlife.org/kauaihi

Hanalei Picnic in the Park

Sun., Sept. 13, 2pm-6pm Wai‘oli Town Park (Hanalei Soccer Fields) Enjoy kickball & pickleball tournament, food, skate park, & kids games. FREE Hanaleiinitiative.org

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Senior Fun Day

Fri., Sept., 18, 9am-12pm Līhu’e Neighborhood Center

Kaua’i Mokihana Festival

Sept. 20-26 A week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture; education, music, & hula competition Maliefoundation.org

International Peace Day Mon., Sept. 21, 3pm-7pm Parade Walk from Sparky’s Garden to Kaua’i Soto Zen’s Kannon Peace Statue KauaiSotoZen.com

Healthy Living Fall Celebration

Sat., Sept. 19, 9am-12pm KVMH Campus, Waimea Family fun for all ages Vendors, giveaways, and more!

Kauai.hhsc.org

october Kaua’i Annual Harvest Festival

Sat., Oct. 3, 10am - 3pm Hanapēpē Athletic Field Food, entertainment, rides, FREE pumpkins and more!

Grove Farm Crafts Fair & Farmers Market Sat., Oct. 3, 9:30am-12:30pm Puhi Park

Kaua’i Brewers Festival Sat., Oct. 3, 3pm-6pm Kress Street, Līhu’e

ALOHA Kaua’i Yoga Festival

Sat., Oct. 3, 8am-4:30pm Kaua’i Shores Hotel Alohafestival.org

Kaua’i Matsuri Festival

Fri., Oct. 9, Aloha Banquet Sat., Oct. 10, 9am-3pm A Japanese Cultural Festival Kaua’i War Memorial Convention Hall-FREE Kauaijcs.org

Līhu’e Senior Center Craft Fair

Sat., Oct. 10, 9am-1pm Līhu’e Neighborhood Center

Kaua’i Chocolate & Coffee Festival

Sun., Oct. 18, 10am-4pm Kilohana Luau Pavillion

‘Ohana FitFest Obstacle Fun Run/Walk Sun., Oct. 18, 7am-11am Anaina Hou Community Park Kīlauea Knscf.org/fit-fest

26th KCA Annual Fall Festival

Fri., Oct. 23 & Sat., Oct. 24, 4pm-8:30pm Kaua’i Christian Academy Family FUN in a carnival atmosphere!

Kīlauea Kcaschool.org

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Sat., Oct. 24 Walk starts at 8:15am Puakea Golf Course rochar@alz.org

Make a Difference Day at Lydgate Beach Park

november

Sat., Oct. 24, 8:30am-11:30am Lydgate Park Main Pavilion Family workday for all ages Kauaipath.org

Halloween Candy Buy Back

Sat., Oct. 24, 4pm-8pm Downtown Līhu’e Keiki zone, local vendors, and entertainment

Emalani Festival

Rice Street Block Party

Candylane & Glow Show Fri., Oct. 30, 6pm-9pm Kings Līhu’e FREE Kingskauai.com

Annual SMMH Keiki Halloween Parade

Mon., Nov. 2, 3pm-5pm Trade in your candy at Kalāheo Dental Group Kalaheodental.com Sat., Nov. 7, 9am-4 pm Koke‘e State Park

Kaua’i Veterans Celebration

Sat., Nov. 7, 11am-3pm Veterans Center Local food trucks, games, and veteran services

Arbor Day Plants Giveaway

Sat, Nov. 7 Fri., Oct. 30, 9:30am-11:30am 9am-12pm Kukui Grove Kapa’a

KVMH Baby Halloween Parade

Fri., Oct. 30, 11:30am-1pm Front entry to KVMH Medical Office Building Keiki 4 years of age and under

Wilcox Halloween Keiki Parade

Fri., Oct. 30, 12pm-1pm Wilcox Medical Center Lobby Keiki aged 4 years old or younger Keiki Parade, costume contest and trick-or-treating.

Refreshments will be served.

Wilcoxhealth.org

Tails on Trails

Fri., Oct. 30, 9am-1pm Stone Dam Trail A guided field trip with shelter dogs KauaiHumane.org/ service/field-trips/

Hanapēpē ’s Biggest Little Carnival

Sat., Nov. 7, 10am-6pm Sun., Nov. 8, 10am-4pm Hanapēpē Stadium Park

“Wings and Woodlands: Tribute to Native Birds and Forests”

Opening reception: Nov. 6, 6pm Exhibition: Nov. 7-12 KSA Gallery, Kukui Grove

Veterans Day Ceremony Wed., Nov. 11, 11am Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery Hanapēpē

Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre Presents: The Wizard of Oz Nov. 20-29 War Memorial Convention Hall Hctkauai.org

5k Turkey Trot & Shoot

Thurs., Nov. 26, 6am-9am Thanksgiving Morning Ocean Course Hokuala, Līhu’e Kauaiturkeytrot.org Fall 2026

17

C E L E B R AT E & H O N O R

Kaua'i's Legacy of Peace

PA R A D E W A L K

FROM SPARKY’S GARDEN TO KAUAI SOTO ZEN’S

M O N D AY,

KANNON PEACE STATUE.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 3-7PM I N HANAPĒPĒ

Please Join Us!

EVENT FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Parents, Teachers, and Children of All Ages to participate in this year's Walk For Peace!

FOLD A PAPER CRANE FOR PEACE!

Storybook Theatre, Soto Zen Temple, & IROK

More info: KauaiSotoZen.com & Facebook

(Interfaith Roundtable of Kaua'i) Mark 808-634-4870 • Jerry 808-346-4650 • Annaleah 909-652-7743

AI JA PA I I JA AA JA UU PP AA K KA I U JA I J AA A AP PA A UK A A

presents presents presents

E CUL ES C U L T T U R E S EE C U L T U UR N E NS C U EL T C U L RT NE U U ES ES R R N N

6/22/26 9:24 PM

K

U SUAS A USA USA USA

63

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F i r e u s s titivivva F F i i t r r e e u u s s a s s t t t u l t u r a a c a l e M s lll2222 M M i l papaananeneseesec c uruarlaflfefeesestsstittiivivaaaa i p a ' a J i i a p J a 0 0022 vavlalll 0 aaJaaJaSaturday, a a u u Saturday, October 14 a October 1 0 aauauKaua' 22 Kaua`i WarMemorial MemorialConvention Convention Hall Hall 'i War 9:30AM to 3PM 2:30PM 9AM to

OTC I E S O CSI E L L Y TY A AS S CC OO I EI E T YT Y LL AA SOCIET L Y A

The Kaua‘i Japanese Cultural Society Society The Kaua‘i Cultural The Kaua‘i Japanese Cultural Society The The Kaua‘i Kaua‘i Japanese Japanese Cultural Cultural Society Society presents Int Peace Day HALF Fall26.indd 1

Admission free,and andall allare are welcome welcome Admission is isfree,

Featuring Iwate Morioka Minyo, shamisen player/singer AnjuTamura Madokaand andTorao Mitsusumi Hanayagi Featuring shamisen player Anju Madoka, singers Sheree Hikariyama • Food • Nintendo Gaming • Craft vendors Kanzashi making vendors • Gyotaku Craft vendors • Food Kanzashi making •• Kaua‘i Bonsai • Mochi making • •Kaua‘i Bonsai Japanese dancing •Craft (Fish dancing Printing) Nintendo Gaming • Tea dancing •Japanese Japanese • Mochi making • •Tea Origami ceremony • Kanzashi making ceremony Drumming

For more information ourwebsite website kauaijcs.org For more informationvisit visit our at: at kauaijcs.org If in order to participate; such as an interpreter, assistive listening or device, or an If you youneed needassistance assistance in order to participate; such as an Interpreter, assistivedevice, listening an alternate of of materials, call call PearlPearl Shimizu at (808) 822-5353, one week prior to event. alternateformat format materials Shimizu at (808) 822-5353, one week prior to event.

18

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

SEPTEMBER 20-26, 2026

A week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture, including educational lectures, music and hula competitions on the island of Kaua‘i

F OR T I C KE T S A ND M O RE I N F O RM ATI O N

maliefoundation.org

Supporting local never tastes so good

PRE-ORDERS 808-320-3434

Pastries rising in the ovens, malasadas frying fresh, and a bakery full of local favorites.

Proudly serving our community with fresh-baked goodness and local flavor enjoyed for generations.

Tuesday - Thursday: 6am-1pm Friday and Saturday: 6am-2pm Closed: Sunday & Monday @kauaibakery

HOURS:

LOCATED IN KUKUI GROVE CENTER

@kauaibakery

Fall 2026

19

are not your sy chocolate These These not your Easy chocolatesame oldareHalloween same old Halloween marshmallow marshmallow or cake pops! or cake pops!

pped marshmallows dipped marshmallows gourmet Belgian chocolate and delicious add-ons like Oreos,

Use gourmet Belgian chocolate and delicious add-ons like Oreos, les, and pretzels to create spooktacular characters including sprinkles, and pretzels to create spooktacular characters including a ghost, monster, witch, bat, and jack-o-lantern. a ghost, monster, witch, bat, and jack-o-lantern. sit www.theseasidebaker.com for recipe and instructions.

Visit www.theseasidebaker.com for recipe and instructions.

20

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SAVE THE

DATE!

Join Us for Our

20TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN KEIKI PARADE! Keiki ages 4 years and younger are invited to join us for a Halloween parade with trick-or-treating, a spooktacular costume contest and festive refreshments.

Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 | Noon-1 p.m.

Wilcox Medical Center Lobby

Go to WilcoxHealth.org for more information.

11th Annual

Halloween CANDY BUYBACK

Calling all keiki to support our troops!

Trade in your candy:

$1/pound of unopened candy (up to 5 pounds) Prize Drawing: $100 Gift Card to Small Fry Kauai

Monday, November 2nd, 2026 3:00 PM-5:00 PM Hours: Mon-Fri 7am - 5pm (808)332-9445 www.KalaheoDental.com

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Fall 2026

21

Fun Kaua’i Fun Halloween Kaua’i

Events Halloween Events

HARVEST FESTIVAL Sat., Oct. 3, 10am-3pm Hanapēpē Athletic Field Free admission Free pumpkins Food, entertainment, rides educational tent and more!

CANDYLANE & GLOW SHOW Fri., Oct. 30, 6-9pm Glow-in-the dark puppet show, keiki carnival King’s Līhu‘e FREE Kingskauai.com

HALLOWEEN MOVIE NIGHT Sat., Oct. 17, 6pm Kukui Grove

ANNUAL SMMH KEIKI HALLOWEEN PARADE Fri., Oct. 30, 9:30-11:30am Kapa’a

26th KAUA’I CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FALL FESTIVAL Fri., Oct. 23 & Sat., Oct. 24, 4-8:30pm Kaua‘i Christian Academy Family FUN in a carnival atmosphere Kilauea www.kcaschool.org VILLAIN NIGHT Fri., Oct. 23 & 30, 6:30-7:30pm Free performance and pictures with your favorite villain!

Kukui Grove 22

KVMH BABY HALLOWEEN PARADE Fri., Oct. 30, 11:30am to 1pm Front entry to KVMH Medical Office Building Waimea Keiki 4 years of age and under

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

WILCOX HALLOWEEN KEIKI PARADE Fri., Oct. 30, 12-1pm Wilcox Medical Center Lobby Keiki Parade, costume contest and trick-or-treating.

Keiki 4 years of age and under. Refreshments will be served.

Wilcoxhealth.org HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Sat., Oct. 31, 10am-2pm Costume Contest & Center-Wide Trick-or-Treat Kukui Grove HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY BACK Mon., Nov. 2, 3-5pm Trade in your candy at Kalāheo Dental Group Kalaheodental.com

2027 Does Does YOUR YOUR CHILD CHILD want want to to APPEAR APPEAR on on the the cover cover of of Kauai Kauai Family Family Magazine?

Magazine?

The Go-To Resou

rce for Kaua`i Famili

es

The Go-To Resou

rce for Kaua`i Famili

Fall 2022

es

KauaiFamilyMag

Fall 2022

KauaiFamilyMag

azine.com azine.com

HARVEST FESTIVAL TRICK & TREAT HARVESST FESTIVSAL FUN FAMIL Y S TRICK & TREAT HAPPESNINGS FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

Cover Winner: John

Alfiler

Cover Winner: John

Alfiler

We’re looking for four children ages 4-11 with big smiles to appear on We’re looking for four children ages 4-11 with big smiles to appear on the cover of a future issue of Kauai Family Magazine! the cover of a future issue of Kauai Family Magazine!

DEADLINE: DEADLINE: November November 15, 15, 2026 2026 (Online entries must be received by 11: 59 p.m. on this date) (Online entries must be received by 11: 59 p.m. on this date)

Contest open to all Kauai County residents.

Contest open to all Kauai County residents.

Visit our website to enter contest online beginning August 15th.

Visit our website to enter contest online beginning August 15th.

A $10 registration fee per entry must accompany a recent high quality photo.

A $10 registration fee per entry must accompany a recent high quality photo.

Submitted photos of 20 finalists will be displayed on our website at Submitted photos of 20 finalists will be displayed on our website at www.KauaiFamilyMagazine.com www.KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Questions? Email: info@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Questions? Email: info@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Visit our website for complete rules and more information.

Visit our website for complete rules and more information.

Enter Enter online online at at www.KauaiFamilyMagazine.com www.KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

They’ve always been there for your ‘ohana.

Let us help you be there for them.

SKILLED NURSING · REHAB · LONG-TERM CARE CARE MANAGEMENT · ADULT DAY HEALTH HOME HEALTH SERVICES

ohanapacific.com/kauai 24

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

kupuna Compassionate care that honors every kūpuna

HAWAI‘I HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION

K A U A‘ I R E G I O N E Pono Mau Loa ~ Always Excellent

Fall 2026

25

Protecting Your Mind and Body Michael Landon Smith, MD Internal Medicine HHSC Kaua‘i Region LTC Medical Director

As a physician caring for patients requiring assistance in activities of daily living I see how declining health, both cognitive and physical, lead to loss of independence.

Cognitive and physical health inevitably decline as we age, but simple lifestyle choices can reduce dementia and slow physical decline. With simple habits, our elders can stay engaged, independent, and full of aloha for years to come.

1. Prioritize restorative sleep Aim for 7–9 hours nightly. Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time.

Make your sleeping space dark, cool, and quiet; avoid TV / phone screens, caffeine after noon, heavy meals and alcohol near bedtime. If sleep issues persist, speak to your doctor— conditions like Obstructive Sleep Apnea, anxiety, and depression can cause insomnia and affect cognition.

26

2. Exercise your memory daily “Use it or lose it” is real.

Engage your mind and body with purposeful activities: solve crosswords or Sudoku, learn a new skill (ukulele, lei making or hula), memorize grocery lists then recall them, or play card games with family. Hanafuda is an easy and fun card game and can be found at Kōkeʻe Lodge.

Neighborhood community centers offer free group exercise classes that improve flexibility, balance, and strength - and the social connection boosts cognition further.

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

3. Maintain your senses Untreated vision or hearing loss accelerates cognitive decline by limiting brain stimulation leading to brain atrophy (shrinkage). Studies show dual sensory impairment (both hearing and vision problems) can double or triple the odds of dementia compared to those with healthy senses. Regular checkups catch subtle declines early—many are treatable with glasses, cataract surgery, or hearing aids—helping keep the brain active.

Resources like Project Vision Hawaiʻi and your primary care provider or COK Agency on Elderly Affairs can connect you to affordable hearing and eye services.

Follow the six pillars of brain health: These habits protect vascular health, reduce inflammation, and build cognitive and physical reserve.

1. Physical exercise: 30 minutes

of moderate daily activity plus strength and balance training like yoga or Tai Chi. 2. Exercise the brain: play puzzles and games.

3. Nutrition: Eat-heart and brain-

smart, plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and whole grains; limit processed foods, sugar, and salt.

4. Stay socially connected: chat

with neighbors, join senior centers and community events.

5. Manage stress through nature walks, meditation/prayer and ‘ohana time.

6. Sleep 7+ hours a day, avoid

screen time at night, heavy meals and alcohol before bed.

Know the Early Signs of Cognitive Change.

Normal aging may mean occasionally forgetting a name but warning signs that warrant a more thorough evaluation may include: • Memory loss disrupting daily life (repeating questions, forgetting recent events).

• Difficulty planning or solving problems (trouble with bills or recipes).

• Confusion with time or place.

• New trouble finding words or following conversations.

• Withdrawal from hobbies or social activities.

• Changes in mood, judgment, or personality.

Early detection allows treatments that can preserve independence. Don’t wait— discuss your concerns at your next medical visit.

Start with small changes— better sleep tonight, a puzzle and exercise tomorrow. A healthy mind keeps our Kupuna telling stories, sharing wisdom, and living joyfully.

Fall 2026

27

Your Your Voice Voice Matters Matters For Kaua‘i Kūpuna For Kaua‘i Kūpuna

Help Help shape shape thethe future future of services of services forfor older older adults, adults, caregivers, caregivers, andand community. community.

The The of of Agency Agency on on Affairs Affairs is is The County County The County County of Kaua‘i Kaua‘i of Kaua‘i Kaua‘i Agency Agency on Elderly Elderly on Elderly Elderly Affairs Affairs is developing developing is developing developing our next our next Area Plan Plan for This This plan our next our 4-year 4-year next 4-year 4-year Area Area Area Plan for for Plan2027-2031.

2027-2031. for 2027-2031.

2027-2031.

This plan plan This guides guides plan guides guides services, services, funding funding priorities, priorities, and supports and supports for older for older adults, adults, services, services, funding funding priorities, priorities, and supports and supports for older for older adults, adults, caregivers, caregivers, and families and families across across our island. our island. caregivers, caregivers, and families and families across across our island. our island.

These short surveys surveys are are part a of effort in TheseThese These shortshort short surveys surveys are part part are of of part a statewide statewide of a a statewide statewide efforteffort effort in in in partnership partnership with the the withState State the State State of Hawai‘i Hawai‘i of Hawai‘i Hawai‘i Executive Executive Office Office on Aging.

Aging. on Aging.

Aging. partnership partnership with with the of of Executive Executive Office Office on on Your Your Your responses responses will help help will inform inform help inform inform local local local planning planning Your responses responses will will help local planning planning and and improvements. improvements. and future future and future future improvements. improvements.

We We you you participate to and and your voice heard. heard.

We encourage encourage We encourage encourage you to to you participate to participate participate and make make and make make your your your voicevoice voice heard. heard.

Get started Get started by scanning by scanning the QR the codes QR codes below. below.

Get started Get started by scanning by scanning the QR thecodes QR codes below. below.

Caregiver/Kupuna Caregiver/Kupuna Survey Survey

28

Provider Provider Survey Survey

Mahalo Mahalo for for Kaua‘i’s Kaua‘i’s aging community, community, Mahalo Mahalo for supporting supporting for supporting supporting Kaua‘i’s Kaua‘i’s agingaging aging community, community, your your your inputinput input trulytruly truly makes makes a difference. difference. a difference. difference. your input truly makes makes a a County County of of Agency Agency on on Affairs Affairs County County of Kaua‘i Kaua‘i of Kaua‘i Kaua‘i Agency Agency on Elderly Elderly on Elderly Elderly Affairs Affairs 808-241-4470 808-241-4470 | elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov | elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov | kauaiadrc.org | 808-241-4470 808-241-4470 | elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov | elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov | kauaiadrc.org | kauaiadrc.org kauaiadrc.org Fall 2026 Fall 2026 15 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

15

Your HHSC Kaua‘i Region Pull-Out Resource Bringing Independence to Living and Quality to Life.

Guide The new kauai.hhsc.org website

Regency Puakea W W W. R E G E N C Y- PA C I F I C . C O M

* Independent Living Discover HHSC Kaua‘i*Region Assisted Living * Memory Care Explore. Learn. Connect. * Respite 2 1 3 0 K A N E K A S T. , L IĪ H U E ʻ E, , HHI I 9966776666 PH: 808-246-4449, PH: 808-245-7158

YourOngoing Health:

Senior Programs event a Fall Classes and activities are scheduled

at community centers older adult is seenneighborhood in throughout the island. for a fall-related injury.

Some of the classes available include: Stay safe with these tips!hula, bonsai, art, aquatics, ‘ukulele, cultural dances, exercise, hanafuda,

weaving, quilting, line dance, sewing, exercise program. crafts, and gth, and flexibility. painting. ibility.

If you are interested in joining gncy for on Aging for a senior program, contact the ke a friend. u like and take a friend.

Neighborhood Center closest to you.

Kekaha

NC

Kōloa Līhuʻe Kapa‘a edications tions Kīlauea t macist.

NC NC NC NC

Waimea NC provider. der Kaumakani NC ur ling.risk of falling.

Hanapēpē NC falls. Kalāheo NC

337-1671 338-1122 335-5770 335-3731 332-9770 742-1313 241-6857 822-1931 828-1421

ty increasing your risk 5as 5 prescribed. www.kauaifamilymagazine.com only as 1 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Summer 2026 Fall 2026

39 29

Preparing for a Home Loan:

Q&A

with Leah Ragsac & Lisa Ledesma

With Leah Ragsac, Kaua'i Realty Leah@LeahRagsac.com

One of the first steps toward homeownership is understanding the financing process. To help answer some common questions, I spoke with Lisa Ledesma, a trusted lending professional and valued partner in the real estate industry.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lisa for many years, helping clients successfully achieve their homeownership goals.

Q: When should a buyer speak with a lender?

Lisa: As early as possible. Meeting with

a lender before you start house hunting helps you understand your budget, identify any financial improvements needed, and create a plan for success.

Got Real Estate Questions?

CONTACT YOUR HOME GIRLS!

Choose an experienced professional who cares for you and our island.

LEAH RAGSAC RB-24509 808-212-4086 TAYLOR NISHEK RS-84781 808-635-3449 Leah@LeahRagsac.com www.LeahRagsac.com

Q: What documents should buyers prepare?

Lisa: Most lenders will request recent pay

stubs, tax returns and bank statements.

Having these documents organized can help make the pre-approval process smoother and faster.

Q: How much do I need for a down payment?

Lisa: The amount needed for a down

payment varies depending on the loan program and your financial situation.

Many buyers are surprised to learn that some loan options require much less than the traditional 20% down. The best way to determine what’s right for you is to speak with a lender who can review your goals and available loan programs.

Q: What is the best advice you can give buyers preparing for a loan?

Lisa: Stay financially consistent. Pay bills

on time, avoid opening new credit accounts, keep funds in your bank accounts when possible, and communicate openly with your lender throughout the process.

Thank you, Lisa, for sharing your expertise.

Preparing for a mortgage doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead and

working with experienced professionals, buyers can move forward with confidence and be better prepared when the right home comes along.

30

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Recycle on Kaua'i Sponsored by the County of Kaua'i Programs shown here are for residents only, except where noted.

CORRUGATED CARDBOARD

STEEL & TIN CANS

ALUMINUM CANS, FOIL, PIE/FOOD PANS

PLASTIC 1 & 2 BOTTLES AND JARS ONLY NO CLAMSHELLS OR FOOD TRAYS

MIXED PAPER: JUNK MAIL, MAGAZINES, PAPERBACK BOOKS, FOOD/SODA BOXES, NEWSPAPER, PAPER BAGS & ENVELOPES

(flatten cardboard)

GLASS BOTTLES & JARS

Recycling Bin Locations

Transfer Station HANAPĒPĒ Refuse 4380 Lele Road HANALEI KAPA‘A KEKAHA KĪLAUEA

Hanalei Transfer Station Hours: 5-3751 Kūhi‘ō Highway 7:15am-3:15pm Kapa‘a near the football field 4900 Kahau Road Kekaha Landfill 6900-D Kaumuali’i Highway Hours: 8am-12pm /12:30pm-4pm Kaua’i Community Recycling Services* Open Tuesday & Friday 5-2723 Kūhi‘ō Hwy 8 am–4 pm ONLY

By Kaua‘i Mini Golf

LĀWA‘I

Lāwa‘i behind 7-11 2-3675 Kaumuali’i Highway

LĪHU‘E

Līhu’e in back of Target 4303 Nāwiliwili Road

PO‘IPŪ

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler 2100 Hoone Road

Canyon Park WAIMEA Waimea 4643 Waimea Canyon

Commercially generated items accepted

*

Recycle Batteries free of charge Kaua’i Resource Center, 3460 Ahukini Road.

Monday – Friday 7:45 am-4 pm.

9-volts can pose a fire hazard.

Place electrical tape on terminals prior to recycling.

Please sort batteries into the appropriate barrel.

Compost at Home Call for a free compost bin, 241-4841 FRUIT & VEGETABLE SCRAPS, EGGSHELLS, COFFEE GROUNDS, CARDBOARD, LEAVES, SHREDDED PAPER, YARD WASTE

Alkaline

NiCad

Lithium

(4 lb. limit)

More recycling programs available - see website www.kauai.gov/recycling or call (808) 241-4841 Summer 2026 31 Summer 2026 496 Fall 2026

IS KAUAʻI READY? Households should have a 14-day supply of nonperishable food, water, and medication!

82%

13% have

are aware

HURRICANE EVACUATION PLANS Category 1

Category 2

Category 3

Category 4

Category 5

Shelter in place

74%

63%

46%

40%

33%

Shelter with friends/family

14%

16%

19%

18%

18%

Seek public shelter

7%

13%

25%

28%

30%

Household Evacuation Plans

As the category of storm increases, more Kauai families plan to evacuate to a public shelter.

Most households did not identify any barriers to evacuation, however 19% have concerns about leaving pets behind.

Kapaʻa High

Waimea Canyon Middle

Pet friendly shelters:

Kauaʻi High Kauaʻi Humane Society [pets only]

Waimea High ʻEleʻele Elementary

Kapaʻa Middle

Kalāheo Elementary

For information on pet sheltering, including the supplies you should bring with you, and to view which shelters have been opened on Kauaʻi in response to a local emergency, please visit: KEMAʻs Shelter Page.

This information was collected through a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER) survey in June 2024. To view Kauai CASPER data, please visit health.hawaii.gov/kauai/casper.

32

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

UPDATE!

We’ve launched a new Everbridge alert system.

To keep receiving water outage alerts, DOW customers must re-register if signed up before May 1, 2026.

Scan the QR code with a cellular phone to check your status, or visit: kauai.gov/kema

CHECK STATUS OR

DOW Alert 12 p.m. May 1 FR: Dept of Water Emergency water service shutdown on Pua Loke Street, for approximately 2 hours

RE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR ASSISTANCE, CALL 808-245-5455 Fall 2026

33

By Monty Downs, M.D. Medical Director, Kaua’i Hospice

The Greatest Love of All

This will be a very non-academic conversation about the greatest people on our planet, namely CAREGIVERS. You can have all the billionaires and industrial giants and politicos and movie stars. In my book, I’ll take caregivers.

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www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

There are shelves of books about caregivers and caregiving. A book called The 36 Hour Day, by Mace & Rabin has a catchy title that sums up what can be involved with caregiving.

Other than mentioning that title I won’t be referring to any books and will just be laying out some of my thoughts and observations.

It’s only fairly recently that I’ve gained an IN THE appreciation for caregivers.

HOME

SETTING

The vast majority of my career was as an ER doctor and although I interacted with the caregivers of the patients that I’d see there, I had very little idea of what took place 24/7 in the home setting. My current work with Kaua‘i Hospice is home-based and I now get to go to peoples’ homes and see what it really takes.

I’ll loosely define caregivers as people who take care of people who are unable to take care of their own day to day “activities of daily living.” This can include getting food, preparing food, eating food (i.e. needing to be spoonfed), getting to the bathroom, maybe being incontinent, being able to keep themselves clean, handling their affairs.

Maybe even being able to recognize their own family members.

Caregivers come in all shapes and sizes: Husbands, wives, grandparents, parents, children, nieces, nephews, significant others, dear friends. And then there are paid caregivers.

Parents, typically but not necessarily mothers, are the most obvious example of caregivers, since human babies require several years of support before they can go for it alone. (Some animals like horses have to run with the herd within hours or even minutes of being born).

Some caregivers are “naturals” and are somehow born being nurturing and comforting and diligent and gentle. Some have to learn the ropes, so to speak, either from other caregivers or from educational materials of one kind or another or from experience. (I love that saying: “Good decisions come from experience. Experience comes from bad decisions”). Some caregivers feel that circumstances have forced them into it and they resent having to discontinue their own previous enjoyments in order to be a caregiver, and they can be impatient and even unkind and hurtful.

Fall 2026

35

THE PEOPLE WHO ARE BEING CARED FOR

also come in a host of very different shapes and sizes.

Some people need round-the clock caregiving for years and years, maybe even from birth.

Some people just require caregiving during an acute illness or during a recuperation period after an illness or a surgery. (Under this scenario ER and hospital staff can be considered caregivers – and hopefully they give honor to that word, along with the more technical parts of their work).

Some people require caregiving support just a couple or a few hours/day.

36

www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Through it all, caregivers keep at it. Love has to be more than an emotion, it has to be an action, and there’s that song

Some require that the caregiver be at their bedside 24/7 – or else they might get agitated and fall out of bed and break a bone.

Some people have a condition which is progressive and which requires ever-increasing caregiving attention and effort – and this progression might be quite rapid, or as with dementia conditions, might be “glacial” over a period of years.

Some people accept their care with gratitude and appreciation.

Some are bitter about the decline which has led to their dependent state and they take it out on their caregivers, sometimes even physically with hitting and scratching and biting – in which case sedating medications may be in order.

“When I get to witness caregiving at its best, or even near its best, I bow my head in respect and gratitude.”

And when I think I may have participated in it, even if only for a few minutes or a couple of hours, I myself feel deeply grateful and worthwhile.

Every day we see people in the news for great achievements of one kind or another, but, helping one person be safe, happy, and at peace, is...

The Greatest Love of All. Fall 2026

37

Addiction and the Power of ‘Ohana

By Douglas R. Mailman, MD Addiction Medicine HHSC Kaua‘i Region Clinics Phone: 808-241-5799

Healing Our Island Together

Yet, the most significant barrier to healing isn’t a lack of medicine— it’s the weight of stigma.

Stigma is the “shame” that keeps families suffering in silence behind closed doors, afraid of what the community might think.

But recovery is a community imperative. Just as we come together to clear a blocked stream or help a neighbor after a storm, we must cultivate an environment where asking for help is met with aloha rather than judgment.

On Kaua‘i, we know that when the tide changes, every boat in the harbor feels it. Our community is built on the strength of our “‘Ohana” and the interconnectedness of our neighborhoods — from the North Shore to the West Side. But there is a silent tide that has been pulling at our families for too long: Healing the disease of addiction.

As a physician in addiction medicine, I see every day that substance use is never just an individual struggle.

It is a family and community disease. When one of our neighbors is caught in the current of addiction, the ripple effects touch parents, children, and friends.

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happens when we move from “What is wrong with you?” to “How can we support you?

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Healing happens when we move from “What is wrong with you?” to “How can we support you?” Recovery flourishes in the light of community connection. When we replace isolation with inclusion, we don’t just help one person; we strengthen the entire fabric of Kaua‘i.

Let’s make our island a place where recovery is celebrated and no family feels they have to paddle alone. By showing up for one another with compassion and understanding, we ensure that every member of our community has the chance to find their way back to shore. We are all part of the same reef—when it is healthy, we all thrive.

Fall2026 2026 Fall

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UA‘I REGI ON SC KA HH

3RD ANNUAL • SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 KVMH Campus • Waimea, Kaua‘i

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!!

Kaua‘i Healthy Fall Living Celebration 3RD Annual • Saturday, September 19, 2026 KVMH Campus • Waimea, Kaua‘i More details on our website

Entry is FREE and open to everyone!

MELE APANA Join us as legendary Hawai‘i radio and television personality Mele Apana joins us again and takes the stage as our emcee, bringing her signature energy, aloha, and decades of entertainment experience to our HEALTHY LIVING event.

35+ Healthy Living Vendors and HHSC Kaua‘i Region Health Teams Get Health Tips From a Doctor Passport to Healthy Living Family Fun

Food Lucky Drawing Free Giveaways Entertainment By:

Cruz Control Duo

A Community Celebration for the entire family!

Giving Back to the Community That Trusts Us With Their Care.

Come Learn, Connect, Ask Questions, and Be Inspired to Live Your Healthiest Life!

Fall 2026

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e a k a T Go

e e a a k k a a T T GGoo

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Kōke‘e State Park: Nature Loop Trail

0.6 miles (loop) Kōke‘e Kōke‘e State State Park: Park: Highlights: This short and Nature NatureLoop Loop Trail Trail scenic trail is ideal for 0.6 miles miles (loop) (loop) families0.6 with young children.

The path meanders through Highlights: Highlights: This This short short and and native Hawaiian forest scenic scenic trail trail is is ideal ideal forfor and offers glimpses of the families families with with young young children. childre island’s unique flora and The The path path meanders meanders through fauna. It’s a great way to throug native native Hawaiian Hawaiian forest forest introduce kids to Kaua‘i’s and and offers offers glimpses glimpses the the lush landscapes withoutofof aisland’s strenuous climb.

Start at island’s unique unique flora flora and and the Kōke‘e Visitors Center fauna. fauna.

It’sIt’s a great a great way way toto behind the Lodge. introduce introduce kids kids toto Kaua‘i’s Kaua‘i’s Tips: Bring binoculars lush lush landscapes landscapes without without to spot native birds like a strenuous a strenuous climb. climb.

Start Start at at the ‘apapane or ‘i‘iwi.

the the Kōke‘e Kōke‘e Visitors Visitors Center Center behind behind the the Lodge.

Lodge.

Tips: Tips: Bring Bring binoculars binoculars Easy Easy to Moderate toto spot spot native native birds birds like like the the ‘apapane ‘apapane or or ‘i‘iwi. ‘i‘iwi. www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Maha‘ulepu Heritage Trail

4 miles (round trip) Highlights: Located on the sunny south shore, this coastal trail offers stunning views of limestone cliffs, tide pools, and hidden beaches.

The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for beginners, while the dramatic scenery keeps it exciting for all ages.

Tips: Wear sturdy shoes, as parts of the trail can be rocky, and there’s little shade.

Kuilau Ridge Trail

2 miles (one way) Highlights: This trail offers a gentle ascent through lush rainforest with sweeping views of the Wailua Valley. The wide, well-maintained path is perfect for families, and the picnic area at the halfway point makes for a great snack break.

Tips: The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear shoes that are good for traction.

Tips for Beginners

Plan. Check the weather and trail conditions before heading out. Kaua‘i’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for sun and rain.

Pack essentials. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a first-aid kit, and a cell phone.

Dress comfortably. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Stay safe. Stick to marked trails and supervise children, especially near cliffs or water.

Sleeping Giant (Nounou) East Trail

1.8 miles (one way) Highlights: This popular trail on the island’s east side leads to a scenic lookout with panoramic views of the coastline and valleys. The gentle switchbacks make it manageable for beginners, though the final stretch may be steep for younger kids.

Tips: Start early to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water.

Wai Koa Loop Trail

4.5 miles (loop) Highlights: Nestled in the north shore’s lush landscapes, this leisurely hike takes you through a working farm, past a serene mahogany forest, to the historic Stone Dam. Lots of photo opps.

Tips: Check for trail access permissions and guidelines, as this is located on private property.

Ke Ala Hele Makālae

(The Path That Goes by the Coast) Up to 8 miles (paved path) Highlights: This coastal path is perfect for families with strollers or those looking for a relaxed walk. Stretching along Kaua‘i’s eastern shore, it offers breathtaking views, beach access, and picnic spots.

Tips: Bring bikes, scooters, and helmets!

Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge Trail

1 mile (round trip) Highlights: A peaceful walk surrounded by the stunning Hanalei Valley provides opportunities to see native birds and learn about Kaua‘i’s wetlands.

Tips: Respect wildlife: stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.

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Kaua'ii Christian Academy www.KCAschool.org

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Fall 2026

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Guiding from a Distance:

Why Lighthouse Parenting is the

Balance Modern Parents Need In a world where parenting advice often oscillates between two extremes—hovering over every minor setback or completely stepping back—a middle ground has emerged that offers a healthier path for both parents and children.

ο Highest Potential Standards: Lighthouse parents hold high expectations for their children’s character, effort, and moral behavior. However, they do not demand perfection in performance (like straight A’s or trophies).

Coined by pediatrician Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, lighthouse parenting offers a powerful metaphor for raising resilient, independent kids.

ο Protection from Injury, Not Failure: This is the crucial distinction. A lighthouse warns a ship away from a catastrophic crash against the rocks, but it does not calm the choppy waters. Parents intervene to prevent real harm, but they allow children to experience the natural consequences of minor mistakes.

A lighthouse parent does not track a child’s every move, nor do they let them drift aimlessly into dangerous waters. Instead, they stand stable on the shoreline, shining a bright, consistent light to help their children navigate the rocks of life while allowing them to steer their own ships.

The Core Principles of the Lighthouse Model To understand how this approach works in practice, it helps to look at the three foundational pillars that define a lighthouse parent: ο Unconditional Love and Stability: The lighthouse itself is immovable.

No matter how fierce the storm or how rough the waves, the parent remains a stable, predictable force of security and love.

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Lighthouse vs. Helicopter vs. Free-Range

It is easiest to understand the lighthouse model by contrasting it with other familiar parenting styles: PARENTING STYLE

THE APPROACH TO CHALLENGES

Helicopter Parenting

Micromanages, hovers, and removes obstacles before the child encounters them.

Can lead to high anxiety, low self-esteem, and a lack of problem-solving skills.

Free-Range Parenting

Emphasizes extreme independence, letting kids explore with minimal supervision.

Fosters self-reliance, but can sometimes lack necessary boundaries or guidance.

Lighthouse Parenting

Blends high responsiveness with high demandingness; guides from a safe distance.

Builds resilience, critical thinking, and a strong sense of personal security.

Why Letting Kids Fail Builds True Resilience When a parent acts as a helicopter, swooping in to deliver a forgotten homework assignment or resolving a minor playground dispute, they send an unintended message: “You can’t handle this on your own.”

Over time, this erodes a child’s selfefficacy—their belief in their own ability to succeed.

Lighthouse parenting flips this script. By letting a child fail a quiz because they chose not to study, or experience the disappointment of not making a team, the parent allows the child to develop emotional calluses. The child learns that failure is not a permanent state, but a data point for next time.

Crucially, when the child looks back at the shore after a setback, the lighthouse is still shining. The parent is there to offer empathy, a listening ear, and a safe place to debrief— not to fix the problem, but to help the child figure out how to fix it themselves.

THE ULTIMATE OUTCOME

How to Implement the Lighthouse Approach Today Transitioning to this style requires a conscious shift in how you respond to your child’s daily life.

The Golden Rule: Connect before you direct. When your child faces a problem, resist the urge to give instructions immediately.

First, listen and validate their feelings.

Instead of saying, “Here is what you need to do to fix this,” a lighthouse parent asks open-ended questions: “That sounds really frustrating.

What do you think your next step should be?”

By shifting from a fixer to a guide, you hand the steering wheel back to your child, giving them the confidence to navigate whatever rough seas lie ahead.

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PLAY. CONNECT. GROW. TOGETHER Family Hui Hawaii and Nā Keiki Kollective are joining forces to expand opportunities for families across Kaua‘i.

Through Family Hui Hawaii's family support programs and The Play Hale's innovative indoor play and wellness space, families can access trusted resources, meaningful connections, and enriching experiences that support both children and caregivers. Together, we are building stronger families and more connected communities.

FAMILY SUPPORT - Parenting resources - Pregnancy & parent groups - Community connections

UPCOMING FAMILY EVENTS

at The Play Hale @theplayhale

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DEVELOPMENTAL PLAY - Safe indoor play - Imaginative exploration - Child development

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Find events, workshops, & family resources!

Text or Call: 808-320-3023

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PRESCHOOL TEACHER / DIRECTOR

Location: Lāhainā & Kauaʻi If you love working with keiki, supporting families, and making a difference in your community, we would love to hear from you.

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INTERESTED? REQUEST AN APPLICATION AND SEND YOUR RESUME TO HR@KOKA.ORG

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Keiki O Ka ʻĀina Infant Toddler Centers (ITC) NEW INFANT TODDLER CENTER OPENING ON KAUAʻI!

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Fall 2026

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and Child’s First Phone: Pros Cons of Smartphones Are They Ready? for Children

D

eciding when to give your child their first phone can be a source of anxiety.

Smartphones, in particular, offer a portal to the internet, apps and social media. You may not feel your child is ready for that much access to the digital world. Yet, you may want to get your child a device for the basics: a way to contact you when they’re traveling between school, after-school activities or different households.

First, consider other options.

Flip phones or smart watches allow communication without all the digital baggage.

having a phone. Some teens have actually said they regret getting a smartphone so early. These kids didn’t realize they would have so many new distractions or social drama in their lives.

What are your child’s unique strengths and challenges that might make having a phone more difficult? Does your child have a strong sense of responsibility, or do they tend to act before thinking? This becomes important to consider once they have access to the internet, texting and social media apps where they can easily say or post things they may regret.

Talk with your child about online safety and good digital citizenship. Decide on some benchmarks that would show It’s natural for kids and teens to want they are being safe, smart and kind while a phone because “everyone else has one.” However, they may not be ready using their new technology. (For example, did they get in any online arguments for problems that can come with this week? Did they check their phone during class?)

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Social connection is the biggest driver for having a phone in the tween and teen years. However, if you don’t think your child is ready for a smartphone, help them connect with friends in other ways.

In addition to making sure they have in-person social opportunities like clubs or sports, you could enable video chat and text messaging on an iPad or tablet. Or, you could allow video gaming with friends on a shared server or safe multiplayer game with an “invitation only” privacy setting.

Do you have a regular way to check in with them about how life is going (including their digital life)? When kids get a smartphone, they have easier access to a whole new world of information on the internet, apps and social media. Because the digital world isn’t always designed with young users in mind, though, your child or teen needs you to act as a mentor. In this role, you can help them have positive experiences online and unpack the negative experiences.

If you don’t have a regular time when you can talk with your child, like during car rides or meal times, try making a new routine. You might set aside a night each week when you cook a meal together, for example, or block out time for a shared workout.

If you and your child decide that they are not ready for a phone, that’s OK too. Have an ongoing conversation about your child’s relationship with technology. Continue to explore what kind of non-smartphone tech products are available that meet their social and communication needs.

If you decide to get a phone for your child, know the features available to support safe and positive media use.

These include parental controls, settings, filters, timers and other digital wellness tools. Set these up together with your child and explain the reasons behind the limits.

Treat getting a phone like an experiment. As your child shows more responsibility, they could gain more independence and fewer controls.

Finally, create a family media use plan and model healthy phone habits.

If you look at your phone while driving or during meals, they are likely to do the same. If you can balance your media use with screen-free activities, they will find it easier to do the same.

It’s also important to stay informed about what’s going on with digital media. Have your child show you what games or apps they like, and read up on them when you have a minute.

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Preventing Food Allergies

By Dr. Erika Noel Kaua‘i Medical Clinic Pediatrician

Food allergies are never fun, especially for parents who have to worry about their little one during snack times with friends or children’s birthday parties.

What if you could prevent allergies altogether? Doctors say it may be possible. The key is actually to have babies try these foods early and often.

Dr. Erika Noel, Kaua‘i Medical Clinic pediatrician, says the American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) has been suggesting this to parents since 2017. That’s just after a landmark study showed that a group of children who were introduced to peanuts regularly between the ages of 4 and 11 months old were 80% less likely to develop a peanut allergy by the time they turned 5.

Visit WilcoxHealth.org to learn more.

“Many parents are still surprised when I share this new data,” Dr. Noel says. “But early introduction to common allergens can make a big difference.”

Dr. Noel says most babies are ready to start solid foods between 4 and 6 months of age. If they can sit with support, hold their head up and show interest in food, parents may begin trying pureed fruit, vegetables and iron-rich cereals.

Then, Dr. Noel says talk with your doctor about the best way to introduce tiny amounts of more allergenic foods, including eggs, milk, soy wheat or peanuts.

“Early introduction to common allergens can make a big difference.”

“You might mix a small amount of smooth peanut butter with breast milk or formula,” she says. Avoid thick peanut butter or nuts as those are choking hazards. “Once you try a new food, wait a few days before trying another so that if there is a reaction, you’ll know which food caused it.”

If your child has any reaction, such as hives, or if you have any questions or concerns, call your doctor.

“It’s important to have close communication with your pediatrician,” Dr. Noel says.

“We are here to help.”

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Tips for a Healthy A+ Smile Your kids’ oral health is important to their academic success. Add these dental health tips to your back-to-school checklist to help them have a fantastic school year: Take your child to the dentist for routine exams and cleanings.

Choose healthy snacks like celery sticks, baby carrots and cheese cubes over candy and salty snacks.

Establish a routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

Make brushing and flossing fun with music, themed toothbrushes and kid-friendly floss holders.

For more smile tips, visit HawaiiDentalService.com.

Fall 2026

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Building Bridges: Communicate and Connect with Your Child’s Teacher

BY JANEEN LEWIS

Do you feel intimidated when you think of talking with your child’s teacher? If your child complains about problems with his or her teacher ... what do you do then?

Meet and greet the teacher.

Teachers like to meet parents at the beginning of the school year so that if a problem does occur, a teacher’s first encounter with a parent isn’t a call about misbehavior or academic struggles. If your school hosts a Backto-School Night in the days before school starts, make it a priority to attend. Introduce yourself and show your support for the teacher. There will probably be several parents waiting to meet the teacher, so you may not be able to have a lengthy discussion, but making this initial contact helps break the ice.

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Be involved.

One of the best ways to get to know your child’s teacher is to be involved in the school and classroom. When school starts, let the teacher know if you can volunteer. Because the beginning of school is a busy time for teachers, wait the first couple of weeks until the class is settled in, and then contact the teacher and ask “How can I help?”

If you can’t volunteer during the day, offer to organize donations or supplies for projects or parties by setting up a parent sign-up list online.

Ask if you can cut out items the teacher has laminated or track down supplies for a lesson. Come to afterschool events, school productions and parent-teacher conferences so that you are visible and can touch bases with your child’s teacher.

If your career is related to something your child’s class is studying, offer to come in and answer questions.

Many employers build in time for employees to volunteer in schools so they don’t have to take time off.

teacher while you gather information about what happened. Try to help your child see the teacher’s point of view, and discuss how people can have differences and still work together to succeed.

Keep communication lines open.

Advocate for your child.

Teachers welcome questions and concerns that are proactive. As a teacher, I would much rather know about a problem early so that I can deal with it in the best way for all concerned. Your child’s teacher should be open to your questions and suggestions, so don’t be intimidated to ask.

Keep up with written teacher notes, field trip permission slips, report cards and any other written communications the teacher sends home. Sending a quick response to the teacher’s requests makes the teacher’s job easier.

Keep communications positive.

If you have concerns or think the teacher has dealt unfairly with your child, don’t dash off a negative note and send it first thing in the morning.

For sensitive conversations, call and set up a time to meet after school.

Of course, encouraging notes brighten a teacher’s day!

Try to understand both sides.

Teachers have a lot to manage in their classrooms, and with twentyfive or more students to supervise, sometimes they make mistakes or don’t see every problem. Your child may think something happened in class that wasn’t fair, and it’s easy as parents to react emotionally and blame the teacher. Support the

Don’t be afraid to speak up if a problem in your child’s class becomes pervasive. If your child’s grades start to slip, they are continually unhappy or you suspect your child is being bullied by a classmate, work with the teacher to devise a plan to help.

Make a change as a last resort.

Sometimes children have personality conflicts with their teachers. This actually offers an opportunity for growth if teachers and students can work together in a respectful and productive manner. After all, this is what children will need to be able to do when they grow up. But if problems persist, it may be time to request a change to another class.

Discussing your options with a school counselor or administrator may help you navigate a tough year.

Remember: teachers are human.

Most of the teachers I know are caring individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of the children they teach. Often, they are parents too, and although it is hard to imagine, at one time they were students who lived through awkward growth spurts, problems with peers, lost homework and braces. They understand what parents and kids are going through, and they want to build a positive connection between school and home, too.

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FLAG BALL PAPER CLIP CAR ROCKET

The Importance of Eye Exams for Backto-School Readiness

SEEINGS! SUCCES

By Punzal Vision, Dr. Joel E. Punzal, OD

As children advance in their education, the demands on their visual abilities increase.

Textbook print sizes decrease and reading and studying time grows, placing more strain on their eyes. Children’s vision can change frequently during school years, so it is important to prioritize scheduling an eye exam with an optometrist as part of your back-to-school routine.

Healthy vision is linked to success in academics and beyond. Vision problems

can impact various aspects of a child’s development, including academics, sports, social interactions, and self-esteem.

Without comprehensive eye exams, many vision issues may go undetected or be misdiagnosed as other conditions. Passing a school screening doesn’t rule out focusing, tracking, or coordination problems.

Fortunately, there is an easy way to ensure your child has good vision and healthy eyes: schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist.

HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!

Fall 2026

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Pi’ikoi Pi’ikoi Youth Youth Center Center

AAnew newhome homefor forKauaʻi's Kauaʻi'syouth youthand andfamilies. families.

Free FreeYouth YouthFitness Fitness Mentorship Mentorship&& Classes Classes Homework HomeworkSupport Support

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Adult Adult Family Family&& Fitness FitnessClasses Classes Community CommunitySupport Support

Building Buildinghealthy healthy communities communitiesthat that support supportthe theyouth youth ofofHawaiʻi.

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Fall 2026

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CHILDREN’S AND TEEN PROGRAMS KAUAʻI PUBLIC LIBRARIES

The Kaua‘i island branches of the Hawai‘i State Public Library System offer a variety of FREE youth programs year-round. Please visit the HSPLS website at librarieshawaii.org for the most current event information.

Līhuʻe (808) 241-3222

Kapaʻa (808) 821-4422

Preschool Storytime (ages 0-5) 2nd Thursday, 10:00 am

Keiki Storytime (ages 2-4) Wednesdays, 10:00 am - 10:30am

Baby & Me Storytime (ages 0-5) 1st Thursday, 9:30am

Family Movie Night (ages 6 & up) 2nd Monday, 4:00 pm Līhuʻe LEGO Club (ages 6-11) 3rd Wednesday, 4:00 pm

Snacks & Stories After School Storytime (ages 6-11) 3rd Thursday, 2:00 pm Keiki Arts & Crafts (ages 6-11) 4th Monday, 4:00 pm

Board Game & Puzzle Fun (all ages) Last Tuesday, 2:00 pm Teen Programs (ages 12-18) 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 3:30 pm

Kōloa (808) 742-8455

Tuesdays, Tunes & Tales Storytime (ages 2-5) Playtime 10:00 am - 10:30 am Storytime10:30 am - 11:00 am

Game Night (all ages) 1st Wednesday, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Legos in the Library (ages 5 & up) 2nd Wednesday, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Hanapēpē (808) 335-8418 Tunes, Tales & Twirls Keiki Story Time (ages 2-5) Tuesdays, 11:00 am

Mokihana Berry Read-Aloud Club (grades K-3) Wednesdays, 3:00 pm

Game & Puzzle Time (all ages) Last Thursdays, 4:00 pm-7:00 pm or Last Fridays, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm after Thursday holidays

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Lego Club (ages 5 & up) 1st Tuesday, 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Movie Night (age 13 & up) 3rd Tuesday, 4:30 pm - 6:30pm

Game Night/Zine Night (ages 10 & up) 4th Tuesday, 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Waimea (808) 338-6848

Keiki Storytime (ages 2-5) Thursdays, 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Playmakers (Gr 6-8) Wednesdays, 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Family Literacy Night (ages 4-8) 3rd Monday, 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm (for ʻohana with keiki—please RSVP) Pokémon Club (ages 5 and up) 4th Friday, 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm

Princeville (808) 826-4310

Check our webpage at: librarieshawaii.org/branch/ princeville-public-library for current programs.

Mahalo

to our Library Friends Groups for sponsoring this program schedule: Friends of the Kaua’i Public Libraries: Hanapēpē, Kapa’a, Kōloa, Līhu‘e, Princeville, & Waimea.

WAI‘I STATE DEPARTMENT ʻI STATE DEPARTMENTHAW HAWAI OF EDUCATION OF EDUCATION HAWAI‘I STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

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child needs help in one or more of these FOR CHILDREN 3 THROUGH 21 areas, you’re not alone. For more details FOR CHILDREN 3 THROUGH 21 FOR CHILDREN 3 THROUGH 21 and assistance, please contact:

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1-800-297-2070

FOR CHILDREN UNDER FOR INDIVIDUALS 22 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER THE AGE OF THREE (3) Call the Hawai‘i State Department of Education at

FOR CHILDREN UNDER Contact the FOR INDIVIDUALS YEARS Hawai‘i State Department 22 of Human Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Services for the Call the Early Intervention THE AGE OF THREE (3) OF AGE OR OLDER 1-800-297-2070 EN UNDER FOR CHILDREN DivisionOF at AGE OR OLDER FOR INDIVIDUALS 22Blind YEARS Referral Line at THREE (3) THE AGE Call the Early Intervention Contact the Hawai‘i State Department of OF TH 808-586-5269 808-594-0066 FOR CHILDREN UNDER Contact the Hawai‘i State Department of Human or FOR INDIVIDUALS 22Vocational YEARS OFRehabilitation, AGE OR OLDER Referral Line at Human Services, or THE AGE OF THREE (3) Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, and of Services for the ntervention Call the Early Int the Hawai‘i Department Health of 1-800-235-5477 Contact theState Hawai‘i State Department Human 808-594-0066 and Services for the Blind Division at Case Management and Information Services Branch at Blind Division at Line at Referral Lin Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Services for the Call the Early Intervention or 808-586-5269 808-733-9172 808-586-5269 Blind Division at -0066 Referral Line at 808-594-0 1-800-235-5477 or 808-594-0066 or 808-586-5269 or TheState Hawai‘i State Department or or ADDITIONAL RESOURCES the Hawai‘i Department of Health of Health 5-5477 1-800-235the Hawai‘i State Department of Health 1-800-235-5477 SPECIAL PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK (SPIN) Case Management and Information Case Management and Information Services Branch at 808-586-8126 Case Management and Information Services Branch at SCAN FOR MORE Services Branch at 808-733-9172 INFORMATION 808-733-9172 808-733-9172

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ADDITIONAL ADDITIONAL RESOURCES RESOURCES SPECIAL PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK (SPIN) SPECIAL PARENT INFORMATION SPECIAL PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK (SPIN) 808-586-8126 (SPIN) NETWORK SCAN FOR MORE SCAN FOR MORE 808-586-8126 SCAN FOR M RS 26-0195, August 2025 (Rev. of RS 25-0339A)

INFORMATION

INFORMATION

808-586-8126

INFORMAT

RS 26-0195, August 2025 (Rev. of RS 25-0339A)

Fall 2026

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RS 26-0195, August 2025 (Rev. of RS 25-0339A)

How to Create a Stress-Free Afterschool Routine

By Sandi Schwartz

We all want to help our children succeed, but do you ever wonder if you’re doing too much or too little?

Are we guiding or pressuring?

Encouraging or interfering? In an effort to avoid causing stress and anxiety, it’s important to create a positive, balanced environment at home so kids know they are supported, but have some independence. If you want to help kids do well in school, here are tips to create stress-free afternoons at home.

Establish a Routine The familiarity of routine provides kids with a sense of security and comfort.

When they come home from school, ease into the transition from school life

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to home life. Ask kids about their day and provide a healthy snack and opportunity to wind down. Consider enriching activities like an art or dance class, mindfulness activities or outdoor play before jumping into homework assignments.

Have a Set Time for Homework Homework can be difficult at the best of times, especially when kids would prefer to play or relax. Having a set time for homework makes it easier to formulate a habit. Be consistent, with the understanding that sometimes life happens and the family has to deviate from the set plan. Be available to help, if needed. Sometimes kids get overwhelmed and anxious about getting answers wrong, when it’s more important to show the teacher that an attempt was made to figure it out.

Provide Access to Resources Providing kids with the right resources encourages them to learn at home.

There is an abundance of educational tools online that can help them brush up on skills and view concepts they learn at school in an interesting way.

Visit your neighborhood library to find books about subjects they are learning in school.

Check Your Attitude As difficult as it may be sometimes, it is important to have a positive, nonpushy attitude towards your children’s learning experiences. You want to inspire and encourage; not pressure and nag. Nagging takes the fun out of it, and induces stress and anxiety.

Use positive language about school, even when kids are struggling with a challenging subject or situation.

Ensure Kids Get Plenty of Sleep Sleep has a significant impact on how well kids do in school. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids ages 3–12 need about 10–12 hours of sleep each night. Make sure they go to bed at a consistent time and have a comfortable sleep environment.

That means shutting down electronics well before bedtime, making sure the bedroom is cool enough, and letting them sleep with their favorite stuffed animal or cozy blanket.

Never Compare Don’t compare your kids to other children, especially siblings. Everyone develops at different rates. Comparison often has a detrimental effect on self-esteem, so be sure to focus on one child’s needs, characteristics and strengths at a time.

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Keiki Teeth Cleaning Tips From Parents Who Care For Teeth For A Living

By Michael Lutwin, DDS Kalāheo Dental Group

Many parents— even dental professionals—struggle to keep their keiki’s teeth clean.

■ To keep your ohana’s smiles healthy,

try tricks of the trade we use on our own kids: Dr. Rita says: “Pick a fun song and brush for two minutes, twice a day with them. Elmo’s ‘Brushy Brush’ is the jam!”.

■ Dr. Lutwin makes hard to floss upper teeth fun with gymnastics: his kids arch backwards over the couch and open wide- when they’re upside down, their top teeth are easier to see and floss.

■ Michelle gamified it with the free “Chomper Chums” app and her kids earn points.

WE

■ Sometimes, it’s just

about persistence. Kelsey feels she’s earned her black belt in jiu-jitsu cleaning her son’s teeth.

Their ‘ohana have tapped out cavities for sure.

OUR PATIENT COMMUNITY!

We're here for you. Dr. Lutwin, Dr. Rita, Dr. Stebbins, and our friendly staff are here to make your ‘ohana’s dental care manageable and comfortable.

Rainbow Plaza 2-2514 Kaumualii Hwy., Suite 204 Kalāheo, HI 96741 kalaheodental.com • (808) 332-9445

Make an appointment today at (808) 332-9445 Payment Options:

Services:

• Most major insurances accepted • Interest-free CareCredit monthly financing • In-office payment plans • No insurance? Our membership plan offers preventative services and 20% off other treatments.

• Family Dentistry • Dental Implants • Teeth Whitening • Invisalign • Porcelain Veneers • Tooth Replacement

We love our community! We support local nonprofits, provide school presentations, and host the annual Halloween Candy Buy Back and Keiki Art Contest.

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Bui Build Leadership Bui Qualities K in in Kids in K

By Sarah Lyons

Whether made is Whether great leaders are Whether born or being optimistic, treating people fairly, that eith made is debatable, but science made tells us is being a good listener and always the worl that either way, the qualities that found in eith doing the right thing.

P ar ents c the world’s best leaders can the be taught. worl their chi Parents can instill and nurture P within ar ents c Set Kids Up for Success. Build

their children leadership their skills. chi confidence by encouraging kids to Childr participate in activities whereen they have leadersh Children who have well-developed Childr en natural strengths and talent. Assist r esponsi leadership skills are confident leadersh and kids with projects just enough to help mak responsible; they are notr afraidesponsi to them succeed,e allowing themm to do the when th make mistakes (and takemak responsibility m majority of thee decision-making and when they do); they learncoping when creative work. Rewarding experiencesth help kids s mise; the coping skills and the art of coping compros become more willing to venture out and prac mise; they have empathymise; for others the of their comfort zone. and practice good decision-making. and prac Her e are Build Communication Skills. leadersh Here are some ways to instill Her these e ar Encourage children to practice active e leadership qualities in your leadersh children. listening, speaking in front of others Model and expressing frustrations in healthy, L mimic w Model Leadership Qualities.

Model Kids L productive ways. Have children order what a g mimic what they see, so demonstrate mimic w their own food at restaurants; what a good leader lookswhat like by a encourage them to approach coachesg

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or teachers when there is a problem; and teach them to ask engaging questions after listening to a friend.

Extracurricular Activities that Build Leadership Skills Team sports Student government Volunteerism Academic teams or clubs Speech and Debate team Orchestra, band, choir, theater Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts

Extracurricular Activities that Build Leadership Skills Team sports Student government Be a Team Player. You may have a Volunteerism child who prefers to work independently, Academic teams or clubs but participating in school projects, ild L e Speech and Debate team ild Le team sports, clubs, choir/band/orchestra Kids Kids Orchestra, band, choir, theater and other situations where a group Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts works together toward a common goal develops invaluable life skil s, like patience and selflessness.

Develop Good Work Habits. Kids Admit Mistakes. Integrity, humility, who have responsibilities at a young empathy and respect are invaluable age are better prepared to assist or characteristics for any individual, young lead others as adults. Assign chores to or old. Encourage these qualities by children as part of your working family or teachers when there is a problem; and teach them to ask engaging questions after listening to a friend.

Be a Team Player. You may have a child who prefers to work independently, but participating in school projects, team sports, clubs, choir/band/orchestra and other situations where a group works together toward a common goal develops invaluable life skills, like patience and selflessness.

Develop Good Work Habits. Kids Admit Mistakes. Integrity, humility, who have responsibilities at a young empathy and respect are invaluable age are better prepared to assist or characteristics for any individual, young lead others as adults. Assign chores to or old. Encourage these qualities by children as part of your working family talking through situations where they unit. Encourage older kids to build were (or were not) used well. Cite your leadership skills and work ethic by own experiences as examples. Ask volunteering or doing part-time jobs your children how they might handle a such as yardwork, pet care or situation differently next time, and why. babysitting.

Praise them when they make good decisions and provide encouragement Teach Time and Project Management. where needed.

When children have large projects to r great leade complete, encourage them to map debatable, r eat leade Valuegr Diversity. Our world is made out a plan for getting it done on time. her way, the q debatable, up of people from many different Set goals and define steps to accomld’ s best lead her way the q backgrounds, experiences and contriplish , smaller parts along the way, rather can instill an ld’ s butions. Help kids learnbest about other than waiting to do itlead all at the last minute. ildr en leader can instill an cultures and abilities (and to place Whether your children are natural leadildr en value in how people can contribute) by leader ers or great teammates, it’s important — n who have w practicing this as a family. Differences for you and them — to understand hip skills ar e n— andwho have appreciating them in others — that they will not always be in charge. w ible; they ar hip skills ar ee make stronger teams.

Kids can learn to mistak es (and ible; they ar e stand up for peers who are singled out Good leaders lead by example and hey do); they mistak es (and or viewed as different from others. build up and encourage others — even skills and the hey do); they when they are not actually in charge of ey have emp skills the Ask for Help. Knowing when to and a group — by giving and commanding ctice good d ey emp problem solve andhave when to ask for respect; being willing to listen and ctice good help or guidance is a skill that many compromise; knowing how to negotiated e some ways adults are still learning. It’s almost to reach shared goals; and treating hip qualities ealways some best to start with trying to work everyoneways equally and fairly. By using hip qualities through issues, but teach kids it’s OK the qualities described here in their Leadership Q to ask for help, if needed. It’s also everyday lives, your children can have what they see Limportant eadership Q to offer help (or a listening the qualities found in the world’s best good leader what they see ear) to peers. Lead by example and leaders, which will serve them well good leader be encouraging and helpful. throughout life.

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Painting Paradise is open!

Marionette is delighted to be back teaching art at Painting Paradise, once again filling her art studio with color, creativity, and community. She offers a full spectrum of art experiences — classes, workshops, private painting parties, paint‑and‑sip evenings, private lessons, special events, and more. Whether you’re a curious beginner, a seasoned artist, or simply looking for a joyful creative escape, her sessions are designed to be welcoming, inspiring, and fun for keiki to kūpuna.

Painting Paradise is truly alive again with imagination, laughter, and the magic of making art together.

Keala Foundation

Painting Paradise is located in the Puhi Industrial Center

1824 Haleukana St., Līhu‘e 808-631-9173 artbymarionette@yahoo.com

https://kauaiartclasses.blogspot.com/

See you there!

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8

SECRETS OF HAPPY FAMILIES

By Christa Melnyk Hines

Happiness can vary depending on personal circumstances, of course.

But why does it seem like some families are happier and more resilient, despite the obstacles life throws at them? Here we explore eight secrets of happy families.

1. They hang out together.

Happy families have a strong sense of connection. Real connection can happen in as little as five minutes a day. Sit next to each other during homework time; cook together; read at bedtime; chat in the car.

Positive interactions in the first part of the day can carry kids through the their day, so create calm, cheerful mornings by prepping the night before or getting up a little earlier. Connecting during the first 30 minutes of the day and the last 30 minutes before bed is particularly

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important in helping family members feel calm, grounded and loved. So snuggle and cuddle in the morning; and don’t rush it! In the evening, stick to a bedtime routine, which should include reading with your kids and reflecting on the day (talk about things that went well, but also things that didn’t).

2. They cheer for each other.

Celebrate your kids’ interests and praise their efforts rather than focusing on the outcome (positive or negative): “I love watching you play!”

“I like how you colored this!”

“I can tell you really concentrated and gave it your best effort on your math test. I’m very proud of you!”

When we praise our children, their self-esteem increases. Increased self-esteem leads to good behavior.

3. They seek fulfillment. Material possessions like electronics and toys might bring fleeting joy, but not lasting contentment.

We can’t teach our kids to know true happiness if we ourselves are looking to external sources to feed our own joy. This includes relying on others for validation, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors like peoplepleasing or obsessing over ”likes” on social media — both of which can lead to feelings of unworthiness and shame.

Research suggests that children who grow up to be happy adults are encouraged early on to engage in activities they enjoy and that help develop their strengths. Foster their innate sense of curiosity and explore a variety of activities with your kids, ranging from hobbies to volunteer work. The intrinsic rewards of participating in activities that deliver personal gratification contribute to positive self-esteem and confidence.

4. They eat together. Research shows eating dinner together can lower the potential for substance abuse, teen pregnancy and depression. Kids who dine with their parents are more likely to have higher grade point averages, increased self-esteem and even stronger vocabularies. Turn off the TV; put away smartphones: be fully present and engaged at dinner.

5. They show affection. Families today face a lot of stress. One simple, proven antidote is to hug more.

An eight-second hug is one of the easiest ways to simultaneously give and receive self-care. An eight-second hug releases oxytocin and other

stress-relieving “feel-good” hormones.

Hug your babies. Hug your kids. Hug your partner. HUG HUG HUG! 6. They goof off. Play and laugh together so your kids get to experience you as human. Sing unabashedly together in the car; make up zany songs when it’s time to brush teeth; exchange riddles or jokes (the sillier the better!); jam to funky music in your living room, make funny faces to defuse tense situations.

Follow your child’s lead. Play dolls or Legos or do a craft together. If your child likes to ride bikes, explore new trails together. Schedule a family board game night (or play video games together, but in moderation).

7. They create community. Not all parents can rely on extended family to provide positive emotional and practical support. In that’s the case for you, focus on building friendships in your neighborhood, at church or through your child’s school or extracurricular activities.

8. They honor emotions. Empathize with your child when they’re upset; listen and validate their feelings; help them verbally label their emotions.

Avoid taking your child’s behavior personally or rushing to fix their problems. Given the opportunity, kids can often peacefully problem-solve and negotiate with siblings and playmates without parental interference.

Kids who learn to self-soothe move through negative emotions faster.

These same kids also tend to form stronger friendships, which is another key to long-term happiness.

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10 Reasons Your Child Should Join a Swim Team this Fall As a parent, you are cautious of over- scheduling your child (and yourself). You want to make sure any activity you commit to is adding value to your kid’s life: Are they having fun? Are they learning something? Are they growing from the experience?

It’s hard to know what’s going to be a good fit before you try it, but if your child has asked to join a swim team, say yes!

Check out these 10 benefits of swim teams for kids.

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1. Increased water safety. You likely already view swimming lessons as an investment in your child’s well-being.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) found benefits for children as young as one when it comes to swim lessons. The AAP found that children four to six are developmentally ready to learn to swim. After learning the fundamentals in swim lessons, being part of a swim team will turn newbies into confident, safe swimmers.

2. Inclusion of kids of all abilities.

Unlike many team sports, the difference in ability is not a factor on a swim team.

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Whether your your kid kid is is just just learning learning to to Whether Whether your kidKatie is justLedecky, learning to swim or the next swim or the next Katie Ledecky, swim next Katie Ledecky, there or is aathe chance for every every child to to there is chance for child there is aachance for every child to shine on swim team. shine on a swim team. shine on a swim team.

3. Mental Mental health health benefits. benefits. Studies Studies 3.

3.

Mental health benefits.

Studies show that regular exercise decreases show that regular exercise decreases show decreases stress that and regular anxiety.exercise In addition, addition, stress and anxiety.

In stress and anxiety.

In addition, swimming’s rhythmic breathing swimming’s rhythmic breathing swimming’s rhythmic breathing triggers the the parasympathetic parasympathetic nervous triggers nervous triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest system, which is responsible for rest system, which isWho responsible for rest and relaxation. couldn’t use and relaxation. Who couldn’t use and Who couldn’t use morerelaxation. zen in in their their lives? more zen lives? more zen in their lives?

4. Enhanced Enhanced brain brain function. function. It’s It’s no no 4.

4.

Enhanced brain function.

It’s no surprise that swimming builds muscle surprise that swimming builds muscle surprise builds muscle strength that and swimming cardiovascular endurance. strength and cardiovascular endurance. strength and cardiovascular endurance.

A study study of of more more than than 10,000 10,000 kids kids A A study of more than 10,000 kids showed that swimmers were more showed that swimmers were more showed that swimmers were more advanced academically than their their advanced academically than advanced academically than their peers.

Research finds that regular peers. Research finds that regular peers.

Research that regular exercise changesfinds the brain, brain, improving exercise changes the improving exercise changes the brain, improving memory and thinking skills. memory and thinking skills. memory and thinking skills.

5. Confidence Confidence boost. boost. When When swimmers swimmers 5.

5.

Confidence boost.

When swimmers improve their skills in the pool, that improve their skills in the pool, that improve their skills in the pool, that confidence often translates to other confidence often translates to other confidence translates other areas of of life. life.often The study study foundtothat that areas The found areas of life.

The study found that swimmers tended to be more confident swimmers tended to be more confident swimmers tended to be more confident than their their peers. peers. than than their peers.

6. Teamwork.

Teamwork. Swim Swim teams teams combine combine 6.

6.

Teamwork.

Swim teams combine the best aspects of individual and team team the best aspects of individual and the bestWhile aspects of individual and team sports. many of the goals that sports. While many of the goals that sports. many of children the goalson that are set set While are individual, individual, swim are are children on swim are set are individual, children on swim teams also learn the value of teamteams also learn the value of teamteams also learn the of teamwork. Swimmers Swimmers relyvalue on their their team work. rely on team work.

Swimmers relymotivation, on their team for encouragement, and for encouragement, motivation, and for encouragement, motivation, and community.

Learning to give and community. Learning to give and community.

Learning to give and is receive support support from teammates teammates receive from is receive support from teammates is an important life lesson for any child. child. an important life lesson for any an important life lesson for any child.

7. Self-motivation.

Self-motivation. On On the the flip flip side: side: 7.

7.

Self-motivation.

Ontheir the own. flip side: swimmers’ results are The swimmers’ results are their own. The swimmers’ results are theirwill own. first thing thing any any swim coach doThe is first swim coach will do is first thingaany swim coach will them do is set evaluate swimmer and help evaluate a swimmer and help them set evaluate swimmer andUnlike help them set goals for for aimprovement. improvement. in other other goals Unlike in goals for improvement.

Unlike in other team sports, reaching those goals is in team sports, reaching those goals is in team sports, reaching those goals is in

the control control of of the the individual. individual. Working Working the the control of the individual.

Working hard and improving as part of swim hard and improving as part of aa swim hard and improving as part of a swim team will help your child motivate to team will help your child motivate to team will help your child motivate to reach goals in other parts of their lives. reach goals in other parts of their lives. reach goals in other parts of their lives. world 8. Improved Improved concentration. concentration. In In aa world 8.

8.

Improved concentration.

In a world full of distractions, swimming can full of distractions, swimming can full of distractions, swimming can improve your child’s child’s focus. A A 2017 2017 improve your focus. improve your child’scompetitive focus. A 2017 study of adolescent study of adolescent competitive study of adolescent competitive swimmers found many many short- and and longlongswimmers found shortswimmers found many shortand longterm cognitive benefits, including term cognitive benefits, including term cognitive benefits, including increased concentration levels. increased concentration levels. increased concentration levels.

9. Better Better quality quality sleep. sleep. Anything Anything that that 9.

9.

Better quality sleep.

Anything that gives your child (and you) a better gives your child (and you) a better gives child (and you) a better night’syour sleep is worth worth doing, right? night’s sleep is doing, right? night’s sleep is worth doing, right?

10. Low-impact Low-impact exercise. exercise.

10.

10.

Low-impact exercise.

Rest assured: your child is is not not doing doing Rest assured: your child Rest assured: your childto is their not doing any long-term damage joints. any long-term damage to their joints. any long-term damage to their joints.

Swimming is is aa sport sport that that kids kids can can carry carry Swimming Swimming isadulthood. a sport that kids can carry on through on through adulthood. on through adulthood.

SW W II M M S AQUATICS AQUATICS AQUATICS

Swim Kauai Aquatics offers high-quality and fun Swim Kauai Aquatics offers high-quality and fun competitive swim teams for allhigh-quality levels. Swimmers will: Swim Kauai Aquatics and fun competitive swim teamsoffers for all levels. Swimmers will: • Learn allteams four competitive strokes competitive swim for all levels.

Swimmers will: • Learn all four competitive strokes • Train and compete in a positive team environment • Learn all four strokes • Train and compete in acompetitive positive team environment • Compete on Kauai first, and as they improve, • Train and compete in afirst, positive team • Compete on Kauai and as theyenvironment improve, on other islands and then the mainland • Compete Kauai and first, and as improve, on otheronislands then thethey mainland on otherWITH islands SWIM and thenKAUAI the mainland COME TRAIN AQUATICS! COME TRAIN WITH SWIM KAUAI AQUATICS! COME TRAIN WITH SWIM KAUAI AQUATICS! www.SwimKauaiAquatics.com www.SwimKauaiAquatics.com Coach Curt Colby: 808-353-1327, curtcolby@hotmail.com www.SwimKauaiAquatics.com Coach Curt Colby: 808-353-1327, curtcolby@hotmail.com Pool location: YMCA 808-353-1327, of Kauai, 4477 Nuhou St., Lihue, Hi. 96766 Coach Curt Colby: curtcolby@hotmail.com Pool location: YMCA of Kauai, 4477 Nuhou St., Lihue, Hi. 96766 Pool location: YMCA of Kauai, 4477 Nuhou St., Lihue, Hi. 96766

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LEARN to

Aside from being very fun to do, dancing has many physical, emotional and social benefits — for children and adults alike.

Dancing teaches skills and develops abilities that extend far beyond the class. Here are a few of the many reasons to learn to dance.

Self control and cooperation. Sharing space in a dance class is good for the development of physical control and cooperation. Children learn to follow directions, control their body parts and 74

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work with others. They will also get valuable experience concentrating and controlling impulses.

Increased self-confidence and self-esteem. Dance is a highly social activity. Studies show that strong social ties contribute to increased self-esteem. A supportive dance class is a community of appreciation and positive encouragement. Performing — such as on stage at a recital — contributes to a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Pumped-up brain power. Dance requires memorization. Children learn movement patterns as readily as they learn language. And when adults learn new things — like dance steps — they create new brain patterns and fend off dementia!

Awareness of diverse cultures.

Dance is a basic form of cultural expression. All cultures organize rhythmic movement to music in their own unique way. By learning different dances, we get a peek into — and an appreciation for — other cultures.

Strength and endurance. Dance builds strength by forcing muscles to resist against a dancer’s own body weight. Dancing also increases cardiovascular endurance — which is the ability of the heart and lungs to work hard for increasingly longer periods of time without fatigue — which contributes to good health and a long life.

Improved flexibility. Most forms of dance improve range of motion.

Flexibility is key to maintaining mobility in your joints and muscles and can help prevent injuries and falls by improving balance, which becomes increasingly important with age.

Stress relief. Everyone experiences stress (yes, even children!). Dance is a scientifically proven way to relieve stress, by allowing us to “get out of our heads” and connect to our bodies.

The sense of physical freedom paired with the presence of enjoyable music releases endorphins, the brain’s feelgood neurotransmitters, which can improve mood and even help ease symptoms of anxiety and depression.

DANCE LESSONS ON KAUAI

Garden Island Dance Academy Locations: Lihu’e, Wailua, Princeville Jennifer Bell-Grey (415)-990-5145 jenballet@gmail.com www.GardenIslandDance.org Carol Culver Dance Academy Locations: Lihue, Kapa’a Carol Culver (808)-635-8240 carol@dancekauai.com www.dancekauai.com Koloa Dance House Location: Koloa (808)-634-2280 info@koloadancehouse.com www.KoloaDanceHouse.com Dance Fusion Studios Location: Kapa’a Amanda Tanigawa (808)-634-0226 info@dancefusionkauai.com www.dancefusionkauai.com No age limit. Unlike many other physical activities, there is no age limit for dancing. People of any age can enjoy the fun of dancing — and reap the wonderful benefits.

There are many styles of dance to choose from including ballet, tap, modern, hip hop, salsa, and even ballroom.

There really is something for everyone and every skill level. If you are looking for a fun, rewarding activity for you or your child, give a dance class a try!

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Introducing the 2026 Grove Farm Scholars!

For the 17th consecutive year, the Grove Farm Foundation is proud to award three outstanding Kaua‘i public high school seniors with $20,000 scholarships toward their post-secondary education. Selected from a competitive group of finalists, the 2026 Grove Farm Scholars have demonstrated academic excellence, citizenship, quality of character, leadership and a deep commitment to serving others.

Please join us in congratulating this year’s scholarship recipients.

David Braman’s commitment to inclusion began early. In second grade, he attended the Special Olympics Summer Games on O‘ahu with his family and was eager to help. He was told he could volunteer when he was older, and he never forgot it.

The program created meaningful relationships between students and culminated in a showcase event filled with cheers from the school and community.

David has also served as Class President, a member of the National Honor Society, and CoPresident of Kaua‘i High School’s Red Raider Productions, among many other activities.

By middle school, David joined Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School’s Team Unity, an elective that brings DAVID BRAMAN students with and without intellectual disabilities Kaua‘i High School This fall, David will continue together as unified his education at the partners. That experience University of Missouri in Columbia. helped shape his belief in the power of inclusion, friendship and shared opportunity.

He plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, followed by At Kaua‘i High School, David turned that a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. belief into action. He approached the After accompanying his “Amma” to Athletic Department with a vision to create physical therapy for her injured knee, the school’s first Unified Athletics program, pairing students with intellectual disabilities he was inspired to pursue with members of the boys’ basketball team. a career as a physical therapist.

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Congratulations to the 2026 Grove Farm Scholars!

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Samantha Tominaga’s path toward medicine began with service and a growing awareness of community needs.

A dedicated and well-rounded student at Kaua‘i High School, Samantha has balanced a rigorous Her commitment to caring academic schedule, for others continued through college credit the Kaua‘i Keiki Dementia courses, athletics and Initiative, where she helps community educate youth about service. She has Alzheimer’s and dementia, and competed in cross through her volunteer work at country, paddling and Garden Island Long Term Care. tennis, while also Together, these experiences SAMANTHA TOMINAGA serving as a member helped Samantha understand Kaua‘i High School of Key Club, Treasurer how service and care can of the Science Fair strengthen a community, Club, Class Treasurer, President of the National from classrooms to kūpuna care.

Honor Society, and Vice President of her school’s They also deepened her awareness Health Occupations Students of America chapter. of Kaua‘i’s need for more physicians and medical specialists.

This fall, Samantha plans to attend Creighton University in Omaha, After studying medicine, Samantha Nebraska, where she will begin her hopes to return home as a physician path toward a career in medicine. “to serve Kaua‘i’s community.”

When Skyler Tanicala learned that a kūpuna had been scammed out of thousands of dollars over the phone, he saw a problem he wanted to help solve.

That moment inspired him to start Kūpuna Technology Classes, where he has helped more than 50 kūpuna recognize scam calls, better understand digital safety, and learn about cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

“Ongoing community work is already part of how I live and learn,” Skyler said in his scholarship application.

Skyler’s ability to recognize patterns, identify problems and take action has shaped his leadership at Kaua‘i High School.

He has served as Class President and currently serves as Student Body President. He is also Captain of the Mock Trial Team, Trumpet Section Leader, and a four-year All-State and Honor Band participant.

Skyler plans to study Management Information Systems at the University Kaua‘i High School of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.

Beyond his formal education, he hopes to remain in Hawai‘i so he can “keep contributing to the same communities that shaped me.”

SKYLER TANICALA

Our three 2026 Grove Farm Scholars were selected from nine of the most accomplished seniors on Kaua‘i.

After the schools complete their initial round of review, the Grove Farm Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee reviews the applications of the nine finalists, conducts interviews, and determines the final scholarship awards.

The six finalists who were not selected as 2026 Grove Farm Scholars will each receive $1,000 towards their college education. What they all have achieved in their high school years and their dreams for the future give us hope for a thriving Kaua‘i.

Fall 2026

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CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS CALL FOR CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS SUBMISSIONS

WINGS AND WOODLANDS: WINGS AND WOODLANDS: WOODLANDS: WINGS AND A TRIBUTE TONATIVE NATIVE BIRDS FORESTS A TRIBUTE TO BIRDSAND AND FORESTS RIBUTE OPENING TO NATIVE BIRDS AND FORES OPENINGRECEPTION RECEPTION NOV NOV6 -6 6PM - 6PM EXHIBITION NOV 7 - NOV 12, 2026 OPENING RECEPTION NOV - 6PM EXHIBITION NOV 7 - NOV 12, 62026 Presentations - Workshops - Art Classes - Cultural EXHIBITION NOV 7 - NOV 12,Demonstrations 2026

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ME: sentations - Workshopsbit.ly/manuexhibit - Art Classes - CulturalSCAN Demonstrati

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SCAN ME:

SCAN ME

FROM FROMNORTH NORTH TO TO WEST: WEST: Waipa Waipa Farmers Farmers Market Market (Hanalei) (Hanalei) Tuesdays Tuesdays 3pm-5pm 3pm-5pm Hale Hale Halawa Halawa i Farmers i Farmers Market Market (Hanalei) (Hanalei) Saturdays Saturdays 9:30am-Noon 9:30am-Noon Anaina Anaina Hou Hou Farmers Farmers Market Market (Kīlauea) (Kīlauea) Saturdays Saturdays 9am-Noon 9am-Noon Kealia Kealia Farm Farm Market Market (Kealia) (Kealia) Mondays Mondays && Fridays Fridays 3pm-6pm 3pm-6pm Coconut Coconut Marketplace Marketplace (Kapa’a) (Kapa’a) Tuesdays Tuesdays && Thursdays Thursdays 9am-1pm 9am-1pm County County Sunshine Sunshine Market Market (Kapa’a) (Kapa’a) Wednesdays Wednesdays 3pm-4:30pm 3pm-4:30pm Grove Grove Farm’s Farm’s Puhi Puhi Park Park Produce Produce (Līhu’e) (Līhu’e) Saturdays Saturdays atat 9:30am 9:30am Pau Pau Hana Hana Market Market (Līhu’e) Kukui Kukui Grove Grove Center Center(Līhu’e) Mondays Mondays 3pm-5:30pm 3pm-5:30pm Shops Shops atat Kukuiula Kukuiula (Po’ipū) (Po’ipū) Wednesdays Wednesdays 3:30pm-5:30pm 3:30pm-5:30pm Hale Hale Puna Puna Farmer’s Farmer’s Market Market (Waimea) (Waimea) Thursdays Thursdays 3pm-5pm 3pm-5pm

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Caring for YOUR KEIKI is OUR SPECIALTY.

From regular checkups to immunizations, it’s important to keep up to date with health care for your keiki.

Our pediatricians are dedicated to providing personalized, preventive care and treatment close to home.

WilcoxHealth.org/Pediatrics