KFM Fall 2024

Fall 2024

KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

fall fun

FABOOLOUS FAMILY FESTIVITIES PARADES, COSTUME CONTESTS, TRUNK OR TREATS & HAUNTED HOUSES

RECIPES THAT ARE YUMMY & FUN FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS & MORE!

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

Aloha! I hope all Kaua‘i 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 Kaua‘i 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!

Derek S. K. Kawakami Mayor, County of Kaua‘i State of Hawai‘i

4 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Spring 2023

1

JOIN OUR TEAM BECOME A GUARDIAN OF YOUR OHANA! 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 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 Ohana.

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

OPEN POSITIONS

• Emergency Services Dispatcher I • Parking Enforcement Worker • Police Services Officer • Public Safety Worker • Sexual Assault Forensic Nurse Examiner (SAFE)

GREAT BENEFITS ALL POSITIONS ARE ON CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT For more information, go to www.kauai.gov/humanresources or reach out to Sgt. Matt Tavares (mtavares@kauai.gov, 808-241-1647)

For more information: www.kauai.gov/humanresources

Scan the QR code above to watch an informational video Scan the QR code below to apply now

Fall 2024 5

MESSAGE FROM DANIEL HAMADA INTERIM KAUAI COMPLEX AREA SUPERINTENDENT

Aloha!

The 2023 – 2024 school year has gone by so quickly. This academic year, our schools have continued to show positive student growth overall since returning from the pandemic.

Most notably, all of Kauai’s elementary and secondary schools have finalized their curriculum realignment including common diagnostic assessments taking another pivotal step to support student learning.

Recently, a national research study indicated that Hawaii’s public education continues to show positive student achievement and progress, ranking Hawaii in the top tier. Our students have enjoyed another year of exciting athletic competitions and other extra-curricular activities.

Finally, the upcoming graduation ceremonies of our three high schools help to culminate another successful year. We congratulate and wish the Class of 2024 the best in their future endeavors.

On behalf of our K-12 schools, I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude by saying “thank you” to our parents and the larger Kauai “Ohana” for supporting our schools. Kauai continues to model the importance of community in our daily actions in being there for our students. We are so fortunate to live here and be part of this wonderful island-strong community.

Sincerely,

Daniel S. Hamada Kauai Complex Area Superintendent 6 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

State of Hawaii - Department of Education

2024-2025 OFFICIAL SCHOOL CALENDAR

DECEMBER NOVEMBER 2024 2024

OCTOBER 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

AUGUST 2024

www.kauaischools.org

S

M

T

4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29

5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30

6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24

W TH 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

F 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27

S 3 10 17 24 31 7 14 21 28

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

Students’ Work Year

1ST SEMESTER

August 5, 2024 to December 20, 2024 Students’ First Day August 5 Statehood Day August 16 Labor Day September 2 Fall Break October 7-11 Election Day November 5 Veteran’s Day November 11 Thanksgiving November 28 School Holiday November 29 Winter Break Dec. 23-Jan. 6 Christmas December 25 Fall 2024 7

fall family

fun

HAPPY ALOHA FALL!

This issue of Kauai Family is jam-packed with tips and tricks (and treats!) for the whole family.

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

The Annual Harvest Festival (Oct. 12) is an absolute can't-miss, offering food, rides, booths and free pumpkins (p. 12-13). Check out our event calendars (p. 16 and p. 20) for fairs, festivals, parades, costume contests, trunk or treats, haunted houses and more!

BACK TO SCHOOL

Set your child up for homework success (p. 48) and nurture their love of all things STEM (science, technology, engineering and math, p. 72).

ENRICHMENT

Learn about Kauai’s history and connect to the island’s unique culture and abundant heritage (p. 42).

YUMMY IN YOUR TUMMY

Pick up fresh produce from local farmers markets (p. 63), so you and your keiki can make fruit and veggie "bugs" (p. 78) and everyone's favorite seasonal dessert, pumpkin crunch (p. 11).

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Fire Prevention Week kicks off October 7 (p. 19); and it’s more important than ever to have a current emergency preparedness plan, so please heed the critical advice on pages 26-29. Keep your little ones water safe (p. 56) and make sure their bikes and helmets fit properly (p. 44).

Fall on Kauai is full of beauty and wonder. We hope this issue of KFM helps you make the most of it!

Chrissy

Chrissy Schechter, Publisher chrissys@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

8 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Chrissy Schechter

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & COPY EDITOR

Edie Mann

PRESIDENT OF SALES

Chrissy Schechter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kurt Akamine Monty Downs, M.D. Tia Barrier, R.D.H Mark Oyama Joel Punzal,OD Leah Ragsac Robert Wotring, M.D.

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@kauaifamilymagazine.com

Kauai Office 808-639-5656 KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Info@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Next Issue: HOLIDAY 2024 Advertising Deadline: September 15, 2024 Kauai Family Magazine is published quarterly as Spring, Summer, Fall and Holiday editions.

Copyright © 2024 Kauai Family Magazine All rights reserved.

No portion of Kauai Family Magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Kauai Family Magazine assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements.

Harvest Festival Saturday, October 12, 2024 – P. 12

FALL FEATURES

WHAT’S INSIDE

16 FALL FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS

20 KAUA`I OHANA

Exciting events for the whole ‘ohana

42 HONORING LOCAL HISTORY & CULTURE Fun ways to learn about Kauai’s rich heritage

48 HOMEWORK SUCCESS

Halloween events

26 KAUA`I SAFETY

Emergency preparedness

12 tips to help your child with homework

32 KAUA`I KUPUNA

Pros and cons of smart devices for children

60 KAUA`I KEIKI

Household cleaning products that are better for your family and the environment

78 KAUA`I RECIPES

52 CHILD’S FIRST PHONE: ARE THEY READY? 70 KEEP IT CLEAN

48

Is it time?

Make friendship bracelets Fruit and veggie “bugs”

52 78

Fall 2024 9

Education and Schools

Child & Family Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 State of Hawaii Department of Education . . . 68 Hawaii Children’s Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Hawaii Literacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 PATCH Preschool Open Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Keahi Soccer Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Hawaii Children’s Action Network . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Health & Medical Services

Hawaii State Dept of Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Malama Pono Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Hawaii Food Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Seattle Children’s Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 25 Hawaii Dental Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Regency at Puakea Assisted Living . . . . . . . . . . 35 Ohana Pacific Health . . . . . . . . . . . . .30, 31, 32, 33 Hoku Smiles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Punzal Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Garden Isle Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . .30, 31, 32, 33 Kauai Adult Day Health . . . . . . 30, 31, 32, 33, 35 Stay at Home Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . .30, 32, 33 Hale Kupuna Heritage Home . . . . . . . .30, 32, 33 Hawaii Health Systems Corporation . . . . . 40, 41 Kalaheo Dental Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 55 Kauai Medical Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Wilcox Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Jason Blake Health Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

10 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Fall Programs and Events

Koloa Dance House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Kauai Sailing Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Kukui Grove Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14, 15 Kauai Mokihana Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Kauai Christian Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Harvest Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12, 13 Fire Prevention Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 HHSC Fall Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40, 41 Breakfast with Santa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Community Partners

Kauai Complex Area DOE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Kauai Police Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 County of Kauai Office of the Mayor . . . . . . . . . 4 County of Kauai Agency of Elderly Affairs . . . 34 County of Kauai Department of Water. . . . . . . 18 County of Kauai Parks & Recreation . . . . . . . . . 35 Hawaii Department of Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 County of Kauai Waste Management . . . . . . . . 39 Kauai Fire Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Gather Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3, 21 Kauai Island Utility Cooperative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Grove Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64, 65 Mark’s Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Catholic Charities Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Hale’ Opio Kauai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Leah Ragsac, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

INGREDIENTS

EVERYONE’S FAVORITE!

Filling:

Pumpkin puree 1 can (15 ounces)

White sugar (1 level cup)

CRUNCH

BY CHEF MARK OYAMA MARK’S PLACE

Pumpkin pie spice (1 1/2 teaspoons)

Table salt (1/4 teaspoon)

Evaporated milk 1 can (12 ounces)

3 large eggs (whisked together in small bowl) Crunch Topping:

Yellow cake mix (1 box) Chopped nuts (1 cup)

Melted butter (2 sticks) Whipped topping: 1 container, defrosted)

INSTRUCTIONS

Yield: One 9 X 13 pan

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and set oven rack in the middle of the oven. Line a 9 X 13 baking pan with foil, making sure the foil reaches the top of the pan.

2. Combine all dry ingredients — white sugar, pumpkin pie spice and salt — in a small bowl. In a large mixing bowl or mixer, combine pumpkin puree and dry ingredients.

Slowly add wet ingredients — evaporated milk and eggs — and mix well.

3. Pour mixture into the foillined pan. Sprinkle cake mix and nuts over; then drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the mixture doesn’t jiggle; let cool and refrigerate overnight.

3. To serve, place a large baking sheet (or serving tray) over the top of the pan and turn the entire pan upside down.

Remove foil; garnish with whipped topping and light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and/or extra Fallnuts.

2024 11 11

Our Joy is...

Pumpkins! Pumpkins!

PUMPKINS!

F SPORTS FOOD DISTRIBUTION

EDUCATION

12 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

. seeing our keiki smile.

Keep updated on

KEKAHA THE PLACE

HARVEST FESTIVAL Saturday, October 12, 2024 10AM - 4PM Kekaha Neighborhood Park

TOURISM

FOOD

CULTURE

COMMUNITY HEALTH Scan to enter the

2024 AU EST. 2013 A A‘ I • H

W

K

AI

‘I

2024 Harvest Festival Giveaway!

Fall 2024 13

14 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Fall 2024 15

F A L L August

FUN FAMILY HAPPENINGS September

Hawaii Children’s Theatre The Kauai Marathon Academy Acting Workshops & Half Marathon Fall Bootcamps - Fall Breaks Enroll: hctkauai.org (808) 246-8985

Sun., Sept. 1, 6am-2pm Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa thekauaimarathon.com

Sat., Aug. 3, 7am Puakea Golf Course, Lihue

& Craft Fair

Hawaii Heart Walk Heiva I Kauai

Sat., Aug. 3, 9am-9:30pm Sun., Aug. 4, 9am-5pm Tahitian Dance & Fire Knife Competition (808) 822-9447

Back to School Movie Night

“The Little Mermaid” Sat., Aug. 10, 5:30-9pm Kukui Grove

Farm Fair Tribute & Fun Fair

Sat., Aug. 17, 10am-2pm Kukui Grove

Na Pali Challenge

Sat., Aug. 10, 8am-5pm Hanalei Pier racenapali.com

Sat., Sept. 28, 8am-1pm KVMH courtyard and front lawn

Ohana Fit Fest Obstacle Fun Run/Walk

Sat., Sept. 28, 6:30-11:30am Prince Albert Park, Princeville Hawaii Line Dance Festival knscf.org/fit-fest Sept. 13 & 14, 5-10pm Kauai Veterans Center hawaiildf.com

Ultimate Trail Run

Sept. 14, 7am Omao Track ultimatehawaiiantrailrun.com

Kauai Psychic Fair

Sept. 14 & 15, 10am-6pm Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall kauaipsychicfair.com

Hanalei Picnic in the Park Sun., Sept. 22, 2-6pm Waioli Town Park (Hanalei Soccer Fields) Enjoy mobile skate park, water slides, kids activities hanaleiinitiative.org

Kauai Mokihana Festival

Sept. 22 – 28 A week-long celebration Sat., Aug. 17, 4-10pm of Hawaiian culture, including Vidinha Soccer Field educational lectures, music relayforlife.org/kauaihi and hula competition 808-466-1708 kittrin.cade@cancer.org maliefoundation.org 16 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Kauai Relay for Life

KVMH Auxiliary Craft Fair

October Fire Prevention Week

Sat., Oct. 5, 9am-2pm Kauai Philippine Cultural Center Food, games, firetrucks and family FUN!

Grove Farm Crafts Fair & Farmers Market

Sat., Oct. 5, 9:30am–12:30pm Puhi Park

ALOHA Kauai Yoga Festival Sat., Oct. 5, 7:30am-7:30pm Kauai Shores Hotel alohafestival.org

Harvest Festival

Sat., Oct. 12, 10am - 4pm Kekaha Neighborhood Park Entertainment, rides and slides for keiki FREE PUMPKINS!

Kauai Matsuri Festival

Sat., Oct. 12, 9:30am-3pm A Japanese cultural festival Kaua’i War Memorial Convention Hall Pearl Shimizu: pkgshim3@hawaiiantel.net Kauaijcs.org ADMISSION IS FREE

Rice Street Block Party

Sat., Oct. 12, 4–8pm Downtown Lihue, Rice Street Keiki zone, local vendors, three stages, food trucks, local artisans ricestreetblockparty.com

Healthy Living Fall Celebration

Emalani Festival

Candyland & Glow Show

Kauai Veterans Celebration

Sat., Oct. 26 KVMH Campus, Waimea Family fun for all ages Vendors, giveaways and more! kauai.hhsc.org Sun., Oct. 27, 5-7pm Kings Chapel, Lihue FREE Kingskauai.com

Wilcox Halloween Keiki Parade

Thurs., Oct. 31, Noon–1pm Wilcox Medical Center lobby Keiki parade, costume contest Walk to End Alzheimer’s and trick-or-treating (for ages 4 and younger) Sat., Oct. 19 Refreshments will be served Walk starts at 8:30am Kandi, 245-1441 Puakea Golf Course Justin George, 808-518-6654 WilcoxHealth.org jmgeorge@alz.org

Kauai Chocolate & Coffee Festival

Sun., Oct. 20, 10am-4pm Kilohana Luau Pavillion kauaichocolateand coffeefestival.com

24th KCA Annual Fall Festival

Fri., Oct. 25 & Sat., Oct. 26 4-8:30pm Kauai Christian Academy Kilauea Family FUN in a carnival atmosphere! kcaschool.org

National Make a Difference Day

KVMH Baby Halloween Parade

Thurs., Oct. 31, 11:30am-1pm Front entry to KVMH Medical office building

November Halloween Candy Buy Back Friday, Nov. 1, 3-5pm Kalaheo Dental Group, Kalaheo kalaheodental.com

Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Show

Nov. 1-8 KSA Gallery, Kukui Grove Center Julia Diegmann, (808) 335-5078

Arbor Day Plants Give Away Sat., Oct. 26, 8-11:30am Sat., Nov. 2, 9am-Noon Lydgate Park Family workday suited to all ages Kukui Grove Kauaipath.org

Sat., Nov. 2, 9am-4pm Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow Koke‘e State Park Hawaiian music begins at 9 am Queen Emalani arrives at 10am kawaihoonani@gmail.com Sat., Nov. 2, 10am-2pm Vidinha Soccer Field, Lihue Live performances by Aldrine Guerrero & many more!

Local food trucks, artisans, free keiki rides, veteran services, award program (808) 652-1442 kauairsba@gmail.com

Hanapėpė’s Biggest Little Carnival

Sat., Nov. 9, 10am-6pm Sun., Nov. 10, 10am-6pm Hanapēpē Stadium Alden Pablo: 808-346-9613

Old Koloa Sugar Mill Run Sat., Nov. 9, 7-11am Anne Knudsen Park 5K, 10K, 10-mile runs and non-competitive 5K walk oldkoloasugarmillrun.org

5k Turkey Trot and 9 Hole Turkey Shoot

Thurs., Nov. 28, 6–9 am Thanksgiving Morning Ocean Course Hokuala, Lihue kauaiturkeytrot.org Events are subject to change without notice. Always call event first to confirm.

Fall 2024 17

A Contemporary Hawaiian Cultural Festival

SUNDAY 9/22

WEDNESDAY 9/25 THURSDAY 9/26

Church Service Kapaʻa First Hawaiian Church

Workshops

MONDAY 9/23

FRIDAY 9/27

Composers Contest & Concert

TUESDAY 9/24 AM | Eō E Liliʻu Song Competition Preparation Workshop For participating schools only PM | Workshop

Hula Competition Kahiko Nei

A week long celebration of Hawaiian culture, including educational lectures, music and hula competitions on the island of Kauaʻi.

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION:

SATURDAY 9/28 Hula Competition ʻAuana

Water Emergency Preparedness During a water service emergency or severe weather event, stay tuned for important updates via news reports and Kaua`i County Emergency Alerts. Water service announcements are also available at Facebook.com/KauaiDOW.

During a storm: Conserve water by limiting water uses to essential needs only.

Collect rain water for non-potable water needs. Do not drink rain water.

To sign-up to receive Kaua`i County Alerts visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA, call 808-245-5455 or 808-241-1800.

After a storm: The Department of Water will conduct assessments of water facilities island wide and will send out updates for water service advisories, if necessary.

Kaua`i County Emergency Alerts also known as Wireless Emergency Notification Service (WENS) is a mass notification service serviced by Inspirion, that sends emergency notifications by phone, text and email. To sign up to receive alerts visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA.

18 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Fall 2024 19

FREAKY FRIDAYS Fri., Oct. 11, 18 & 25 5–8pm Kukui Grove Games and activities — and a different theme each week!

HARVEST FESTIVAL Sat, Oct. 12, 10am–4pm Kekaha Neighborhood Park Rides, food booths and educational tent!

FREE PUMPKINS, ADMISSION, ENTERTAINMENT! HOWL-O-WEEN DOGGIE COSTUME CONTEST Sat., Oct. 12, 2pm Kukui Grove HALLOWEEN MOVIE NIGHT Sat., Oct. 19 5–9pm Kukui Grove

NIGHTMARE ON THE WESTSIDE HAUNTED HOUSE IN WAIMEA Thurs., Oct. 24; Fri., Oct. 25 & Sat., Oct. 26 Non-scary: 5pm–8pm Scary: 8pm–10pm Waimea Canyon Park 24TH KAUAI CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FALL FESTIVAL Fri., Oct. 25 & Sat., Oct. 26 4–8:30pm Kauai Christian Academy Kilauea Family fun in a carnival atmosphere! www.kcaschool.org KUKUI GROVE HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Sat., Oct. 26, 10am–2pm Kukui Grove Costume contest and centerwide trick-or-treating!

TRUNK OR TREAT Fri., Oct. 25, 5–7pm Events are subject to change without Kukui Grove notice. Always call event first to confirm.

20 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

CANDYLANE + GLOW SHOW Sun., Oct. 27, 5–7pm Kings Chapel Lihue Fun, candy, prizes! www.kingshawaii.com WILCOX HALLOWEEN KEIKI PARADE Thurs., Oct. 31, Noon–1pm Wilcox Medical Center lobby Keiki parade, costume contest and trick-or-treating (for ages 4 and younger).

Refreshments will be served.

Kandi, 245-1441 www.wilcoxhealth.org KVMH BABY HALLOWEEN PARADE Thurs., Oct. 31,11:30am–1pm Front entry to KVMH Medical office building KALAHEO DENTAL GROUP’S HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY BACK Fri., Nov. 1, 3–5pm Rainbow Plaza, Kalaheo www.kalaheodental.com

11th Annual

Breakfas t

Breakfast Buffet 8:30 am - 9:15 am

Banana pancakes with syrup Fluffy scrambled eggs Portuguese sausage Breakfast potatoes Steamed white rice Mini blueberry muffins Mini strawberry yogurt cups Grapes and orange wedges

• Visit with Santa • Crafts • Live Performances • Cookie Decorating

Santa is coming!

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 • 8am

Gaylord’s at Kilohana Presented by

Buffet provided by Mark & Wendy Oyama

$30 Children ages 2-12 Adults $50 (ages 13 & up) Children under 2 no charge

BY RESERVATION ONLY

808-639-5656 KauaiFamilyMagazine@gmail.com PRICE INCLUDES PLANTATION TRAIN RIDE! Tickets will be picked up at the front door.

DON’T WAIT!

Seating is limited, so make your reservation today!

Advanced ticket purchase required.

Proceeds benefit

Fall 2024 21

Magic Under the Sea and More Classes at HCT this Fall!

Dive into SpongeBob the Musical!

This fall, Hawaii Children’s Theatre presents the all-singing, all-dancing dynamic stage show, “SpongeBob Square Pants: The Broadway Musical” based on the beloved Nickelodeon program.

The fall show brings together a multi-generational team of talented Kauai actors, singers, dancers and musicians to stage and perform a Broadway-caliber experience for Kauai families. Open auditions for actors ages 8+ to be held at Puhi Theatrical Warehouse starting August 7.

Registration is open for HCT Academy Fall classes!

Learn stagecraft, build confidence and discover the artist within at weekly acting workshops for ages 8-16 Saturdays (August 10-October 5). Fall Break Spooky Theatre Bootcamp (Oct 7-12) features a week of singing, dancing and acting and a mini Halloween show.

More classes to come.

For Fall show audition info and class registration, visit hctkauai.org.

22 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

National Grandparents Day

Ballet • Pointe • Hip Hop • Breaking Contemporary • Jazz • Tricks & Acro Circuit Sculpt • Choreography My First Dance Class (with parent) Preschool Tumbling • Tap • Lyrical • Musical Theater • Magical Mornings

Ballet • Pointe • Hip Hop • Breaking Contemporary • Jazz • Tricks & Acro Circuit Sculpt • Choreography My First Dance Class (with parent) Preschool Tumbling • Tap • Lyrical • Musical Theater • Magical Mornings

Sunday, September 8 nd Kauai Academy’s22 24th Annual Kauai Christian Christian Academy’s Annual

FALL FESTIVAL

Fri. & Sat., Oct. 25 & 26, 4-8:30 p.m.

Family FUN in a carnival atmosphere!

Carnival Games, Hay Rides, Bounce Houses, Pony Rides, Ninja games, Jedi Training, Local Food Vendors, Amazing Bake Sale, and a HUGE Silent Auction!

On the Kauai Christian Academy Campus 4000 Kilauea Rd. Kilauea HI 96754

Visit www.kcaschool.org for more info Fall 2024 23

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Malia Malia D manag man Inclusi Inclu Equity Equi who who id Hawaii Haw the the firsfi She She sa family fami spirit spirio brough brou home homt a way a wa was was ne

Today, Seeley’s parents describe her as “energetic” and “mischievous!”

AA fam fa

Kaua‘i Family Brings Aloha Spirit to Seattle Children’s Seeley was only 2 weeks old when she was diagnosed with leukemia.

Her Kaua‘i family found the specialized treatment Seeley needed, and discovered a new ‘ohana, 2600 miles away at Seattle Children’s.

Hayley and Shawn will never forget the moment they learned their newborn baby, Seeley, had acute myeloid leukemia.

“It’s not something you can imagine,” Shawn says. “Your 2-weekold baby getting a diagnosis like that. It was a physical shock.”

Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive blood cancer, and Seeley’s leukemia was especially high-risk. Her oncologist at Kapi‘olani Medical Center recommended Seeley transfer to a hospital

I asked Seeley’s oncologist at Kapi‘olani where he would go if she was his child,” Hayley remembers.

“He said he would be on the first flight to Seattle Children’s.”

24 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

with more experience treating patients with high-risk leukemia — specifically Seattle Children’s.

A Seattle ‘ohana A week later, Seeley and her family flew to Seattle, where they would live for the next 8 months. Hayley and Shawn were devastated to leave their older daughter, Ainsley, on Kaua‘i with her kūpuna, and they struggled with the cultural differences in Seattle.

But members of Children’s workforce

Childre Child Risk Risk Le knew knew S chemo chem a bone a bo transp trans her her leul wasn’t wasn forfor her h marrow marr

The The tea option optio Dr.Dr. MoM inpatie inpa directo direc Pediat Pedi Marrow Marr Progra Prog a natio a na trial trial in could coulb transp trans their their c transp trans increas incre of of lifelif compli com child child b

embraced Seeley’s aced braced Seeley’s Seeley’s family, bringing ,ily, bringing bringing embraced Seeley’s Hawaiian food to Seeley’s embraced waiian ian food food to to bringing family, their hospital family, bringing hospital r hospital room room Hawaiian foodroom to or stopping byroom to food to Hawaiian pping topping byby to to hospital their story. their by hospital room or stopping to ory. story. talk or stopping by to talk story.

Malia D’Alio, Children’s D’Alio, a D’Alio, Children’s Children’s talk story. manager of Workforce Malia D’Alio, Children’s nager ger of of Workforce Workforce Inclusion, Diversity, manager of Workforce Malia D’Alio, Children’s usion, on, Diversity, Diversity, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessof Workforce manager yity and and Access Access Equity and Access who as Diversity, Inclusion, odentifies identifies as asidentifies who identifies aswas Hawaiian Native, Equity and Access waiian ian Native, Native, was was Hawaiian Native, was as the first to reach out. who identifies st first to to reach reach out. out. thesays firstHawaiian to reach out.

She Seeley’s Native, was ays says Seeley’s Seeley’s She says Seeley’sthe family embodied the first to reach out. ily embodied embodied the the Malia D’Alio greets Seeley two years after her after transplant.

Malia D’Alio greets Seeley two years family the Malia Malia D’Alio D’Alio greets greets Seeley Seeley two two years years after after herher transplant. transplant. spirit ofembodied aloha.

“They She says Seeley’s of it of aloha. aloha.

“They “They “Iaunty amtransplant.

Seeley’s aunty now; we for are connected for the her “Iconnected am Seeley’s aunty now; “I am “I am Seeley’s Seeley’s aunty now; now; wewe are are connected for the the spirit of aloha.

“They brought a piece of rest are of our lives.” embodied the ught ht a piece a piece of of family rest rest of of ourour lives.” lives.” we connected for the resttwo of years our lives.” brought a piece of Malia D’Alio greets Seeley after her transplan home toin the hospital spirit of aloha.in“They me to to the the hospital hospital in “I am Seeley’s aunty now; we are connected for the home to the hospital a way I didn’t realize I a piece of rest of our lives.” ay I didn’t I didn’t realize Ibrought inrealize a way II didn’t realize was needing.” homeonly toonly the in abut only half-match, but cancer Hawai‘i, cancer free, eeding.” needing.” a half-match, ahospital half-match, but Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i, free, free, I was needing.”

Seeley returned to only a half-match, but cancer a wayDr. I Dr. didn’t realize I Thakar Dr. designed a a few months later.

Thakar Thakar designed designed a a a few a few months months later. later.

Hawai‘i, cancer free, Dr. Thakar designed a AAmana family with mana mily amily with with mana family with mana was needing.” new protocol aimed at only half-match, Hawai‘i, new new protocol protocol aimed aimed at at a a but few months later.cancer free, new protocol aimed at “Touching back “Touching “Touching back back Children’s reducingDr. complications en’s dren’s HighHighThakar designed a a few months later.

Children’sHighHighreducing reducing complications complications reducing complications down in the A family with mana “Touching backislands down down in in the the islands islands Risk Leukemia Team and extending extending Risk Leukemia Team eukemia Leukemia Team Team new protocol aimed at and and and extending extending immediately triggered “Touching back down in the islands immediately immediately triggered triggered knew Seeley needed Children’s Highcancer remission. remission. knew Seeley cancer needed w Seeley Seeley needed needed reducing complications cancer cancer remission. remission. a different kind down inof the islands immediately triggered a different a different kind kind of of chemotherapy and Risk Leukemia Team chemotherapy and otherapy motherapy and and and extending Seeley’s teamhealing,” enrolled Hayley a healing,” different kind of says.triggered Seeley’s team enrolled immediately Seeley’s Seeley’s team team enrolled enrolled healing,” Hayley Hayley says. says. a abone bonemarrow marrow knew Seeley needed one e marrow marrow cancer remission. her in in Dr. Dr.Thakar’s Thakar’s healing,” Hayley says. kind of her a different her her in in Dr. Dr. Thakar’s Thakar’s transplant to wipe out transplant to wipe out chemotherapy and plant splant to to wipe wipe out out clinical trial.

She had clinical trial.

She had A thriving Seeley’s team enrolled healing,” Hayley says. clinical clinical trial. trial.

She She had had her leukemia, but there A A thriving thriving her leukemia, but there a bone marrow ukemia, leukemia, but but there there a successful A“little thriving a bone successful bone miracle” her bone in Dr. Thakar’s wasn’t good match a match successful a successful “little “little miracle” miracle” wasn’t aatransplant good to wipebone out tn’t a good a good match match marrow transplant “little miracle” marrow transplant clinical trial.

She had A thriving for her in the national marrow marrow transplant transplant for her in the national her leukemia, but there her r in in the the national national Hayley calls her Hayley Hayley calls Seeley Seeley her her Seeley with her cells with heramom’s mom’s cells calls marrowwasn’t registry. successful bone “little miracle” with with her her mom’s mom’s cells cells marrow registry. a good match Hayley calls Seeley her w row registry. registry. “little miracle” and is when she was 4 “little “little miracle” miracle” and and is is when she was 4 marrow transplant when when she she was was 4 4 “little miracle” andcalls is Seeley he forhad her in the national Theteam team another grateful for the care The another months old. grateful grateful forfor the the care careHayley am team had had another anotherhadmonths months old.Seeley Seeley her mom’s cells months old. old.

Seeley Seeley with grateful for the care option for Seeley. marrow registry. team that saved her and is option for Seeley. coped “little miracle” team that that saved her her non forfor Seeley.

Seeley. coped remarkably remarkably whenteam she was 4saved team that saved coped coped remarkably remarkably Dr.Monika MonikaThakar, Thakar, daughter’s life.her “Seattle well throughout her Dr. grateful for the care The team had another daughter’s daughter’s life. life.

“Seattle “Seattle onika Monika Thakar, Thakar, wellher throughout her Seeley old. daughter’s life. “Seattle well well throughout throughout hermonths inpatient medical Children’s wasthat the saved best her withChildren’s support inpatientoption medical team for Seeley. treatment Children’s was was the the best best atient ent medical medical treatment with remarkably support Children’s was the best coped director of Children’s treatment treatment with with support support her experienced place wedaughter’s could havelife. “Seatt director Dr. of Children’s Monika Thakar, from place place wewe could could have have or ctor of of Children’s Children’s from herwell experienced place we could have throughout her Pediatric Blood and from from her her experienced experienced care team. been for cancer care.”

Pediatric Blood and Children’s inpatient medical been been forfor cancer cancer care.” tric iatric Blood Blood and and Transplant beencare.” for cancer care.”was the bes Marrow treatment with support care care team. team. care team.

Marrow Transplant place we could have director of Children’s w row Transplant Transplant “Seeley is a fighter,” Program, was leading from her experienced “Seeley is a“Their fighter,” Program, was leading been for cancer care.”

Pediatric Blood and “Seeley “Seeley is is a fighter,” a fighter,” am, gram, was was leading leading Malia says. a national clinical care team.

Malia says. a trial national clinical Marrow Transplant Malia Malia says. says.

“Their “Their whole family“Their has mana ational onal clinical clinical in which parents whole family hasismana trial in which parents “Seeley a fighter,” Program, was leading whole whole family family has has mana mana — spiritual strength.” could be bone marrow in which which parents parents — spiritual strength.” could be bone marrow Malia says.

“Their a national clinical — — spiritual spiritual strength.” strength.” transplant donors for ld bebe bone bone marrow marrow transplant donors for parents wholeWATCH family has mana trial in Parent which WATCH theirfor children. plant splant donors donors for WATCH A VIDEO A VIDEO OFOF A VIDEO OF Seeley to strength.”

SEELEY'S their children.

Parent — spiritual transplants typically could be bone marrow Seeley Seeley returned returned to toreturned SEELEY'S SEELEY'S FULL FULL STORY STORY FULL STORY children. r children.

Parent Parent transplants typically increase the risk plants splants typically typicallytransplant donors for WATCH A VIDEO OF of life-threatening increase the risk Seeley returned to SEELEY'S FULL STORY their children. Parent ease se the the risk risk for the ofcomplications life-threatening transplants typically -threatening fe-threatening child because they are for the increase the risk mplications icationscomplications for for the the child because they are because d because they they areof arelife-threatening Fall 2024 25 complications for the child because they are

26 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

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:

Waimea High ʻEleʻele Elementary

Kapaʻa Middle Kauaʻi High Kauaʻi Humane Society [pets only]

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.

Fall 2024 27

28 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Fall 2024 29

30 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

kupuna Caring for Kupuna in the Heart of Lihu’e

Fall 2024 31 25

IS IT TIME?

D

much. That’s when an adult day health program could be a good fit. The Kauai Adult Day Health is a hub of activities and socialization with trained staff who will help individuals maintain their level of independence. It gives them a routine, friendship, and assurance during the day knowing she’s well taken care of.

Suppose your aunt or even your grandma, who’s been living on her own but needs some help during the day. She’s sharp and makes good decisions, but physically, she’s slowing down and needs some assistance with medications and getting around safely. And, because of her limited mobility, she has not been able to socialize

Perhaps it’s your uncle or grandpa who’s recovering from a stroke and needs more hands-on care. He’s doing okay, but he’s not quite ready to manage at home yet. Here’s where a skilled nursing facility should be considered.

Hale Kupuna Heritage Home and Garden Isle Rehab and Nursing Center

By Kurt Akamine

eciding whether a family member or friend should consider an adult day health program or a skilled nursing facility can be a difficult decision. It’s more than an individual’s health needs; it’s about their quality of life and what best suits their current life situation.

32 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

are healthcare centers with round-theclock professional clinical care, helping individuals in their healing process, and coordinating their medical needs. It’s not their home, but a great setting to help them get back to their highest level of independence.

Let’s not forget about you, the caregiver.

You’re juggling work, and family, and trying to be there for grandparents who need more help than you can reasonably provide. An adult day health program can be a game-changer. It assures you, knowing they’re in good hands for a few hours during the day, and they’re enjoying themselves too.

Or, when it’s clear your loved one needs more than you can manage at home— maybe they have serious health issues, need constant supervision, or their condition is just too much for you to manage alone—that’s when a skilled nursing facility should be considered. It’s not an easy decision, but you need to decide to ensure they get the care they need, from trained professionals who address their daily routines and the more intense urgent medical condition.

Deciding an appropriate healthcare setting for your aging family member or friend, albeit an adult day health program or a skilled nursing facility isn’t just about what they need medically—it’s about what makes them feel most cared for, engaged, and honored. Their quality of life and yours are very important. If you find yourself in this situation, start having a conversation with them about their preferences or consult their doctor and take time to weigh all the options.

It’s a tough decision, no doubt, but one that, when made with love and careful consideration, can make all the difference in their well-being and your peace of mind.

Garden Isle’s Rehab and Hale Kupuna Heritage Home includes a team of experts to provide evaluation and treatment of both neurological and orthopedic disorders with a comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach. We offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

We help patients recover from joint replacement procedures, fractures, strokes, pressure ulcers, and acute illnesses. Services include discharge planning, family/caregiver training, and assessments to ensure a safe transition to home. In addition, our Restorative Nursing Program helps to maintain residents at their highest functioning level.

Kauaʻi Adult Day Health Center provides a supervised daytime program for adults with impairments in a supportive and protective environment. Our objectives are to keep adults as independent as possible and choose the activities that appeal to them.

Special events include a variety of activities, entertainment, holidays, and birthday parties.

In addition to recreational and social activities snacks and nutritious meals are provided.

Longterm Care Rehabilitation Adult Day Health Memory Care Home Health

ohanapacific.com p: 808.431-4211 | c: 808.651-4566 3-3367 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766

Fall 2024 33

Take Control of Your Health:

6 Steps to Prevent a Fall Every 13 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury.

Many falls are preventable. Stay safe with these tips!

Find good balance Find aagood balance and and exercise program. exercise program Look to build balance, strength, and flexibility.

Look to build balance, strength, and flexibility.

Contact local AreaonAgency Contact youryour local Area Agency Aging for on Aging for referrals. FindFind a program you like and takelike a friend. referrals. a program you and take a friend.

Talk to your health care provider.

Talk to your health care provider Ask for assessment ofofyour Ask for an an assessment of your risk falling.risk of falling.

Share your history of recent falls.

Share your history of recent falls.

Regularly review medications Regularly review youryour medications with your doctor or pharmacist with your doctor or pharmacist.

Make sure side effects aren’t increasing Make sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk your risk of falling. Take medications only as prescribed. of falling. Take medications only as prescribed.

Get yourvision vision hearing checked Get your andand hearing checked annually and update annually and update your eyeglasses. your eyeglasses Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet. on your feet.

Keep your home Keep your home safesafe.

Remove tripping hazards,hazards, i ncrease lighting, make lighting, Remove tripping increase stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas. make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas.

Talk to family members Talk toyour your family members.

Enlist their support in taking simple Enlist their support in taking simple steps to steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue. stay safe.

Falls are not just a seniors’ issue.

FREE Falls Prevention Program • (808) 241-4470 • www.kauaiadrc.org PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

COUNTY OF KAUAI AGENCY ON ELDERLY AFFAIRS

34 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Seniors Wanted!

Ongoing

Senior Programs

Classes and activities are scheduled at community neighborhood centers throughout the island.

REGENCY AT

PUAKEA

C For all Yo Tou ur Tod r ay!

Kauai's ONLY Independent Retirement and Assisted Living Community.

All-inclusive air-conditioned apartments including housekeeping, transportation, three gourmet meals, and 24-hour staffing.

Centrally located in Lihue.

Call 808.246.4449 for a tour

Some of the classes available include: art, aquatics, ukulele, hula, bonsai, cultural dances, exercise, hanafuda, weaving, quilting, line dance, sewing, crafts, and painting.

If you are interested in joining our senior program, contact the Neighborhood Center closest to you.

Kekaha Waimea Kaumakani Hanapepe Kalaheo Koloa Lihue Kapaa Kilauea

NC NC NC NC NC NC NC NC NC

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

Fall 2024 35

Hawaiʻi Parent Leadership Training Institute Transforming Parents who care into parents who LEAD!

Calling all parents from across the islands to participate in this free, unique opportunity! Enhance your leadership skills and learn how to make a positive difference for keiki in Hawaiʻi! Join a statewide cohort of other parent leaders and learn how to be an effective parent advocate in your community.

Cohort begins in September 2024!

Apply by August 31, 2024 at www.bit.ly/plti2024.

Most sessions will be virtual with 3 in-person meetings (travel expenses covered).

Mahalo for supporting PLTI and our future community leaders!

City & County of Honolulu

Hawaiʻi PLTI is a chapter of the National Parent Leadership Institute.

KAUAI FAMILY MAGAZINE .COM

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

36 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Hawaii Literacy Offers Free Tutoring to Adults With over 50 years as a non-profit organization in the state of Hawaii, our mission is to empower Kauai’s adults with essential reading, writing, and learning skills.

We believe that greater literacy builds stronger families and communities. Literacy is at the core of having an opportunity for the best quality of life. It is never too late for an adult to learn to read and write. Welltrained and dedicated volunteers successfully teach adult learners these skills. We give adults a second chance to learn to read and train literacy volunteers to teach in our community. We provide books, mentors and literacy promotion. Hawaii Literacy works to break cycles of poverty and undereducation. Our offices on Oahu and the Big Island also offer these popular programs; Family Literacy Libraries, English Language Learners, Digital Literacy and Bookmobiles.

Some of our many learner successes on Kaua’i include: Earning a GED/High School diploma Acceptance into Kauai Community College Scoring straight A’s in Kauai Community College classes Passing the written driver’s license exam Passing the USA citizenship test Speaking, reading, and writing better English Understanding forms and documents Accent reduction Improved communication skills Increased ability to interact with the public Feelings of satisfaction and belonging as part of the Kauai community Greater confidence levels Getting a promotion at work/finding better job opportunities Securing upgraded housing Making more money Living a safer, more stable life Looking forward to a bright future

1 IN 6 ADULTS IN HAWAII STRUGGLE WITH READING AND WRITING

IF YOU CAN READ THIS, YOU CAN HELP! Please join us in an unique opportunity to be of service.

If you would like to become a Kaua’i learner or would like to volunteer as a tutor, contact Jessica Gormley Adult Literacy Coordinator 808-639-6844 jessica.gormley@hawaiiliteracy.org

hawaiiliteracy.org Scan to become a learner:

Scan to become a tutor:

Many thanks to our hard working Kaua’i students and tutors!

Fall 2024 37

Real Estate Q&A with Leah Ragsac, Kauai Realty Leah@LeahRagsac.com

Q

Aloha Leah, Interest rates are so high; should I wait to buy?

— Concerned Buyer

Aloha Concerned Buyer, Deciding whether to buy a home when interest rates are high can be challenging.

High interest rates increase your monthly mortgage payments, making homeownership seem less affordable.

However, there are several factors to consider before deciding to wait.

Assess your financial situation. If you have a stable income, good credit, and sufficient savings for a down payment, you may be in a strong position to buy even with higher rates. Consider the local housing market. If home prices are expected to rise, waiting might mean paying more for a home later, which could offset any potential benefit of lower interest rates in the future.

If you are in the position to purchase, with the right guidance and if it’s right for you and your family, have the confidence to move forward and become a homeowner!

Q

I receive many questions concerning real estate.

If I can answer yours, glad to help!

Call or email me today!

Aloha Leah, I am thinking about selling; should I renovate my kitchen?

— Reno-Ready Seller

Dear Reno-Ready Seller, Renovating your kitchen can significantly impact your home’s appeal and value.

Considerations before making a decision: 1. Current Kitchen Condition: If your kitchen is outdated or in poor condition, a renovation can make your home more attractive. Modern, functional kitchens are often high on buyers’ wish lists.

2. Return on Investment (ROI): Consider the potential ROI of a kitchen renovation.

38 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS!

Got Real Estate Questions?

CONTACT YOUR HOME GIRLS! Choose an experienced professional who cares for you and our island.

LEAH RAGSAC RS 80621 808-212-4086 TAYLOR RAGSAC RS 84781 808-635-3449 Leah@LeahRagsac.com www.LeahRagsac.com

While you might not recoup every dollar spent, a well-done renovation can increase your home’s marketability and selling price. Minor updates often yield a better ROI than major overhauls. Consult with a contractor and a realtor to weigh your options.

Much Aloha, Leah

Electronic Waste Recycle

Open to Businesses and Residents for FREE!* visit www.kauai.gov/eWaste or call 241-

6 Days a Week!

Puhi Metals Recycling Facility, 3951 Puhi Road, Mon-Fri 7:30AM-3:30PM Operated by Resource Recovery Solutions Phone: 808-245-6919 All material is sent to an e-Steward or R2 certified recycler

*Large eWaste such as commercial printers and industrial electronics may be subject to packing and handling fee, call 245-6919 for more information Accepted:

Not Accepted:

Computer systems and accessories, cellular phones & accessories, office equipment, & audio & video equipment. Small computer speakers only.

Non-computer batteries, packaging, contaminated equipment, cracked or broken CRT screens, smoke detectors, and hazardous or non-eWaste items, stereo speakers.

Full List available at www.kauai.gov/eWaste Fall 2024 39

K R A R R! M OU A Y ND E L CA

FREE ENTRY Fun and exciting for ALL ages!

WAIMEA •

HHSC KA

AND ITS P

PRESEN

KAUA C S HH

ENGAGE IN HEALTHY LIVING • ASK A DOCTOR • PASSPORT TO HEALTHY LIVING • FAMILY FUN • FOOD VENDORS • LUCKY DRAWINGS • FREE GIVEAWAYS • ENTERTAINMENT ...and more!

40 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

FIRST ANNUAL • O

KVMH Campus •

For details, go to our webs • FARM RUN details a • Healthy Living lineu • Partners and Sponso

• KAUA‘I

AUA‘I REGION

PARTNERS

NTS THE

A‘I REGI ON

OCTOBER 26, 2024

HHSC Kauai Region hhsckauai

Follow us for updates on what you can expect at our Fall Celebration!

THE FIRST

FARM RUN 5K and 2K

Be the first to enjoy a beautiful scenic run in the farm or walk it with your family!

It's all Healthy!

Starting at the Waimea Athletic Field Registration is limited.

• Waimea, Kaua‘i

!

AL V I d ST pe E m F a ST t st E r RV spo he to A H as o t ce e p t n h site at: www.kauai.hhsc.org t t ion ring cha g! a g a n and registration rts i Re nd b for awi a t a a r n s Kau oth ION ky d up o T c ti o ra HSC r b BRA e lu b ors u ele ur H at o ELE t th c a l o l L C in Fa et y L G FA w Fall 2024 41

Honoring Local History and Culture Kauaʻi Museum, Grove Farm Sugar Plantation Museum and Kōkeʻe Natural History Museum offer fun and enriching ways for the whole family to learn about Kauai’s history and connect to the island’s unique culture and abundant heritage.

Kauaʻi’s rich history and traditions are on disply at a variety of museums on the island. Tour former sugar plantations to learn how that industry reshaped the Hawaiian Islands in the 19th century.

Explore the works of contemprary local artisans and craftspeople, and discover artifacts and murals of our ancestors.

Connect with Kauai’s natural world — past, present, and future — through exhibits, hikes, films and compelling storytelling.

Understanding the history and culture of the island adds a richness and depth to your experiences living here.

Kauaʻi Museum Established in 1960, the Kaua’i Museum contains exhibits, artifacts, dioramas and murals illustrating the island’s history, people and culture. Learn about the geological formation of the Hawaiian Islands, early Native Hawaiian life, Captain Cook’s arrival on Kaua’i’s shores in Waimea and the Hawaiian Monarchy.

42 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

kauaimuseum.org 245-6931 4428 Rice St. Lihue, HI 96766

Mon. to Fri., 9am–4pm Sat., 9am–2pm Sun., closed Guided tours are available upon request; call ahead or book online.

Grove Farm Sugar Plantation Museum

Immersive walking tours take you through layers of local history all the way back to the mid-1800s. Step into the daily life of different generations and cultures that made this homestead a thriving sugarcane operation and home to all.

Kōkeʻe Natural History Museum

grovefarm.org 245-3202 4050 Nawiliwili Rd. Lihue, HI 96766

Tour times: Mon., Wed. and Thurs., 10am and 1pm Advanced reservations are required; email tours@grovefarm.org.

Knowledgeable staff and volunteers help you decide on the hiking trail(s) most suitable for you and advise you of current conditions and hazards.

Kōke‘e Museum Shop has an extensive selection of Hawaiian books, fine local craft and art, and exclusive gift items like Ni‘ihau shell jewelry.

kokee.org info@kokee.org 335-9975 3600 Kokee Rd. Kekaha, HI 96752 Open every day 9am to 4:30pm.

Admission is free; donations are welcome.

Fall 2024 43

TIPS FOR PARENTS

How to Choose the Right-Size Bike & Helmet for Your Child

Keep your child safe with a bike that's the right size and a properly fitting helmet. Follow these tips.

Do not push your child to ride a two-wheeled bike until they are ready, which is typically about five or six years old.

Take your child with you when shopping for their bike so they can try it out. The safety factor of a properly fitting bike far outweighs the temporary joy of the surprise of a new bike.

Buy a bike that is the right size now, not one your child has to grow into. Oversized bikes are particularly dangerous.

Finding the proper fit of a bike: While sitting on the seat with hands on the handlebar, your child must be able to place the balls of both feet on the ground.

Straddling the center bar, your child should be able to stand with both feet on the ground with about a one-inch clearance between the crotch and the bar.

When buying a bike with hand brakes for an older child, make sure they can comfortably grasp the brakes and apply sufficient pressure to stop the bike.

44 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Finding a helmet that fits your child properly:

As with a bike, do not purchase a helmet that your child has to grow into. Get one that fits now.

Purchase a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)approved helmet for your child.

The helmet should sit squarely on top of the head and cover the top of the forehead.

The helmet should sit parallel to the ground when your child’s head is upright.

When your child shakes their head or the helmet is pushed or pulled, the helmet should NOT: • sit diagonally (at an angle) • move around • slide forward over their eyes or backward toward their neck Adjust the chin strap to fit snugly.

NEVER allow your child e to ride their bik et. without a helm Helmet use decreases head injuries and deaths.

Fall 2024 45

TIME !

R O L O C TO

46 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Fall 2024 47

SUCCESS

It’s hard to believe summer is already behind us and kids are back to school. And back-to-school means back-to-homework.

Research shows that children are more likely to be successful in school when they have family support, so use these 12 tips to help them find homework success!

1. Understand the reasons for homework. Doing homework teaches children important life skills such as responsibility, time management and task completion. Homework should reinforce what is being taught in the classroom — an extension of what they’ve already learned. Therefore, children should be able to complete homework with little help from parents as they shouldn’t come home with an entirely new concept to learn. If that’s not the case, it’s time to schedule a teacher conference (see #11).

48 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

2. Know the teacher’s philosophy.

Teachers have varying philosophies about how much homework to assign. Some think a ton of homework helps build character. Others think children have done enough work during the day and don’t assign any. Understand where your child’s teacher(s) fall on the homework spectrum so you’re not surprised when homework does (or doesn’t) come home.

3. Let them fail. We know it can be hard, but ... sometimes you have to let your child learn the hard way.

Don’t be so quick to bail them out every time you receive a frantic text about forgotten homework. One of the purposes of homework is to teach responsibility and accountability.

There is no motivation to remember and improve if kids know parents will always fix the problem.

4. Get organized. Your child should have a backpack and homework folder to carry assignments between home and school. Teachers of primary students usually send homework correspondence each night. If your older child’s teacher doesn’t require students to record schoolwork in an assignment book, provide one yourself and teach your child how to fill it out.

5. Be consistent. Kids benefit greatly from structure and consistency. With sports, service projects, religious and other enrichment activities, it can be challenging to schedule a set time to do homework every day. Aim for as much consistency as possible.

6. Designate a study space. If you don’t already have a designated homework space, choose one that is free of distractions and best accommodates your child.

Some children concentrate best in complete quiet, while others study well with background music.

Make study areas free from video games, TV and disruptive siblings who finish homework early.

Set kids up for success with easy access to all necessary supplies.

7. Help, don’t do. Helping your child with homework is a great way to connect, but don’t provide answers. The whole point of homework is for children to practice skills independently.

8. Set a timer. Some kids tend to procrastinate.

Others like the challenge of beating the clock. Either way, a timer keeps a child focused on the finish line.

The National Education Association and the National Parent Teacher Association support the 10-minute guideline: 10 minutes of homework per grade level.

Multiple teachers likely means more assignments

*

9. Model learning as a priority.

Show by example that learning is fun.

Let children see you reading books, the newspaper or an e-reader.

Discuss current events, politics or exhibits at local art or history museums. Find exciting tidbits in their homework to explore together.

10. Encourage. No matter how tired you are, have a positive attitude about the work your child does.

Encourage their efforts and let them know you are proud of them.

11. Speak up. If you think too much homework is coming home, that your child isn’t familiar with the material or that they are struggling, schedule a conference with your child’s teacher.

Most teachers welcome feedback and want to help your child succeed.

12. Call in reinforcements. If homework is too challenging and your child is not feeling supported by the teacher, consider getting an experienced tutor who is good at explaining the material to kids.

Fall 2024 49

W O R D

S E A R C H

find and circle the vocabulary words hidden in the puzzle.

marker • alphabet • backpack ruler • books • binder stapler • scissors

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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 2024 51

Child’s First Phone: Are They Ready?

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.

Pros and Cons of Smartphones for Children

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.

Fall 2024 53

54 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Keep Teeth Healthy at Halloween

By Tia Barrier, R.D.H., Kalaheo Dental Group

WE

Participate in the Kalaheo Dental Group candy buyback program!

Follow these tips to avoid cavities this Halloween: 1. Practice moderation. Eat “fun-sized” candies.

2. Limit candy consumption. Eat a few pieces with lunch or dinner.

3. Avoid sticky or chewy candy. Gummy bears, caramels, and taffy get stuck on your teeth and are difficult to remove.

4. Steer clear of anything sour. The acid in sour candies is very harmful to tooth enamel, causing it to breakdown quickly.

5. Chew sugar-free gum. Sugar-free gum helps to increase saliva flow, which helps to wash away acids and bacteria present after eating candy.

6. Avoid candies that last. Hard candy and lollipops take a long time to dissolve and stay in your child’s mouth for an extended period of time.

7. Brush teeth soon after eating candy.

Brushing teeth soon after eating candy to remove the harmful bacteria.

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Fall 2024 55

By Monty Downs, M.D. Medical Director, Kauai Hospice

Keeping Our Children Water Safe

described how in “third-world countries,” drowning can be the leading cause of trauma death in children (defined as individuals under 18 years old). The speakers he Fall KFM issue and back show photos of situations like children to school already! I hope our walking on a plank across a swollen Kauai keiki and families had stream, just to get to school each day. a fun and safe summer. Those two In Hawaii, we tend to not have such words need not be contradictory, extreme scenarios, but we do have as long as we maintain and practice the ocean and beaches and rock ledges an awareness of certain quite simple and swimming pools — and swollen principles, particularly in regard streams — to contend with. to water safety.

Our statistics aren’t overwhelming.

State Today’s article will be a bit on Department of Health statistics show that the serious and somber side as there were 54 fatal I update a 2019 article that I wrote childhood drownings statewide from on childhood drownings.

Worldwide, this is a huge problem. 2014 to 2023, making drowning the third leading cause of death in I no longer have the numbers at Hawaiians aged one through 17, behind hand, but I’ve been to talks that only cancer and suicide.

Of these 54 fatal drownings, “only” one occurred on Kauai. Twenty-eight of the 54 occurred in swimming pools, including the one on Kauai. Of those 28, 21 involved children under 5 years of age.

On Kauai, there were also 24 nonfatal pediatric drownings that required treatment in hospitals over the 2018 to 2022 period.

These numbers obviously pale in comparison to what is taking place in Gaza and other war zones in the world, but the problem is the terrible toll of even one of these drownings, not

T

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only to the victim, of course, but also on the surviving family and friends.

DROWNING PREVENTION

The key to rescuing and saving childhood drowning victims is to not need to rescue them. That is, the key is prevention. I’ve given occasional talks about treatment of childhood drownings and on one of my slides, I show that steps 1-5 are prevention.

Step 6 is getting oxygen back into the lungs, be it room air oxygen or medical oxygen (mouth-to-mouth).

Step 7 is excellent CPR. Steps 8-10 are advanced lifesupport drugs: in the ambulance, in the ER and in the ICU. But the fact is, once you are on step 6, you’re in far more trouble than you want to be in.

What are the prevention steps that can be taken?

1. ASSIGN A “WATER WATCHER.” Always have an adult on duty as the designated “water watcher” — whenever there is water in the vicinity. At every moment, and without distraction, this person keeps their eyes on the children.

Rotate this responsibility among the adults present, about every half hour.

If a child drowns when adults were nearby but preoccupied, the agonizing lifelong sadness is magnified by guilt, and long-term therapy is the best that can be done at this point.

2. PRACTICE “DROWN-PROOFING” (i.e., teaching young children how to stay afloat in the water). Infants less than one year old can actually be taught some degree of this safety measure. Note: A hurtful development since my 2019 article is that the secondgrade learn-to-swim program that was being initiated in our schools got shut down by the pandemic. There were hopes that it could be re-started but all momentum was lost. At this time, your best bet for “drown-proofing” your child is hiring a private swim instructor.

3. ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN LEARNTO-SWIM/WATER-SAFETY LESSONS. Numerous local programs are available, including offerings at the YMCA and through Kauai County (learn-to-swim for children as young as five and junior lifeguard programs for older keiki).

4. EDUCATE YOURSELF AND YOUR CHILDREN. Although it helps tremendously, knowing how to swim doesn’t mean you have zero risk of drowning. You still have to understand hazards such as rip currents, hidden rocks and dangerous breaks onto rock ledges.

Very best wishes for a good school year. How nice to be around people again, and not virtual classrooms. I would have flunked in those for sure!

Fall 2024 57

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Check your mail for the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) Survey from the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health.

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Fall 2024 59

How to Make Friendship Bracelets

Show your school spirit by using beads in your school colors and letter and number beads for your school name, mascot and graduation year.

Commemorate a shared experience such as a road trip, big game day, homecoming or prom.

Wear (lots of) them to concerts and festivals to add personality to your outfit. Spell out band names and favorite song lyrics with letter beads.

Show your support for a friend who is going through a difficult time.

A friendship bracelet will remind them that you are there for them.

Add charms to your bracelet to showcase your unique personality and your interests and hobbies.

Friendship bracelets are fun, easy and relatively inexpensive to make.

These gifts are a meaningful way to express your appreciation or celebrate a milestone, and they can even make everyday moments special and memorable. They are great conversation starters and fun to trade with friends old and new.

Here are some creative ways you can use friendship bracelets: Give them as gifts on any occasion (birthdays, holidays, graduations, weddings, going-away parties, first or last day of school, reunions, etc.).

Use them as party favors at baby showers or in pinatas, goodie bags and gift boxes. They make a fun way to do a gender reveal, too!

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Host a friendship-bracelet-making party. Mix and match beads; share ideas on what kinds of bracelets to make; encourage each other to try new colors and techniques.

When you are done making them, it’s time to trade, trade, trade!

MAKING ELASTIC-BEAD FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS

Friendship bracelet beads come in multiple sizes and a wide variety of colors. Most beads have at least a 1mm hole made to accommodate 0.8mm or 1mm elastic string (also known as stretch cords).

To make a 7" bracelet, you’ll need: • About 12" of elastic string.

Your string needs to be longer than the final bracelet size for knotting purposes.

• Pony beads, letter/number beads, craft beads, and charms (optional)

to create your desired look.

It takes about 30 6mm beads to make a 7" bracelet. You’ll need to adjust the number of beads if you use different size beads or want a final bracelet size other than 7".

• Soft place mat • Scissors • Bead stopper, clothes pin or binder clip • Beading needle (optional, but can make stringing beads faster) • Jump rings and flat nose pliers (optional, but can make adding charms easier) Steps to make a stretch bracelet: 1. Cut 12" of elastic string/stretch cord.

2. Attach a bead stopper (or clothes pin or binder clip) to one end of the elastic to keep beads from falling off while you are working.

3. String beads in the desired order.

4. When finished, double knot the elastic and trim the excess.

GET CREATIVE WITH THESE FRIENDSHIP BRACELET IDEAS AND TIPS

Once you get the hang of making bead bracelets, try other techniques like knotting embroidery floss or colorful rubber bands.

Layer plain-bead bracelets with coordinating name/message bracelets to create matching sets.

To give them as gifts, tie bracelet sets together with pretty satin ribbon.

By using beads of different shapes, sizes and colors, you can create unique bracelets that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Show your support of your favorite cause or charity by making bracelets in their custom colors and/or with their specific messaging.

Use letter beads to make personalized bracelets (with names or initials) or inspirational messages like LOVE, PEACE or HOPE.

Friendship bracelets are the perfect gift for any special occasion — or for no occasion at all. Make them for yourself, for your friends and family, or to trade with people you meet at concerts and festivals.

Get creative and have fun!

Choose a theme and make multiple bracelets to be worn together.

Fall 2024 61

Healthy Advice for New Parents

By Dr. Robert Wotring, Wilcox chief of staff and Kaua‘i Medical Clinic pediatrician

After months of anticipation, you’ve organized your diaperchanging station, put away tiny onesies, researched and set up the best bassinet, stroller, car seat and bottle system. Now, your new baby is finally here, and it means you have a whole new batch of questions.

It’s normal for first-time parents to wonder if they’re doing anything correctly. Longtime Kaua‘i pediatrician Dr. Robert Wotring has been helping families through this joyous and often anxious time for more than 30 years.

Here are two common questions he gets from new parents.

My baby is sneezing and hiccupping.

Should I be worried? Those are very normal things for most babies. No treatment is needed. Some people find that feeding their baby for another 20 seconds may stop hiccups, but you don’t need to worry.

Should I get my baby vaccinate?

Vaccinations are one of the biggest public health benefits that we’ve seen in the last century. They have prevented innumerable severe illnesses and deaths in infants and children. Vaccines have been well-tested and have great benefits not only for your baby, but for the entire community around you.

We are seeing an uptick in vaccine-

“Vaccines have been well-tested and have great benefits not only for your baby, but for the entire community.” preventable diseases because fewer people are vaccinating their children.

Recently, there’s been a big measles outbreak on the mainland which, in all likelihood, will work its way here.

The best way to protect your baby against measles and other childhood illnesses is to have them vaccinated according to the recommended schedule by your doctor.

Some people have questions about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

This is essentially a cancer-prevention vaccine. HPV is known to cause various types of cancers in women and in men.

Vaccinating children before they are exposed to HPV greatly reduces their chances of developing cervical and other types of cancer.

Visit WilcoxHealth.org to learn more.

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FROM NORTH TO WEST: Waipa Farmers Market (Hanalei) Tuesdays 3pm-5pm Hale Halawai Farmers Market (Hanalei) Saturdays 9:30am-Noon Anaina Hou Farmers Market (Kilauea) Saturdays 9:00am-Noon Kealia Farm Market (Kealia) Mondays & Fridays 3pm-6pm Coconut Marketplace (Kapaa) Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am-1pm County Sunshine Market (Kapaa) Wednesdays 3pm-4:30pm Grove Farm’s Puhi Park Produce (Lihue) Saturdays at 9:30am Pau Hana Market Kukui Grove Center (Lihue) Mondays 3pm-5:30pm Shops at Kukuiula (Poipu) Wednesdays 3:30pm-5:30pm County Sunshine Market (Hanapepe) Thursdays 3pm-4pm Hale Puna Farmer’s Market (Waimea) Thursdays 3:30pm-5:30pm

Fall 2024 63

Introducing the 2024 Grove Farm Scholars!

Every year since 2010, the Grove Farm Foundation has awarded three $20,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from Kaua‘i’s public high schools to support their pursuit of higher education and professional goals. The Grove Farm Scholarship continues to be one of the state’s largest scholarships from a local foundation. Each recipient, selected by a panel of community leaders, embodies the values of leadership, academic excellence, and community engagement.

Jeanine is a Kauaʻi High School graduate and will be attending Stanford University to study human biology to become an Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician.

accomplished musician who is able to play five instruments.

Jeanine is described by her teachers as contagiously happy and humbly intelligent with a vibrant and positive personality Jeanine interned at Wilcox that her peers flock to Medical Center, which solidified her career JEANINE LONGBOY and appreciate. She also volunteered with nonprofit aspirations. She has been active in cross country, tennis, and several organization Mālama Hulēʻia, where she researched phytoplankton species in the clubs including the National Honor ‘Alekoko Fishpond. Her efforts in applying Society (NHS), Health Occupations scientific knowledge to real-world Students of America (HOSA), Key Club, environmental issues assisted the and Student Council. She was also organization in enhancing their restoration involved with her high school jazz band plans to strengthen the native ecosystem. and symphony program, and she is an We also congratulate the other six finalists, each of whom will receive a $1,000 award for their impressive achievements: Olivia Blackmer (Waimea High School) Colton Mills (Kaua‘i High School) Julia Durocher (Kapa‘a High School) Sarah Morioka (Kapa‘a High School) Priscilla Matthews (Kaua‘i High School) Nicole Perpose (Waimea High School) 64 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Madison Silva is a Kapaʻa High School graduate and will attend Willamette University to study biology with the goal of becoming a physician or surgeon.

Known for her determination and work ethic in both academics and athletics, Madison loves to challenge herself and is always willing to take on tasks that others may not want to do. Her leadership and dedication are sure to drive her success in the medical field and inspire those around her.

She participated in Chaminade University’s early college dual MADISON SILVA enrollment program and gained practical experience at Wilcox “Madison has had many challenges in Hospital via their Nurse Aid Program. life that could have brought most young Madison credits her teacher Kara adults down,” Ms. Kitamura said. “Instead, Kitamura for inspiring her to pursue she has flourished in spite of them.” healthcare, instilling a love of learning, Ms. Kitamura’s encouragement to work and supporting her in her studies. hard and excel academically has resulted in Madison being the first in her family to attend college!

Sofia Saunders is a graduate of Waimea High School and will be attending the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa to study Architecture and Environmental Design.

work to create healthier marine life.

Sofia has found a way to merge her two passions for sustainability and design. Her ultimate goal is to become a licensed architect and create Her goal is to return innovative, socially to Kauaʻi and design focused, and sustainable environmentally conscious SOFIA SAUNDERS designs that will architecture. As a talented contribute to a healthier way of living. graphic designer, Sofia’s work for the Kaua‘i Forest Bird Project was recognized at the state level and awarded three Gold Pele American Advertising Awards. For her senior project and as a volunteer, Sofia applied her design skills to help Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, a local nonprofit, rebrand and effectively engage younger generations in their

Inspired by her mother, Sofia shared that her mom instilled in her the values of creativity, open-mindedness, and kindness from a young age. These values have led her to become the person she is today, and she strives daily to not take anything for granted and to give back to those around her in everything she does.

Congratulations to the 2024 Grove Farm Scholars! Fall 2024 65

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HAWAI’I FOODBANK KAUA’I CAN HELP YOU GET STARTED. SNAP helps households stretch their food budgets further. A family of four can receive up to $1,759 a month in SNAP benefits.

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Fall 2024 67

CHILD FIND If your child is between the ages of 0 to 22 and is having difficulty speaking, listening, seeing, hearing, walking, using their hands, behaving, getting along with others, or learning, there are professionals who can help. For information and to get help, contact the following: Scan this code

FOR CHILDREN 3 TO 22, CALL HAWAII STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AT (808) 305-9810 OR 1-800-297-2070

For youths 22 years of age and older, contact Hawaii State Department of Human Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Services for the Blind Branch at (808) 586-5269 OR Hawaii State Department of Health - Case Management and Information Services Branch at (808) 733-9172

For children under the age of 3, call Early Intervention Referral Line at (808) 594-0066 or 1-800-235-5477

Additional Resources: Special Parent Information Network (SPIN) at (808) 586-8126 68 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

RS 23-0435 November 2022

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808-241-HOPE (4673) 4373 Rice St. Suite 1 Lihue, HI 96766 www.CatholicCharititiesHawaii.org

Ua ola loko i ke aloha Love gives life within

Nurturing our youth and helping those in need Fall 2024 69

CLEAN HOUSE

Choosing cleaning products that are safer for your family and better for the environment is a win-win.

Many traditional cleaning products expose our families and the environment to unhealthy chemicals, plastics and toxins. Microplastics and chemical residue can disperse into the air and even leak into the water supply, which can lead to harmful health effects.

Children are especially at risk because of their smaller size, still-developing organs and natural behaviors (crawling on the floor and then putting their hands in their mouths, for example).

Consider using "green" products that are non-toxic (or at a minimum, less toxic), instead.

Look for products with the "Safer Choice" label.

Safer Choice is the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)'s program to help consumers easily identify products with safer ingredients, without sacrificing quality or performance.

According to epa.gov, "Products have to pass our stringent criteria in order to earn the Safer Choice label. The Safer Choice program reviews more than just product ingredients. We also look at product performance, pH, packaging and more to ensure that products with the label are safer for you and your family. Once a product meets the Safer Choice standard, EPA conducts annual audits to ensure our standards continue to be met."

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About 1,900 products currently qualify to carry the Safer Choice label.

Scan this QR code to find the list of Safer ChoiceCertified products designated for home use.

You can even make your own cleaning solutions (see p. 71); that way, you have control over the ingredients. Plus, you save money and reduce the amount of packaging you put into the environment.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS: Choose natural sponges and scrubs made from cellulose or coconut fibers. They last longer, are biodegradable and do not release microplastics into the water supply.

When using cleaning products, open windows and turn on a fan to increase airflow. Wear gloves to protect your skin. Reusable gloves are best (less waste!).

Keep all cleaning products in their original containers and stored away, out of sight (and reach) of children and pets.

Follow product directions. Safely discard when they've reached their expiration date.

Thoroughly wash your hands when you are done cleaning.

DIY CLEANING SOLUTIONS

All-purpose cleaning spray:

All-purpose cleaning scrub:

1 cup of water

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup of distilled white vinegar lemon, lime or orange juice (to cut the vinegar smell) clean, empty spray bottle

Pour ingredients into the spray bottle. Replace cap and shake gently before use. Use on glass, stainless steel appliances, walls, cupboards, floors, sinks, stovetops, toilets, bathtubs and trash cans. Do not use on natural stone, waxed wood, cast iron or aluminum, as it can damage or discolor these surfaces. Always test on a small, inconspicuous spot first.

3 tablespoons baking soda 1 tablespoon water Mix ingredients to make a paste. Spread paste on stovetop, inside oven or onto stainless steel sinks.

Let sit for a few minutes, then scrub with sponge (preferably a natural sponge made from cellulose or coconut fibers).

ad Stay ahe rms e g d n of dirt a igh-touch h g in by clean obs, (doorkn surfaces ht switches, , lig handles , etc.) controls te o m re forget 't y. Don a d h c a d e ones an your ph tronic c le other e . devices

Fall Fall 2024 2024 71

BOOKS FOR KIDS

ROVER THROWS A PARTY

by Kristin L. Gray This fun birthday tale provides an accessible, kid-friendly look at one of NASA’s coolest space programs.

CHANGING THE EQUATION: 50 BLACK WOMEN IN STEM

by Tonya Bolden This book explores the Black women who have changed STEM in America, including groundbreaking computer scientists, doctors, pharmacists, inventors, physicists, mathematicians, aviators and many more.

STEM is an acryonym for science, technology, engineering and math.

Exposing kids to STEM at an early age can foster inquiring minds, strengthen logic and problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence.

Nurture your little one’s love of all things STEM with these 12 amazing books (all available on amazon.com).

BAKE INFINITE PIE WITH X + Y

by Eugenia Cheng This colorful picture book teaches kids math through baking.

MATH ART+ DRAWING GAMES FOR KIDS

by Karyn Tripp More than 40 hands-on art activities that make learning about math fun.

LITTLE LEONARDO’S FASCINATING WORLD OF TECHNOLOGY

by Bob Cooper Introduce kids to the wonders of technology far beyond smartphones.

FUTURE ENGINEER

by Lori Alexander Discover all the ways baby already has what it takes to become an engineer, be it electrical, mechanical, civil or more!

WILDLIFE RANGER ACTION GUIDE

by Mary Kay Carson Dozens of habitat-creation projects encourage children to take an active role in protecting local wildlife.

THE STORY OF INVENTIONS

by Catherine Barr & Steve Williams Discover incredible inventions from throughout history and learn about the people behind these inventions.

FUN AND EASY CRAFTING WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS

by Kimberly McLeod Unleash your imagination with 60 unique crafts projects.

THE KITCHEN PANTRY SCIENTIST: CHEMISTRY FOR KIDS

by Liz Lee Heinecke Replicate memorable experiments and discover amazing role models.

PHYSICS ANIMATED

by Tyler Jorden This interactive board book invites children to pull levers, turn wheels and witness phsyics in action.

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100 EASY STEAM ACTIVITIES

by Andrea Scalzo Yi Try far-out science experiments like making lava lamps and unlock boundless creativity with art projects.

Fall 2024 73

Caffeine content of some popular drinks

ARE Y G ENERK S DRINE? SAF

12 oz can cola—about 32 mg caffeine 8 oz cup coffee—about 100 mg 2 oz bottle 5-Hour Energy shot— regular 200 mg; extra strength 230 mg 12 oz can Red Bull—111 mg Starbucks Latte (grande)—150 mg 16 oz Monster (2 servings)—163 mg 12 oz Celsius—200 mg Panera Charged Lemonade— 20 oz, 158 mg; 30 oz, 390 mg 12 oz Gatorade “Fast Twitch”—200 mg (regular Gatorade contains no caffeine)

The safety of energy drinks depends on age, personal health and the amount of caffeine consumed. Here are some key takeaways for parents to consider: The Food and Drug Administration says healthy adults can safely consume 400 mg of caffeine a day.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly discourages caffeine consumption for kids under age 12, citing concerns about the effects on developing neurologic and cardiovascular systems, as well as the risk of physical dependence.

The AAP says adolescents ages 12–18 should limit caffeine intake to less than 100 mg daily.

Energy drink effects can last up to eight hours, negatively impacting sleep, learning and memory.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, ingesting large amounts of caffeine may cause heart rhythm disturbances and increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

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There are no federal age requirements to buy energy drinks in the U.S., but some areas have implemented their own local restrictions.

So how much caffeine do energy drinks contain? Most energy shots and drinks contain 70 mg to 240 mg of caffeine; that’s obviously a very wide range. In addition, there is no requirement to include the amount of caffeine on energy drink labels, and some contain additional stimulants like guarana, ginseng and green tea to intensify effects and make them last longer.

Mixing energy drinks with alcohol: The Centers for Disease Control reports that people ages 15–23 who mix energy drinks with alcohol are four times more likely to binge drink at high intensity (consume six or more drinks per episode) than those who do not mix the two. And contrary to popular belief, consuming caffeine does not “sober you up” or reduce impairment from alcohol consumption.

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Healthy Relationships Fall 2024 75

Building Healthy Self-Esteem in Your Children

By Sandi Schwartz

Children who have healthy selfesteem feel valued, accepted, confident and proud. Children suffering from low self-esteem tend to criticize themselves, feel insecure and focus on failures instead of successes. They may even question whether they are worthy, adequate and able to be loved.

The worries that accompany prolonged low self-esteem can lead to anxiety.

The relationship between self-esteem and anxiety can be an endless cycle: low self-esteem triggers anxiety, and being anxious reduces self-confidence.

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Low self-esteem makes people vulnerable to obsessing over negative thoughts, which can also lead to depression.

Generally, people with low selfesteem have the following fears: Will I do something that shows I am not good enough?

Will others notice?

Will I fail, lose what I have or be abandoned?

Will I experience humiliation, depression, devastation or despair?

According to experts, healthy selfesteem results from experiences in which children feel accepted, capable and effective. Here are some ways you can help your child build their selfesteem based on these three criteria:

ACCEPTED

Love your children unconditionally.

Let your children know that you love them no matter how much they might fail or how many bad decisions they make. Perfection is not the goal.

Learning, growing, trying new things and experiencing all that life has to offer is more important than winning, losing, passing or failing.

Show them you understand them.

When kids feel understood by a parent, they are more likely to be accepting of themselves. Keep the lines of communication open and be an active, supportive listener.

Make them feel special. Help your children discover their interests, talents and strengths, and teach them that it is ok to feel proud of themselves.

Avoid harsh criticism. Be careful how you speak to your children — the words and tone you use impacts their self-worth.

challenging them to reach new levels.

They will feel so proud when they accomplish tasks by themselves.

Support them from a distance.

When teaching them how to do new things, let them know that you are available to help them if they need it.

Then let them do what they can, even if they make mistakes.

Expand their horizons. Give them plenty of opportunities to try new activities, see new places and meet different people. The more their comfort zone is expanded, the better they will handle worrisome situations in the future. However, if they are scared, encourage, but don’t push too hard.

EFFECTIVE

Set realistic, attainable goals.

Help your children set goals that are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely).

When they reach their goals, they will feel joyful and proud. When they don't, they will learn other life lessons, like the value of being persistent and resilient — and gracious in defeat.

Praise strategically. Praising your kids too much can backfire. Praise their effort and attitude rather than qualities they can’t control (like their athletic ability, for example). Avoid focusing on results (such as getting an A) and emphasize their hard work, instead.

Let them make their own choices.

Give your kids the chance to make some age-appropriate choices, such what outfit to wear, what snack to eat or which toy to take on vacation.

Especially with younger children, you can give them three options and let them make the final decision. Allowing our kids to make their own decisions will help them feel capable, powerful and confident.

Let them do things themselves.

Step back and allow your children to try new activities without holding their hand. Give them the space to take risks and make mistakes, so they learn how to solve problems on their own. Keep

Give them responsibilities. Kids need opportunities to demonstrate their competence and value. Give them some simple chores to do around the house — no reward necessary because their reward will be how proud they feel.

CAPABLE

Fall 2024 77

IT FRU D AN IE G VEG Creating in the kitchen is a great way for kids to practice fine motor skills, express their creativity, and gain cooking confidence.

Making these fruit and veggie “bugs” shows your kids that food can be DELICIOUS, HEALTHY, AND FUN!

78 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

INGREDIENTS Yogurt, cream cheese and/or peanut butter

Celery; grape and/or cherry tomotaoes; cucumbers, sliced

Oranges, apples, strawberries, kiwi and other desired fruit, sliced Blueberries and grapes

Various nuts; edible googly eyes (or mini chocolate chips for eyes)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Clean all the fruit and veggies.

2. Using the photos here as inspiration, assemble your “bugs.”

• Fill celery pieces with yogurt, cream cheese or peanut butter.

• Add blueberries, grapes or tomatoes for your bug’s back; strawberries or cucumber slices as the wings; sliced apple, orange, cucumber, kiwi, etc. as the shell.

• Use a single grape, tomato or nut (e.g., a peanut or cashew) as the the head.

• Add googly eyes or use mini chocolate chips as the eyes.

3. Decorate each bug with a unique ensemble.

HOW TO CHOOSE RIPE FRUIT & VEGGIES BLUEBERRIES: The darker they are, the riper they should be.

They shouldn’t be wrinkly, as that indicates that they are too ripe.

STRAWBERRIES: Ripe strawberries are dark red and have a lovely, sweet smell that radiates off them.

GRAPES: Should be plump, firm to the touch, and not wrinkly.

VEGGIES: Find ones that aren’t mushy and are bright in the color that they should be. For example, celery and cucumbers should be a bright green color, while tomatoes should be bright red.

ADDITIONAL TIPS Washing and cutting up the fruit and veggies the day before can be a great way to save time. Whole grapes and tomatoes can be a choking hazard, especially for younger children: slice them in half for children under six. Use various savory spreads like ranch dip, salsa, guacamole or hummus for a change in flavor and added nutrition.

Fall 2024 79

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