KFMSpring2025

20 10

KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

15 YEARS

20 25

SPRING 2025

2025

HEALTH & WELLNESS

GUIDE

100+ TIPS & TRICKS

to make this your best year ever!

KAUA’I’S MOST

EGG-CELLENT EASTER FESTIVITIES

Good things happen here

Spring 2023

1

Building Building a astrong a strong Building Building astrong strong financial financial future. future. financial future. financial future.

Gather Gather isn'tisn't just isn'tjust ajust financial afinancial financial institution—we're institution—we're Gather a institution—we're Gather isn't just afinancial financial institution—we're isn't just aprosperity. institution—we're yourGather your partner partner in prosperity. in We offer We offer a variety a variety of of your partner in prosperity.

We offer a your partner in prosperity.

We offer varietyof your partner in prosperity.

We offer aavariety variety ofof services services that can that help can build help build a strong a strong financial financial services that can help build a strong financial services that can help build a strong financial services that can help build a strong financial future future for you foryou and youand your andyour your family—no family—no matter matter whatwhat future for family—no future for you and your family—nomatter matterwhat what future for you and your family—no matter what stage stage of life of you life are you in. are in. stage stageof lifeyou youare arein. stage ofoflife life you are in.in.

From From earlyearly childhood childhood to when towhen when you're you're ready ready for for From childhood to you're ready Fromearly early childhood when you're readyfor for From early childhood toto when you're ready for retirement, retirement, we have we have it all so it all you so can you spend can spend retirement, we have it all so you can spend retirement, we have it all so you can spend retirement, we have it all so you can spend more more timetime with timewith family withfamily family doingdoing the things thethings things that that more more time withfamily familydoing doingthe thethings thingsthat that more time with doing the that matters matters most. most. matters most. matters most. matters most.

Insured Insured

by NCUA

by NCUA Insured Insuredby NCUA Insured bybyNCUA NCUA

CallCall Gather CallGather Gather todaytoday and let and us let know us know how we how can wecan help. canhelp. help.

CallGather Gathertoday todayand andlet knowhow howwe wecan canhelp. help.

Call today and letletus ususknow know how we

www.gatherfcu.org | 808.245.6791

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

Happy New Year to you and your family!

Let us always cherish how blessed we are to raise our children on this beautiful island.

Spring is a wonderful time of year when everything feels fresh and new. It’s an excellent opportunity to get together and enjoy the season safely with our loved ones.

Let’s enjoy this beautiful time with our extended family and friends.

Mahalo to Kaua‘i Family Magazine as a resource for our families in the County of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau. This publication is filled with an abundance of recreational activities and information that benefits our children’s and families’ well-being.

I wish all of you a productive and safe Spring season!

With warmest aloha,

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

4 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Spring 2023

1

KAUAI POLICE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE (KPAL) Please remember signups for the 2025 KPAL Flag Football will begin in early January.

PLEASE SIGN UP.

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 • Public Safety Worker • Police Services Officer • Crime Scene Specialist Trainee • Crime Scene Specialist I • Criminalist I

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

Spring 2025 5

MESSAGE FROM DANIEL HAMADA INTERIM KAUAI COMPLEX AREA SUPERINTENDENT

Aloha, We are very pleased that our schools’ assessment data shows that our students continue to demonstrate positive academic growth. The Kauai Complex Area is committed to providing a high-quality education for every student, and we are proud of the accomplishments of our students, teachers, and staff.

Other key indicators that we have seen are a positive increase in our students’ attendance rates, participation in extracurricular activities, and a decrease of disciplinary action indicators.

We believe that a strong partnership between schools and the community is essential for student success. We encourage you to stay involved in your child’s education by attending parent-teacher conferences, volunteering in the classroom, and attending school events.

We are excited about the future of our students and look forward in working together in providing every student the best possible education.

Sincerely,

Daniel S. Hamada Kauai Complex Area Superintendent

6 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

State of Hawaii - Department of Education

2024-2025 OFFICIAL SCHOOL CALENDAR www.kauaischools.org

MARCH 2025

FEBRUARY 2025

JANUARY 2025

S

M

T

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

MAY 2025

APRIL 2025

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

5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30

6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

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

2ND SEMESTER January 7, 2025 to May 30, 2025 New Year’s Day January 1 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 20 President’s Day February 17 Spring Break March 17-21 Prince Kuhio Day March 26 Good Friday April 18 Memorial Day May 26 Last Day for Students May 30

Spring 2025 7

2025

THE YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE

According to traditional Chinese culture, 2025 is the Year of the Wood Snake. With an emphasis on self-discovery, relationships, personal development and conquering challenges, 2025 is an excellent time for consistent progress and personal growth.

2025 is also the 15th anniversary of Kauai Family Magazine. We are celebrating this milestone by bringing you an extra special issue, chock full of ways to make 2025 your family's best year yet!

Self-Discovery.

Have you ever wondered what parenting style you practice? Flip to page 42 to find out.

Help your kids get to know themselves better by answering Would You Rather questions (p. 22).

Relationships.

Strengthen your relationship with your child by eliminating "technoference" (p. 66).

Puberty brings about many changes in a child, and parenting a child in puberty requires an abundance of love and patience. Follow the advice on pages 50-51 to help your child navigate this challenging time in life — and keep your relationship intact!

Personal (and Family) Development.

From 31 Ideas for Family Wellness (p. 38) to Fun Over Fitness (p. 70) to Take the Lead on Sportsmanship (p. 76), this issue of KFM offers you an abundance of ways to grow and consistently progress — both as individuals and as a family unit.

Conquering Challenges.

Losing a pet is never easy, especially for little ones, but there are ways to help your child cope with their grief in healthy ways. Read up on page 54.

Like a snake shedding their old skin, let 2025 be the year you let go of what no longer serves you and embrace the excitement of what lies ahead.

Chrissy

Chrissy Schechter, Publisher chrissys@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

8 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

20 10

15 YEARS

20 25

PUBLISHER

Chrissy Schechter EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Chrissy Schechter

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & COPY EDITOR

Edie Mann

PRESIDENT OF SALES

Chrissy Schechter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tialei Agander, R.D.H Clyner Antalan, M.D. Pam Molnar Joel E. Punzal, OD Leah Ragsac Kim Sueoka Caitlin Wheeler

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Advertising@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

KAUAI OFFICE 808-639-5656 KauaiFamilyMagazine.com info@KauaiFamilyMagazine.com Next Issue: Summer 2025 Advertising Deadline: March 15, 2025 Kauai Family Magazine is published quarterly as Spring, Summer, Fall and Holiday editions.

Copyright © 2025 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.

ON THE COVER THE CABERTO 'OHANA Treston and Kali’a, with son Hauola, and daughters Waiea & ‘Ikena, tell their story on page 24.

Todd Fuerte Photography

PAGE

Good things happen here

12

SPRING FEATURES

12 GATHER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Your financial partner for college and beyond.

16 KAUA`I SPRING FAMILY FUN

Fairs, festivals, carnivals, celebrations and more!

38 31 WAYS TO PRACTICE FAMILY WELLNESS

Make 2025 the year you prioritize self-care and stress management for the whole ohana.

WHAT’S INSIDE 21 KAUA`I KEIKI

Easter Egg Hunts

28 KAUA`I KUPUNA Music & the Mind

60 KAUA`I RECIPES

Edible Dragon Eggs

42 WHAT’S YOUR PARENTING STYLE?

70 KAUA`I OHANA

66 WHAT IS TECHNOFERENCE?

78 KAUA`I PETS

70

38

And why does it matter?

How technology harms parent-child relationships.

60

Fun Over Fitness Coping with the Loss of a Pet

Spring 2025 9

20 10

15 YEARS

20 25

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

Please support local businesses and tell them you saw them in Kauai Family Magazine!

Education

Programs & Events

State of Hawaii Department of Education . . . 7, 64 Big Brothers Big Sisters Kauai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Preschool Open Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Kauai Performing Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Kauai Christian Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Kauai Baptist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Garden Island Gymnastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

March Madness Basketball Camp . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Footloose: The Musical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Waimea Town Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 KPAL Flag Football . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Easter Egg Hunts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Hawaii Children’s Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Health & Medical Services

Kauai Complex Area DOE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kauai Police Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 County of Kauai Office of the Mayor . . . . . . . . . . . 4 County of Kauai Agency of Elderly Affairs . . . .30 County of Kauai Department of Water . . . . . . .57 County of Kauai Parks & Recreation . . . . . .23, 31 County of Kauai Waste Management . . . . . . . . .35 Gather Federal Credit Union . . . . . 3, 9, 12-13,19 Kauai Island Utility Cooperative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Kukui Grove Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15 Deja Vu Surf Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Grove Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-37 Hawaiian Telcom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49, 79 Leah Ragsac, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Yael Claussen, Life Insurance Agent . . . . . . . . . .48

Kauai District Health Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Regency at Puakea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Ohana Pacific Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Garden Isle Rehab & Nursing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Kauai Adult Day Health . . . . . . . 26, 27, 28-29, 31 Home Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Hale Kupuna Heritage Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Hawaii Dental Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 Hoku Smiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Punzal Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Hawaii Health Systems Corporation . . . . .40-41 Kalaheo Dental Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Kauai Medical Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Wilcox Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 Jason Blake Health Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

10 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Community Partners

Kauai Family Magazine wishes our ’ohana of readers & advertisers a wonderful 2025, full of love, joy, health & prosperity!

Spring 2025 11

Your Financial Partner for College and Beyond

Heading off to college is an exciting time, filled with new experiences, independence and opportunities.

As you prepare to leave the comforts of home, it’s important to have a reliable financial partner to support you every step of the way.

That’s where Gather Federal Credit Union comes in. Whether you’re staying on Kaua’i or venturing to the mainland, Gather can be there with you, offering tools, resources, and products to help your finances grow with you.

12 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

A Checking Account as Smart as You

One of the best ways for students to manage their finances is with Gather’s Kasasa Checking accounts, designed to reward you for everyday banking activities. The Kasasa Cash Back account allows you to earn cash rewards on debit card purchases — a great way to stretch your college budget. And as a Gather member, you can have all of your ATM fees reimbursed nationwide when you

meet simple qualifications, like using your debit card or enrolling in e-statements.

By pairing your Kasasa Checking with a Kasasa Saver account, you can effortlessly grow your savings. Any rewards you earn are automatically transferred to your Saver account, helping to build a financial cushion over time—perfect for emergencies or unexpected college expenses.

Smart Savings Tips for Students and Everyone Else

College life can come with its fair share of financial challenges…and opportunities. That’s why a little planning can go a long way. Here are some tips to make the most of your Gather accounts: Budget Wisely: Use the Gather Mobile Banking app to track your spending, set limits and monitor your balances, all in real time.

Build Your Savings: Even small, consistent deposits to your Kasasa Saver account can add up over time. Use your cashback rewards to jumpstart your savings without feeling the pinch.

Share Account Access with a Parent: Adding a parent as a joint account holder can be a smart move. In case of emergencies, they’ll have access to help you when you need it most.

Everything Is Mobile; Your Banking Should Be, Too

Gather’s Mobile Banking app is like having a local branch office right in your pocket. You can check balances,

transfer funds, pay bills and deposit checks right from your phone.

Another feature that’s great for students is Zelle®. This peer-to-peer payment service allows you to send money to friends or family in minutes. Whether you’re splitting the check at a restaurant, paying your share of the rent, or receiving a few extra bucks from your parents, Zelle is a fast and secure way to handle transactions. Just remember: only use Zelle with people you know and trust. Scammers are always out there.

Why Gather?

As a member-owned credit union, Gather is dedicated to helping you succeed financially. Unlike big banks, Gather focuses on providing personalized service and products tailored to your needs. From competitive rates and rewards to community-driven values, Gather is a financial partner you can trust, because you’re a part of it.

Plus, your membership with Gather extends benefits to your entire family.

Encourage your siblings or parents to explore the advantages of credit union membership so everyone can benefit from the same excellent service.

Ready for College, Ready for Life

Your college years are a time of growth and learning. With Gather Federal Credit Union by your side, you’ll have the financial tools and support to thrive both on and off campus. From the rewards of Kasasa Checking to the convenience of mobile banking, Gather makes managing your money one less thing to worry about.

Spring 2025 13

14 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Spring 2025 15

Kaua`i March Spring Family

Kaua’i Healthy Living Spring Celebration

FUN February Chinese New Year Lion Dance with Tsunami Taiko Saturday, February 1, 10am Kukui Grove

Hearts and Dragons Celebration Saturday, February 8, 10am-3pm Kukui Grove

Valentine’s Day Aloha Friday

Friday, February 14 Kukui Grove

48th Annual Waimea Town Celebration

February 15-23 A 9-day festival of concerts, competitions and cultural events WaimeaTownCelebration.com Events are subject to change without notice.

Always call event first to confirm.

16 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

March 1, 9am-12 noon Samual Mahelona Memorial Hospital Campus Healthy living vendors; health tips from a doctor; family fun; food; FREE giveaways; entertainment; and more!

Ola Ka ‘I Kaua’I Ni’hau

Hawaiian Language Celebration Saturday, March 1, 10am- 3pm Kukui Grove

Read Across America with Kumu’s Cupboard

Sunday, March 2, 11am-3pm Kukui Grove food court Book sale and reading activities

Hanalei School Drama Club presents Madacasgar – A Musical Adventure JR. Friday, March 7, 6pm Saturday, March 8, 6pm Hanalei School cafeteria stage

Spring Break Movie Night Saturday, March 15, 5-8pm Kukui Grove

St. Patrick’s Day Fun

Sunday, March 16, 12-2pm Kukui Grove

March Madness Basketball Day Camp and Skills Competition

March 17–21, 9am–3pm 3rd through 6th grades Kalāheo Neighborhood Center/Gym Contact: Clyde Vito (808) 335-3731; cvito@kauai.gov

April Grove Farm Craft Fair

Saturday, April 5, 9:30am-12:30pm Puhi Park Field

Easter Bunny Photos

Saturday, April 5 – 19 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays) Kukui Grove (next to Keiki Korner play area)

Kauai Parent Child Fair

Saturday, April 5, 10am-1pm Kukui Grove Fun activities and resources for kids 0-8

Spring Festival

Saturday, April 12, 10am-1pm Kukui Grove Center-wide egg hunt and activities

Kauai Ukulele Festival

Sunday, April 13, 10am-4pm Kukui Grove

St. Theresa School Carnival

Friday, April 25 & Saturday, April 26 6p-10pm Kekaha

Earth Day in Lydgate Park

Saturday, April 26, 7:30-11:30am Help with various projects to spruce up the park and remove marine debris.

Stay for lunch.

Lydgate Beach Park (near the lifeguard tower)

May Keiki & Junior Lifeguard Programs Online registration: May 1 Ages: 8-11 and 12-17 kauai.gov/JuniorLifeguardPrograms

Kauai Museum Lei Contest Thursday, May 1 Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Kauai Museum: 245-6931

Kalaheo School Drama Club presents Alice in Wonderland May 2, 3, 9, & 10 Evening performances, 7pm Kalaheo School Cafeteria

Footloose: The Musical May 1-11 Fridays & Saturdays, 7pm Sundays, 2pm Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall KauaiPerformingArts.org

Visitor Industry Charity Walk Kauai

Saturday, May 3 Walk starts at 7am Vidinha Stadium Soccer Park hltakauai.org/charity-walk/

17

Kaua’i Performing Arts Center of the Department of Education Presents

Kaua'i Performing Arts Center (KPAC): Empowering students through transformative theater education.

Nurturing creativity, building confidence, and inspiring the next generation of performers, one stage at a time.

MAY 1st through 11th 2025

May 1-11, 2025 • Fridays & Saturdays at 7pm • Sundays at 2 pm Kaua'i War Memorial Convention Hall • 4191 Hardy Street, Lihue

Tickets are $10! To purchase tickets, go to www.kauaiperformingarts.org!

18 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY15-23, 15-23,2025 2025 When When wewe gather, gather, wewe celebrate celebrate tradition. tradition.

48th 48th Annual Annual

9-Day 9-Day Festival Festival SPONSORED SPONSORED BY: BY:

FOR FOR SCHEDULE, SCHEDULE, VISIT VISIT www.WaimeaTownCelebration.com www.WaimeaTownCelebration.com

SPRING HAWAII HAWAII CHILDREN’S CHILDREN’S THEATRE THEATRE

INTO THEATRE INTRO INTRO TO TO ACTING ACTING •• THEATRE THEATRE TECH TECH •• FILM FILM ACTING ACTING •• SPRING SPRING SHOW SHOW •• SUMMER SUMMER STARS STARS

FIND FIND YOUR YOUR VOICE VOICE •• LEARN LEARN SKILLS SKILLS •• MAKE MAKE FRIENDS FRIENDS •• PERFORM PERFORM HLHDH HLHDH www.HCTKAUAI.org www.HCTKAUAI.org || 808-246-8985 808-246-8985

Spring 2025 19

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

dejavusurf.com

WORD SEARCH

Easter April

Spring

Basket

Grass

Sunday

Chocolate Egg Egg Hunt Lily Chicks

Bunny

20 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Holiday

KAUA`I’S Easter Bunny Photos

Saturday, April 5–19 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays) Kukui Grove (next to Keiki Korner play area)

Lihue Baptist Church

Saturday, April 9, 11:30am- 2pm Egg hunt, lunch and Bible lesson

Kukui Grove Spring Festival

Saturday, April 12, 10am-1pm Center-wide egg hunt and activities Kukui Grove

Hope Collective Church Kauai Helicopter Easter Egg Drop Saturday, April 12 Arrival time 9am Drop at 9:30am Vidniha Soccer Field

Events are subject to change without notice. Always call event first to confirm.

EVENTS West Kauai Lions Club Easter Hunt Sunday, April 20, 8:15am Kekaha Basketball Court Real dyed eggs!

New Hope Kauai

Sunday, April 20, 10am Easter celebration service, egg hunt & and free luau Kauai Memorial Convention Hall NHKauai.com

Ohana Christian Fellowship Day of Hope Sunday, April 20, 10am Egg hunt, music, meal, haircuts, and keiki fun!

Kapa’a Beach Park

Kapaa Missionary Church Glow in the Dark Egg Hunt Friday, April 18, 6:30-8:30pm Food, prizes, candy and fellowship

ALL EVENTS ARE

FREE Spring 2025 21

Would You Rather...

QUESTIONS FOR KIDS, TWEENS AND TEENS “Would You Rather” questions expand your kids’ thinking while allowing you to discover the inner workings of their young minds.

They’re great conversation starters when you’re in the car, going for a walk, eating dinner or just hanging out together as a family. Use this list to get you started and then create your own. Encourage your kids to come up with ones for you!

AGES 4-6

Would You Rather...

1 be always hot or always cold?

2 live on a boat or in a castle?

3 have a pet dinosaur or a pet dragon?

4 pet animals or animals pet you?

5 have donuts at every breakfast or hot dogs at every dinner?

6 be a prince/princess or the president of the United States?

7 be super strong or super fast?

AGES 7-9

Would You Rather...

8 go skateboarding with friends or bike riding with friends?

9 play sports or video games?

10 go on an adventure with Moana or live in the jungle with Mowgli?

11 learn how to drive or how to cook?

12 go to the beach or mountains?

13 tickle a cockroach or hug a snake?

14 have to skip everywhere you go or walk everywhere backwards?

22 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

AGES 10-12

Would You Rather...

15 eat the same thing every day or never get to go on the internet again?

16 work at an animal shelter or a panda rescue?

18 be recognized everywhere you go or be invisible?

17 have to sing everything you say or say everything twice?

19 live in a theme park or a mansion?

20 be able to breathe underwater or be strong enough to lift anything you want?

21 have someone do all your chores or do all your homework?

AGES 13+

Would You Rather...

22 know the answer to every riddle or the lyrics to every song?

23 win an Oscar or a Nobel Prize?

24 go to an art exhibit or a book reading?

25 be able to read others’ minds or control their actions?

26 be able to travel to any point in the past or any point in the future?

27 remember every thing you’ve ever read or every thing you’ve ever done?

28 be able to speak every language or be able to communicate with animals?

29 go a day without your smartphone or have it but not be able to use it?

30 only have access to Amazon Prime or only have access to Netflix?

MARCH MADNESS

DAY CAMP AND SKILLS COMPETITION Students in the program will participate in speed and quickness training, basketball skill training, team building activities/games, and skills competition.

SPRING BREAK • MARCH 17 – 21 • 9AM – 3PM BOYS & GIRLS 3RD GRADE THRU 6TH GRADE KALĀHEO NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER/GYM For more info, contact Clyde Vito at (808) 335-3731 or cvito@kauai.gov.

Spring 2025 23

1515

20 20 10 10

20 25

YEARS YEARS

SPRING 2025

KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

2025

MEET OUR COVER FAMILY

20 25

The Caberto ’Ohana

KauaiFamilyMagazine.com

SPRING 2025

Caberto ‘Ohana

HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE

& TRICKS 100+ TIPS your best year ever! to make this

Good things happen

KAUA’I’S MOST

here

T EGG-CELLENES EASTER FESTIVITI

Good things happen

here

What are the names of everyone in the family and the ages of your kids?

Aloha mai kakou! My name is Kali’a Mayer Caberto and it is a privilege to introduce our ‘ohana here! My husband Treston (Hena) Caberto-Raco and I were both born and raised on Kaua’i and are now raising our 3 keiki here as well. Our son is Hauola (10), and our daughters are Waiea (7), and ‘Ikena (6). We currently live in Wailua ahupua’a and like many ‘ohana, we love our land and our culture, our family and good food — and our lifestyle very much revolves around these things!

What type of schooling is your family involved with, and what is your family motto?

We had always envisioned raising a family on our farm and living simply. To grow food and raise animals, to teach our kids to be sustainable and to be

24 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

good stewards of our land. These are some of the things we value most and what we believe is true waiwai or wealth. Although we are still working towards some of those dreams, the rise of Covid in 2020 gave us not only the opportunity but the courage to finally start homeschooling our kids and we have been ever since.

A well-known ‘Olelo No’eau or Hawaiian proverb that we try to live by is “Ma ka hana ka ‘ike” which means that one learns by doing, or in other words, knowledge is gained through experience. Homeschooling allows us to spend our time doing hands-on, real life activities from home repairs, hunting and cooking, to grocery shopping and spending more quality time with family.

Although we enjoy the freedom of homeschooling, we are also enrolled in an online public charter school

called Kanu O Ka ‘Aina NCPCS, giving us the perfect balance between a structured school format and flexible, child-led learning.

What activities are your family involved with?

With our deep love of ‘aina, adventure, sustainable practices and education, we have always prioritized sourcing locally grown and freshly harvested foods. We spend a lot of our time hunting, fishing, farming, and ranching!

It is important that our keiki know where their food comes from and that we should be in control of the things we feed both our bodies and our minds. We are blessed to come from generations of providers from the backyard garden to the large-scale farms, the hunters, fishermen, and those who bring it all together in the kitchen. These are the people and the events that bring us the most joy and leave lasting memories in our hearts.

Like anything else, it ebbs and flows and we do what we can. Will you still see us at Costco and Skinny Mikes?

Absolutely!

What else do you like to do for fun?

Although this lifestyle takes a lot of time and energy, we try our best to maintain the balance of work and play!

Aside from roaming the neighborhood on bikes with friends and cousins, the kids dance hula and (the girls) ballet, they go to horse camp and play soccer, love music and arts and crafts, and occasionally hop in for crossfit or jiu jitsu and lots of things in between.

They cherish the opportunities for screens or video games and end most nights with a family movie. But in a time where technology is quickly and constantly progressing, it is important to us to both keep them active and let them be bored. “Boredom sparks creativity” I always say, and they may not agree but it is always true!

We hope to instill in our own keiki as well as inspire others to preserve and perpetuate this way of life. To give back to the land that feeds us so abundantly, and take care of the natural resources that we will one day leave in the hands of future generations. Mahalo for reading and getting to know our ‘ohana. A hui hou and malama pono!

Spring 2025 25

26 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

kupuna Caring for Kupuna in the Heart of Lihu’e

Spring 2025 27 25

Music & the Mind

By Kim Sueoka, Kaua’i Adult Day Health Center Program Director

I

n December, Kaua’i Adult Day Health (KADH) Center bid farewell to our Program Director, Kurt Akamine who served with Ohana Pacific Health for over 23 years. Kurt has left an indelible mark on each of our hearts, gracing us with beautiful new ways to think about and better our world. We are grateful for his many contributions to our organization and the community, and we wish him the very best.

Kurt originally brought me to the Center as a guest to provide music for the friends (as we call our clients) May Day celebration. That day left a deep impression on me; I marveled at the level of engagement and support among the staff and clients, and I felt the space radiate with joy for individuality and togetherness.

When Kurt later reached out to me about becoming the Center’s Program

28 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Director, I was filled with humility and honor at the possibility of joining this remarkable family of kupuna and care partners. While I am still new to the position, I am committed to learning, growing, and working together with our incredibly dedicated staff to care for the friends here at KADH. I’ve been asked to share a little bit about my background, and my work experience with kupuna and caregiving. I was born and raised here on Kaua’i, and my training is in vocal music and community arts outreach. While living and working in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, I trained as a teaching artist with ArtSage Minnesota, and learned to tailor participatory music experiences to the needs and interests of older adults.

In my teaching artist work, I was particularly moved by music’s ability to help individuals with dementia access connections within themselves and build connections with others. I could see in real time that both familiar and unfamiliar music had dramatically positive effects on many of our clients, especially when we had opportunities to actively engage with the music: singing, humming, or playing a rhythm

to see each of our unique kupuna, and to hear what moves their hearts and minds.

As we enter the spring season of a new year, my hopes for all who care for kupuna are these: May we be a space for kindness. For safety. For connection. For respect. For stability and familiarity. For bravery and new discovery. For acknowledgement of

I could see in real time that music could bring a sense of calm or a sense of focus, could spark a lively conversation, could blossom into dancing and laughter. together could bring a sense of calm or a sense of focus, could spark a lively conversation, could blossom into dancing and laughter.

My mentor, Artistic Director and conductor Jeanie Brindley-Barnett, and Giving Voice Chorus Minnesota have been a huge influence on my thinking and practices as a teaching artist. Giving Voice is comprised of individuals with dementia and their caregivers, plus a number of volunteer singers from the community. Jeanie, a wellspring of positivity, humor, and encouragement, finds ways to connect with each person. When they begin singing, they are awake, alive, and fully engaged; and it is impossible to tell client from caregiver from volunteer.

I am excited to continue learning about what our friends here at Kauaʻi Adult Day Health connect with. It is a privilege to be part of this ‘ohana, and I am grateful for this opportunity

change and challenge. For thoughts and feelings that are timeless.

May we reach to others for support, guidance, and energy. May we embrace the joy it gives people to love and strengthen one another.

For more information about Kauaʻi Adult Day Health, call us at (808) 246-6919 or visit us online at ohanapacific.com/kauai-adult-dayhealth-center

Longterm Care Rehabilitation Adult Day Health Memory Care Home Health

ohanapacific.com Phone: 808-246-6919 2943 Kress Street, Lihue 96766

Spring 2025 29

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

30 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Seniors Wanted!

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 Spring 2025 31

To report a probable case, contact the Hawaii State Department of Health, Disease Investigation Branch at 808-586-4586.

32 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Want Whiter Teeth?

Here’s What You Should Know

By Tialei Agader, R.D.H., Kalaheo Dental Group

Nearly everyone wants a brighter smile, but do you know what causes teeth to lose their luster? Your dental hygienist can help you understand why teeth stain and recommend the best whitening solutions for you.

5 Common Reasons for Teeth Staining: 1. Food and drinks (like coffee and red wine) 2. Tobacco use 3. Aging 4. Trauma 5. Certain medications

PRO TIP: For faster results, whiten consecutively for 3–5 days.

Top Whitening Solutions: This allows the 1. ADA-approved stain“pores” of your removal toothpaste teeth to open, 2. Professional in-office boosting the bleaching with whitening process. your dentist Consult your dental professional 3. Over-the-counter for personalized whitening products advice!

ACHIEVE A BRIGHTER, WHITER SMILE EXPLORE OUR COSMETIC DENTISTRY SERVICES

Rainbow RainbowPlaza Plaza 2-2514 2-2514Kaumualii KaumualiiHwy., Hwy.,Suite Suite204 204 Kalaheo, Kalaheo,HIHI96741 96741 kalaheodental.com kalaheodental.com• •(808) (808)332-9445 332-9445

Make Makean anappointment appointmenttoday todayatat(808) (808)332-9445 332-9445 Payment PaymentOptions: Options:

Services: Services:

• Most • Family • Mostmajor majorinsurances insurancesaccepted accepted • FamilyDentistry Dentistry • Interest-free • DentalImplants Implants • Interest-freeCareCredit CareCreditmonthly monthlyfinancing financing • Dental • Teeth • TeethWhitening Whitening • In-office • In-officepayment paymentplans plans • Invisalign • Invisalign • No • Noinsurance? insurance?Our Ourmembership membershipplan planoffers offers• Porcelain Veneers • Porcelain Veneers preventative preventativeservices servicesand and20% 20%offoffother other • Tooth • ToothReplacement Replacement treatments. treatments.

We Welove loveour ourcommunity! community!We Wesupport supportlocal localnonprofits, nonprofits,provide provideschool schoolpresentations, presentations, and andhost hostthe theannual annualHalloween HalloweenCandy CandyBuy BuyBack Backand andKeiki KeikiArt ArtContest.

Contest.

Spring 2025 33

Changes in the Real Estate Industry:

HOME BUYERS with Leah Ragsac, Kauai Realty

Got Real Estate Questions?

CONTACT YOUR HOME GIRLS! If you are looking to purchase a home, there has been a change in the real estate industry. A key update for home buyers is the new National Association of Realtors (NAR) policy: before you can start viewing homes with an agent, you’ll need to sign a Buyer’s Representation Agreement. Here’s what that means for you and how it works to your advantage.

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

What is a Buyer’s Representation Agreement?

A “buyer representation agreement” is a legal contract between a buyer and a real estate agent that defines their working relationship. It details the agent’s services, the buyer’s responsibilities, and the agent’s compensation, formally designating the agent as the buyer’s dedicated representative throughout the home-buying process.

Why First-Time Buyers Benefit from a Buyer’s Agent

Having a dedicated buyer’s agent offers significant advantages: Market Expertise: Your agent knows the local market and can guide you to the right home at the best price.

Skilled Negotiation: They’ll help craft a competitive offer and negotiate favorable terms on your behalf.

34 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Paperwork Assistance: From contracts to closing, your agent will explain and handle all the legal details, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

What Does the New Policy Mean for You?

The updated NAR policy requires buyers to sign this agreement before touring homes. While it’s a change, it’s designed to protect your interests and ensure your agent is fully aligned with your needs.

By working with a trusted buyer’s agent, you gain a knowledgeable advocate to simplify the process and help you navigate your first home purchase with confidence. If you’re thinking about buying in 2025, let’s connect—I’m here to help you every step of the way!

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

CORRUGATED CARDBOARD

STEEL & TIN CANS

ALUMINUM CANS, FOIL, PIE/FOOD PANS

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

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

(flatten cardboard)

GLASS BOTTLES & JARS

Recycling Bin Locations

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

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

By Kaua‘i Mini Golf

LĀWA‘I

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

LĪHU‘E

Līhu’e in back of Target 4303 Nāwiliwili Road

PO‘IPŪ

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler 2100 Hoone Road

Canyon Park WAIMEA Waimea 4643 Waimea Canyon

Commercially generated items accepted

*

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

Monday – Friday 7:45 am-4 pm.

9-volts can pose a fire hazard.

Place electrical tape on terminals prior to recycling.

Please sort batteries into the appropriate barrel.

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

Alkaline

NiCad

Lithium

More recycling programs available - see website www.kauai.gov/recycling or call (808) 241-4841

Spring 2025 35

Building Communities through Housing with Puakea II and III

Since our historic sugarcane era, Grove Farm has been at the forefront in building communities. The plantation “camps” included grocery stores, post offices, banks, movie halls and other establishments that arose to serve the needs of the people living and working on the plantation.

In 1955 Grove Farm was the first Hawai‘i plantation to offer a home ownership program to its plantation workers, enabling 177 employees and their families to purchase houses and lots in the Puhi Subdivision.

Later, this program was replicated in the Waikomo Subdivision in Kōloa.

36 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Over the last six decades, Grove Farm has played a key role in driving the master development plan in the Līhu‘e-Puhi area and working with the County to establish the necessary infrastructure for housing, commercial space, and industrial lots.

This includes building water sources and water transmission systems, sewer systems, roads, and drainage structures.

Those who came before us at Grove Farm worked to develop this critical infrastructure that led to residential communities in Puhi. The Līhu‘e-Puhi Master Plan includes Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School, Hokulei Village, Regency at Puakea, and hundreds of residential homes in subdivisions including Regency at Huleia, Hokulei Estates, Halelani, Halemalu, Ho‘okena, Puhi Self-Help Housing, and Pīkake. More than 650 of these residential units were developed as affordable housing.

Residential Lots Completed in Puakea II and III

The recent completion of the singlefamily residential lots in the Puakea II and III subdivisions gives 103 local families an opportunity to build their dream home in the heart of Līhu‘e, surrounded by the Puakea Golf Course and picturesque views of the Hā‘upu and Kilohana mountain ranges.

We caught up with future Puakea homeowners, including Matt Ballard, a firefighter with the Kaua‘i Fire Department, and his wife, Jenn, an orthopedic nurse practitioner at Wilcox Hospital. They said, “The Puakea subdivision location in Līhu‘e is convenient and the beautiful views make you feel like you are away from town. You get the best of both worlds.” The convenience of bringing their three young children to school and their activities is important to their family.

The same sentiment was shared by Frank and Theresa Pascua. Their son is attending Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School and will attend Kaua‘i High School next year.

Frank, who works at the Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort, and Theresa, who is with Home Health Kaua‘i, said Puakea provides a central and convenient location. Frank has already designed the layout of their home, and they are excited to begin the building process.

Taryn Chow, a social worker for the State of Hawaiʻi and Chris Gandeza, who works for the Department of Land and Natural Resources take a family photo on the site of their future home. “We are lucky to call Kauaʻi our home. To raise our kids here means so much to our family.”

Travis and Shelea Koga returned to Kaua‘i after graduating from college. After their schooling on the mainland, they always knew they wanted to return to their roots. Travis manages Kaua‘i Ice and Shelea is a planner with the County. They are also owners of Hanapa‘a Fishing Company Kaua‘i.

They said they wanted to purchase a lot in Puakea as “Grove Farm made it affordable for locals.”

Thank you to all the new lot owners for choosing to make Puakea your home!

Spring 2025 37

By Pam Molnar

31

IDEAS FOR FAMILY WELLNESS 1. Get your steps in. The benefits of walking include improved cardiovascular and joint health, stronger muscles and improved mood.

2. Eat more plants. Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. Don’t forget beans, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats like avocados.

3. Hydrate. Water is the best choice, but decaffeinated teas and water-filled fruits and vegetables like celery and watermelon also aid in hydration.

4. Reach out to friends, relatives or neighbors who are going through a rough patch to remind them that they are not alone. Kids can pitch in by writing cards or gifting artwork.

6. Read a book. Find a reading challenge or book club for your preferred genre or interests — or simply read a book that’s been on your list for a while. Consider starting a parent/child book club with friends or neighbors. If you don’t have time to sit down and read, listen to an audio version while walking or driving.

7. Practice yoga, qigong or tai chi to improve strength, balance and flexibility, reduce stress and boost your mood.

8. Meditate. Use a guided meditation app like Calm or Balance to help quiet your mind and relax your body during stressful times and before bedtime.

9. Listen to music. Music is a stress reliever, motivator and memory 5. Keep a gratitude journal. Write down stimulator. Make a playlist or find one to match your mood on Spotify. things you are grateful for to improve your mood and general outlook and 10. Indulge in a “dry” month. to help focus on what brings you joy.

Fill your glass with sparkling water or This is a great activity to do as a family. fruity mocktails instead of alcohol.

38 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

11. Get more sleep. Try winding down three minutes earlier every night for a month. By the end, you will get 90 more minutes of sleep. Sufficient sleep is especially important for kids!

12. Play games! Boost brainpower, build memory, reduce cognitive decline, reap the social benefits of interacting with other people — and have fun!

13. Set goals. Take time to consider what is working for your family and what is not. Adjust and move forward.

14. Connect with nature. Forest bathing is a Japanese practice of relaxation that encourages people to head out among trees to listen, observe, take deep breaths and recharge.

15. Disconnect from technology.

Focus on the present, non-digital world, even if for just one hour each day.

16. Set boundaries. Relationships with friends, relatives and coworkers are sometimes a source of stress. It’s OK to say “no” to events you don’t want to attend and things you don’t want to do.

17. Do a social media cleanse.

Social media often gets to be too much. Consider using an app like Opal to help limit screen time.

22. Bring nature inside. Enjoy natural elements at home — a crackling fire, the breeze from an open window or a bouquet of flowers provide a sense of calm and relaxation.

23. Create routine. Predictable routines provide structure and organization and help relieve stress. Set everything out the night before, make beds in the morning and have a meal plan.

24. Find a creative outlet like cooking, writing, drawing, decorating, painting, crafting, knitting, playing an instrument or woodworking.

25. Take power naps. A catnap of 10–30 minutes can provide the recharge you need to power through the rest of your day.

26. Forgive yourself and others.

Let it go. Holding onto anger, hurt and resentment keeps focus on negative feelings instead of releasing you to move forward.

27. Learn something new. There are opportunities to learn at every age.

Watch a documentary, take a class, visit a museum, listen to a podcast, watch a YouTube video or read an article.

28. Every week, do something that makes you feel like you’re on 18. Laugh. Find something that gives you belly laughs — a movie, comedian or vacation: try a new restaurant, a sunset chatting with a friend — and partake often. picnic or a morning walk on the beach.

19. Find a spiritual outlet. Join a church or temple — or simply connect with a higher power on your own.

20. Pursue your passion(s). Figure out what makes you happy and do more of it: take up a new hobby or volunteer for a cause that speaks to your heart.

21. Make doctor appointments. Stop making excuses; schedule physical, dental, dermatology, eye and other necessary wellness exams.

29. Make home a sanctuary. Create a space that recharges you: a coffee bar in the kitchen, a cozy window seat or a waterfall shower head.

30. Have a spa treatment. Treat yourself to a massage or mani/pedi at the salon— or a bubble bath at home.

31. Try something new. What’s an activity you have always wanted to try? Horseback riding? Juggling?

Scuba diving? Take the plunge!

Spring 2025 39

E E FR TRY EN

2nd ANNUAL Hawai‘i Health Systems Co

pres

The 2nd annual Community Ce

U SC KA H H

Samuel Mahelona Mem SATURDAY, MARCH 1st

Engage in He

Healthy Living Vendors • Get Health Tips from a Family Fun • Food • Lucky Drawing • FREE Give Entertainment... and more!

40 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

orporation - Kaua‘i Region

sents

elebration for the entire family!

UA‘I REGI ON

morial Hospital Campus t, 2025 • 9AM - NOON

ealthy Living

a Doctor eaways

Enter in the HHSC Kaua‘i Region Passport Lucky Drawing for a chance to win a prize!

GET UPDATES

HHSC Kauai Region

hhsckauai

www.kauai.hhsc.org Spring 2025 41

What Is Your Parenting Style — and Why Does It Matter?

Your parenting style can impact everything from your child’s self-esteem to their academic success to their ability to function in society as an adult.

It’s important to ensure your parenting style supports healthy

AUTHORITARIAN

PERMISSIVE

growth and development because the way you interact with your child — and how you discipline them— will influence them for the rest of their life.

Researchers have recognized four main parenting styles. Read on to find out which style you tend to practice.

AUTHORITATIVE

UNINVOLVED

In the 1960s, developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind identified three distinct parenting styles — authoritarian, permissive and authoritative — based on parental demands and responsiveness to children and their needs. A fourth style — neglectful — was later added based on work by other researchers.

Even if you’ve never given it much thought, it’s not too late to consider your parenting style and how it may be impacting your child. It’s important to be honest with yourself as you contemplate the questions posed below. No parent is perfect and there’s always room for improvement.

So ... which parenting style is best?

The truth is, there's no one right way to parent, but the parenting style that most experts — including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) — recommend is the authoritative (not to be confused with authoritarian) approach.

Authoritarian Parenting

42 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Do any of these statements sound like you?

Kids should be seen and not heard.

You often don’t take your child’s feelings into consideration.

style of parenting emphasizes strict AUTHORITARIAN This obedience and punishment over nurturing.

When it comes to rules, you believe it's "my way or the highway."

You've responded "because I said so" when your child questions the reasons behind a rule.

If these statements ring true for you, you might be an authoritarian parent.

Similar to an army drill sergeant, authoritarian parents are often not nurturing, communicable or willing to compromise.

They have high expectations; set strict, non-negotiable rules; expect complete obedience; and rely heavily on discipline and punishment for control.

Holding all decision-making power, authoritarian parents have little regard for their child’s opinions and rarely give them agency to make their own choices or have any input in family matters.

How authoritarian parenting affects children

When raised by an authoritarian parent, children are often wellbehaved at home but are more apt to rebel at school or with friends. They may also experience the following: Low self-esteem Poor social skills Indecisiveness and trouble thinking independently Anger management issues and resentfulness Hostility and aggression Trouble judging others’ character Research also indicates that children raised by authoritarian parents reported more substance use disorders and higher rates of clinical depression as adults.

Spring 2025 43

PERMISSIVE

This style of parenting is light on rules and heavy on the believe that “kids will be kids.”

Permissive Parenting Do any of these statements sound like you?

You set rules but rarely enforce them.

You don't give out consequences very often.

You believe your child will learn best with limited interference from you.

You often let your child do what they want — even if it's drinking soda at every meal.

If these statements sound familiar, you might practice permissive parenting. Permissive parents are lenient, only stepping in when there's a serious problem. They're quite forgiving and tend to adopt an attitude of "kids will be kids."

44 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

The total opposite of strict, permissive parents oftentimes they act more like friends than authoritative figures.

Permissive parents cater to their child's desires without doling out much discipline. When they do administer consequences, they may not stick. For example, they'll give privileges back if a child begs or they may allow a child to get out of timeout early if they promise to be good.

How permissive parenting affects children

Accustomed to getting their way, a child raised by permissive parents might act entitled, egocentric and selfish (even as an adult). They might fail to put meaningful effort into school, work or social endeavors since they don’t have to exert much effort at home. Their lack of respect

style of parenting promotes positivity AUTHORITATIVE This while still maintaining healthy boundaries.

for authority and rules may even manifest in behavioral problems.

Outcomes for children raised by permissive parents include: Poor self-regulation and selfcontrol; impulsivity; aggressiveness Low achievement in many areas of life, including academics Lack of self-awareness, personal responsibility and how their words and actions impact others Immature, demanding personality Additionally, kids raised by permissive parents are at a higher risk for health problems — like obesity and dental cavities — because permissive parents struggle to limit unhealthy food intake and promote regular exercise, healthy sleep habits or even regular teeth brushing.

Authoritative Parenting Do any of these statements sound like you?

You put a good deal of thought, energy and effort into creating and maintaining a positive relationship with your child.

You explain the reasoning behind rules and expectations.

You set limits, enforce rules and give consequences — while also validating your child’s feelings.

You use positive discipline strategies like praise and rewards.

If these statements sound familiar, you might practice authoritative parenting, considered by many experts to be the "gold standard" of parenting styles. Authoritative

Spring 2025 45

parents are patient, caring, communicative, responsive, empathetic and nurturing, while still setting clear expectations for their child’s behavior, as well as the potential consequences if their expectations are not met.

They instill the importance of responsibility and discipline and establish safe boundaries but also give their child the freedom to make age-appropriate decisions, knowing that inevitably means their child will make mistakes.

The authoritative parenting style views mistakes as learning experiences.

Rather than enforcing harsh, predetermined, inflexible consequences, authoritative parents place a heavy emphasis on their child’s feelings.

They determine consequences after considering many factors: the specific circumstances, the child’s overall personality/maturity level and, perhaps most importantly, the child’s perspective — as expressed in their own words.

One of the most defining characteristics of authoritative parenting is reinforcing positive behavior and preventing negative behavior by implementing positive strategies, like praise and rewards.

How authoritative parenting affects children

Children raised by authoritative parents tend to be happy, confident and successful. They're apt to evaluate risk and make sound decisions on their own. Authoritative parenting is linked to high academic achievement, increased self-esteem, resiliency and adaptability.

46 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Children raised by authoritative parents tend to have many positive outcomes, including the following: High degrees of joy and happiness; self-confidence and self-advocacy; overall success in life Emotional intelligence; ease in making friends and forming and maintaining healthy relationships A strong moral compass; altruism Authoritative parenting tends to result in children becoming high-achieving, productive members of society.

Neglectful or Uninvolved Parenting Do any of these statements sound like you?

You don't ask your child about school or homework.

You often don’t know where your child is or who they're with.

You spend limited time engaging with your child.

You don't have many rules and expectations.

If these statements sound familiar, you might be an uninvolved or neglectful parent. This style of parenting is marked by providing children little guidance, nurturing and attention; setting few rules and expectations; and having limited knowledge (or concern) about what children are doing.

In many ways, children of uninvolved parents raise themselves. Sometimes parents simply aren’t engaged enough to devote the time or energy required to meet the child's physical and emotional needs. Other uninvolved parents, lacking adequate knowledge

style of parenting is marked by providing UNINVOLVED This children little guidance, nurturing and attention.

about child rearing, genuinely believe their child will do better without their influence and oversight.

Uninvolved parents may be neglectful — but it's not always intentional. For example, a parent with mental health or substance abuse problems may be unable to consistently care for their child.

How uninvolved parenting affects children Without sufficient guidance, structure or parental involvement, children will act out in an attempt to get the care they desperately need. Uninvolved parenting leads to some of the worst outcomes for children, including: Diminished sense of self-worth Academic struggles and rebelliousness

Social incompetence; inability to form bonds with others Substance use disorders Children of uninvolved parents might devolve into juvenile delinquency (vandalism, theft, assault, rape, etc.).

Without intervention, these behaviors can carry over into adulthood.

Remember: your parenting style will have a lifelong impact on your child’s mental and emotional wellbeing — and even their physical health. From books and podcasts to therapy and parenting classes, many resources are available to you. Raising children in today’s often chaotic and stressful society is very challenging — and there is no shame in asking for help.

No parent is perfect; we could all benefit from professional advice.

Spring 2025 47

48 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Kauai covered.

Kauai covered.

Fiber Internet is now fully Fiber Internet isis now fully Fiber Internet now fully available island-wide! available availableisland-wide! island-wide!

Make Make the the switch switch to to Hawaii's Hawaii's fastest fastest Make the switch to Hawaii's fastest Internet Internet and and only only 100% 100% fiber fiber network network Internet and only 100% fiber network with symmetrical speeds up to 33 Gig. with symmetrical speeds upup to to Gig. with symmetrical speeds 3 Gig. Plans Plans start start at at just just $39.99/mo. $39.99/mo.

Plans start at just $39.99/mo.

808-809-7393 | getfioptics.com/kauai 808-809-7393 | getfioptics.com/kauai

Spring 2025 49

50 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Spring 2025 51

Find � differences between these two images

Help the rabbit find �� eggs

52 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Preventing Digital Eye Strain

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

Digital Eye Strain, or Computer Vision Syndrome, is the result of spending prolonged hours on digital devices. Looking at screens for two or more hours in a row is considered extended use.

Some symptoms of digital eye strain include: Headaches Tired eyes Blurry vision Red or itchy eyes Dry eyes Watery eyes

• • •

• • •

The best approach to digital eye strain is to prevent it from happening.

To reduce digital eye strain:

• Blink your eyes regularly.

• Use artificial tears.

• Follow the 20-20-20

• •

rule: for every 20 minutes of screen time, look away and focus on something that is 20 feet away.

Wear glasses with a quality antireflective coating and blue light filter.

Wear glasses specific to computer work.

These specialty glasses have a modified prescription to help you see better while sitting at the computer. They may be worn over contact lenses or separate from your regular distance glasses.

We are always here if you need us. Hope to SEE you soon!

Spring 2025 53

Helping Your Kids Cope with the Loss of a Pet

For most kids, pets are more than just animals their families own — they’re members of the family best friends.

Unfortunately, the joy of owning a pet goes hand-in-hand with the heartbreak of losing one. After all, family pets often are the first to greet kids in the morning and after school. Your pet may be the one your child looks to for comfort and companionship when ill or feeling sad or upset.

When kids go through the loss of a pet, you can help them cope with it.

A pet’s death might be their first time losing a loved one, so the grieving process can help kids learn how to cope with other losses throughout life.

Sharing the News and the Grief

One of the hardest parts about losing a pet may be breaking the bad news to

54 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

kids. Try to do this one-on-one in a place where they feel safe and comfortable and aren’t easily distracted.

As you would with any tough issue, base how much information kids should hear based on their age, maturity level, and life experience.

If your pet is very old or has a long illness, consider talking to kids before the death happens. If you have to euthanize your pet, you may want to explain that: the veterinarians have done everything that they can your pet would never get better this is the kindest way to take the pet’s pain away the pet will die peacefully, without feeling hurt or scared Again, a child’s age, maturity level, and questions will help you decide whether

to offer a clear and simple explanation for what’s going to happen. If so, it’s OK to use words like “death” and “dying” or to say something like “The veterinarian will give our pet a shot that first puts it to sleep and then stops the heart from beating.” Many kids want a chance to say goodbye first, and some may be old enough or emotionally mature enough to be there to comfort the pet during the process.

If you do have to euthanize your pet, be careful about saying the animal went “to sleep” or “got put to sleep.”

Young kids can take things literally, so this can conjure up scary ideas about sleep or surgery and anesthesia.

If the pet’s death is more sudden, calmly explain what has happened. Be brief, and let your child’s questions guide how much information you provide.

Sticking to the Truth

Avoid trying to gloss over the event with a lie. Telling a child that “Buster ran away” or “Max went on a trip” won’t ease the sadness about losing the pet, and if the truth does come out, your child might be angry that you lied.

If asked what happens to the pet after it dies, draw on your own understanding of death, including, if relevant, the viewpoint of your faith.

And an honest “I don’t know” certainly can be an appropriate answer — it’s OK to tell kids that death is a mystery.

Helping Your Child Cope

Like anyone dealing with a loss, kids usually feel a variety of emotions after the death of a pet. They might experience loneliness, anger if the pet was euthanized, frustration that the pet couldn’t get better, or guilt about times that they were mean to or didn’t care for the pet as promised. Help kids understand that it’s natural to feel all

of those emotions, that it’s OK to not want to talk about them at first, and that you’re there when they are ready to talk.

Don’t feel compelled to hide your own sadness about losing a pet. Showing how you feel and talking about it openly sets an example for kids. You show that it’s OK to feel sad when you lose a loved one, to talk about your feelings, and to cry when you feel sad.

And it’s comforting to kids to know that they’re not alone in feeling sad. Share stories about the pets you had — and lost — when you were young and how hard it was to say goodbye.

Looking Ahead

After the shock of the news fades, it’s important to help kids heal and move on.

It can help for them to find special ways to remember a pet. You might have a ceremony to honor your pet or just share memories of fun times you had together. Write a prayer together or offer thoughts on what the pet meant to each family member. Share stories of your pet’s funny moments.

Offer lots of loving hugs. You could do a project too, like making a scrapbook.

Keep in mind that grieving over the loss of a pet, particularly for a child, is similar to grieving over a person. For kids, losing a pet who offered love and companionship can be much harder than losing a distant relative. You might have to explain that to friends, family members, or others who don’t own pets or don’t understand that.

Perhaps most importantly, talk about your pet, often and with love. Assure your child the pain will get better and the happy memories will always remain. When the time is right, consider adopting a new pet — not as a replacement but to welcome another animal friend into your family.

Spring 2025 55

3 Changes for Expectant Moms

By Dr. Clyner Antalan Kaua‘i Medical Clinic OB-GYN

There are a few things most expect when they are expecting: cravings, an increased need for naps and, of course, an expanding growing belly. But other changes that come before baby arrives can catch moms-to-be off-guard.

Dr. Clyner Antalan, Kaua‘i Medical Center OB-GYN, and his team share three fun facts expectant moms can look forward to in the first trimester, weeks one through 13.

FUN FACT NO. 1: Expect a

hyper-sensitive sense of smell.

If it seems like your nose knows more than usual, you’re experiencing hyperosmia. “You may develop ‘superpowers’ for sniffing out scents, which some experts believe is a way your body helps protect against harmful foods,” Dr. Antalan said.

Increased production of estrogen and progesterone are thought to heighten olfactory sensitivity. The hormones can also make breasts larger and more tender, as well as affect your digestive system causing nausea which can happen any time of the day.

FUN FACT NO. 2:

Babies’ hearts get an early start.

At six or seven weeks, babies are only about the size of a grain of rice, but their

56 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

hearts already begin beating.

Dr. Antalan says ultrasounds can usually detect the heartbeat by about eight weeks, which is often “a magical milestone for parents,” he said.

The sound of the thumping can also be a good sign, as studies show that early cardiac activity is a good indicator of pregnancy viability.

“Hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time can be a magical milestone for parents!”

FUN FACT NO. 3:

Bones are constantly forming.

Start snacking on yogurt, leafy greens and sardines. Babies’ skeletal systems start to form around seven weeks and never stop. “A healthy diet with calciumrich foods supports both your bones and your baby’s growth,” Dr. Antalan said. Getting enough calcium during pregnancy can reduce your risk of osteoporosis later in life.

Visit WilcoxHealth.org to learn more.

To receive water service notices from Department of Water and emergency weather alerts from Kaua`i Emergency Management Agency,

SIGN UP FOR KAUA`I COUNTY ALERTS

Sign up to receive Kaua`i County Alerts by phone, text or email through the county's Wireless Emergency Notification Service (WENS) at www.kauai.gov/KEMA or call 808-245-5455 or 808-241-1800.

Does your keiki have a dental home?

OUR FAMILY TAKING CARE OF YOURS!

808.822.9393 | fx: 808.821.1384 drbairdoffice@gmail.com www.hokusmiles.com Kapaa Site: Monday-Friday 4-976 Kuhio Hwy Kapaa, HI 96746

Patricia Sanchez, DDS & Kanoe Baird, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists & Moms

Lihue Site: Friday Only 4414 Kukui Grove St Suite 103, Lihue, HI 96766

Accepting new keiki patients Focus on preventive care Hospital sedation available Accepts most dental insurance and Medicaid

Take your keiki to a pediatric dentist by age one

Spring 2025 57

7 Safer, More Trustworthy News Sources for Children Talking to your children about the news can be challenging, especially these days when misinformation spreads so quickly that it’s hard to tell what is factual and what isn’t. Not to mention, it’s getting increasingly tougher to determine what news sources are credible and unbiased.

“Children often hear about news stories at school or from friends, so it is important that parents have sensitive and age-appropriate conversations with their children,” says Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, Executive Director at National Association for Media Literacy Education.

58 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

“The news is often sensationalized, so parents should strive to give their children factual, accurate information — and make sure they feel safe.

“Parents should be cautious about exposing children — especially young ones — to news content and should reconsider news as background for their morning or evening routines.

“Unless news sources specifically state that they are appropriate for children, assume that they are not,” Lipkin says.

With Lipkin’s help, we have compiled a list of safer, more credible news sites specifically designed for children.

1

Snopes snopes.com

Snopes is a great resource for anyone looking to verify facts.

The largest and one of the most respected organizations for authentication and fact-finding of news, myths, mysteries and more, Snopes also plays a vital role in debunking political disinformation and conspiracy theories.

2

TIME for Kids timeforkids.com

4

KidNuz kidnuz.org

Both a magazine and a website, TIME for Kids is known for reliable, kid-friendly news covering a variety of topics such as politics, current events, business, wellness, Earth sciences and more. The articles stick to the facts and encourage learning by highlighting and defining larger vocabulary words.

The site is categorized by grade level and also features kids who are making a positive impact around the world.

KidNuz is a kid-friendly podcast that focuses on stories of the day.

It’s age-appropriate, nonpartisan and produced by Emmy-winning broadcast journalists who believe children have a right to be up-to-date with current events. Each episode is seven minutes long and features six news stories.

5

The Week Junior theweekjunior.com

Designed to inspire middle grade students (ages 8 to 14) to stay informed, engage with the news and discuss with their parents, The Week Junior (which offers a printed magazine in adition to the website), features topics like national news, international politics and science and nature.

5

DOGO Kids dogonews.com

6

Common Sense Media commonsensemedia.org

7

News for Kids newsforkids.net

Dogo Kids focuses on trending news but also broadens into categories including culture, technology, science and world news. Kids can learn about the duct-taped banana art exhibit that sold for six million dollars or the ancient, unearthed coins that were found to be worth millions!

Common Sense Media is a great resource for children and parents alike.

The website touts, “Most technology wasn’t built with kids in mind. We’re on a mission to change that ... by making media and technology safer, healthier and more equitable for kids everywhere.” A nonprofit, Common Sense Media independently rates movies, TV shows, books, games, podcasts and apps, providing parents with research-based guidance on age-appropriate content (including news) for their children.

Acknowledging that news is “complicated and messy,” founder Will Adams says News for Kids was designed to tell interesting stories in an accessible manner — which means it works well for both elementary students and English language learners. By using simple language, News for Kids presents information in a way that’s easy to understand.

“We strive to make each article selfcontained, giving the necessary background and context. Where that is not possible, we try to provide easily accessible resources to fill in the gaps,” Adams says.

Spring 2025 59

e l b i ed AGON

S G EG

DR

A fun & unique way to decorate Easter eggs

The colorful crack lines are so cool!

Whether you're planning a party or decorating eggs for Easter, these hard-boiled dragon eggs are sure to be a hit!

INGREDIENTS

SUPPLIES

Food coloring in 6 colors — red, blue, green, orange, pink, purple, etc.

Clean, soft kitchen towel

6 hard-boiled eggs (Do not peel!)

6 tsp. vinegar Water

6 coffee mugs (or deep bowls) — 1 for each food coloring

DID YOU KNOW?

Komodo dragons are the world’s largest lizards.

60 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Gently roll boiled eggs around on clean towel to create cracks in the shells.

2. Fill each cup halfway with water.

3. Add 1 tsp. of vinegar and 4 drops of one food coloring to each mug. Stir well.

4. Add 1 boiled egg to each mug.

5. Refrigerate overnight.

6. Remove eggs and peel.

PRESCHOOL SUBSIDY NOW AVAILABLE APPLY NOW FOR PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS FOR KEIKI BORN BETWEEN AUGUST 1, 2020 AND JULY 31, 2022 Choose from more than 370 DHS-licensed preschools statewide Monthly tuition subsidies available to qualified families For details, please visit us online at patchhawaii.org Download the application at patchhawaii.org or apply online Questions?

808-791-2130| PODAdmin@Patch-HI.org | patchhawaii.org

Spring 2025 61

A GATEWAY TO MULTISPORT EXCELLENCE

62 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Enhancing Performance in Other Sports The physical and mental skills acquired in gymnastics have a direct impact on performance in other sports.

Early Athletic Specialization vs. Multisport Participation

There’s a growing debate among parents and coaches about whether children should specialize in a single sport from a young age or participate in multiple sports. While early specialization can lead to success in a particular sport, it often comes at the expense of overall athletic development and increases the risk of burnout and injury.

Gymnastics provides a solid athletic foundation that allows children to participate in a variety of sports.

The skills developed in gymnastics— strength, flexibility, coordination, and mental toughness—are universal and can be applied to any athletic endeavor. This makes gymnastics an ideal starting point for children who may later choose to specialize in a particular sport.

Here are a few examples: Basketball: Gymnasts’ agility and strength contribute to better jumping ability and quicker movements, essential for both offense and defense.

Martial Arts: The flexibility and balance gained in gymnastics improve a martial artist’s ability to execute precise kicks and maintain stability during combat.

Soccer: Gymnasts have superior body awareness and coordination, allowing them to control the ball effectively and move fluidly.

Swimming: The core strength developed in gymnastics enhances a swimmer’s ability to maintain proper form and efficiency in the water.

Track and Field: Gymnasts’ explosive power and speed translate well to track events, particularly in sprints and jumps.

By participating in gymnastics, children are not only preparing themselves to excel in other sports but are also reducing the likelihood of overuse injuries associated with early specialization.

RECREATION & COMPETITIVE CLASSES ON KAUAI

Garden Island Gymnastics Karla Villanueva-Bernal 5887A Kawaihau Rd, Kapaa (808) 635-3392 gardenislandgymnastics.com

Spring 2025 63

64 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Spring 2025 65

Technoference How does technoference impact children?

Most of us know that kids spending too much time on screens is bad.

According to the Mayo Clinic, potential dangers include behavioral issues, sleep problems, delays in language and social development, difficulty paying attention, violence and obesity.

Many children also experience loneliness, anxiety or depression when screen time is excessive.

Changing your family’s technology habits is challenging, but doing so goes a long way toward improved mental health. The biggest impact and influence on children are at home.

To start, parents should establish and enforce age-appropriate screen time limits for kids, along with encouraging

66 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

high-quality media content and co-participating whenever possible.

The problem with technology goes deeper than how kids are using it. The uncomfortable truth is that the amount of time parents spend on screens has a profound impact on kids, too. Excessive screen time by parents leads to distracted parenting, disengaged parentchild relationships and negative behavior in children—in other words, technoference.

What is technoference?

Technoference is a shortened term for “technology-based interference.” It refers to screen-focused behaviors that

interfere with relationships—including those between parents and children.

If you’ve found yourself ignoring your child in favor of technology (and inevitably noticed them doing the same to you), it’s time to make some changes.

There may be other signs that technology is taking over. If you’re experiencing anxiety, poor sleep or feelings of isolation, you may be too involved in your phone.

How does technoference impact children?

As parents spend more time on smartphones and electronic devices, kids work harder to gain their attention—often by misbehaving.

According to Psychology Today, research demonstrates a relationship between the amount of technoference in a parent-child relationship and a child’s behavior (McDaniel & Radesky, 2018). To further complicate things, the more challenging a child’s behavior becomes, the more likely a parent will turn to their smartphone as a means of distraction or comfort.

“Screen use by parents impacts children negatively if it’s not in balance,” says Dr. Whatley. “Our kids need to know they matter and we prioritize them. If we are on digital devices and not making eye contact with them, their narrative becomes ‘I don’t matter.’” She explains that as a result, kids may begin to act out, seeking attention.

Making eye contact with children is imperative to their development.

Eye contact helps develop emotional regulation and social skills, foster communication and build trust, among other things. Ask yourself, “How many times a day am I making eye contact with my kids?”

Children’s brains are unable to manage the stress of being ignored.

Kids do what they see parents do.

“They are always watching us and mimicking our behavior. What we model is how they act. If parents are spending a lot of time on screens, their kids probably are, too.

We can and must help kids learn to let their phones be a tool to enhance their lives—not a prison that controls their lives. To do this, parents should encourage kids to put phones away, get enough sleep, and meet friends in-person to establish deeper connections. Perhaps most importantly, parents need to model balanced, healthy behavior with technology.

How to reduce technology use

Parents should teach kids that phones are a convenience, not something to which we are enslaved. The best way to do this is to model healthy behaviors.

Here are three tips to reduce screen time usage: Don’t look at screens for the first hour of the day.

Don’t look at screens for the last hour of each day.

Put your phone away when you are with other people.

Additional methods include tracking usage, turning off message alerts and creating screen-free times (i.e. during mealtimes) and screen-free zones (bedrooms, cars and strollers). It may be helpful to create a family media plan.

Schedule regular, offline, family fun time—preferably outdoors. Finally, be realistic with goals and stay on course.

Change doesn’t occur overnight.

Spring 2025 67

COLOR ME!

68 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Kauai Christian Academy 808-828-0047

4000 Kilauea Road | Kilauea, HI 96754 www.KCAschool.org

Academically Excellent, Christ-Centered Education • Serving PreK-12th grade students from Lihue - Haena • Exciting opportunities in fine arts and athletics • Loving teachers in a safe, family-oriented environment • PreK-12th grade fully accredited• Shuttles available from Lihue and Kapaa •

Spring 2025 69

70 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Play is brain building, a central part of healthy child development, a key to executive function skills, and a buffer against the negative impacts of stress. Play builds the bond between parent and child.

— The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous to positively influence health. Activities like playing outside, running, riding bikes and sports are all beneficial.

Take advantage of Kauai sunshine by staying active as a family and creating healthy habits that last all year and carry into your child’s adulthood.

Benefits of physical play include: stress management improved sleep stronger bones increased self-confidence reduced risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease improved social/emotional skills Here are eight ways to encourage family fitness through playtime:

1 2 3

Focus on fun!

Choose activities your kids already enjoy, such as playing at the park, taking bike rides, riding scooters or playing sports.

Lead by example.

Make exercise (or outdoor play) a priority in your life and let your kids see you enjoying physical activity.

Choose active toys.

Provide bikes, scooters, balls or sand toys that encourage kids to be active —versus electronics, toys or games that can only be used at home.

4 5 6

Get exercise while doing another activity.

Walking around the Ke Ala Hale Makalae Path in Kapa’a is a fun way to take a long walk without a focus on exercise.

Try new activities.

Visit a new park or trail or try a new sport together to increase family bonding.

Create boundaries around screen time.

Screen time is a big reason kids do not get enough physical activity. Use the Family Media Plan at healthychildren.org — and our Technoference article on pages 66-67 — to help guide you.

7 8

Let your kids take turns picking the family activity.

Children are more likely to participate when involved in scheduling a favorite activity.

Make play a regular part of your routine.

It’s easier to stick to new habits when you attach them to something you already do. For example, a family walk after dinner once a week, a family trip to the park on weekend mornings, or a monthly date to explore a new hiking trail. Even if you only have 10 minutes, it’s worth taking the time to play together, and you’re more likely to follow through if it’s on the schedule.

Spring 2025 71

Kid-Approved

Snacks For the New Year Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins

Sneak veggies into snack time with these equal-parts-delicious-and-nutritious muffins.

Shredded zucchini adds moisture and nutrients while chocolate chips mask any hint of veggie flavor, making them an excellent choice for picky eaters. Find this recipe — and many more — at TheSeasideBaker.com (search “muffins”).

72 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

ColdFighting Smoothie

Pineapple, mango, apple and orange juice pair up with kale and spinach to create this vitaminpacked, immunityboosting smoothie your keiki are sure to love! Find this recipe — and many more — at TheSeasideBaker.com (search “smoothie”).

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 9am-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 3pm-5pm

Spring 2025 73

Enjoy Kauai’s playgrounds with crazy cool climbing structures! These are epic parks to check out with your family this spring!

ANAINA HOU PLAYGROUND KILAU EA

Anaina Hou Community Park is located on the North Shore of Kauai in Kilauea.

Created by visionaries Bill and Joan Porter, Anaina Hou Community Park serves as a multipurpose space for Kauai residents, offering picnic tables and restrooms.

With engaging structures that illustrate Hawaiian history, the Anaina Hou Playground will inspire your keiki to tell their own stories as they play. They’ll climb, jump and run on replicas of a volcano, sailing canoe and a sugarcane train.

74 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

LYDGATE PARK/ KAMALANI PLAYGROUND LIHUE

Conceived of and built by the community and Kauai County Parks Department, Kamalani Playground features inter-connected wood structures chock full of nooks and crannies and imaginative places for kids to hide and play. Conveniently located at Lydgate Beach Park — directly across from the swimming beach — this amazing marvel is surrounded by extensive lawn and shade trees and close to a restroom.

Further west — off of Nehe Road and adjacent to the Lydgate public campground — is Kamalani Kai, another wondrous space for kids of all ages with an intricate wood structure that leads directly to the beach.

Summer SONsation @ Lihue Lihue Baptist Baptist Church Church @

Biblelesson/Worship/Art/Games lesson/Worship/Art/Games Bible Spaceis islimited limited Space /Music/Missions/Snacks /Music/Missions/Snacks 808-245-4160 808-245-4160 andExcursions Excursionson onlast lastweek! week! and lihuebaptistchurch.com lihuebaptistchurch.com Registrationis isopen opennow! now!

Registration 3223Elua EluaSt., St.,Lihue Lihue 3223 downloadregistration registrationform form download ages 3completed 7th grade ages 3- completed 7th grade and return to church dropbox and return to church dropbox (M-F,8AM-noon) 8AM-noon) 6/2-7/3/25(M-F,

ALL FREE!!!

FREE!!!

ALL

Spring 2025 75

Take The Lead in

SporTSmanShip Ways parents can support their kids and teach them what it means to be a good sport

76 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

We’ve all seen it — the parent who stands on the sidelines loudly criticizing coaches and officials, or yelling at their child who made a mistake, or hurling insults at the other team. Some of us have even had the misfortune of witnessing brawls.

What’s in Winning and losing?

There’s no question, winning is rewarding and boosts self-esteem.

However, well-meaning parents sometimes get so caught up in the competition that they lose sight of the real value of sports. Winning is not just being the victor of a game. It’s becoming the best all-around person one can be.

Children who carry this with them will be the ones to thrive in life.

What’s the value in losing?

Believe it or not, plenty.

Losing teaches life lessons in humility, perseverance, respect for others and acceptance of defeat. Defeat is not failure. A child (and parent) who walks away content whether victorious or not, is the true winner.

What else do sports offer? Sports teach important principles that serve children their entire lives such as opportunities to build friendships;

lessons on the importance of rules, fairness and honesty; and teamwork, anger management and leadership skills.

tips to help your child be a good sport Praise your child’s efforts, regardless of performance or outcome. Practice with them but don’t push. Demonstrate proper technique and offer pointers but abstain from constant correction.

Avoid criticizing your child or pointing out mistakes. They are likely already aware of their mistakes and pointing them out will only make them feel worse.

Cheer on your child and their team.

Be courteous to and respectful of the other teams’ players, coaches and fans.

If your child is struggling to show good sportsmanship, look for opportunities to help them practice their skills and reward accordingly as reinforcement.

For example, when talking with your child about a game, point out any displays of sportsmanship you saw and praise your child for their positive behavior on and off the field.

Allow coaches and officials to do their jobs. Remember: they are human and we all make mistakes.

Set up a sportsmanship recognition program for your child’s team.

Acknowledge and show interest in team members whose physical abilities don’t stand out.

Don’t place blame when your team loses; encourage your child to do the same.

Lastly, if your child isn’t enjoying the sport, don’t force them to stay in it. Team/ball sports aren’t for everyone. Perhaps a more individual sport like gymnastics or swimming — or another activity like art, theater or music — would be a better fit.

Spring 2025 77

Crispy Rice Treats with a twist

Layered PeepsTreats Yummy,colorful Easter goodies

INGREDIENTS

• 4 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided into fourths • 4 3-ounce packages of marshmallow Peeps in 4 different colors (Use any colors you like!)

• 6 cups crispy rice cereal, divided into fourths

Involve your keiki when making these treats.

They will love helping pick out the colors and deciding which order to layer them!

Made with marshmallow Peeps and guaranteed to be a hit with keiki of all ages!

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare an 8-9" loaf pan by lining with foil and spraying lightly with cooking spray.

2. Divide the Peeps by 10s of the same color (10 pink, 10 yellow, etc).

3. In a deep, medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, microwave 10 of the same color peeps plus 1 tablespoon of butter on high for approximately 45 seconds. Because microwaves vary, watch closely so the mixture doesn’t flow over the sides of the bowl.

4. Using a large spatula, stir butter and Peeps together until completely mixed.

5. Gradually stir in 1-½ cups of cereal until fully coated.

Spray the spatula with cooking spray to keep mixture from sticking to it.

6. Press firmly into the loaf pan.

7. Repeat steps 3-6 with the other Peeps colors, layering each on top of the ones already in the pan.

To keep colors pure, clean mixing bowl in between.

8. Allow to cool completely (1-2 hours) before slicing.

9. If desired, make Peep pops by inserting cake pop sticks (as shown above).

78 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com

Kauai covered.

Kauai covered.

Fiber Internet is now fully Fiber Internet isis now fully Fiber Internet now fully available island-wide! available availableisland-wide! island-wide!

Make Make the the switch switch to to Hawaii's Hawaii's fastest fastest Make the switch to Hawaii's fastest Internet Internet and and only only 100% 100% fiber fiber network network Internet and only 100% fiber network with symmetrical speeds up to 33 Gig. with symmetrical speeds upup to to Gig. with symmetrical speeds 3 Gig. Plans Plans start start at at just just $39.99/mo. $39.99/mo.

Plans start at just $39.99/mo.

808-809-7393 | getfioptics.com/kauai 808-809-7393 | getfioptics.com/kauai

Spring 2025 79

OU ORUF ARFAMILY IALM OUR ORU FM AFM IYL YI L Y wWill iwl lw ltklaetkaeckaCare ecraecraer e i ltliaTake o fof OSRU.SR.S .

YOURS. oYfoO Yf U OYRU

There’s no need to leave Kaua‘i to receive quality There’s There’s no need to need leave Kaua‘i leave Kaua‘i to receive receive quality quality There’s nononeed toto leave Kaua‘i to to receive quality maternity care. From low-risk (with minimal intervention) to maternity maternity care.care.

From care.From low-risk From low-risk (with minimal (with minimal intervention) intervention) to to to maternity low-risk (with minimal intervention) high-risk pregnancies, we work with you to honor your birthing plan. We even high-risk pregnancies, wewe work with you to honor birthing plan.

We We high-risk high-risk pregnancies, pregnancies, we work with work you with toyou honor to honor youryour birthing your birthing plan.

We plan. provide free childbirth classes and a lactation support group.

If needed, we childbirth classes a lactation support group.

If needed, eveneven provide evenprovide provide freefree childbirth free childbirth classes classes andand a and lactation a lactation support support group. group.

If needed, If needed, also offer an immediate and seamless connection to maternal fetal medicine wewealso anan immediate seamless connection to maternal fetalfetal we also offer alsooffer an offer immediate immediate andand seamless and seamless connection connection to maternal to maternal fetal specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children. medicine specialists at at Kapi‘olani Medical Center Women & Children. medicine medicine specialists specialists at Kapi‘olani Kapi‘olani Medical Medical Center Center for for Women for Women & Children. & Children.

OB-GYN services are are alsoalso available at the KMCKMC Kapa‘a clinic.

OB-GYN services available at at the Kapa‘a clinic.

OB-GYN OB-GYN services services are also areavailable also available at the KMC theKapa‘a KMC Kapa‘a clinic. clinic.

WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity 80 www.kauaifamilymagazine.com