Pinsky, Jessica Gleason, Matthew Brink, and Lisa Husch
PROOFREADER
Jennifer Hamayelian
EDITORIAL ADMIN
Zadie Tassi
ADVERTISING SALES
Alma Tassi
Call 808-250-2990 or email info@mauifamilymagazine.com
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We at Maui Family Magazine want to inform, celebrate and participate in the nurturing and guidance of Maui’s children. We explore ways for parents to spend quality time with their children while also giving them information on health, safety and education. Maui Family Magazine is printed quarterly as Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter editions. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher. All submitted materials become the property of Maui Family Magazine. Mahalo! Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Cover Keiki: Drew and Mia Banaag from Wailuku, captured at Maui Alpaca in Makawao.
Cover Photography: Maile Crewdson maile-lei.com
RAISING KEIKI MAUI STYLE
CONTRIBUTORS
Get to know our contributors. This issue we ask them to share: how do you practice self-care?
Kirsten Cobabe
kirstencobabe.com | @kirstencobabe
“I root my self-care in foundational practices like sunshine, movement, connection and rest, along with modern modalities like EMDR and IFS.”
Kirsten Cobabe is a parent coach, teen whisperer and steady voice in a loud world. Her work centers on attunement over assumptions, presence over performance and authentic connection over control. If your teen doesn’t want to go back to school, head to her story on page 52.
“I care for myself with nutritious food, good sleep, and continuously learning new things in subjects that I find interesting.”
Kela Momon is a Maui-born wife and mother, and is passionate about helping parents navigate challenges and access the tools they need to build healthy, resilient families. She shares why finding support is so important as a new mom on page 48.
Maile Crewdson
maile-lei.com
“A hot bath in our salvaged outdoor tub, rain or shine, under the stars or clouds, is one of my favorite ways to practice rest and grounding.”
Maile Crewdson is a homeschooling mom of three keiki who loves to bake, sew, write, and hang with her husband Ken. She braved working with alpacas as the photographer for our cover, plus shares her tips on camping with kids on page 50 and how she learned to quilt on page 12.
Shannon Kuratko
maui.fit4mom.com | @fit4mom_maui
“I practice self-care by embracing our beautiful island home and engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and beach walks that both rejuvenate my mind and body.”
Shannon Kuratko is the passionate owner of FIT4MOM Maui, dedicated to empowering mothers through fitness and community support, helping them reclaim their strength and confidence. She shares postpartum fitness tips for moms on page 44.
hawai‘i’s longest running weekly
Keiki Hula Show
& SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Over $372,000 Has Been Awarded to Our Graduates
For 57 years the Napili Kai Foundation has strived to preserve the Hawaiian culture by passing it on to Maui’s keiki through the teaching of dances, language, history, arts and crafts of Polynesia. Our keiki perform in the weekly keiki hula show at the Napili Kai Beach Resort and participate in travel every 2-3 years. This program is available free of charge to keiki ages 6-18.
Now offering free ukulele and drumming lessons to our keiki members.
For membership information contact Kumu Hula Kathy Ralar through our website:
The Power of Local Food, Local Farmers
& Community Action
By Georgia Pinsky, Executive Director of Maui Farmer Support Network
Across Maui, residents are recognizing a deep truth: growing our food isn’t just a return to tradition—it’s a path to resilience, sovereignty, and collective healing. As the cost of living rises and climate disruptions increase, the importance of local food security and food sovereignty has never been clearer.
While food security focuses on ensuring consistent access to nutritious, affordable food, food sovereignty goes deeper. It is the right of communities to define their food systems—how food is grown, shared, and celebrated—based on local needs, cultural values, and ecological sustainability. On Maui, this means empowering farmers, restoring traditional Indigenous agricultural practices, and creating systems that enable communities to thrive in harmony with the ‘āina (land).
Maui Farmer Support Network (MFSN) is one of approximately half a dozen organizations across Hawai‘i dedicated to uplifting small-scale and beginning farmers—an essential but often under-resourced sector of the local food system. These farmers, many of whom work on less than five acres, are the backbone of our food security efforts and stewards of regenerative practices rooted in deep care for the ‘āina (land).
Unlike larger operations with access to institutional funding, infrastructure, and long-established markets, Hawai‘i’s small and beginning farmers often face significant barriers: limited land access, high equipment costs, labor shortages, and a lack of mentorship or business development support. As part of a growing ecosystem of farmer advocacy and support across Hawai‘i—including groups like GoFarm Hawai‘i, Common Ground
Collective, Oahu RC&D, The Kohala Center, and Hawaii Good Food Alliance—MFSN ensures that the voices of small farmers are heard, their knowledge valued, and their resilience strengthened. Together, these organizations represent a statewide movement toward a more just, regenerative, and food-sovereign Hawai‘i.
Buying local keeps money circulating within our island economy, creates jobs, supports families, and preserves open spaces. It also allows us to know our farmers, understand the land our food comes from, and reconnect with seasonal rhythms.
But for Maui’s small-scale farmers to succeed, they need more than admiration—they need active support. That means shopping at farmers markets, joining CSAs, and advocating for policies that protect land and water for agriculture. It means showing up for farm work days, sharing knowledge, and building infrastructure that helps farmers get their food to local tables. It means valuing their labor, their wisdom, and their role in our community’s well-being.
Maui’s food future depends on us—neighbors helping neighbors, restoring old lo‘i, planting school gardens, passing down seeds, and teaching the next generation that farming is a noble, vital path. Whether you're a farmer, a backyard grower, a chef, or a parent trying to feed your keiki well—your actions matter.
Every harvest starts with one seed—and one helping hand.
Learning to Quilt
BY MAILE CREWDSON
“In the quiet rhythm of the needle and thread, find the stillness of the present moment.”
-Corrie ten Boom
So much anxiety. I could feel it creeping into my heart each day leading up to the holidays this past year. My desire to make memories with my family was constantly overshadowed by the expectations I felt from comparing my life to what I saw others doing on social media. I felt less than, weighed down by unrealistic desires to do and be everything to everyone around me.
After Christmas and New Years’, I was completely exhausted. It was a special holiday season, and yet I wondered if I missed something between all the cookie decorating, gift giving, and celebrations. Did I make enough time to be present with my family - and with myself? What did it look like to cultivate stillness and how could I do this better?
After much reading and prayer, I did what I thought might help. I stepped back from the online world. I downsized my time on social media and committed to a temporary breakup from the ‘gram until I could accomplish one of my life’s goals: to learn how to quilt, and to make a quilt myself. I wanted to build in more discipline in my life, and chase after a life-long dream. In the days and weeks that followed, I focused any bit of free time to watch sewing tutorials. I borrowed countless books from the library. I dusted off the sewing machine that my husband lovingly bought me a few years ago. I involved my kids in the process and asked them to sit with me and tell me their stories while I cut piece after piece of fabric and stitched them
together, little by little. They got to watch their mom work hard and cheered me on each step of the way.
My social media fast lasted three months and during that time I developed the ability to focus on accomplishing my goal. Block by block, my patchwork quilt started to come together. I began looking forward to any chance I got to sew, to watch the colors and designs come together. I cultivated stillness.
And in time, this stillness created so much calm in my spirit.
I finished my quilt, and together my family and I celebrated. My husband hung the quilt proudly in our living room. As we look at it each day, sprawled on the couch reading or talking story as a family, it’s a reminder to me of how God showed up in my life. How in pursuing quilting as a form of discipline and delayed gratification, I found pockets of peace and stillness that I had been craving. Like the patches of my quilt, I’m a work in progress.
Maile Crewdson is a Maui mom of three keiki and a former teacher. Maile loves raising up the next generation. You may have also seen her on Food Network's "Great Chocolate Showdown" where she won big.
Saturday, September 6 | 9 am–2 pm
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
2025 is the Year of Our Community Forests, led by the Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens will be celebrating trees in the wao kanaka, where we live, learn, and play, on Saturday, September 6, with Lā ‘Ulu, a free event to learn about all things ‘ulu and how to incorporate more ‘ulu into your neighborhood! Enjoy foods using ‘ulu (breadfruit) for purchase to eat and to take home from Hawai‘i farmers and chefs, free cultural activities, local artisans, and nonprofits, and live Hawaiian entertainment. Meet the key people who are making ‘ulu a cornerstone of culinary identity on Maui. This year marks the return of cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Watch culinary
Lā ‘Ulu: Breadfruit Day Hawaiian Airlines Made in Maui County Festival
November 7–8 | Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Join us for the 12th Annual Hawaiian Airlines Made in Maui County Festival at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on November 7-8, 2025! This two-day event showcases over 140 local vendors offering a variety of Maui-made products, from art and crafts to food and unique gifts. Experience the best of Maui’s local talent and craftsmanship, all while enjoying delicious cuisine from local food trucks. Whether you’re a wholesaler, retailer, or simply a supporter of small businesses, this event is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures. Admission is free for children 12 and under!
creatives demonstrate the preparation of their favorite ‘ulu dishes, including internationally recognized chef, Food Network personality, and James Beard award-winner Chef Sam Choy. Visit mnbg.org/la-ulu-breadfruit-festival for up-to-date information.
Be sure to sign up for event updates at www. madeinmauicountyfestival.com. Presented by the Maui Chamber of Commerce, supported by the County of Maui and Office of Economic Development, and sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines. Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of Maui’s creativity and community!
New routines, big feelings, and lots of changes are all part of starting school. Reading aloud together establishes a comforting routine that helps children feel connected and loved, while also building social and emotional skills. It lays the groundwork for early literacy skills and fosters a love of language, stories and reading, key elements for school readiness. These carefully selected books are invaluable tools for parents and caregivers to engage with keiki about their emotions, expectations, and the excitement (and sometimes nervousness!) of the new school year. They offer comfort, insight, and even humor, making the transition to school a positive experience for both children and their families.
Picture Books (Preschool & Kindergarten)
Lola Goes to School by Anna McQuinn
Lola meets new friends and tries many new things on her fun and busy first day of school.
Hello School! By Priscilla Burris
A simple introduction to school routines with inviting illustrations.
On the Night Before Kindergarten by Rosemary Wells
The night before he starts kindergarten, Milo’s dreams are full of worry, but after a fun first day of school, Milo decides that he likes kindergarten. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney Llama Llama isn’t ready for summer vacation to end. He’s anxious about his first day back
Ready, Set, Read! Books to Prepare Keiki for School
to school, but maybe with some help from his friends and Mama, going back to school will be fun after all.
Picture Books Just for Fun (Kindergarten to 3rd grade)
Mr. S: A First Day of School Book by Monica Arnaldo
It’s the first day of school but the students can't find their teacher—only a delicious-looking sandwich and the words "Mr. S" scribbled on the chalkboard. Chaos ensues as the kids argue whether the sandwich must be their teacher. A hilarious read (for both keiki and grown-ups).
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
When the class pet bites the finger of Penelope, a tyrannosaurus rex, she finally understands why she should not eat her classmates, no matter how tasty they are.
We Don't Lose Our Class Goldfish by Ryan T. Higgins
Penelope has many things she is afraid of, including the class goldfish, Walter. When Walter goes missing, Penelope finds that she likes him. Having faced one fear successfully, she feels ready to take on some of her other fears.
My Teacher is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.) by Peter Brown
Bobby thinks his teacher, Ms. Kirby, is horrible, but when he sees her outside of school and they spend a day in the park together, he discovers she might not be so bad after all.
Explore more reading recommendations and digital learning tools and opportunities at https://www.librarieshawaii.org.
Unlock your creativity at HUI NO EAU VISUAL ARTS CENTER ʻ
Transitioning Back to School
BY MATTHEW BRINK
What we can learn from children with autism
As the new school year approaches, many parents may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. For parents with children with special needs, such as autism, transitioning back to school requires thoughtful planning and support. Here are some tips that work great for kids with autism, but can be beneficial for all children who struggle transitioning back to school.
Prepare a visual schedule. Many children thrive on predictability. Creating a visual schedule that outlines daily routines can provide reassurance and clarity. Use pictures, icons, or words to show what will happen each day, from morning routines to classroom activities. Review the schedule with your child before school starts, so they know what to expect.
Communicate with teachers and staff. Reach out to your child's teachers early and often. Share information about your child's strengths, challenges, and helpful strategies. Establishing open communication ensures the school team can provide support tailored to your child's needs.
Plan for sensory needs. Many children are sensitive to sensory input. Talk with your child about what experiences might be overwhelming —bright lights, loud noises, certain textures— and discuss coping strategies. Consider bringing noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or comfort items to school. Collaborate with teachers to create a sensory-friendly environment whenever possible.
Prepare social stories and social skills support. Social stories can help your child understand upcoming changes and social expectations clearly and gently. Practice scenarios they might encounter at school, such as greetings, sharing, or asking for help. Reinforcing social skills can boost your child's confidence in new social situations.
Establish routines and consistent expectations. Consistency is key. Maintain familiar routines at home leading up to school, such as meal times, bedtimes, and morning preparations. Clear, simple instructions and consistent expectations can help your child feel secure and ready to face new activities.
Practice transitions. Transitions can be difficult for many children. Visit the school beforehand if possible, walk through the daily routines, and meet the new teachers and classmates. Practice getting ready in the morning, packing backpacks, and moving between activities to build confidence.
Develop a communication plan. Teach your child how to ask for help when they need a break or need help. Practice this with your child ahead of time and ensure that the school staff knows how to support your child's needs. Set realistic goals and celebrate successes. Work with your child's teachers to set achievable goals for the year. Celebrate small victories— whether it's trying a new activity, making a new friend, or managing a sensory challenge. Positive reinforcement encourages progress and builds your child's self-esteem.
Matthew Brink is a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of the Malama Pono Autism Center—now open in Kihei. For more information, visit malamaponoautism.com.
Sleep is a cornerstone of supporting your child’s physiologic and emotional regulation.
• Good “sleep hygiene” typically includes a consistent routine with an adequate number of hours of sleep.
• Your child getting enough connected time with you during the daytime hours will make it easier for your child to settle for bed at night.
• You can signal a ‘wind down’ phase by having low lights, quiet talking, and pre-bedtime activities that are calm to support your child’s transition to bed.
• You can create pictures of your nightly activities to review with your child to cement the routine sequence.
• Kids with very active bodies can wake during the night, and this is often remedied by getting more vigorous movement during the daytime hours.
• Some kids’ bodies need extra pressure, such as a weighted blanket, and do well with “squishes” or a massage before lights out.
• Children with supersonic hearing may be awakened at night by small, low-frequency sounds such as a branch bumping against the house or random creaks, so reducing such sounds and providing ‘white noise’ is often the remedy.
Tips for Helping Your Child Get Good Sleep
BY KIEGAN BLAKE, O.T.
• Kids with sensory-sensitive eyes can have a hard time falling asleep due to looking at all the interesting items in their room, and are often prematurely woken by light coming through the window. A neutral, low distraction environment with closet doors closed and a neutral sheet covering toy shelves (or even having toys stored in a different room) will help, as well as blackout curtains.
• Night terrors and nightmares are typical for 3–7-year-old kids, so comforting and assurance are the key. In the case of nightmares, exploring your child’s worries (anxiety) is important.
• TV/electronics before bed is often too stimulating.
• Shows with aggressive or scary content at any time in the day can lead to nightmares, so content needs adult monitoring.
• Some older kids with very busy schedules can have difficulty winding down as they simply don’t have time to rest during the day and process all of their feelings about the day’s events. Setting aside ‘chill time’ at least 2xs during the day allows your child to later fall asleep more easily.
Kiegan Blake is an Occupational Therapist, Behavioral Specialist, and Director of Maui Center for Child Development. For more information, please call 808-873-7700 or visit MauiChildDevelopment.com.
Edible Pumpkin Spice Play Dough
BY TASHA COMPOS
At ARTLab Maui, we’re all about hands-on fun—especially for our littlest artists! Sensory play is one of our favorite ways to spark creativity, curiosity, and connection. From squishy textures to sweet seasonal scents, we love creating activities that engage the senses and the imagination. This fall, we’re excited to share one of our coziest creations yet—edible pumpkin spice play dough made with real pumpkin purée!
Pick up some extra pumpkin purée this fall and turn it into a batch of soft, sweet-smelling edible play dough! This no-cook, gluten-free recipe is baby-safe, taste-safe, and totally fun for toddlers and preschoolers. It smells like pumpkin pie, feels like magic, and takes just minutes to make. Plus, it’s made with all real, natural ingredients!
You’ll Need
• 1/3 cup baby rice cereal
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 3 tbsp pumpkin purée
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
Let’s Make It
Mix the rice cereal and cornstarch in a bowl. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice. Add pumpkin purée and oil. Stir until it’s doughy. Knead by hand until soft and smooth. Adjust with more cornstarch (if sticky) or water (if dry). Now it’s time to play!
Fun Ideas for Fall Play
Mini Pumpkin Pies: Use small tart tins or muffin liners and add pretend whipped cream (cotton balls or shaving cream!).
Fall Leaf Shapes: Grab your leaf-shaped cookie cutters and make a pile of autumn leaves.
Pumpkin Patch Play: Roll little pumpkins and add cinnamon stick “stems.”
Pie Shop Pretend Play: Set up a mini bakery with cookie cutters, rolling pins, and measuring spoons. Take “orders” and serve up sweet, squishy treats!
Storage Tip
Pop any leftovers in a ziplock bag and store in the fridge. Bring to room temp before reusing. If it feels a little dry, just knead it with wet hands or add a touch more purée.
Stay tuned for more creative recipes and handson projects from your friends at ARTLab Maui!
Tasha Compos is the owner of ARTLab Maui in Kihei offering art classes from 1-years old to adult. To learn more, visit artlabmaui.com.
Spice Up Your Stream
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MAUI FAMILY MAUI FAMILY
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Alexander Academy of Performing Arts
808-878-8970 • alexanderacademy.info
Queen Ka’ahumanu Center
Fall season dance classes begin August 11, 2025. Classes for ages 2–99 years. Ballet, creative movement, jazz, acrobatics, contemporary, pointe, flexibility, body conditioning.
Momentum Dance Maui
808-866-0212 • momentumdancemaui.com
230 Hana Hwy. Unit 4, Kahului
Ages 3–Adult
Classes include creative movement, pre-ballet, hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, tap, and more. Momentum Dance Maui aims to inspire well-rounded and enthusiastic dancers through excellent training for both the pre-professional dancer and recreational student. We believe in creating a safe and positive environment where dancers can thrive. Call for more information or visit our website to conveniently register online today.
Perpetuating Hawaiian culture through the children of Maui since 1966. Membership in our cultural program is open to keiki 6–18 and is free of charge. Now offering free ukulele lessons, taught by Jason Jerome of Lahaina Music. Contact Jason directly at 808-283-4792 for details. For membership details, contact Kumu Hula Kathy Ralar through our website.
Evolution Dance
2050 Main Street, Wailuku • evolutiondancemaui.com
Creative movement, hip-hop, Breakdancing, jazz, contemporary, tap, and more. Evolution offers training that is rooted in creativity and expression. Our mission is to build a community that provides opportunities to connect, create and collaborate through the art of dance. With love at the center of everything we do, we welcome all who come through our doors and onto our dance floor. We nurture each individual dance journey and strive to create a supportive community who will become a safe place to explore, learn and celebrate together. Call for more information, visit our website, or search for our app "Evolution Dance Maui."
West Maui Dance
Citizens Church Lahaina • Text or call 775-781-0568
Open registration at West Maui Dance located at Citizens Church Lahaina. We offer classes for ages 3 through adult. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Bollywood, lyrical. Limited class sizes.
Discover keiki, adult, and family movement classes, camps, and events throughout 2025. Maui Access to Mindful Movement is a nonprofit bringing donation-based dance, yoga, martial arts, and nature immersion events to families across the island. To better serve families, we also sponsor tandem classes where keiki take a movement class in one studio while parents take an adult class in an adjacent studio. Movement is medicine! Call or email with any questions or if you are a mindful movement leader interested in partnering with us.
Maui Academy of Performing Arts
808-244-8760 • mauiacademy.org
2050 Main Street, Wailuku
Theatre Classes • Ages 5–Adult
Serving all ages, from keiki to kupuna, MAPA’s theatre classes build confidence and stimulate creativity. A special note about fall 2025: our academy classes are currently on hold as we await the completion of construction of our new black box theatre! We expect to resume academy classes next spring. Join our email list at mauiacademy.org to stay in the loop!
Maui Onstage Youth
808-868-0333 • mauionstage.com
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center (Across from Lens Crafters)
Students of all levels will explore elements of theater including vocalization, character development, music, movement, dance, and ensemble-building. Classes and camps include acting, improv, and musical theater for all ages. Register at mauionstage.com.
We offer performing arts experiences for the children and adults of the West Maui community while also cultivating and nurturing local artists in the production of their original works. Visit ttmwestmaui.org to learn about upcoming classes and camps.
Did you know that mauifamilymagazine.com has even more great content? Check it out today!
Friends & Faire
friendsandfaire.com • friendsandfaire@gmail.com
11 N. Market Street, Wailuku
Craft Workshops • Kids & Adults
Friends & Faire is a place where people can gather to create, learn, and share their knowledge of their craft with others. Keiki and adult workshops include jewelry making, wood signs, mixed media art, and more. Check the website for the schedule or book a private workshop party. Great for birthdays and special occasions!
Classes are online & open for registration! The Hui offers classes, workshops, and camps for all ages and artistic abilities. Taught by professional teaching artists, Hui classes include programs in drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, jewelry, ceramics, glassblowing, Hawaiian arts, and more! The Hui also brings exceptional teaching artists to Maui as part of our Visiting Artist program. We offer classes for all ages, including family classes designed for multiple generations to participate in the arts together.
ARTLab Maui
808-666-0111 • www.artlabmaui.com 320 Ohuaki Rd, Unit 412, Kihei info@artlabmaui.com
ArtLab Maui programs include: creativity building, drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and more. Providing quality teacher-led programs with
Arts Calendar
engaging process-based art activities, where kids learn, play and create! Let’s get a little messy and make some amazing art! Visit us online to see the current schedule and to enroll.
Aloha Open Marketplace, 1794 S Kihei Rd., #10, Kihei
Kindermusik classes: ages birth - 10 years
Private lessons: ages 7 years – adult
Kindermusik by Tamara for keiki and private lessons by Dan Anuenue Music Maui to continue their musical journey. Based on decades of research, activities are carefully & creatively designed to enhance children’s cognitive, language, physical, creative, and social-emotional development.
Come have fun at Kupono Music Studio! Private lessons are available in piano, voice, ukulele, violin, guitar & other instruments. Play any style of music you desire in private, air-conditioned comfort on gorgeous high-quality instruments.. Affordable prices, and flexible scheduling.
La-ti-Da School of Music & Creative Arts 808-280-2784 office, 920-227-3406 text la-ti-daproductions.com aloha@la-ti-daproductions.com • @latidamusic 133 Makawao Ave, Makawao HI
Ages 3 months–Adult
La-ti-Da offers early childhood and preschool music classes for ages 3 months–6 years as well as private and group music lessons for age 7+ on various instruments. We believe in creating an uplifting environment for children to explore the world of creativity. We strive to motivate kids through interactive learning, movement, games and innovation, inspiring confidence and teamwork.
Private Violin Lessons in Central Maui • Ages 6–Adult • Flexible times, beginning & intermediate students.
Experienced & patient teacher. Innovative teaching methods follow the interests & learning style of each student, keeping their passion for music alive. Contact Cambria Moss. If you do not have a violin yet, please call before shopping for one.
Education Education
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Montessori School of Maui
808-573-0374 • momi.org
2933 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao
Open House • Saturday, October 11, 2025
9 am–11:30 am (on-going tours until 11am)
Interested in learning more about the value of a Montessori education for your child? Complete an Online Inquiry at momi.org/admissions to join us.
Carden Academy
808-573-6651 • Cardenmaui.org
55 Maka’ena Place, Pukalani
Admissions: 808-573-6651, ext. 102
Please RSVP to cardenmaui.org/admissions
Open House for Pre-K through 8th Grade: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Join us to learn more about applying for admission for Pre-K through 8th Grade at Carden Academy of Maui. Explore the campus and classrooms, meet our homeroom and enrichment teachers, and see what an amazing education your child will receive at Carden Academy.
Roots School
740 Haiku Road, Haiku
Open House. October 22, 2025 • 10 am–Noon RSVP required to office@rootsmaui.org or call (808) 250-7988. Come see Roots School in action! We invite you inside our classrooms during school hours to see what makes students and teachers love being a part of the Roots School ‘ohana. Roots School serves keiki from Preschool through 5th grade.
Seabury Hall
808-572-7235 • seaburyhall.org
480 Olinda Road, Makawao
Open House Save the Date Saturday, October 25, 2025
Diverse student body • rigorous academic curriculum • Award-winning arts programs • Outstanding athletics program • Personalized college counseling. Reserve your space by October 23, 2025. Email admissions@SeaburyHall.org or call 808-572-0807 for details.
Doris Todd Christian Academy
808-579-9237 • office@doristoddchrisian.org
519 Baldwin Avenue, Pā’ia
Doris Todd Christian Academy (PS–Grade 8)/ Maui Christian Academy (Grades 9–12) offers personalized tours to show you our campus, and for you to meet our wonderful teachers and staff! Please reach out to Jessica in our office at 808.579.9237 / office@doristoddchrisian.org to schedule a time that is convenient for you. You can also visit our website at www.doristoddchristian.org to get to know us better. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Visit mauifamilymagazine.com to submit listings and check out other great content!
Campus Tours and Virtual Information Sessions starting February. HTA is a tuition-free public charter school that allows students to follow their own unique paths to success. We offer our innovative program in Lahaina and Kihei, plus in our fully virtual G4–12 distance learning program. Admission for the next school year opens on Feb. 5. Contact the campus for more information or email enrollment@myhta.org.
Pā‘ia Youth & Cultural Center 808-579-8354 • pyccmaui.org
Pā‘ia Bay, Pā‘ia
Free membership for youth at Pa’ia Youth & Cultural Center – Drop-In & Life Skills Programs Year-Round. Membership is FREE! • Ages 9–19. PYCC has many structured clubs and programs, computer, video, and life skills training opportunities, and the Stonewave Sk8park, as well as a relaxed drop-in center filled with fun things to do: music, videos, games, art projects, and activities. Check the website or call for details
Kihei Youth Center
808-879-8698 • kiheiyouthcenteronmaui@yahoo.com
131 S Kihei Rd # B, Kihei
The mission of Kihei Youth Center is to strengthen the community through positive youth and family development by providing educational, recreational, vocational, cultural, social, and prevention programs in a safe, healthy and nurturing environment embodied by Native Hawaiian values.
Be part of a vibrant community and connect with fellow members through exciting social gatherings, themed parties, and family-friendly celebrations. Classes include a Spring Kids Club on Fridays 5p–7pm and Yoga Workshops for members. Learn more at mauicountryclub.org.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui 808-242-4363 • bgcmaui.org
Our Clubhouses across the island are open Monday to Friday. Youth ages 8 to 18 will enjoy activities like team building, sports & recreation, arts & crafts, field trips, and much more. Membership is FREE! Call any of the clubs for more information.
The Maui Family YMCA’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals, families, and our community through programs that foster moral growth and build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Programs include aquatic, fitness, music, healthy lifestyles, and an afterschool program. To learn more, visit mauiymca.org.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Maui 808-298-4781 • bbbshawaii.org
Open Enrollment for Big Brothers
Big Sisters of Maui
Youth (ages 6–16 years old) and adult volunteer mentors are matched in a one-to-one friendship based on gender, interests, personalities, and geographic locations. Volunteers are carefully screened and trained to create a positive impact by sharing their friendship, guidance, and support. Pairs meet two to three times per month to spend quality one-on-one time together and form meaningful memories through little everyday moments like sharing a slice of pizza and getting shave ice. Matches are professionally supported by one of our staff members who also provide resources and support to the entire family unit. If you are interested in enrolling your child or becoming a volunteer mentor please e-mail us at ctomas@bbbshawaii.org or call 808-298-4781.
Maui Center for Child Development
808-873-7700 • MauiChildDevelopment.com
MCCDmaui@gmail.com
244 Papa Place, Suite 102, Kahului
Kiegan offers a wide array of therapy services for children and their families including occupational therapy, behavior management, sensory processing therapy, social and motor skills, and more. She is known throughout the islands for delivering results with her highly specialized therapies and state of the art equipment, and has helped hundreds of families find innovative solutions. She provides comprehensive and outstanding quality to Hawai‘i’s families and communities.
Family Hui Hawaii
808-230-7112 • FamilyHuiHawaii.org
Family Hui Hawai‘i provides families with opportunities to connect, share and learn from one another through our in-person or virtual parent support groups. Our Maui Parent Cafes are peerled sessions run by other parents online, and our Maui Neighborhood Hui are parent-led group series in your own community. Our free programs are for all Maui families. Follow our IG at family.hui.hawaii, FB Family Hui Hawaii, website
Education Calendar
at familyhuihawaii.org, text hui to 70138 for free developmental texts and updates.
La Leche League International Maui mauidoula@hotmail.com
RSVP for details and meeting location
4th Thurs/month • 11:30am–1:45pm
La Leche League International provides worldwide support to promote breastfeeding. Free lactation support group talk story, encouragement, and information. Accredited Leader: Mary Jane P. Bennett IBCLC.
Whether your pregnancy was planned or unplanned, you may have questions about what to expect during pregnancy and parenting. We offer cost-free, one-on-one education, group classes, material aid, individualized support, and referrals to other community organizations; we can help you find the support you need to thrive.
Flexible classes throughout the year in CPR, AED, first aid, conscious and unconscious choking, basic life support classes for health care providers using American Heart Association as well as American Red Cross guidelines. Students 12 years old and older. Recommended for babysitting. I guarantee you will leave your class with the skills necessary to effectively administer CPR for first aid to babies or adults.
East Maui Watershed Partnership
808-573-6999 • eastmauiwatershed.org
Online Watershed Education • 3rd grade–adult
Year-round by request • Weekdays
Let us bring the watershed to you with various online presentations and quizzes! Students will learn what a watershed is and why they are important. In-person hikes and volunteer service trips may be available, but are subject to COVID-19 limitations.
Reading Tutoring
248-564-1999 • cindyteachesreading.com
Cindy Shuster
Personalized one-on-one tutoring for beginning readers and readers needing extra support to achieve grade level. Students are initially assessed to establish their knowledge of letters and
sounds, concepts about print, and writing skills. Lessons are then designed around the child’s ability level. Children are guided through lessons that include reading, word work, and writing strategies. The goal for each lesson is to build confidence, independence, and a love of reading.
Gakuen Japanese Language School
808-244-0406 •1828 Vineyard St., Wailuku
Grades K–8 will immerse themselves in the Japanese language and culture, learning to read, write, and speak, all while enjoying traditional folk songs. The curriculum also includes engaging activities like Undoukai (Cultural Field Day), calligraphy, origami, and making staple Japanese foods such as somen nagashi, mochi, cone and maki sushi, okonomiyaki, along with Spam musubi making, and more! Classes run from 3–5 PM on Mon, Tues Thurs and Fri, and from 2–4:30 PM on Wed. Transportation is included from some schools. For more info, contact Principal Reverend Murakami at 808-244-0406 or shinkai528@gmail.com.
Hawaii State Public Library System
Your library card gives you access to free digital resources available 24/7. You can check out eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers as well as stream movies, documentaries, and TV series. Parents and caregivers can also access BookFlix for Kids, Scholastic Teachables, streaming movies, TV series, and Story Time and Virtual Programs featuring your local librarians. Please visit www.librarieshawaii.org to find out about our current services, or feel free to stop by or call your nearest library during open hours. Library staff is here to help!
Wailuku Public Library
808-243-5766 • www.librarieshawaii.org
251 High Street, Wailuku
Kīhei Public Library
808-875-6833 • www.librarieshawaii.org
35 Waimaha‘iha‘i St., Kihei
Makawao Public Library
808-573-8785 • www.librarieshawaii.org
1159 Makawao Ave., Makawao
Kahului Public Library
808-873-3095 • www.librarieshawaii.org
90 School St., Kahului
21 wild presentations every day, making discovery & knowledge fun this summer!
21 wildlife presentations every day, making discovery & knowledge fun this summer!
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Baby + Health
Nourishing Maui Mothers Pacific Birth Collective Expands Support with Chef-Prepared Meal Program
By Kyra Bramble
When I was postpartum and battling mastitis, I was in pain, exhausted, and felt alone, like so many mothers on our small island. In that fog of overwhelm, I reached out to Pacific Birth Collective (PBC), and they showed up with exactly what I needed, delivering it directly to my door. Their care, presence, and resourcefulness reminded me that I wasn’t alone. In that vulnerable moment, they became my community, and that made all the difference.
That kind of care is exactly what PBC has offered since its grassroots founding in 2016, when a group of midwives, doulas, and childbirth educators came together to imagine a better network of support for families across Hawai‘i. Since then, their work has grown into a powerful movement of education, advocacy, and direct postpartum care, anchored in love and deep community connection.
Following the 2023 Maui wildfires, PBC rapidly scaled its efforts to support mothers and babies, launching new initiatives to meet the rising needs of displaced and overwhelmed families. One of the most impactful has been their Farm to Mother (FTM) program, which provides weekly food boxes filled with nutrient-dense local produce, pantry staples, and general family supplies. Distributed from their Ha‘ikū hub and through partners like Mālama Recovery Center, the program now serves over 130 families each month and is expanding to Lāhainā in 2025.
Now, with sponsorship from Maui County, PBC is collaborating with More Pleaze—a Maui-based private chef platform I founded to connect clients with chefs who cook with intention, wellness, and soul. As a chef, holistic nutrition consultant, and former doula, it has long been my dream to merge postpartum care with the healing power of food.
Together, we are launching a pilot program to provide postpartum meals alongside the FTM food boxes. These dishes will be crafted with love and intention to nourish mothers during the sacred first 40 days when the body and spirit are most in need of care. Designed by vetted chefs using local ingredients and maternal health guidelines, these meals will honor local food systems while replenishing our mamas. This is more than a meal—it is nourishment, dignity, and care during one of life’s most tender transitions. As this vision comes to life, we also plan to develop cross-training programs for doulas and chefs, expanding economic opportunities while deepening community-rooted care.
From conception to birth and beyond, from Ha‘ikū to Lāhainā, PBC continues to lead with compassion and creativity. I am honored to walk alongside them.
To support the program or get involved, visit pacificbirthcollective.org or morepleaze.com.
Photo courtesy of Gamze Smith. Kyra Bramble is a mama, private chef, and founder of More Pleaze and Lotus Chefs. Learn more at morepleaze.com and lotuschefs.com.
New Parent Loneliness
BY KALIA KELMENSON
Becoming a new parent opens the door to what can seem like a foreign land. Nights become filled with waking, feeding, and bouts of crying. Days are also transformed; nap schedules, feeding times, and thoughts and sentences are interrupted by the very real demands of this tiny new human you brought into the world.
While the joys and gifts of being a new parent are often celebrated, what doesn’t get mentioned as often is the loneliness and isolation that is also a normal part of welcoming a child into your life. Priorities shift, schedules become determined by the rhythms of the baby, and friendships can be difficult to give the time and attention you gave them pre-baby.
Culturally, we aren’t set up to support new parents the way we were in the past. Even in Hawai’i, where there is much more of an emphasis on ‘ohana, the demands of making a living and survival on our island make communal support a challenge. The loneliness that results from the isolation of being a new parent is a normal result of the sense of connection and belonging that is a core human need.
Recognize that feeling lonely is a result of being isolated. There is nothing wrong with you, and you are not failing as a new parent if you are feeling lonely. There are, however, ways to support yourself through this period of change.
• Reach out to others in the same stage of life. You may have connected with someone in prenatal classes or have friends who are also new parents. Send a text or a voice message if scheduling a call is too hard.
• If you can gather a few other new parents, create a low-stakes plan to hang out. Make a standing time and day to meet at a local park, beach, or take turns “hosting”(with zero expectation of having a clean house
or providing anything other than the space to meet). Let it be an open invitation, and normalize showing up unshowered, with hair piled in a bun. Some days will be like that.
• Try to avoid scrolling social media. Remove yourself from the algorithm that makes it seem like everyone else is having the best life ever when you are feeling isolated.
• Do something that feels like you. Take a short walk, read a paragraph in a book, or turn on a song and dance in your kitchen. These small moments can remind you of who you are underneath the sleeplessness and the new demands on your time.
• Make use of support lines. The Parent Line is a free and confidential phone line that supports new and not-so-new parents through challenging moments and can direct you to many resources available in the state of Hawai’i. 1-800-816-1222
For 24-hour support, you can call the National support line at Parents Anonymous 855-427-2736. Becoming a new parent is a joyful time, but not without significant challenges. Try to remember that you are not alone in what you are going through, and remember there is support available, and that this time will not last forever
Kalia Kelmenson helps women remember their spark and strength and reclaim adventure as a way of life. Visit mauimindandbody.com and follow her at instagram.com/thesaltinus.
Decoding Food Labels: A Simple Guide to Healthier Choices for Kids
BY LISA HUSCH, RD, FOOD AND NUTRITION DIRECTOR, MAUI MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER MAUI HEALTH
Food packages often say things like “natural” or “healthy,” but those are just marketing claims. If you want to make better food choices for your kids, the real truth is on the back of the box, in the Nutrition Facts label.
This label is regulated by the FDA, which means you can trust that the information is accurate. Learning how to read it can help you choose foods that support your child’s health and growth. Here’s how to make sense of the numbers.
Start with the serving size. Start with the serving size. This isn’t a recommendation; it’s just a standard amount to help you compare foods. If your child eats more than one serving, they’re getting more of everything listed on the label.
Check the calories. Calories tell you how much energy your child will get from a serving of food. Kids need calories to grow, play, and stay healthy, but how many they need depends on their age and activity level. Talk to your pediatrician if you’re unsure how many calories they need.
% Daily Value: How much is enough? The % Daily Value (%DV) tells you how much of a nutrient is in one serving, based on general daily recommendations. It’s a quick way to tell whether a food is high or low in a certain nutrient. In general, foods with 5% DV or less are considered low, while foods with 20% or more are high.
Look for foods that are lower in sodium, sugars, and saturated fat, and avoid foods with trans
fats entirely. Boost nutrition with foods that are higher in dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin D, iron, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Don’t skip the ingredients list. The ingredient list can reveal hidden additives, such as dyes, preservatives, or added sugars. Ultra-processed foods that kids love often contain additives that may impact the gut microbiome, which continues to develop through adolescence. While the long-term impact isn’t fully known, it’s worth keeping in mind.
Ingredients are listed by quantity, so the first few items matter most.
Whole foods are best. Remember that some of the healthiest foods don’t have any label at all. Fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally low in sodium, high in fiber and vitamins, and rich in water—perfect for keeping keiki full, nourished, and energized.
When you do reach for packaged items, understanding the Nutrition Facts label empowers you to make healthier choices.
By learning to read food labels, you can make every calorie count and support your child’s health.
DECODING FOOD LABELS
A Simple Guide to Healthier Choices for Kids
Food packages often say things like “natural” or “healthy,” but those are just marketing claims. If you want to make better food choices for your kids, the real truth is on the Nutrition Facts label. Learning how to read it can help you choose foods that support your child’s health and growth. Here’s how to make sense of the numbers.
• Serving size: A standard amount to help you compare foods. Eating more than one serving means more of everything listed on the label.
• Check the calories: Calories tell you how much energy is in one serving. Kids need different amounts based on age and activity.
• % Daily value: This tells you whether a food is high or low in a certain nutrient.
• Ingredient list: The ingredients list can reveal hidden additives like dyes, preservatives, or added sugars.
By learning to read food labels, you can make every calorie count and support your child’s health.
For a more comprehensive guide, visit: mauihealth.org/foodlabels
GETTING FIT Baby + Health
Nurturing You: Postpartum Exercises & Support
BY SHANNON KURATKO
Transitioning into motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it can be tough to prioritize your fitness amid the chaos. The challenges that new mothers face, from sleepless nights to the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood, can derail any self-care plan. Creating a supportive environment where you can prioritize your health without sacrificing time away from your baby is essential.
Here are two specific exercises that can empower postpartum moms to stay fit and energized and incorporate into their daily routine:
Modified push-ups. This exercise is fantastic for rebuilding upper body strength while being gentle on the core. Moms can start by positioning themselves on all fours with their hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and keeping their knees on the ground. From this position, lower your chest toward the ground, keeping elbows close to the body, and then push back up to the starting position. This exercise could also be executed while standing and pressing against a wall by standing with feet hip-width apart and hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. From this position, lower your chest toward the wall and then push back to the starting position. Aim for 8–12 repetitions, gradually increasing as strength improves. Baby squats. This fun exercise allows moms to incorporate their little one while strengthening their lower body. To perform baby squats, stand with feet hip-width apart, holding the baby securely in front of them (either in a carrier or
cradled safely in their arms). As they lower into a squat, they can keep the baby close to their chest, ensuring proper form with knees behind toes. Pushing through the heels, they rise back up to standing. Aim for 10–15 repetitions, making it a joyful bonding moment as they talk or sing to the baby during the exercise.
Postpartum fitness is not just about losing baby weight; it’s about regaining strength, confidence, and a sense of self after the beautiful chaos of childbirth. Together, we can flourish through our strength in motherhood!
Don’t hesitate to seek support from fellow moms. Fostering a sense of community is crucial during the postpartum period. Fellow mothers share their experiences, challenges, and victories, creating friendships that often last a lifetime. This support system not only helps in staying motivated but also in combating feelings of isolation that can come with new motherhood.
Shannon Kuratko is the passionate owner of FIT4MOM Maui, dedicated to empowering mothers through fitness and community support, helping them reclaim their strength and confidence. Learn more at maui.fit4mom.com.
Fresh ideas and news delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter at mauifamilymagazine.com
Back-to-School Lunches for Healthy Toddlers & Preschoolers
You might love whole grains and leafy greens, but getting your kids to show the same enthusiasm toward a healthy diet can be tricky. Here are three healthy eating activities for preschoolers to encourage a well-balanced diet in kids. Encouraging healthy eating for preschoolers
Getting your preschooler to eat a healthy meal is all about making it fun. Try these tips below to make healthy food exciting.
1. Play with shapes
A healthy sandwich is much more fun to eat if it’s in the shape of your child’s favorite animal, an airplane, or even a simple heart! Sliced fruit like watermelon can also be easily cut into entertaining shapes like stars. Any cookie-cutter will do the trick!
2. Make it finger-food friendly
Your child might not be a fan of eating their whole dinner, but perhaps they always devour their snacks. While snacks are fun (we love them, too), they don’t have the complete nutrition a balanced meal does. Trick your kids into eating their lunch by cutting up their sandwich into small pieces and choosing fruits and veggies that are also cut into small pieces, rather than a whole fruit. Breaking down their meal into bite-sized options makes it seem less intimidating and promotes portion control. Finger foods make a meal appear like snacking, allowing you to sneak in all the nutrients that they need.
3. Bento Box-it-Up
A bento box, a Japanese single-portion box, is perfect for school lunch. Bento boxes are
made of small, separated compartments that are ideal for small fingers. They provide the perfect opportunity for variety in the meal while keeping portion sizes healthy. Try offering a variety of flavors and textures such as boiled eggs, sliced grapes, berries, cubed chicken breast, bite-sized sandwiches, and more. You can find bento boxes online for your child and for yourself!
4. Make mealtime fun
It may be hard to get your toddler or preschooler to sit down for a full meal, but if you make it fun, they’re more likely to stick around! Ask your little ones to demonstrate how a dinosaur would eat something on their plate or give them unique utensils, such as a straw, to try and eat with. The goal is to make mealtime fun instead of a fight.
Healthy eating for preschoolers and toddlers is important
If getting your child to eat healthy is like pulling teeth, don’t be discouraged. You’re setting them up for a healthier lifestyle in the future every time you offer nutritious foods now.
Tips for a Healthy A+ Smile
Your kids’ oral health is important to their academic success. Add these dental health tips to your back-to-school checklist to help them have a fantastic school year:
Take your child to the dentist for routine exams and cleanings.
Choose healthy snacks like celery sticks, baby carrots and cheese cubes over candy and salty snacks.
Establish a routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Make brushing and flossing fun with music, themed toothbrushes and kid-friendly floss holders.
For more smile tips, visit HawaiiDentalService.com
Becoming a mom is one of the most beautiful and life-changing experiences— it also comes with a lot of new responsibilities, questions, and emotions. Having the right support and information can make this journey less overwhelming and a lot more empowering. Here's how:
Your Emotional and Mental Health
• You’re not alone. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or even unsure. Having emotional support—whether from family, friends, or professionals—can help you feel more grounded and understood.
• Confidence comes with knowedge. Learning what to expect and how to care for your baby helps you feel more in control and less anxious.
• Co-parenting and relationships. Babies thrive when their parents work together in harmony to raise them. Building healthy relationship skills and learning co-parenting tools is good for the whole family’s mental health.
Taking Care of Your Body
• Your recovery matters too. Giving birth is an incredible, powerful experience! It’s also a major physical event for your body. Learning how to support your body with rest, good food, and gentle care can make a huge difference in how you heal.
• Know what’s normal. Education helps you spot any warning signs early and know when to check in with your doctor.
Why Support & Education Matter for You as a Mom
BY KELA MOMON CEO, PREGNANCY & WELLNESS MAUI
Caring for Your Baby
• You don’t have to guess. Learning about feeding, sleep, and baby care gives you tools and reassurance—especially when things don’t go exactly as planned.
• Keeping your baby safe. Knowing about car seat safety, sleep positions, and more helps you protect your little one with confidence.
• Bonding with your baby. Learning how to connect and respond to your baby’s cues helps build a strong bond—and boosts your baby’s development too.
• Breastfeeding support. Breastfeeding can be hard at first—and that’s okay! Getting support from a professional or other moms can help you feel less stressed and more successful.
Feeling Empowered as a Parent
• You know more than you think. But when questions come up, being informed helps you make the best decisions for your baby and yourself.
• You’re not meant to do this alone. Joining a support group or connecting with other new moms can ease feelings of loneliness and give you people to lean on and laugh with.
You are doing an incredible job. It’s okay to ask for help, to learn as you go, and to lean on others.
Kela Momon is a Maui-born wife and mother. As a nonprofit leader, she is passionate about helping parents navigate challenges and access the tools they need to build healthy, resilient families. The mission of Pregnancy & Wellness Maui is to bring help and hope, especially to those facing an unplanned pregnancy. pregnancycentermaui.com.
Camping Fun with Keiki
By Maile Crewdson
Sticky beads of sweat glisten in the sunlight, a pronounced sheen along my son’s forehead and cheeks, thanks to a combination of sunblock and sand. Sprinting along the shore, my eight-year-old stops momentarily to gulp a drink from his nearby water bottle. It’s midday, and the ocean is glistening.
“We’re building a pirate lookout!” Cyrus motions as he gathers driftwood with his friends.
A minute later, the boys are splashing in the waves, laughing and imagining all sorts of adventures. Their playground is the great outdoors.
The crackling of charcoal in a nearby Hibachi draws my attention. Hot dogs and teriyaki chicken sizzle over the open flame. Their savoury smell wafted along the beach, soon drawing the kids out of the water. It’s time to eat, and then we will move on to my kids’ favorite camping treat: s’mores!
For the past few years, we’ve shared a tradition of camping at the Waihe‘e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge with a handful of close friends. It’s a wild and fun summer and fall meetup, with tons of young kids piled into tents with their parents.
As a kid growing up on Maui, camping was a childhood rite of passage. We’d regularly camp with my extended ‘ohana among the majestic evergreens at Hosmer’s Grove up on Haleakalā. Other times, we’d pitch a tent in Hāna, a favorite spot for swimming and hiking during high school. I also have special memories of camping on the West Side, with church groups, and on Lāna’i with my canoe paddling team. Falling asleep next to the ocean and waking up next to the same gentle waves rolling in, there’s nothing like it.
Now, as a mom with keiki who love to camp, here are some packing lists I’ve compiled to make camping extra fun and accessible! Hope this helps you in planning your first or next campout.
Essentials
Tent, sleeping bags, pillows, blankets, camping chairs, camping stove and propane, cooler and ice, lighter, food, snacks, and drinking water, food prep materials (cutting boards, knives, serving platters), cookware and cooking tools, pot for boiling water or cooking stew, plates, cups, utensils, reusable water bottles, coffee mugs or a thermos, toilet paper and paper towels, dish soap, trash bags, flashlights and/ or lanterns.
Personal Items
Clothes, toiletries, including sunblock, hand sanitizer and wet wipes, medications and a first aid kit, fully charged cell phone and extra battery, beach towels, games (uno, charades, and jenga), books.
Fun Extras
Walkie talkies, compass, swiss army knife, binoculars, sand toys, hot chocolate, bodyboards or snorkel gear, s’mores fixings, scavenger hunt printouts, sketchpads, coloring books, and drawing pencils or crayons, bubble wands, face paint, camera, portable hammock, fishing gear, squirt guns, soccer ball, volleyball, frisbee.
Maile Crewdson is a Maui mom of three keiki and a former teacher. Maile loves raising up the next generation. You may have also seen her on Food Network's "Great Chocolate Showdown" where she won big.
When Your Teen Doesn’t Want to Go Back to School
BY KIRSTEN COBABE
If your teen is resisting the return to school this season, you’re not alone. Many parents are witnessing overwhelm, shutdown, and refusal. Before rushing to fix or apply pressure, pause and get curious. Start with the basics—connection. What looks like defiance is often worry, burnout, or disconnection. Instead of jumping to the typical “But you have to go,” try “What’s making it hard?” If they’ve already shared the details with you, offer presence and validation: “That makes sense. I’d feel that way too.” Be spacious and supportive without rushing to solutions. Some teens may not have the words yet, or the safety, to share. Timing is everything, and the quality of your relationship sets the tone. Let them know you’re ready to listen.
There may be something that genuinely doesn’t feel right: social stress, bullying, academic pressure, a teacher mismatch, boredom or a deeper misalignment. Ask questions with a true desire to understand what’s underneath. We can’t expect teens to understand us if we haven’t taken the time to understand them. Today’s world is faster, louder, and more disconnected, with pressure coming from every direction. Just because they can’t articulate the issue doesn’t mean there isn’t one. It also doesn’t mean they’re lazy. Trust your instincts and tune in to what is, and isn’t, being said. The more you attune, the less you’ll assume.
Life involves doing hard things, but not at the expense of emotional or physical safety. If your teen is clearly struggling, consider your
options: a short break, a different environment, mentorship, or an alternative model. There’s no one right path, only the one that works for your child and family.
Some teens just need to vent and be witnessed. Others need something to change. You can’t respond with clarity if you don’t know what’s going on.
Your presence matters more than the perfect plan. Show up, listen, collaborate, and invite their voice into the process. You’re not rescuing them. You’re walking with them.
Let’s not shame or blame their resistance. It might be pointing to something that needs attention, not just in them, but in the system they’re being asked to return to. The goal isn’t forced compliance. It’s alignment. When teens feel seen, supported, and safe, they’re more likely to engage with learning, wherever it happens.
When you truly listen, they’re more likely to trust.
Kirsten Cobabe is a parent coach, teen whisperer, and steady voice in a loud world. With over two decades of experience working with families, she supports parents in raising teens who are self-sufficient and self-aware. Learn more at kirstencobabe.com and parentingwave.com.
WhileMaui has long been known for protea grown upcountry and tropical flowers grown in the jungles of Hana and Haiku, the last few years have seen a boom of unique and exquisite blooms that have delighted the visual aesthetic. Colorful and texturally varied dahlias have led the way into a new vibrant chapter of what it means to buy locally grown flowers on our island home.
Why buy local flowers? Buying your blooms from local sources supports farmers in our community and our local economy, and it’s also good for the ‘āaina. Imported flowers are sprayed with and often dipped in pesticides, fungicides, and other chemicals to preserve their freshness and to keep from spreading any foliage-born disease into the islands. The carbon footprint of imported flowers is also significant as they are often flown in from thousands of miles away.
Luckily, Maui’s floral farming industry has blossomed in response to a heightened awareness of and desire for locally grown blooms. Many small-scale farms are sprouting up, and a quick Instagram search will show you how quickly this cottage industry has grown.
Blooming Beauty
BY KALIA KELMENSON
Here are some of our favorite, well-established, and easily accessible local flower farms.
Subscription services are available with many of them, and specialty blooms are based on seasonal availability.
If you’re looking for protea, Anuhea Flowers is your one-stop shop. Grown on the slopes of Haleakalā, you’ll find all of your favorites here. Besides bouquets and wreaths, they offer farm tours and workshops. Every month, a portion of their crops is donated to local schools, nonprofits, and individuals for events and fundraisers.
Created and run by a dynamic Maui-born sister duo, Waiakoa Wildflowers brings a multi-sensory experience to their love of flowers and the natural world. In addition to offering subscription services and custom arrangements, they can be found on Saturday morning at the Kula Farmers Market.
Bursting with eco-friendy blooms, Petaloom Floral Co. has a mission “to spread joy and build community through flowers and gardening.” This sister-run company offers gardening workshops in addition to floral design.
Maui Floral has been the place to go to get your fill of tropical flowers. They source their colorful and vibrant stems from all over the state. One of the benefits of hardy tropicals is that they last for a long time.
Kalia Kelmenson helps women remember their spark and strength and reclaim adventure as a way of life. Visit mauimindandbody.com and follow her at instagram.com/thesaltinus.
When Your Kid is the Bully
Dear Cici is a family resource for accurate informaton about sex and relationships. Email your questions to info@mauifamilymagazine.com.
Dear Cici,
I’m concerned that my kid is a bully. One of the other moms said something to me, and now I feel worried and kind of embarrassed. What should I do?
That’s a hard one. Discovering that your child is bullying others can be heartbreaking and confusing, and it’s natural to feel embarrassed or even disbelieving.
The first question that often comes up is, why? What’s going on with my kid that’s causing them to bully others? Although every situation is different, there are some common reasons people bully others: some do it to gain social status or feel powerful, others may be copying aggressive behavior they’ve seen at home, on social media, or among their peers. Some kids lash out at others due to underlying emotional struggles, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, or trauma.
Bullying behaviors may not be obvious to parents. Some red flags that could indicate your child is bullying others may include: frequent talk about dominance or popularity, showing a lack of empathy toward others’ feelings, aggressive behavior at home or with siblings, and of course reports of bullying behaviors from school.
Consider the best way to talk to your kid about your concerns. Find a time/place when you are calm; yelling at or shaming your kid will prevent them from opening up to you. Ask open-ended questions: “I heard from school that there have been some problems with how you’re treating others. Can you help me understand what’s going on?” Listen carefully and validate their emotions without condoning the behavior. Elicit empathy by asking “How do you think the other person felt?” and plant seeds for change by asking: “What could you do differently next time?”
Even if they were retaliating or caught up in peer pressure, make it clear that bullying is never acceptable and be sure your child understands the potential consequences of their actions. Set clear expectations and follow through with consistent discipline. Consequences could include loss of privileges, writing apology letters, or attending meetings with school staff. Remember that bullying often happens online, so you may need to keep an eye on their social media and texts.
At the same time, it’s important to help your child develop compassion and empathy for others. Remember that children often model what they see at home. Reflect on your own behavior—do you yell at others, gossip, or put people down? The best way to teach our kids empathy is to lead by example, treat others with respect, use respectful communication and apologize when wrong. Encouraging prosocial activities like sports, volunteer work, or creative clubs can also boost self-esteem and help build empathy. It takes courage to face the truth that your child may be hurting others. But it’s also a great opportunity for growth. With love, consistency, and the right support, children can learn to change their behaviors and even become allies against bullying.
Cecilia Ortiz, LCSW is a clinical social worker and a mom. She has nearly 20 years of experience including working with kids, teens and adults in the areas of sex education, abuse, trama and prevention.
Roasted Poha Berry Crostini
B y Maja Liotta
There’s something so amazing about how the green hills of Haleakalā meet the liquid entourage of monochromatic blue majesty.
And how about the island’s inhabitants who are inspired by all that lives and thrives here—oh, to be a goat grazing on the slopes of Haleakalā! Let’s not forget that Maui is also home to all of the watersport innovators who are dreaming up more and more ways to enjoy our surrounding waters. The energy is contagious!
Maui’s biodiversity is like none other on our planet. I am so grateful for this land, its animals, innovators, and artisans. The bounty gives me a chance to play and pair incredible products together in unique ways. Maui is many things–and to me, Maui is delicious!
Try pairing these items for a beautiful and tasty spread for a cocktail party, breakfast bar, or light dessert with biscotti.
Ingredients
• Haleakalā Creamery chèvre
• Pint of Poha berries
• Chopped macadamia nuts
• 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp ricotta
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• lavender honey
• avocado oil
Directions
1. Let the chèvre get to room temperature.
2. Add heavy whipping cream and ricotta and whip until nice and fluffy. Set aside.
3. Lay poha berries on a baking sheet, toss with oil, and sprinkle with sugar and salt.
4. Set the berries under the broiler for 5 minutes or until the skin is visibly blistered but not charred.
5. Toast chopped macadamia nuts either on the stovetop or oven until aromatic but not burnt.
6. Bring out your best serving board or pretty china, make a nice swoosh with the chèvre mixture, nest the roasted berries, then sprinkle the nuts and generously drizzle the honey.
7. Slather on fresh homestead sourdough and enjoy!
Chef Maja Liotta is a private events chef and Maui-based mother of three. Additionally, Maja is passionate about sharing the holistic benefits of food and cooking, providing nutritional consultation and private cooking classes for clients looking to broaden their practice using foods to optimize their well-being.
Sports Sports Maui Family Maui Family
Calendar Calendar
Island Athletics Maui
808-385-4066 • islandathleticsmaui@gmail.com https://portal.iclasspro.com/islandathleticsmaui 106 Kane Street, Suite 103, Kahului (In Hawaii AllStars Facility)
Island Athletics Maui offers a wide range of classes from our parent & tot program, preschool gymnastics, tumbling, recreational gymnastics for ninja tumbling ages 1 & up years old, and camps!! At IAM we desire for all of our athletes to be Inspired to learn and grow, that through their developed self-confidence and experience they can Achieve their goals that they have set for themselves, and through effort and Motivation, they may be able to see their dreams take flight!
Gymnastics Classes • Pre-K through Elementary Island Wide • Year Round
Maui Tumblers Mobile Gymnastics offers recreational gymnastics classes island-wide,
special Ninja Nights, and private events. Check out our website for a full list of locations near you.
Keiki Soccer Pros
808-633-4070 • keikisoccer.com
Island-wide
Keiki Soccer Pros is Maui’s most fun, exciting soccer program for ages 2 to 11. Our professional, creative, caring coaches your child will love. We have been teaching soccer in Maui to thousands of kids over the past 20 years. Visit our website to find out what classes are available.
Vertical Sports Maui is dedicated to inspire and equip youth through sports. World-class sports programs are made accessible to all on a donation basis. Visit our website or contact us to register!
Tennis at Kalama Park 808-250-3656 • citanmaui@gmail.com
Kalama Park Tennis Courts, Kīhei Courts 3 and 4 near the ocean
Beginning skill building, movement, and strategy, combined in a fun atmosphere. Skill-based, not age. Call and reserve with Coach Barb at 808250-3656. Class size will be limited to 8 students. Check the monthly calendar posted at the park. Wailea Tennis Club • 7–18 years of age Tuesday thru Thursday 6 progressing classes from 3 USPTA coaches. Limited class sizes.
SPORTS CALENDAR
Swell Health
swellhealthcoaching@swellhc.com www.swellhc.com
Island Wide, various locations depending on service Water sports medicine for families. Whether you’re just learning to swim, returning from injury, or ready to ride again, we meet you in the water—ocean or pool. Swell Health offers safe, engaging movement sessions for keiki, kūpuna, and everyone in between. Our lifeguard-certified coaches bring heart, skill, and aloha to every session. Local families receive 25% off—because movement should always feel like a gift. Call/ text 808-250-2587 or use code SWELL25 to book online today.
Maui Float On Swim Lessons floatonswim@gmail.com • MauiFloatOnSwim.com
Mobile Private Swim Lessons
Maui's premier mobile swim school, our mission is rooted in teaching the JOY of the water. Our swim lessons teach safety and swim skills with engaging games and exercises. As a mobile swim company, we teach at YOUR private pool location, bringing everything you need for a great lesson! Offering Intro to Water classes for babies and toddlers, 1:1 Private Swim Lessons, Semi-Private Swim Lessons, or custom Group Swim Lessons, we have many options to fit your unique needs. All of our Swim Instructors are highly experienced, with a background in competitive swimming and 5+ years of experience teaching (as well as holding relevant safety certifications). Book directly at mauifloatonswim.com or email us your request for a hotel or condo lesson. We can't wait to swim with you!
Maui Ki Aikido 194 S. Market, Wailuku • mauikiaikido.com
Children in Ki-Aikido enjoy fun classes that incorporate movement with social cooperation, calmness training and self-confidence building. Ages 6 to 11-Thursdays 6:00pm–7:00pm and Saturdays 8:30am–10:00 am. Teens 12 to 18 also train for adult belt ranks on Tuesdays 5:00pm to 6:30pm. Visit and sign up at the Shunshinkan Dojo, 194 S. Market, Wailuku.
We offer a variety of classes from ages 2–18+. Taekwondo and Hapkido are Korean forms of martial arts that offer more than just a fitness program. It is structured to promote discipline, build self-confidence, and encourage focus while learning the skills of self-defense.
Uptempo Athletics Maui UptempoMaui.com • brenda@uptempoathletics.com 295 Ho‘ohana Street Unit E, Kahului
We are a basketball training facility conveniently located in Kahului. We offer multiple basketball programs year round for keiki ages 4 years old to high school. We offer introductory classes, group training sessions, leagues, skills clinics and more! At Uptempo Athletics Maui, we want to go beyond just teaching the basics and skills of the game of basketball, we want to encourage a life long love for the game for all players who come into our basketball facility. We hope to see your keiki playing and training with us soon!
MAUI FAMILY MAUI FAMILY
Events Events
CALENDAR CALENDAR
Family Fun Day
Friday, August 16, 2025 • 2 pm–5 pm
635 Hina Ave, Kahului
Get ready for an afternoon of fun, food, and connection hosted by Maui Famiy Support Services. This event is designed for families with young children to enjoy a laid-back afternoon of free activities while learning about local resources available in our community.
Maui Portuguese Cultural Club Fiesta 2025 August 16th, 2025 • 10 am–2 pm Heritage Hall, 401 Baldwin Avenue, Paia
10–10:30 am procession and celebration of Mary’s assumption into heaven. 10:30 - Portuguese dancing performance by the Maui Portuguese Cultural Club. Country store items for sale: plants, Portuguese cork products, jams /jellies, pickles, chutney, baked goods, Portuguese Bread, and many more. Kids activity corner. Hot food items for purchase: Portuguese bean soup with roll, and Portuguese vinha D’Alhos pulled pork sandwich with pickles.
Alexander Academy of Performing Arts
275 W Ka’ahumanu Ave., Suite #C102, Kahului
Visit www.alexanderacademy.info for more information and tickets
Nutcracker Auditions
Saturday August 16th 1:15pm for Clara and Fritz, 1:45pm for lead roles and corps de ballet
Nutcracker performances at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center December 13–14, 2025.
Family Dance Party
Saturday, September 20th • 6:00pm–8:00pm
All ages 2–99 years welcome. $15 per person. Dancing, socializing, and snacks and non alcoholic beverages.
Lā ‘Ulu (Breadfruit Day)
Saturday, September 6, 2025 • 9 am to 2 pm
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens 150 Kanaloa Ave., Kahului mnbg.org/la-ulu-breadfruit-festival Enjoy foods using ‘ulu (breadfruit) for purchase to eat and to take home from Hawai‘i farmers and chefs, free cultural activities, local artisans, nonprofits, and live Hawaiian entertainment. Meet the key people who are making ‘ulu a cornerstone of culinary identity on Maui. This year marks the return of cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Watch culinary creatives demonstrate the preparation of their favorite ‘ulu dishes, including internationally recognized chef, Food Network personality, and James Beard award-winner Chef Sam Choy.
Maui Ocean Center 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku • 808-270-7000 mauioceancenter.com
Marine Science Night (Aug. 23) – 6pm to 9pm. Marine Science Night is a fun and educational evening for aspiring marine scientists! Meet marine science professionals, sign up for volunteer opportunities, and learn about different career paths during our guest speaker talks, followed by Q&A sessions.
Sharks After Dark 80s Night (Sept. 20) – 6pm to 9:30 pm. Step back in time at this 21+ ‘80s-themed night at the aquarium with live music, dancing, retro-inspired food and drinks, and underwater diver presentations in the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit.
Fins & Frights Night (Oct. 25) – 6 pm to 9 pm. Celebrate Halloween early at Maui Ocean Center! Evening highlights include a costume contest, trick-or-treating, arts and crafts, diver
Events Calendar
presentations, and a 3D Halloween experience in the Sphere Theater—perfect for all ages!
Stand for Children Rally and Celebration
September 20, 2025
JW Cameron Center Courtyard 95 Mahalani Street, Kahului
For more information, visit mfss.org
A free fun event for families. Games, activities, crafts and entertainment, and resource information for families.
St. John’s Kula Festival
Saturday, September 27, 2025 • 9 am–4 pm
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 8992 Kula Hwy. stjohnsmaui.org
Admission: $2, children under 10 yrs free. Partnering with Mana’o Radio for a lineup of great entertainment! Local crafters, silent auction, baked goods, Fresh produce, plants and flowers, Kidz Zone. Proceeds support St. John’s Ministries, and a portion of the proceeds will go to Grow Some Good.
Rally Around Peace
September 27, 2025 • 9 am to 4 pm
South Maui Gardens, Kihei
Hosted by the Teran James Young Foundation, experience live music, enjoy delicious food from local vendors, and engage in an open-space peace summit discussion aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding. This is a family-friendly event and keiki activities will be provided as well. Visit teranjy.org • info@teranjy.org • 808-866-0833
Haleakalā Waldorf School: Night of Delight
Oct 25, 2025 at 4:30 & 6:30 Shows
$15 Child $20 Adult • nightofdelight.com
Wear a friendly costume that is not scary, no masks please! Children will be given a bag to collect treats. Bring a flashlight to light your way. Suggested ages: 4:30 show children 6 & under, 6:30 show children 10 & under. A chili fundraiser dinner will be served.
The 9th Annual Hawaiian Airlines
Made in Maui County Festival
November 7 & 8, 2025
Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului Madeinmauifestival.com
Join us for the 12th Annual Hawaiian Airlines Made in Maui County Festival at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center on November 7–8, 2025! This two-day event showcases over 140 local vendors
offering a variety of Maui-made products, from art and crafts to food and unique gifts. Experience the best of Maui’s local talent and craftsmanship, all while enjoying delicious cuisine from local food trucks. Whether you’re a wholesaler, retailer, or simply a supporter of small businesses, this event is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures. Admission is free for children 12 and under!
Arbor Day Garden Expo
November 8, 2025 • 11:30 am to 2:30 pm
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Kahului
More than 1,900 native Hawaiian trees will be given away free, one per person, any age, first come get first pick. Free Hawaiian cultural and keiki activities, local nurseries selling hard-to-find plants, and excellent tree care presentations, including post-fire information. Bring all your garden, pest, and tree questions. Free parking across the street at War Memorial Stadium.
St. Joseph Early Learning Center
Christmas Craft Fair
November 15, 2025 • 7 am–2pm 1294 Makawao Ave, Makawao Crafters, book fair, antique cards, baked goods, and country store. Keiki Zone from 8am–10am; Santa lands his sleigh from 10am–11am; antique cars 10am–11am and Live music from 11am–12pm.
Kula School Harvest Festival
Saturday, November 22, 2025
5000 Kula Hwy, Kula
In the spirit of ‘ohana we welcome our island community to join together for a day full of music, good food, and family fun! All proceeds from our festival will go directly back to Kula School students through academic and enrichment programs. This harvest-themed festival will include live entertainment, craft vendors, games, pony rides, silent auction, country store, restaurant row, petting farm and more. We hope to see you there!
Kula Country Farms 808-878-8381• kulacountryfarmsmaui.com
Located at 6240 Kula Hwy, across from Rice Park
Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch Special hours! Open every day in Oct. 9 am–4 pm. The Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch is a fall family tradition not to be missed. Check out the website, Instagram, and Facebook for daily Pumpkin Patch updates.
Submit your listings online at mauifamilymagazine.com
F E S T I V A November 22, 2025 | 9:00 AM -
Art by Bailey Onaga
Local Family Opens
Maui’s
Ultimate Foam Dart Arena Experience
Brian and Dina Edmisson and their two young sons are longtime Lāhainā residents—Brian is a fishing guide and Dina is an employee at Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Villas. They lost their home in the 2023 fire, and like many kama‘āina who suffered this loss, their whole perspective changed.
“We realized we wanted to do something that allows us to serve and interact with our community more,” Dina says. “We wanted to provide a fun space for families to go and enjoy time together. The people of Maui deserve it. This space we’ve created is our love letter to the most wonderful community on earth and the amazing people who make it.”
They opened Top Shot Foam Dart Arena—an indoor Nerf dart blaster arena as well as a soft toddler play area—this past May.
Top Shot offers two levels of play for epic Nerf action: Elite Level, with traditional manual blasters that shoot Elite foam darts or Rival foam balls; or Power Level, with automatic/battery-powered
blasters that shoot either darts or balls.
Meanwhile, the little ones (ages 1 to 6) can enjoy an all-day pass where you can come and go in the Toddler Play Area with a tree house and grass hill, sensory and pretend play, and soft structures for climbing and sliding will keep the keiki safely occupied for hours.
If anyone gets hungry, the snack bar offers bottled drinks, packaged snacks, and ice cream. Guests are also welcome to bring in their own food. Customized party and event packages are available for memorable occasions.
For Brian, his fishing guide service Maui Shore Fishing Guides helped give him confidence for this venture. “It was a business I started by myself, with one other person doing it,” he says. “With Top Shot, we hope the experience brings our community joy, and that they like it as much as we do!”
Beat the heat, plan a play date, and enjoy Maui’s newest family play space for all.
Top Shot Foam Dart Arena at 400 Hana Highway is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit topshotmaui.com or email info@topshotmaui.com.
