KUAOLA KEIKI Summer Program

This is a Hawaiian culture through literacy program for preschoolers (4yr and 5yr olds) that focuses on experiential ʻāina-based learning steeped in the cultural values of our kūpuna. Through the KUAOLA KEIKI program, keiki will be immersed in the moʻolelo and daily practices of our ancestors through hands-on experiences rooted in the native and Polynesian introduced plants that flourish within the ʻili ʻāina of Waipao. Kamaliʻi will learn to kilo—to observe, listen, and deeply connect with the land and environment around them. This practice of kilo will guide the keiki to recognize the interconnectedness of all things in nature, fostering a sense of responsibility, respect, and stewardship for the ʻāina. Each week keiki will build pilina with the land, the environment, and the natural elements that surround them while learning and growing together.

• All keiki must be able to move indipendently on ʻāina.
• They must have attended preschool prior to attending KUAOLA KEIKI
• They must be potty trained and have the ability to change their own clothes.

Six weekly sessions will be offered. Each session is $320.00.

Session 1

June 1st-5th

Welina Waipao will introduce keiki to the ʻāina and help them begin forming a connection to place. They will explore different areas of the Waipao while learning how ʻāina and kanaka care for one another, and practice kilo by observing the sights, sounds, and rhythms around them. Through moʻolelo, hands-on activities, and learning about mea kanu Hawaiʻi, waʻa plants, and invasive species, keiki will grow their understanding of ʻāina in fun and meaningful ways.

Session 2

June 8th-12th

Wā Leʻaleʻa is a time for keiki to have fun while connecting to Hawaiian culture through play. They will explore traditional mea pāʻani (games) like kōnane, hū, and ʻoʻoʻ ihe, building skills such as strategy, coordination, and teamwork. Through laughter and hands-on activities, keiki will enjoy learning in a joyful and meaningful way.

Session 3

June 15th-19th

Ka Wai Ola will inspire keiki to learn about the life-giving importance of wai (water) within an ahupuaʻa. They will explore the roles of Kāne and Kanaloa and understand how water connects and sustains all parts of the ʻāina. Through hands-on activities and observation, keiki will discover why caring for our water resources is so important for our communities.

Session 4

June 22nd-26th

Kūkulu Kahua: introduces keiki to the powerful connection between Pele and the pōhaku (stones) that shape our ʻāina. They will learn how stones are used in everyday life and practice traditional games like ʻulu maika and pōhō. Through hands-on play and exploration, keiki will build a deeper appreciation for the strength and importance of pōhaku in Hawaiian culture.

Session 5

June 29th-July 3rd

Kalo: Kanu o ka ʻĀina invites keiki to learn about kalo and its special connection to Hāloa, our ancestor. They will explore the loʻi and ʻauwai, discovering how kalo is grown and cared for with love and intention. Through hands-on experiences like kuʻi kalo and tasting foods such as kalo paʻa and kulolo, keiki will deepen their understanding of how kalo nourishes our bodies, our ʻohana, and our connection to ʻāina.

Session 6

July 8th-12th

Kuʻu Moʻomoʻo: explores the story of Hina and the art of making kapa. They will learn about wauke and discover natural dyes and paints from materials like pōhaku, maʻo hau hele, kukui, and ukiuki. Through hands-on creativity, keiki will use modern techniques and even repurpose invasive plants to create their own unique, one-of-a-kind kapa-inspired designs.

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Host or Publisher Papahana Kuaola