132 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2024 agency to invest in the future of their families. Keiki O Ka ‘Aina’s Parent Participation Programs (PPP) meet twice weekly at ten different communities on O‘ahu and Maui. Strong families make strong communities and to support parents, Hawaiian values such as aloha (love), malama (care), kuleana (responsibility), and laulima (many hands) are some of the daily values practiced in class. Through culture-based family engagement programs, participants are empowered to take leadership roles, first in their own families and then in their communities. “KOKA believes parents are their child’s first and best teacher and our Learning Centers are set up to support hands-on learning and equip parents,” said As one parent shared, “In the year I attended Keiki Steps with my two boys, I was given the tools to help me become a more successful parent with the `Ohana Talks and ideas of what I can do with my kids. I love that they are always learning something new – especially all the singing and songs as well. We still sing all the songs every day!” Not only are family and child interactive learning programs helpful for the keiki, but these programs also encourage collaboration between makua (parent) and kumu (teacher). This partnership supports learning and development, creating a holistic approach to education that extends beyond the classroom. Through mentorship and socialization with other caregivers, makua feel empowered to take an active role in their child’s education and find greater The early learning programs offered by INPEACE, Keiki O Ka 'Aina, and Partners in Development Foundation can help children, parents and caregivers transition from a home to school environment. “This partnership supports learning and development, creating a holistic approach to education that extends beyond the classroom.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==