MOVING to O'AHU HAWAII WITH KIDS/LIVING ON O'AHU WITH KIDS

Oahu is a wonderful place for families and families with children comprise a large part of Oahu's population. Also, most people here seem to have cultural values that place a high importance on children and family.

With great weather and a beautiful tropical environment, there are ample opportunities for children to participate in outdoor recreation on Oahu, from swimming at famous Kailua Beach, to hiking waterfalls in Maunawili, to surfing Waikiki.  There are also organized groups for parents and young children to join, as discussion forums or playgroups, even prior to school.  Many local businesses (e.g., play centers, parent/child exercise classes, haircutting establishments, shopping malls, etc.)  cater to children.  Oahu also has activities such as the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, Sea Life Park, and the Children's Discovery Center, which provide both entertainment and learning opportunities for children.

Unfortunately, the public school system in Hawaii, as a whole, has gotten some unfavorable reviews.  However, there are still public schools, in most areas of the State of Hawaii, which have good reputations.  And like anything, a school is what you make of it. Parents who take an active role in their children's learning, no matter what school they attend, will have children who are better set to succeed in life.  Even children who attend the most expensive private schools on Oahu can have issues and problems learning if their achievement is not supported by active parenting.

There are many private schools on O'ahu, most in Honolulu, with tuition ranging from about $5,000 - $18,000 a year, and some, more competitive than others. The Hawai'i Association of Independent Schools website lists many of these schools. Also, look out for Island Family Magazine which usually has preschool and private school issues. Be forewarned, the admissions process for private schools starts early on Oahu, with applications often starting almost a year before the school year of admission. Some deadlines are as early as December, January or February of the year prior to admission. Each private school has different age cut-offs, as well, for starting school, so do your homework to avoid disappointment.

Like anywhere, birthday parties for kids are a a lot of fun here on O'ahu.  There are even O'ahu businesses which specialize in kids' parties.  If you have an infant, you should know that a baby's 1^st birthday in the Hawaiian islands is an especially big deal. Many families hold Baby Luaus to celebrate their child's (keiki's) first birthday. These parties range from barbecues at the beach, to authentic Hawaiian Luaus, to fancy soirees, attended by hundreds of people.  I have been to one wonderful Keiki First Birthday Party, lasting 7 hours, attended by over 300 people, which had a band, a petting zoo, pony rides, bouncy houses, and even a clown that made balloon animals! Wow!  Local Oahu news will also wish your keiki happy birthday on the air too --- but make sure you make the request several months in advance to ensure it airs in a timely manner. 

I have compiled a list of links that may be helpful to Oahu parents.  I wish I had known about many of these places when I first had my child. You can find this on my website YvonneAhearn.com . This is a great resource for people coming to O'ahu for a Hawaii vacation with kids, too.

If you have any questions or need more information on living on or moving to O'ahu, Hawaii with children, please contact me at 808-721-8889.