Mālamapōkiʻi, which literally translates to “taking care of younger siblings”, is a family-based early childhood program which first opened up in 2001.  Mālamapōkiʻi wants to improve the educational attainment of native Hawaiian children by providing a place where children and families can be nurtured together.

As Hawaiʻi’s first bi-lingual early childhood program, Mālamapōkiʻi honors English, the language spoken in most of the children’s homes and throughout the community, while also providing an opportunity to learn Hawaiian, the mother tongue of our Hawaiian ancestors.  Children hear both Hawaiian and English spoken fluently throughout the day and as a result learn to speak in both languages.

Mālamapōkiʻi advocates parent and family involvement and learning in and from the environment as essential components.  Staff members are experienced educators with strong ties to the Waimea community.

In preparation for the completion of Hālau Pōkiʻi in 2011, Mālamapōkiʻi staff continue to collaborate closely with elementary teachers at Kanu o ka ‘āina New Century Public Charter School to develop a seamless Hawaiian-focused 0-10 curriculum grounded in a Pedagogy of Aloha that assures that all students are loved and cared for and provided with a solid educational foundation.

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