An article written by Florence Byrd and medically reviewed by Dan Brennan, MD., supports that in the early years, your preschooler is a vibrant, emotional explorer discovering their personality. Emotional Development in Preschool points out that children ages three and four are deeply immersed in a world of rapidly changing emotions and burgeoning independence. They express joy and sadness intensely, often with laughter or tears. With limited impulse control, they act on their feelings,...

Aloha, we are excited to announce that the second annual “Kahewai Live” conference is scheduled for September 20, 2024, at the Nani Mau Gardens . The conference is sponsored by the YWCA of Hawaiʻi Island , the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Health , and the Hawaiʻi Community Foundationʻs Promising Minds Program . The Kahewai Conference began as a virtual gathering for 0-5 providers to provide trauma-informed care professional development and trauma-responsive strategies. In recent years, we...

With Pixar's Inside Out 2 now in theaters, I wanted to share some reflections on the first movie. I must admit, as a father of two—one recently graduated from high school and the other graduating next year—I somehow missed this movie. However, in preparation for Inside Out 2 , we had a family movie night and watched it together. It was an amazing experience filled with profound insights. So, although late, I believe these thoughts are still relevant. In the upcoming posts, I'll delve into...

Hawaii's Integrated Infant and Early Childhood Behavioral Health Plan: A Comprehensive Approach to Early Childhood Well-being There are currently many initiatives in play on behalf of young children -- the work of Early Childhood Action Strategy, the Promising Minds Initiative, the Early Childhood State Plan spearheaded by the Executive Office on Early Learning, and numerous others. Through the cross-sector work Early Childhood Action Strategy, it became apparent there was a critical need...