Over the past year, our partnerships with Keiki to Career, KPAA, and E Ola Nā Keiki have played a significant role in shaping Little Babes Club into a true community hub for Kaua‘i families. What began as a simple indoor play space has evolved into a gathering place where parents, caregivers, and keiki can not only play, but also connect, learn, and feel supported. These collaborations helped us bridge gaps in access, elevate parent voice, and strengthen the support systems surrounding early childhood on our island. 

Our work with Keiki to Career first sparked a deeper conversation about how to support parents of young children in a way that feels accessible and welcoming. We knew families needed a space where they could show up as they are, without worrying about childcare, disruption, or judgment. By opening our space for parent meetings and discussions, we created an environment where parents could bring their children, let them play safely, and still participate fully in meaningful conversations. This simple shift made it possible for families who might otherwise feel excluded to attend, share their stories, and feel heard. These meetings helped parents express their needs, frustrations, and hopes for early childhood programs on Kaua‘i—insight that can truly shape systems when it reaches the right people. 

Through KPAA, this work expanded further. Their support helped transform the ideas and conversations happening in our space into action-oriented opportunities for families to influence broader early childhood initiatives. KPAA’s commitment to uplifting community voices aligned closely with our vision, and together we created a child-friendly environment where parent perspectives could guide local decision-making through the Parent Council. Many parents expressed that this was the first time they felt included in discussions that directly affect their children. This partnership played a valuable role in building confidence within families and ensuring that parent voice remains central to shaping the future of early childhood well-being on Kaua‘i. 

Our partnership with E Ola Nā Keiki added an essential layer of support by focusing on access, education, and family wellness. Together, we hosted several free community play days that made it easier for families of all backgrounds to enjoy safe, structured play without financial barriers. E Ola Nā Keiki also supported parent education opportunities, including infant and child CPR training in collaboration with Hearts4Kauai. These events offered families life-saving skills, local resources, and a sense of connection—reflecting our shared belief that supporting families holistically strengthens our entire community. Their involvement helped us ensure that families not only had access to play, but also to knowledge and tools that promote child safety and well-being. 

Through these partnerships, Little Babes Club became more than a business, it became a gathering space where families feel seen, keiki feel welcomed, and parents feel valued. Each collaboration created opportunities for connection, learning, and empowerment. Together with Keiki to Career, KPAA, and E Ola Nā Keiki, we witnessed the power of community-driven support and the positive impact it has on Kaua‘i’s families. We look forward to continuing this work, building stronger partnerships, and nurturing a village where every ʻohana can thrive.

—Tamara Lawrence, Owner, Little Babes Club