WHEN CAN WE GO??? After studying Hawaii, the kids were ready to pack their bags! Who can blame them? Hawaii is full of exciting adventures, natural wonders, and culture so unique from any you find in the states.
There are so many directions you can go with this state. Researching geckos, volcanos, islands, surfing, or Pearl Harbor are just a few of many study ideas.
Here are some books we recommend to get a nice understanding of Hawaii:
Honey Girl by Jeanne Walker Harvey
Taylor’s STEM by Dr. Mary Payton
Ohana Means Family by Ilima Loomis
What was Pearl Harbor by Patricia Brennan Demuth
I Survived The Bombing of Pearl Harbor, 1941 by Lauren Tarshis
(Chapter book) Follow a young boy through his day when all the chaos was happening. We sat through this suspensful story in one sitting. My 5 year old loved it (he likes to learn about wars), but this is probably ages 7+ unless they like this type of story.
Maui Hooks the Islands by Gabrielle Ahuli’i
Learn about the Demi-god Maui in this book. Kids who love Moanna might enjoy another perspective about Maui.
High Tide in Hawaii by Mary Pope Osborne
(Chapter book) Travel to Hawaii via the Magic Treehouse with Jack and Annie for this beach adventure! No worries if you haven’t read these books before; There is a prologue in each book to help keep you up to date.
National Parks: Hawaii Volcanoes by Karina Hamelainen
Punia and the King of the Sharks by Lee Wardlaw
I love to include folktales when we study different countries, so I was delighted to find a Hawaiian folktale!
Unstoppable Me by Adam Dirks and Bethany Hamilton
Written by the inspirational surfer who was attacked by a shark, Bethany Hamilton, and her husband. This is an uplifting and adorable children’s book.
Movie Ideas:
Moanna
Lilo and Stitch