[dropcap]H[/dropcap]ave you heard about Keiki Time at the Waikiki Aquarium? Last week, I took my girls there to check it out. Here’s a detailed review for those of you curious to know whether it’s worth your time and money.

Before I begin, this review is NOT a sponsored review of Waikiki Aquarium. Aside for having previously attended the Keiki Time held on February 11th, I have no affiliation with, nor will I profit monetarily from writing this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my very own.

What is keiki time at the Waikiki Aquarium?

Keiki Time is an interactive early learning class held at the aquarium that focuses on helping kids learn more about sea creatures through crafts, singing, storytelling, dance and play. It’s lead by and engaging and kid-friendly team of aquarium staff member and volunteers. It’s very hands-on.

Who is it for?

It’s designed for early learners, kids 1 to 4 years-old.

What does it involve?

A lot of fun stuff for your keiki! Coloring, storybooks, songs and dance, imaginative play with stuffed animals, story-time, aquarium tour, hands-on feeding, and a craft. I was quite impressed with how much they were able to pack into Keiki Time.

The one we attended last Wednesday February 15, 2015 focused on Sea Turtles. The girls began by coloring, playing with stuffed sea turtles and making up stories. They moved on to reading storybooks featuring sea turtles; then sang introduction songs and learned about sea turtles laying eggs, hatching, and going out into the ocean. They touched sea turtles shells  then toured the aquarium. Once the tour concluded, they fed the fish seaweed (they loved that!). We then returned to the classroom where they made crafts that turned them into sea turtles. The crafts were adorable!

 

How much is it?

The price is $18 per adult + child team for non-members and $12 per adult + child team for members. If you have more than one child the price is the same. Boooo! There is no discount for siblings.

Where is it located?

The Waikiki Aquarium is located in Waikiki on Kalakaua Ave. The address is 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu 96815.

Here’s What I liked about Keiki Time at the Aquairum

They have a good thing going with Keiki Time. It was organized, engaging, educational, friendly, and the transition from one activity to the next was smooth. It is a guaranteed good time for keiki if they like sea creatures and crafts. And it’s not too long. They have the timing down so as not to bore the kids. It’s jam-packed with TONS of stuff keep their attention. Plus, there are several volunteers to assist and answer questions. My girls had a great time and wanted to return for this weeks session on sharks. I enjoyed myself too!

I think this could also be great group meet-up for homeschoolers.

Here’s What I Didn’t Like About Keiki Time at the Aquarium

Take a guess… I didn’t like the price. It would be nice if they offered some sort of sibling discount. However, since this is not held every month, I think it’s a good use of family fun or homeschooling money for the kids. I’d love to do this every week if we could and if they offered it.

Here’s What You Should Know When You Go

I arrived at 9:00AM and scored a parking space right in front! This never happens! Since it’s still relatively early, the parking isn’t such a headache. Keiki Time could easily be paired with a picnic and some beach time afterward. If you’re planning to go, you need to call ahead to register. Here’s the number and email address for you:

Pre-registration is required for all activities. To check for program dates and openings, email reservations@waquarium.org or call the Waikīkī Aquarium Education Department at

(808) 440-9011
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. HST (GMT -10:00)

UPCOMING DATES:

February 25^th and April 1^st, 8^th, 15^th, 22^nd, 29^th

Overall, Keiki Time rocks! If it were cheaper, we’d be there every Wednesday. Definitely check it out.

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