Enrichment programs are classes and activities that take place after the afternoon school bell has rung. These programs are designed to offer each child a fulfilling childhood experience whether it be classes in horseback riding, dance, volleyball, swimming, modeling or tutoring to complement academic learning.
Many of our most cherished childhood memories occur during these experiences. Children may find their hobbies or even careers through enrichment activities. Exposure to music may ignite a lifelong passion for piano, or taking a workshop on marine life could excite a future marine biologist.
In addition to learning about and acquiring new interests, children will have the chance to obtain skills that will benefit them in the classroom and throughout their lives. Enrichment programs provide a goal-setting environment. Children will learn that something worth having comes from hard work, dedication and perseverance. They will learn to be patient as they improve and will eventually celebrate their accomplishments. Knowing that they worked for their successes instead of receiving instant gratification will boost their confidence. Through enrichment programs, children will achieve more than they ever thought possible, and they will have fun doing it!
After-School Care
After-school enrichment opportunities are perfect for families with two working parents. After-school programs provide a few extra hours of supervised, organized activity.
These programs offer a host of activities for students. Activities vary depending on location, but many involve sports, homework time, arts and crafts, dance and swim classes. It also gives students a time to socialize and have fun while they are still learning. Instead of coming home to an empty house, children will be able to participate in meaningful activities, and you will have peace of mind knowing that they are being taken care of and being productive.
Athletics
With Hawaii’s temperate climate year round, many families choose to enroll their child in a sport, especially outdoor sports. Sports are a great choice because they not only teach children about the game, but they emphasize discipline and hard work. Keep an open mind when trying to pinpoint which sport to choose. Maybe your child likes the competitive, team atmosphere that volleyball delivers, or maybe she prefers an individual, non-competitive sport like swimming lessons. She can master her swimming skills and not feel the pressure of having to compete against fellow swimmers.
Emphasis on positive physical health is another bonus that athletics offers. Children probably won’t even realize it, but while they are having fun, you will find comfort in the fact that your child is developing strength, agility, stamina and flexibility. Many coaches also urge children to make healthy food choices, which will lead to a healthy lifestyle beyond the childhood years.
The Arts
Some children gravitate towards the arts. Common activities include playing an instrument, singing, dance, theater and visual arts.
Music stimulates parts of the brain associated with reading, math and emotional development. When embarking on musical endeavors, children must visualize elements coming together like keys, patterns, themes and scales. This ability has been proven to translate to problem solving, which can be used in mathematics. Children must also learn what it means to be a multitasker when it comes to music. Musicians must learn to control the fine motor skills needed for their instruments, control their breath and read and process music while keeping time.
Dance is a great choice for children who are physical and musical as dance embodies the successful marriage between technique and musicality. Dancers acquire flexibility, strength, discipline and spatial and body awareness. They are given the chance to set goals and work towards those goals during classes or rehearsals. Many dance locations provide students with the opportunity to perform in front of an audience. This teaches dancers to have confidence and stage presence. Dancers will feel proud to display their accomplishments that they worked hard for.
No matter what class one takes in the arts, there is no doubt that your child will have the opportunity to get his or her creative juices flowing! There are no right or wrong answers, and creativity is encouraged.
Academic and Tutoring
There are many different reasons why tutoring may be the best enrichment choice for your child. If your child is behind in a certain subject, remedial help might be just the thing to get him back on track with the rest of the class. This is important because in addition to the consequences bad grades bring, students can also take a blow to their confidence if they realize they do not have the ability to keep up with the class. This may start to affect other areas of their lives. Tutoring plans can be customized to fit exactly what your child needs. Other students might be above grade level and need a challenge while some may need preparation for standardized tests.
Tutoring offers a variety of benefits. Perhaps your child’s learning style is different than that of his peers, or maybe his teacher moves through content at a pace that leads to misunderstanding. Whatever the case is, tutors work one-on-one or in small groups to ensure that each student understands the material. Tutoring also relieves any friction that may arise between parent and child. Also, tutoring offers a fun and exciting environment, so students will have a positive association with learning.
Instead of the typical reading and math tutoring, consider a foreign language for your child. Many schools offer foreign languages during the intermediate years, but studies show that early exposure to language leads to easier acquisition and a more native-like pronunciation. Foreign language centers focus on activities that make learning a new language fun.
Choosing the Right Activity
When choosing an activity, do not assume that your love of basketball will automatically be passed on to your child. She might be more interested in gymnastics or karate. Keep an open mind, and if your child shows a lack of interest or even displays feelings of anger, anxiety or sadness, do not force her to stay in the class.
Instead, dabble in a few types of enrichment activities to see which one your child likes best. Maybe he enjoys the flexibility of after-school programs since they typically offer a range of activities instead of focusing on one. Perhaps your child would prefer the creative nature of an instrument to the competitive atmosphere that soccer offers. Keep the lines of communication open, and ask your child what he enjoys about each activity.
With such a wide range of enrichment opportunities offered in Hawaii, there is sure to be an area that sparks his interest. Enrichment classes become part of our identities as we grow older, so greatly consider which to choose. Even if the type of activity does not blossom into a lifelong passion, you will be glad to know that your child took away many skills that will aid him throughout his life. As long as your child is having fun and has a smile on his face at the end of the day, that’s all that matters.
The following are profiles of various locations around Oahu that offer enrichment services. They are devoted to making a difference in the lives of Hawaii’s children.
Art Tent Studio
Art Tent Studio provides a structured learning environment where keiki develop technical skills, curiosity, and confidence through visual arts. Designed for young artists of all skill levels, the studio offers hands-on instruction in drawing, painting, 3D sculpting, and digital media alongside open studio exploration. Guided by instructors using studio-thinking principles, learners practice core habits like envisioning concepts, observing details, and reflecting on projects. Through weekly classes, seasonal camps, themed workshops, and student exhibitions, participants build practical techniques, express personal ideas, and share their growth. This generalized space nurtures creative discovery, artistic independence, and supportive community engagement for every student. Learn more at arttentlife.com or call 808-445-0053.
Ballet Hawaii
Ballet Hawaii has been enriching Hawaii’s cultural environment by teaching, promoting, presenting, and producing dance since 1976. The non-profit organization provides opportunities for all ages for self-development, self-esteem, creativity, and improved well-being for students, patrons, and audiences. Classes are focused on building self-confidence through accomplishment and opportunities to perform in presentations, including the annual production of The Nutcracker at the Blaisdell Concert Hall. With two locations in Honolulu and Waipahu, Ballet Hawaii offers dance classes starting at age three up to adult classes, in addition to weekly open classes and frequent master classes with world-renowned teachers from all corners of the globe. For more information, please visit ballethawaii.org.
CP Hawaii Dance
Corps Principals Hawaii Dance provides exceptional dance instruction in a positive, supportive environment where students grow as dancers and individuals. The studio offers classes for all ages and experience levels, including preschool programs, as well as ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, acro, and musical theatre. Experienced instructors emphasize strong technical training while nurturing creativity, discipline, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. Whether taking a first dance class or pursuing advanced training, every student is encouraged to reach their fullest potential. Registration is ongoing, with placement guidance for all levels. Through classes, performances, competitions, and special events, Corps Principals Hawaii Dance helps students build lasting friendships, develop life skills, and create meaningful memories beyond the studio. For more information, please visit cphidance.com.
Destination Dance
Destination Dance Hawaii is a vibrant, all-ages performing arts studio in Aiea offering classes in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap, contemporary, musical theatre, hula, and more. With a focus on both recreational and competitive training, the studio provides a supportive environment for keiki, teens, and adults to grow as dancers and performers. Unique programs like K-pop, Glee Harmony, and Adult Ballet ensure there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a first-time dancer or a seasoned performer. With drop-in options, trial classes, and private lessons available, Destination Dance is the perfect place to find your rhythm and join a passionate dance ohana. Learn more at d2hi.com.
Hawaii Academy
Hawaii Academy is a private fitness school for the advancement of lifetime wellness, gymnastics, and human sciences for ALL ages and abilities. Trampoline-tumbling gymnastics, gymnastics for ninjas, and fitness classes are the largest and most popular programs offered in this 2,600-student school. Movement education for children ages 1 to 5 years old starts the youngest of learners on the road to lifelong fitness. They also offer classes for children (ages 6 -12), teens (13-18), adults (19-49), and kupuna (50-100+). Activities offered include trampoline (flipping and twisting), gymnastics, tumbling, acrobatics/cirque, ninja/obstacles, fitness, movement education, and more. Hawaii Academy welcomes students at two convenient Oahu locations—in Honolulu and Waipahu. For more information, contact the Honolulu Office at 808-842-5642, the Waipahu Office at 808-676-2222, or visit their website hawaiiacademy.com.
Hawaii Dance Bomb
Hawaii Dance Bomb is a community dance school focused on nurturing each child’s experience in a safe, playful, and non-judgmental environment. They don’t tell the kids what to wear, who to be, or how to dance; instead, instructors focus on developing self-confidence, personal style, and creativity. Hawaii Dance Bomb offers seasonal dance classes, weekly themed events, silent disco parties, intersession camps, and more. Children can practice wiggling, being themselves, laughing, learning names, figuring out their own movement style, and having fun. For more information, visit hawaiidancebomb.com. See you on the dance floor!
Hawaii State Ballet
Located in Honolulu’s McCully neighborhood, Hawaii State Ballet is a respected training school offering classical ballet instruction for students of all ages and skill levels. The studio features a structured Junior Program for keiki as well as open classes for adults, providing opportunities for both recreational and serious dancers. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students build strong technique and have the chance to participate in performances throughout the year, including the studio’s long-running annual production of The Nutcracker. With a welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to excellence, Hawaii State Ballet continues to nurture Hawai‘i’s next generation of dancers. For more information, visit hawaiistateballet.com.
HiClimb
Looking for a fun and physically engaging way to challenge your keiki or yourself? Located in Kakaako, HiClimb is Honolulu’s premier indoor climbing gym designed to build strength, focus, and confidence. The facility offers bouldering, auto-belay, top-rope, and lead climbing alongside a dedicated fitness space and daily yoga classes. Designed for all skill levels—from first-time climbers to advanced athletes—HiClimb combines athletic movement with a supportive community environment. Families can take advantage of youth-friendly programming, camps, and birthday parties, making it an ideal addition to any enrichment routine for keiki and adults alike. Come climb with us today! For more information, visit www.hawaiiclimb.com.
Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus (HYOC)
Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus, Oahu’s longest-running children’s choir, offers a full spectrum of music education for K-12 students from any school. HYOC’s mission is to build a foundation of excellence in choral performance, to guide Hawaii’s youth to establish a lifelong appreciation of the performing arts, and to provide leadership in music education. HYOC continues to grow tomorrow’s leaders through music by providing the perfect venue for students to meet, develop friendships and important life skills, gain performance experience, and learn from experts in music education. HYOC has two semesters per year: Fall (August-December) and Spring (January-late May). Enrolled students will get the chance to polish their vocal skills and perform as they average about 20 to 30 concerts per year! Visit hyoc.org to learn more.
House Mart Ben Franklin
We Inspire Creativity, One Twist at a Time At Ben Franklin Crafts, creativity starts with something as simple as a chenille stem. This fall, bring your keiki in to check out our Chenille Stem Studio and watch their imagination take shape! Twist, shape, and create a blooming flower, a bug, an animal, or anything else you can bend into being. No pattern required, just curiosity, color, and a little inspiration.
Perfect for rainy afternoons, birthday parties, or a screen-free hour together, our craft supplies and friendly staff make it easy to start something new. Visit us on Oahu, Maui, or in Hilo and let the crafting begin! Learn more at benfranklinhawaii.com.
Keiki Kicks
Keiki Kicks is a fantastic family-run soccer program where kids acquire foundational soccer skills and develop new techniques through fun, play-based learning. Designed for keiki ages 1 to 8 years old of all skill levels, the program emphasizes physical development like motor skills and coordination alongside vital social habits. Guided by supportive, experienced coaches in an active learning environment, young players practice teamwork, sharing, taking turns, and encouraging others during every session. As children build confidence and forge friendships, they become part of a community that fosters lasting character, athletic growth, and a love for the game. Visit keikikicks.com to sign up today!
Kumon Math & Reading Centers
The Kumon Method has helped millions of children achieve more than they ever thought they could. At Kumon Math & Reading Centers, your child can build the skills necessary to lead them to success inside and outside the classroom. Their math and reading programs help children of all ages and levels become eager, independent learners. Unlike most tutoring sessions, Kumon teachers help children learn how to learn on their own and to love the process. Students gain a sense of confidence that will help them in the classroom and beyond. Locate your nearest Kumon Center today at kumon.com.
Leahi Swim School
Leahi Swim School has been successfully teaching Hawaii to swim for over 50 years! Programs are available for students of all ages, from 6 months to adults, in both group and private lessons. The school’s primary focus is on quality instruction, which is why classes remain small—many featuring a 5:2 student-to-instructor ratio. Additionally, all instructors are extensively trained, experienced, and certified lifeguards. Leahi is the only swim school in Hawaii with specially designed warm water pools that feature gradual water depth from 6 inches to 8 feet at both locations. Visit leahiswimschool.com to learn more and register for classes today!
Mathnasium
For families looking to strengthen their child’s math skills in a supportive and structured environment, Mathnasium of Waialae offers a proven approach to building confidence and competence. Starting with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment, students in grades K through 12 receive personalized learning plans tailored to their unique needs—whether they are catching up, keeping up, preparing for tests, or getting ahead. Using individual face-to-face instruction, mental math strategies, and proprietary curriculum designed to make math make sense, Mathnasium turns frustration into progress without adding extra homework. The center provides flexible in-person and online learning options, delivering an enriching supplement to any student’s academic journey. Learn more at mathnasium.com.
Moʻolelo Performing Arts Studio
Moʻolelo Studio is Oahu’s premier theater-focused performing arts program, offering classes in musical theatre, dance, creative drama, acting, and more for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re trying to get your keiki to break out of their shell, looking for a new extracurricular activity, honing your young performer’s skills, or just wanting to give yourself an extra hour in the afternoons, Moʻolelo is the perfect place for your child. Experienced instructors provide an encouraging and collaborative environment to cultivate and develop each student’s artistic and creative interests. Moʻolelo Studio produces four musical productions a year, giving auditioning opportunities to all within an appropriate age group. Become a part of the Mo’olelo family and learn more at moolelostudios.com.
The Movement Center
The Movement Center has been helping Hawaii families stay active and healthy for more than 4 0 years through high-quality dance, gymnastics, and fitness programs. Serving students of all ages and experience levels, the center offers a welcoming environment where children can build confidence, coordination, strength, and lifelong friendships. Whether your child is taking their first dance class, learning new gymnastics skills, or exploring movement through recreational programs, experienced instructors provide encouragement and individualized attention every step of the way. With a focus on personal growth, physical development, and fun, The Movement Center inspires students to reach their goals while developing a lasting love of movement. Learn more at movementcenter.org.
Quicksets Volleyball Club
Quicksets Volleyball Club offers an encouraging and nurturing environment for your child to learn and build their volleyball skills while making new friends and having fun. Experienced coaches seek to build character, self-awareness, and well-rounded skill sets in their players by challenging them to believe in their strengths, providing opportunities for hope, and being mindful of others through the game of volleyball. The Quicksets volleyball program is open to boys and girls ages 5–18 years old of all experience levels. Scholarship opportunities are available. Visit quicksetsvbc.com to register for upcoming clinics, programs, and team tryouts online today to reserve a spot!
Royal Academy of Ballet
As the first and only Royal Academy of Dance (England) certified ballet school in Hawaii, Royal Academy of Ballet offers unparalleled dance training for students as young as three and a half years. Experienced instructors are dedicated to upholding the esteemed RAD syllabus, enriching the lives of their students through the art of ballet, and fostering a deep appreciation for dance in our community. Classes at the Royal Academy of Ballet provide technical training, rhythm, dance notation, musicality, artistic self-expression, discipline, a nurturing environment, and performance opportunities to enhance each dancer’s abilities and confidence. The Royal Academy of Ballet also offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (England), which is part of the European Qualifications Framework. Learn more at rabhawaii.com.
Sounds of Success Learning Center
Speech and language skills are critical to academic success, as the ability to communicate with peers, teachers, and community members in an educational setting is essential for every student’s success in school. Providing an integrated program of early childhood education, Sounds of Success Learning Center offers individual speech-language therapy services with a certified licensed speech pathologist for children ages 2 and up. A speech-language pathologist can perform a comprehensive assessment to determine how many sessions per week are optimal for your child’s growth. Individual speech therapy with customized treatment plans is also uniquely incorporated within a state-licensed, all-day preschool setting for ages 2.5–5. Visit sospreschool.org/speech-therapy for more details.
Sylvan Learning Center
As Hawaii’s premier provider of supplemental education, Sylvan Learning Center of Mililani provides instruction and homework support in math, reading, writing, SSAT prep, SAT/ACT prep, study skills, and college prep. Sylvan’s state-certified instructors’ personal approach helps local students stay ahead, keep up, or catch up while building lasting confidence. Sylvan Learning is conveniently located at Mililani Town Center, next to Zippy’s, with satellite locations for instruction in Waipio and Ewa. Individualized instruction is provided in a small 3:1 setting with each student working on their own personalized learning program, created through a proven four-step approach in which tutors assess, plan, teach, and apply for guaranteed skill progress. For more information, call 808-623-0808, or visit sylvanlearning.com and search for Mililani.
Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii (THH)
Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii offers fun, safe, and low-stress riding lessons at its beautiful facility in Waimanalo. Riders above the age of four learn to groom, tack, and ride horses while building their strength and confidence. Instructors are certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH), and THH is the only premier accredited facility in the state. They have a wide variety of horses and tack to suit riders of all levels. Watch as your child’s self-esteem skyrockets while they master the skills needed for riding and caring for the animals. For more information, including regulations and registration, please visit thhwaimanalo.org.
USTA Hawaii
The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) Hawaii Pacific Section offers a spectrum of tennis programs for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Choose from tennis lessons, cardio tennis, flex or regular leagues, and tournaments to help both you and your child enjoy the lifetime sport of tennis with the benefits of fitness, friends, and fun! USTA features affordable group lessons at more than 25 public park sites across Oahu through its Play and Learn Tennis or cardio and drill programs. Loaner racquets and balls are provided to each player. Whether you are just starting, interested in playing with a team, or just looking for a fun and healthy outdoor activity, there are opportunities available for the whole family to enjoy. Visit ustahawaii.com for more information and to sign up today!
Wiki Wiki Swim School
Founded in 2014 with a mission to make learning to swim more convenient, effective, safe, and consistent, Wiki Wiki Swim School provides private swim instruction at client-provided homes and community pools across all of Oahu. Their certified and patient instructors are highly qualified professionals who must pass an intensive screening and interview process, with a minimum of 2 years’ experience teaching children. All Wiki Wiki Swim School instructors are First Aid certified, CPR certified for infants and adults, and most are certified lifeguards. After discussing your needs, the dedicated staff at Wiki Wiki will pair you with your carefully selected instructor, who will contact you to schedule lessons according to your availability. Help your keiki make a splash and achieve their swimming goals! For more information, go to wikiwikiswimschool.com.
YMCA of Honolulu
The YMCA of Honolulu offers a wide variety of enrichment programs that help children build confidence, learn new skills, and discover lifelong interests. From martial arts, ballet, hula, and ukulele to youth sports, there’s something for every child. Even babies as young as six months can begin swim lessons, with opportunities to continue into the youth swim league as they grow. Newer offerings include Teen Mixed Martial Arts at Leeward, Battle Ready—Youth Kickboxing at Mililani, and Dance Central at Leeward, featuring Youth Hip Hop & K-Pop as well as Teen/Adult Hip Hop & Jazz. Youth basketball clinics also help young athletes develop their skills, confidence, and teamwork.
The YMCA also offers opportunities for families to stay active together. Y Family memberships include access to heated pools, fitness centers, open gym time for basketball and pickleball, and branch-specific amenities like the covered sports courts at the Waianae Y. Families can also create lasting memories with weekend staycations at YMCA Camp Erdman.
Pro Tip: Y Family memberships offer up to 20% off programs, classes, and camps, and include up to six hours a week of free childcare while you work out. Financial assistance is available to help ensure every family has the opportunity to participate. Learn more at YMCAHonolulu.org or visit your nearest YMCA branch.
