Mary, Star of the Sea Early Learning Center (ELC) celebrated its grand opening of two new playground areas with a blessing by our Pastor, Fr. Frankie at 5:30 PM, followed by a spaghetti dinner and entertainment for our families and special guests.

The ELC’s major playground renovation with IPR Hawaii (Innovative Playground and Recreation) began on August 1, 2016 and included a new playground drainage system; over 7,000 square feet of padded, green field turf; a new toddler playground structure and additional playground structures for the main playground area. IPR Hawaii is a locally based general contractor specializing in the design and building of playgrounds, parks and sports facilities, and has been involved in designing Hawaii’s play environments for the past 20 years.

The ELC teachers and staff are excited about the completion of these new play environments. As early childhood educators they are well aware and very passionate about the multitude of benefits that outdoor play provides children. Playgrounds are cornerstones of school communities and research shows that safe and well-designed outdoor environments encourage the development of gross motor skills and creativity. Outdoor play for young children also lays the foundation for a lifetime of good health, optimal brain development, and mastery of emerging gross motor skills.

As television personality and minister, Fred Rogers said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning, but for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” Mary, Star of the Sea Early Learning Center and IPR Hawaii became partners in “play” that supported this important aspect of childhood development. An investment in improving the quality of play for children is an investment in their future. We would also like to thank our generous community donors: The Samuel N. & Mary Castle Foundation; The Pettus Foundation; and The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation for their financial support toward this project.

Mary, Star of the Sea ELC conducts weekly school tours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, starting at 9:00 AM. Please contact our office at 808-734-3840 to schedule a tour of our classrooms and new playground!