The Story Behind the Lei: A Symbol of Love and Welcome
Discover the beautiful Hawaiian tradition of giving a lei in this family-friendly blog post! Learn what a lei is, when it’s given, and the special meaning it holds in island culture. Plus, enjoy a fun, easy paper lei craft you can make at home with your keiki. A sweet way to teach little ones about kindness, celebration, and the spirit of aloha.
7/23/2025
🌺 The Story Behind the Lei: A Symbol of Love and Welcome 🌈
In Hawai‘i, a lei is more than just a necklace made of flowers. It’s a beautiful way to show love, friendship, and aloha. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or a simple hello, giving a lei is a special island tradition that makes people feel welcomed and appreciated. Let’s teach our keiki (kids) the meaning behind this sweet custom and how to make their very own lei at home!
🌸 What Is a Lei?
A lei (pronounced lay) is a garland or necklace made of flowers, leaves, shells, or even candy. It’s given to show love, honor, or celebration. You’ll often see people wearing leis at parties, family gatherings, weddings, and when arriving or leaving Hawai‘i.
Fun Fact: In ancient times, leis were also worn by Hawaiian chiefs, dancers, and travelers for protection and good luck.
🎉 When Do You Give a Lei?
Leis are given on happy occasions like:
Birthdays
Graduations
Welcoming visitors
Saying goodbye
Weddings
Special celebrations
And sometimes, just because! In Hawai‘i, you don’t need a reason to share a little aloha.
✂️ Make Your Own Paper Lei Craft!
Here’s a fun and easy activity to do with your little ones — a homemade paper lei!
What You’ll Need:
Colorful construction paper
Safety scissors
Yarn or string
Drinking straws (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Hole punch
Directions:
Cut out flower shapes from colorful paper.
Use a hole punch to make a hole in the center of each flower.
Cut straws into small pieces to use as spacers between the flowers.
String the flowers and straw pieces onto the yarn, repeating the pattern.
Tie the ends of the yarn together to finish your lei.
Aloha Tip: Let your keiki choose their favorite colors and patterns!
🌺 Why It Matters
Teaching kids about leis isn’t just about making something pretty — it’s about showing kindness, friendship, and welcoming others with open hearts. Even a simple paper lei made with love can make someone’s day brighter.
Aloha always! Would your keiki love to make a lei too? 🌸