During the summer, my children’s learning or brain drain is all up to me. Before the new school year rolls around, I’m out of creative ways to challenge them. That’s when I turn to Kiwi Crate’s free online trove of science and art activities that can get the fun going on a “boring” afternoon. I love that most of the projects can be done with things found around the house and the setup is simple.

Check out how to paint on ice with salt and food coloring (Salt Painting Ice Sculptures), start a garden in an egg (Eggheads), make magic sand that doesn’t get wet in water (Homemade Aqua Sand) and so much more at kiwicrate.com/themes/science-experiments. — Donica Kaneshiro

Silversmith’s jewelry has mana

I love the look, touch and meaning of natural stone jewelry designed by Native American Diné (Navajo) artist Tonya June Rafael, a master silversmith from New Mexico. Her creations have what we in Hawaii call “mana,” a knowing sense of energy to the eyes.

Rafael describes the significance of the turquoise: “It means life. It means beauty. It is richness and prosperity. It means protection. Turquoise is a sacred and precious stone which came from the Holy People.”

Known for her stunning oversized rings and cuffs, I prefer this sterling-silver butterfly ring measuring 2-1/2 inches from wingtip to wingtip. Pieces start at $125. Find Tonya June Rafael Jewelry on Facebook or look for her at the 42nd Annual Honolulu Intertribal Powwow, Oct. 1 and 2 at Magic Island. — Liz Higa, Mililani

Times supermarket’s grilled chicken satisfies

Supermarket delis have become so much more than fried chicken and potato salad. Many are now a reliable source of diverse, delicious and nutritious prepared foods. My favorite is at the Kahala Times, 1173 21st Ave., where at least once a week I pick up a couple of grilled lemon rosemary chicken breasts from the cold counter for $7.99 a pound. These moist split breasts are great hot or cold. I like to cube them for pasta and green salads or a quick protein snack. For about $7, I can get two pieces, enough for three or four servings.

Another favorite: meaty guava spare ribs grilled in the parking lot on Fridays ($4.99 per serving or $6.99 with three sides and a drink — a great deal!). And, yes, the fried chicken is a winner here too. Call your neighborhood Times for the grilling schedule. — Christie Wilson

Fashion designer creates cuddly critters with remnant fabric

As the models were working the runway at last month’s 47th annual Hui Makaala Scholarship Fund Luncheon & Fashion Show, this floral-print bear by designer Kaypee Soh was an eye-catching accessory. Soh makes a limited number of bears from leftover cloth each time he introduces a new line of women’s wear. No two bears are exactly alike. The price is $65, with $10 of each purchase donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Call 593-8780 or visit kaypeesoh.com. — John Berger

Chai Studio’s treasures find a new home

Folks who loved Chai Studio at Ward Warehouse will be happy to discover its reincarnation as Island Bungalow Hawaii in Kailua. The boutique takes me on a treasure hunt for globally inspired gifts, some made from reclaimed materials. The handmade Kantha quilt ($180) caught my eye for its beautiful, unique pattern and Boho-chic appeal. Hand-stitched from vintage Indian cotton fabric, the 55-by-85-inch quilt is reversible with a different assortment of colors and patterns on the back side.

I found the perfect 20-by-20-inch silk Kantha pillow cover in magenta ($65) to go with it, too. The store is at 131 Hekili St., across from Pali Lanes. Call 536-4543 or visit island bungalowhawaii.com. — Nina Wu