The Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center stands as a testament to the vision of Loretta Yajima and her daughter, Liane Usher. This vibrant learning hub, nestled near Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park, combines education with interactive play, engaging children through sensory experiences. Visitors are invited into an imaginative world where they can explore various roles, from weather reporters to scientists, while learning about their bodies and the history of Hawaii and other cultures. Established in 1989 within the Dole Cannery, the center has grown significantly, moving to its current location in 1998. During the pandemic, it adapted by maintaining some programs despite closures, supporting essential workers' children and keeping educators employed.

Upon entering the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center, visitors step into a realm designed entirely for young minds. The facility invites them into a large room brimming with colorful installations, where an automated voice prompts them to envision a universe tailored to their size. On the first floor, kids can immerse themselves in diverse roles like being a news anchor or exploring how bodily functions interconnect. This hands-on approach extends to a stage area where costumes and props allow for creative storytelling performances. Meanwhile, the second floor delves into Hawaiian history, offering insights into the islands' rich past. Above this, another level introduces exhibits on global cultures, such as those of Japan, Vietnam, Korea, and China.

In addition to these educational activities, there is also a water exhibit that educates children about rainforests both locally and internationally. Before establishing the center, Loretta Yajima meticulously researched children's museums across the mainland United States to understand what captivated young audiences most effectively. Her efforts culminated in creating a space that originally relied solely on volunteer support but eventually expanded into a sprawling three-story building encompassing nearly 45,000 square feet.

Liane Usher takes pride in the center's Discovery Camp initiative, which commenced in 2005. These camps operate primarily during school holidays, featuring themed sessions with tactile activities, outdoor recreation, guided tours of the exhibits, and supervised meals. When faced with the challenges posed by the pandemic, Usher ensured continuity by keeping certain programs operational even as mandated closures affected the main site. She highlights the importance of providing care for children whose parents were essential workers, thus sustaining employment for staff members simultaneously.

Post-pandemic, all regular activities at the center have resumed, including designated times for toddlers to engage in play, opportunities for field trips, and arrangements for private birthday gatherings. For Usher, who spent much of her childhood playing here alongside her siblings and peers, the center represents more than just a place—it symbolizes family. Having transitioned from a teenage volunteer inspired by early childhood education to earning a master’s degree in education from Harvard University, she embodies the center's enduring influence.

Frequent instances occur where former participants return as volunteers or employees, illustrating the cyclical nature of involvement. Michael Pietsch, who attended Punahou School alongside founder Loretta Yajima and has served on the board for over two decades, reflects fondly on watching both the institution and its constituents evolve. He emphasizes the dedication and passion invested by Yajima, describing her work as a heartfelt endeavor carried out with unwavering commitment.