Shade-Shade-Shade(s)
Although we might now spare a thought for a chance of rain, we know our sunny OC roots. Here are our favorite shades for the sporty girl-on-the-go. Oakley Radar EV Pitch Prizm Made in the OC Excited about Opening Day? Steal some of the player’s style with these sharp shades (you can even get MLB team-specific style) that are key for the wraparound PRIZM lens tech that fine-tunes vision for specific sports. We also love the sweat-proof features — evaporative cooling ventilation and no slip features that keep your glasses where they need to be. www.Oakley.com Maui Jim Nalani Perfect...
Diving Into Lessons
Q: “My preschooler is afraid of the water, it has been a real struggle to teach him to swim. Now that we have a newborn, we want to make sure we don’t have the same challenge with her. There are a half dozen private pool hazards in our neighborhood alone and I would love to actually enjoy a day at the beach without tears as we cajole our son to get his toes wet. We are on a budget and thought those mommy-and-me swim lessons would be a waste of money when he was an infant. Is it worth it...
Back-to-School Shoes
Send your kid back to class in style with these sweet feet treats! Choo Choo Shoes Skip any sort of “confusion and delay” in getting out the door in the morning, your little conductor will always stay on track and remember where these train-themed shoes have been put away for the night. The soles even leave a track design for on the go play. (On-off switch for school!) $49, www.choochooshoes.com Keen Moxie Mary Jane If your girl’s got gumption, the Moxie Collection has her covered. Add stability to the classic ballet flat with the security of the Mary Jane strap....
Editor’s Picks: November 2017
PICK OF THE MONTH The Mom-Made Market November 18 - November 19 To truly get in the spirit of our annual Moms at Work/Mompreneur issue, we thought we would highlight a one stop shop for holiday goodies and gifts for the whole family, all carrying mom's approval! This shopping experience returns to the OC Fairgrounds for the second year. The unique market provides a platform for mom-trepreneurs to sell their goods and services, network with one another, create new friendships, come meet their supporters in person, and to have a fun day enjoying the spirit of the season. Besides the...
Romantic Wine, Art, and Hiking Getaway Ideas
A room becomes more romantic when paired with wine, art, or a coastal hike. The Carmel Highlands & Point Lobos. The storms of one year ago destroyed a large swath of the iconic Big Sur Highway, making Carmel inaccessible from the south (reopening is slated for summer of 2018). But if you come to the Coast Highway from the north, from Monterey, you will reach the northern edge of Big Sur, the setting of our first Valentine getaway recommendation. Perched like an osprey’s nest on the hillside above the rugged Big Sur coast, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, which celebrated its 100th...
Mental Vacations
Break away to a world of peace and tranquility – and still be back on time to pick the kiddies up from school. These day spas throughout OC offer everything from skin care to deep tissue massages, for the stress relief and relaxation every parent deserves. MassageLuXe Escape from carpool schedules, kids’ extracurricular activities, picking up the dry-cleaning, etc. etc. etc. that clouds your daily routine, and take two hours for yourself for a deep tissue or Swedish massage. Feel the ease from stress and tension, and improve your overall health, without having to book a getaway vacation. Expectant mothers...
Editor’s Picks: August 2018
Pick of the Month The OC Fair Don’t let the summer pass you by without a visit to the OC Fair. With a theme of “Free Your Inner Farmer” this year, it’s the perfect time to teach your little ones more about agriculture. Wander over to Centennial Farm for photos of the adorable baby piglets and the energetic goats. Also, among the new attractions are the Selfie Pop-Up Museum and the nerve-wracking Daredevils & Wheels stunt show. And of course, there’s carnival rides and games, live performances, action sports events, agricultural demonstrations and animal competitions. You definitely don’t want to...
Editor’s Picks: December 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Winter Fest OC Thursday, December 20 - Sunday, January 6 This seasonal extravaganza comes packed with ice tubing, ice skating, and two real Snow Play areas, along with carnival rides, games and special events, like a Flying Santa. This year also presents 40,000 square feet of new wintry adventures - a Festival of Lights, a Candy and Snowflake Wonderland and a SoCal Dickens Village. The SoCal Dicken's Village takes guests through the 1800s with holidays past, present, and future. The Candy and Snowflake Wonderland is an interactive wonderland full of candy and snowflakes with a selfie...
The Importance of Early Childhood Screenings
Q: [All Ages] Does your two-month-old baby smile at the sound of your voice? Can your five-month-old grab and hold a rattle? Does your one-year-old clap his hands? Does your two-year-old engage in pretend play? A: These are just a few of the questions that developmental screenings explore. Even if your baby is healthy and thriving, it is important to take advantage of free developmental screenings as a way to learn more about your child’s specific behavior and development. Ideally, screenings are part of a well-child medical visit, but a number of community agencies provide access to them as well....
Scottsdale’s Desert Gem and Santa Cruz’s Dream Inn
[caption id="attachment_32301" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Left photo courtesy of Four Seasons. Right photo by Randall Tierney.[/caption] Each of these two family getaways is a six-hour drive from OC—one-tank road trips—but the similarities end there. Off-season (summer) lodging at the Four Seasons in the Sonoran desert of Scottsdale allows for world-class luxury at a reduced rate. A stay at the Dream Inn in Santa Cruz offers the classic and casual Cali beach vacation, along with old fashioned amusement on the historic Boardwalk. Sophistication & Saguaros As summer temps climb, room rates relax at the Four Seasons Scottsdale, making a luxury stay at...
7 Mom Entrepreneurs
From writing to baking and organizing, these OC mompreneurs are putting their own unique stamp on business. Leslie Bruce Lives in: Laguna Beach With: husband, Yashaar, and her daughter, Tallulah, 5, and son, Roman, 1.5 Profession: Author; writer of “You Are A F*cking Awesome Mom” Connect: @leslieannebruce on Instagram, @lesliebruceamin on Twitter, unpacified.com Background: “As cliché as this might sound, I’ve actually been writing my entire life. As a little girl, I always kept journals, and would make little books out of construction paper and crayons. As an adult, I received my graduate degree in journalism at the University of...
Marine Life and Coastal Adventures in Orange County
[caption id="attachment_34890" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo by Mike Johnson/Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari[/caption] We don’t have to go far to experience marine life and coastal adventures in Orange County. This might not be the time of year to take a cooling swim in the ocean waves. But it’s definitely the right season to appreciate living along the coast in ways that are just as fun. February and the next couple of months are prime whale-watching season as the California gray whales work their way north back to Alaska. There’s a good chance you’ll see a lot more, too. Whales...
Southwest Conservatory
Inspiring Creative Minds Through Quality Music Education Southwest Conservatory provides a high-quality learning experience for all students, with teachers who are specialists on their instruments. Our community of students ranges in age from 4 - adult. Online and In-Person Lessons* University trained, experienced teachers Recitals, Evaluations Group or Private Lessons FREE Introductory Lesson! VISIT OUR WEBSITE CALL: 714-964-3410EMAIL: info@southwestconservatory.net 18430 Brookhurst Street, Suite 101, Fountain Valley, CA 92708*In-person lessons will resume when safe.
Parenting OC 2026 Events with The District at Tustin
Hosted by... We have expanded partnership with The District at Tustin Legacy through 2026. In September of 2025, The District hosted the wildly successful return of our Learn & Grow event. In March of 2025 we brought back the Summer Opportunities Jamboree. FREE FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT Both events offer a free, fun-filled day, with entertainment on stage, strolling princesses and super heroes, face painting, balloon artists, bubble artists, arts and crafts, contests, prizes, and games. JAMBOREE, APRIL 11, 2026: GET READY FOR SUMMER In March 2026, families looking to plan summer activities—like summer camps, learning programs, sports, and travel...
Virtual Dental Help
Q: My child is having dental issues, but I don't feel comfortable taking them to a dental office. What is telehealth and how can my family use this while we are all trying to social distance? All ages Dental decay does not stop progressing because of a pandemic. More than ever, it is essential to care for your family’s oral and overall health. In the wake of COVID-19, Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County (Healthy Smiles) offers a virtual service called telehealth to ensure families have access to oral health care while reducing the risk of coronavirus transmission. Q:...
A New Normal for Mompreneurs
Find out how these OC mompreneurs have adjusted and adapted throughout 2020. Jasmine Roth Age: 36 Family: Husband, Brett; daughter, Hazel, 5.5 months City: Huntington Beach Star of: HGTV’s “Help! I Wrecked My House”; previously on “Hidden Potential” How did your passion for home construction and design begin? “By accident! I started building a house for my husband and I, and it sorta snowballed into a career. Whoops! That said, it's been a lot of hard work and dedication to get into this space and leave my mark. I still feel like an outsider and I'm constantly trying to prove...
A Special Kind of Stress
(Photo Courtesy of Jan Kopřiva/Unsplash) Calming techniques for the chaos and anxiety of special needs life. Raising a child with special needs is a challenging task that can drain parents, especially when effective coping methods are absent. Brain development in children is a complex process that depends on several factors, including nutrition, social interaction and engaging in numerous activities. This multifactorial process is primarily reliant on the parents' commitment. Parents can make a big difference in raising their child, and consequently, how well their cognitive abilities develop. The Role of Mindfulness Over the past few years, researchers have inspected hundreds...
Vision Mission
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo/Dr. Arian Fartash and her daughter Isabella) A local optometrist helps educate parents and protect their children’s eyes with OC-based GlamBaby. When Dr. Arian Fartash became a new mom, one of her favorite pastimes became shopping for her baby girl. But the local optometrist soon found out there was one accessory that was severely lacking for young children — eyewear. “It was a surprise, given my passion and commitment to eye care, that there wasn’t a company committed to protective, stylish and quality frames that were also reasonably priced,” said Fartash. “I knew that if I...
Healthy Holidays
(Photo Courtesy of Allen Taylor/Unsplash) How can my family keep fit and healthy over the holidays? All ages Holiday meals are commonly associated with an excessive intake of food and drink. Here are some sensible recommendations for more health-conscious holiday choices, especially when it comes to athletes in your family. Involve children in meal preparation. With more school-age children on holiday for the entire week of Thanksgiving and Christmas, there is an increased opportunity to have them assist in food selection and cooking. Have younger children collect more colors (translation: fruits and vegetables) to use in the big meal. Have...
Cabo Primo
Sunset at Grand Solmar Land's End Resort At the tip of Baja, going chic to chic for a week, and learning the wahoo Watusi “You see, Sweetheart, you can always tell where the fish are by looking at the birds. You find fish where they are diving into the water. Ricardo is probably taking us where those birds are over there.” The sun rose from the water, as it does here on the Sea of Cortez in the morning. From the waterproof speaker I brought along, Bob Marley sang “Jammin,” and I was feeling good about our chances of catching...
In the Moment
Enter to Win Tickets Winner will receive a four-pack of tickets to various prizes in OC. Pictures should capture your little one(s) being "in the moment" - it could be something funny, something memorable, or something clever. 50 words or less. To enter, submit your photos below. *One win limited per year*
Teddy Bear Hugs
This Tesoro High teen with scoliosis gives support and teddy bears to others like her…
Catching the Acting Bug
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Acting Academy for Kids and Teens’ programs and summer camps teach OC kids a passion for performing arts along with lifelong skills. Stephen Zygo’s love of acting goes back to early childhood. He and his older brother, Mike, were lucky to have a robust arts program in their elementary and middle schools. Their favorite teacher, Mr. Richard Milks, led a show choir performing group and directed full-scale musicals. “After I was cast as Smee and my brother as Peter in ‘Peter Pan,’ we both caught ‘the bug’ and were hooked,” he said. Sadly, when he...
Special Lessons
From comic books to virtual reality, therapists and teachers look forward at innovations in special needs programs…
The New Fiesta Village at Knott’s
The redesigned Fiesta Village at Knott’s is opening in time for summer and promises to be full of Mariachi music, storytelling, Folklorico dance performances an
Camps
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County camps for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Halloween For Everyone
OC offers a wide range of spooky fun for all ages. Come October, Halloween pops up in all forms in and around Orange County. It’s both kid-friendly and scary.
South Coast Repertory: Alice’s Wonderland
In this pop and hip-hop musical, Alice is a brilliant, passionate teen who dreams of making the world better by creating a video game called “Wonderland.”
Preparing for Camp
Here’s what you need to know about summer camp for kids. It’s never too early to begin thinking about summer camps. From day camp to overnight programs
Animals for All Needs
From dogs and goats to cows and horses, animals offer calm, joy and acceptance for children with all needs. Irvine Heritage Park Library’s Read to a Dog program
Choco Cookie Crunch Ice Cream
Ice cream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Perfect for kids who love chocolate and cookies, this super cool dessert is free of dairy and refined sugar.
What to Know About Bird Flu
I’ve been hearing a lot about bird flu lately. Should I be concerned for my family? If you are worried about the bird flu, you are not alone.
Camps
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County camps for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
The Montessori Method
What is experiential learning in Montessori education? All ages Maria Montessori, a pioneer in the field of neuroscience and child development, was the first to recognize the connection between movement and cognition. Her scientific observations led her to conclude that physical action helps to create stronger neural connections in the brain. Her idea of the “absorbent mind” clearly describes a process where the child integrates information from the environment through experiences gained from sensory integration. She stated, “What the hand does, the mind remembers.” To put it simply, children learn by doing. They need to explore and discover through hands-on...
Play and Parties Events
Weekly events at Play & Parties in Orange County includes music, storytime, painting, guest appearances from princesses and superheroes, plus so much more!
Blueberry Yogurt Pops
These creamy, fruity and refreshing yogurt pops are the perfect way to cool off on a warm day. With a base of silky, dairy-free yogurt and a burst of fruity jam
Fourth of July Celebrations
Celebrate Independence Day with your loved ones! Discover top family-friendly 4th of July events in Orange County—fireworks, parades, and more fun…
Food
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
‘Beauty and the Beast’ Live in Concert at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University
[caption id="attachment_26776" align="alignnone" width="1024"] "Beauty and the Beast" Live in Concert[/caption] Some stories have the ability to bring generations together. “I saw this movie in theaters when I was your age,” said a mother to her daughter, who was dressed in Belle’s iconic yellow gown as they filed into the Musco Center at Chapman University. The venue was alive with Disney fans young and old Sept. 29 for the first-ever “Beauty and the Beast” Live in Concert event that paired the Chapman Orchestra with professionals from the American Federation of Musicians. The tale as old as time, with music from...
Baseball Dad
[caption id="attachment_36208" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Courtesy of Los Angeles Angels[/caption] COVID-19 and stay-home orders have impacted all people and industries — including baseball. In time for Father’s Day, we spoke with Los Angeles Angels baseball outfielder Justin Upton to get a glimpse of a professional athlete and father living life in the age of coronavirus. Justin Upton Los Angeles Angels outfielder City: Newport Beach Family: Wife, Ashley; daughters, Sydnee, 4, and Evyn, 1 Los Angeles Angels player: Since 2017 How long did you know you wanted to be a professional baseball player? “I started playing when I was 4 years old...
After-School Activities for Children
[caption id="attachment_13671" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Brain Builders[/caption] If Your Child is a Brainiac At Chess Palace in Garden Grove, children can take classes, play for fun, and participate in tournaments. Chess Palace has been owned by the Ong family since 2003; some of its students have won national championships. chesspalace.com Bionerds. Budding scientists from kindergarten through sixth grade can enroll in a four-week class in Irvine to learn about worms, bacteria, DNA, and fruit flies. www.bionerdsllc.com Brain Builders offers Engineering with LEGO classes at dozens of public and private schools throughout Orange County and at its facility in Laguna Niguel. www.brainbuildersed.org...
Fashion Week Hair Design
If you’re looking to spring forward into a new style with your lovely locks, we have a few ideas. Vera Wang’s Fashion Week hair design, by runway stylist Paul Hanlon for Pai-Shau, was inspired by the collections’ rich textures, long, lean lines and strong hues. We love Vera, but we also wanted that hair! The clean-looking, sculptural styles featured fine, hidden side braids made behind the ear to peek through as the hair moves. Hanlon followed the models’ own, natural hair partings for each look. “It’s about the idea of a smaller rounded look: not pinned or sleeked, but with...
HPV vaccine
Q: [Tween] My doctor suggested we have our tween get the new HPV vaccine, which kind of boggles our minds. He just turned 11 and is not even thinking in that direction yet! We don’t do gratuitous shots and it seems like an odd thing, especially for a boy. Can’t it wait until later in high school or if we see some signals he is thinking of girls more seriously? A: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent an HPV infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical cancer in...
Mum’s the Word
Q: [Whole Family] I am a stepmother to an adorable 3 and 5-year-old. They spend a lot of time at our house and sometimes the older one slips and calls me “mom” or refers to me as her mom to her friends. The little one mimics her. I’m hugely flattered, and kind of get it. If someone asks me how many kids I have, I say three (my son is 9) without distinction. But I don’t want to cause a problem with their mother. How should I handle it without hurting their feelings? A: Parenting is a challenging task no...
Animal Steps in the Right Direction
Parents have a tough balancing act when it comes to indulging our kids’ passion for connecting with animals and deciding what is right based on our family values. Two well-known organizations have made some pretty big steps in a direction that makes those judgment calls a little easier. SeaWorld San Diego Amid much controversy (and tragic events we have all seen in the news the past few years), SeaWorld recently announced a change in their programming and policies for the future. The park will no longer engage in theatrical-style shows with their orcas, opting for an animal education demonstration that...
Smoothie Moves
Oh What a Beautiful Morning! You probably knew smoothies could be a quick and easy start to your morning (especially once school kicks in and things get hectic), but did you know the superfoods you can stash in these yummy breakfast shakes can help you look gorge This Radiant Hair Smoothie by Philosophie founder (and nutrition guru to stars like George Clooney), Sophie Jaffe, will make your locks luxe and offer a satisfying start to the day. Coconut Bliss Coconut Butter helps hydrate those strands, and packs a punch of Vitamin C which helps build collagen and promotes overall hair...
Picking a Musical Instrument for Your Child
Q: [Teens & Tweens] We got the registration forms for middle school and my son was asked to pick an instrument for the next two years. How the heck do we do that? Is there somewhere to try instruments out? Are some easier to learn than others? A: Although it may seem like an arduous task, choosing an instrument is not as difficult as it may seem. Each family of instruments produces a unique sound and has a slightly different way of playing it. Each instrument will pose different difficulties for different people; so I’d rather describe how these instruments...
Halloween, Baby!
What’s cuter than a dressed up baby, right? But costumes from Halloween shops tend to be anything but comfy and often have accessories or decorations which are unsafe. We tracked down items for four unique looks that are cozy, while festive, and can be enjoyed by baby (and everyone around baby) long after the last Jack o’Lantern candles flickers out. Doodlepants Monsters Slide on these sweaterknit leggings and give new meaning to “creepy crawlies”. While we love Frank’, the more general monsters have staying power to last past the 31st. www.doodlepants.com World Traveler We love that no only will your...
School Break Survival Guide
Free Family Fun We might not have snowballs or roaring fireplaces in Orange County, but there are a sleigh-load of family-friendly activities sure to help you survive the holiday break. OC is rich with light shows, carols, the telling of classic Christmas tales, crafts, multicultural celebrations and more. If that doesn’t jingle your bells, they’re free! Here are our faves. Nursery School - Best Neighborhoods for Car Seat Light Displays Whether you’re trying to unwind them after a family party with their wild cousins, bring them down from a sugar cookie high or just want a festive detour home, the...
Good Hydrations
Q: [All Ages] I’ve noticed that while watching games, our daughter seems to be lagging during the second half. She seems to perk up shortly after the team takes water breaks, though. We also observed this at home after practices, but figured she was just tired. Could she be dehydrated? A: During the summer, we’re pretty good about following our young children around with water bottles, urging them to stay hydrated. But as the weather cools, keeping thirst at bay is no less important. Water helps regulate our body temperature, transport nutrients and oxygen to our cells and carry away...
Sugar-Free Valentines
If you want to show the kids a little love, without the sugar buzz, try these sweet ways to show you care. Washable Heart Cushions These cushy hearts will soften anyone’s mood (they even come in a nice slate grey to match your tween or teen’s occasional stormy vibe!). Show you love your kiddo’s health, as well, as you can pop these right into the wash – great for kiddos of all ages who drool at night, or those with allergies who need to keep irritants out of the bedroom. $55, lorenacanals.us Paper Culture Wall Decals Surprise them Valentine’s morning...
Get Smart
Kids will have so much fun playing with these finds, they won’t even notice they are getting a good dose of education in the process. Fairy Tales Problem Solving STEM Kits Kids engineer happier endings to fairy tales—design a house that can’t be blown down, construct a bridge that keeps three goats safe from the troll and build a chair even Goldilocks can’t break. Each of the three included sets feature a STEM-focused story card, building materials and student/teacher lesson plans. $149, www.lakeshorelearning.com Tinkering Labs’ Electric Motor Catalyst This 50-part project kit includes electric motor prototypes to build and test...
Little Peeps Storytime Yoga
This new mobile children’s yoga and mindfulness business has earned rave reviews from many parents of children with Autism. The instructors call on their Montessori Method background and adjust classes to meet the sensory needs of all children. Every month has a theme that is translated into yoga. A Space theme might start out with a Darth Vader pranayama breath. Instructors would then read a Star Wars story and invite children to act out the poses, like Luke Skywalker (Warrior Pose). Classes include stories and yoga, Sensorial color sorting, Science projects, Language development, Cooking projects, Art, Cultural and Physical Geography,...
Father’s Day Gift Guide
Dad Duds, from Tops to, ahem, Bottoms By Sascha Zuger Commission Long Sleeve Button Down Perfect for the active dad who wants to look good for the boardroom, but stay cool under pressure. This Qwick Oxford wicking shirt is perfect for summertime brunch or steamy date nights. $108, shop.lululemon.com HP Fjord Jacket and Dynamic Short Let Pop set sail in style with this high performance, ultralight watersport jacket that keeps him high and dry in even the saltiest of seas. Shore shorts also get a makeover thanks to uber-quick dry tech material for even the most avid kayaker, fisherman or...
Learn & Grow at the Cube
FREE Family Fun Event! Visit us on Saturday, September 30, 2017 and get a FREE child admission to Discovery Cube OC for the same day! Hosted by Directions to Parenting OC's Learn & Grow 2017 at Discovery Cube Orange County. What is Learn & Grow Expo? Learn & Grow Expo is a FREE EVENT where families can find over 60 exhibitors focusing on all aspects of healthy living—experts offering the tools and wisdom parents need to know to help them raise boys and girls with strong minds and bodies. There will be free health screenings, nutrition and fitness demonstrations, and...
Staying Connected on the Go
To truly enjoy your newfound me-time, you might need to know you have a solid connection to the outside world (especially if you are new to the drop-the-kids-for-the-schoolday gig). Hum If driving carpool has taxed your nerves and your wifi signal, hum a little happy tune (or just pick up a Hum). This gadget turns your vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 connected devices. The whole basketball team can be online at once – from tablets to gaming consoles. (That’s in addition to helpful vehicle diagnostics when you need them, from roadside assistance and HD calling.) www.Hum.com...
Grace Bay Club, Turks & Caicos
Best Inclusive for Little Ones Heading out to a beach vacation with little ones isn’t exactly a stress-free option for travel when the surf rises. However the natural geography of Provodenciales and its shallow shelf makes it an ideal spot to splash and have fun with the kids, without concern about them wandering into deeper water. The white sand in front of the gorgeous Grace Bay Club is soft for baby’s sensitive feet and if your crew gets too salty, ten waterslides, a lazy river and endless pool options await. When kids get a little older (5-12), they will be...
Fearsome Flu
Steps to Take Today to Protect Your Family. By this point in the flu season, pretty much everyone knows at least a few people who have fallen ill with a nasty case. The flu arrived early and has been more severe than usual as well. Public-health experts aren’t surprised. Australia, which gets its flu season before ours in the Northern Hemisphere, was hit hard and doctors have been bracing ever since. It’s a mistake in any year to confuse influenza with the generic “colds and flu” that people talk about each winter. Influenza can be a serious disease; each year...
Tunes in the Parks
Pack a family picnic and head out to one of these outdoor summer concerts Brea’s Summer Concerts in the Park Add a little excitement to your hump day slump at Brea’s City Hall Park, where summer concerts will be held each Wednesday. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket and a picnic and relax while groups take the outdoor gazebo stage. A different genre will be featured each week. This is a family friendly event – even dogs are welcome. Shows run from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. 401 S. Brea Blvd. | July 11 to August 5 | www.ci.brea.ca.us/...
Books to Toys and More for Going Back-to-School
Kudo Banz Looking for a way to motivate and cultivate your child’s best habits? Then look no further than Kudo Banz! Kudo Banz is an innovative behavior reward system similar to a sticker chart, only worn on your child’s wrist. Children earn “kudos” for good behavior, and can see their progress easily and frequently. With a tie-in story “The Adventures of Drago and George” and an augmented reality component compatible with smartphones, Kudo Banz will encourage and cultivate better behavior in no time. $29.99; age range: 3-10 years; kudobanz.com Highlights Big Fun Activity Books Is the “Summer Slide” kicking in?...
New Year’s Resolutions Vision Board
Scrap the usual New Year’s resolutions and make a vision board instead. New Year’s resolutions can give us fresh hope and perspective, starting us on new habits. Or, possibly more often, they become a millstone of our own making around our necks, dragging us down as we fail over time to live up to the lofty goals we’ve set for ourselves. That list of good intentions—lose weight, stop smoking, act more generously, save a certain amount of money, get better grades, read at least a book a week—fades in our memories as we tackle the ups and downs of life...
Toys for All Needs
Playfoam Playfoam Pals Fantasy Friends has a surprise in every container. In each of these fun, colorful and squishy Playfoam pods, there lies a Fantasy Friend who is waiting for your child to be their best friend. Not only that, but the Playfoam that hides the Fantasy Friend can be used to shape and sculpt nests, beds, perches and anything else your child dreams up. The foam is three-toned and covered in eye-catching sparkles and it never dries out—letting the fun go on and on while your kid makes different shapes, animals, props and more out of this extremely versatile...
Editor’s Picks: June 2019
PICK OF THE MONTHDuck-A-Thon May 31 to June 2 More than 2,500 tiny rubber ducks will be battling for prizes in this unique competition. The first 60 ducks to reach shore after being dropped from the pier will win a prize for their owners. The first place winner wins $1,000. However, the real winners of this three-day event are the recipients of this fundraising effort—those in the AltaMed Medical and Dental Group’s program for the uninsured and medically underserved patients. Ducks are dropped from the side of the pier into a controlled area monitored by volunteers on surfboards. Volunteers and...
Upcoming November 2019 Holiday Events
Roger’s Gardens’ Christmas Boutique Friday November 1-Wednesday December 25 Roger’s Gardens can help make your 12 days of Christmas last almost two months with the return of its Christmas Boutique. “Enchanted Christmas” is this year’s theme, and you will undoubtedly have an enchanting time wandering around all the wondrous decorative holiday items stocked here. The Boutique is open 9 am-6 pm daily through December 25. Roger’s Gardens | 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd., Corona del Mar 949-640-5800 | rogersgardens.com Pumpkin Launch Saturday November 2 Pumpkins will be flying in the skies over Cal State Fullerton as the University and the...
Preparing for Camps
With some preparation, parents can ready children for a successful camp experience. In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness on the need to expose children to camping activities. Exposing children to camps increases their sense of self-reliance, ambition, adventure, optimism and self-esteem. Camps offer unique opportunities that enable children with varying abilities to distance themselves from daily stressors. Such a favorable environment enables children to explore their individuality. Gaining in-depth insights about themselves increases their sense of autonomy and responsibility. Children often spend most of their formative years in the same neighborhoods, reducing the diversity of their...
YMCA of Orange County
We are a place where everyone belongs. We are a place to be healthy and make meaningful connections. Our 5 fitness facilities provide equipment and classes for all fitness levels and abilities. They provide a place to build and foster friendships, reclaim healthy habits, overcome challenges and set new goals. We are a positive place for kids. With 80 before and after school enrichment locations, we offer children K-8th grade the opportunity to learn, connect, and thrive in a safe and educational environment.
Jamboree
Hosted by... Sponsorship Opportunities & Exhibitor Information Directions to The District at Tustin Jamboree Exhibitor Packages Jamboree Sponsorship Opportunities Exhibitors Map Space Reservation Form Jamboree Welcome Packet Exhibitor Map Jamboree 2025 In March 2025, families who were planning summer activities—like summer camps, learning programs, sports, and travel found what they are looking for at the Summer Opportunities Jamboree. This event connected families with organizations across Orange County that support educational growth, developmental needs, and extracurricular engagement. Whether parents were seeking summer sports, academic support, or creative outlets for their children, Jamboree was designed to showcase a wide range of programs...
It’s Time to De-stress
Therapy Dough Let’s be honest: Parenting has gotten difficult this year. Staying at home all day with the kids can take a toll, but managing your stress doesn’t have to take a backseat. Uncommon Goods’ Therapy Dough is modeled after clay used by art therapists and is even infused with natural essential oils for stress relief. With the soothing scent of lavender or vibrant smell of orange, you can squeeze out your stress and have fun doing it. $15, uncommongoods.com Taboo's Kids vs. Parents Want to spend relaxing, quality time without screens? Check out Taboo’s Kids vs. Parents game,...
Holiday Gift Guide
For Kids Mickey Mouse Activity Bench Mickey Mouse is 92 years old this holiday season and what better way to celebrate than gifting your little one a piece from Delta Children’s licensed Mickey Mouse line. Bring home the fun-loving charm of Mickey Mouse and his friends Minnie, Donald Duck and Goofy with this bench. The Mickey Mouse Activity Bench design features a conversion from a storage bench into desk in a matter of seconds. An adorable addition to any little boy or girl’s playroom, this clever activity bench will have your child smiling from ear-to-ear when they see the colorful...
Mental Health Tips for Teens
(Photo Courtesy of Jonathan Cosens Photography/Unsplash) A teen mental health expert offers parents advice on avoiding the pitfalls of bad habits. The early months of the year are usually a time for reflection, resolutions and starting anew. But with the pandemic clearly seeping into 2021, it can be more difficult for teenagers to embrace a fresh start. That doesn’t mean they can’t try. Breaking bad habits — whether on Jan. 1 or on some random Tuesday in July — is about making conscious decisions. For parents and teachers, this means helping kids stick to routines. And for teens, this means...
Veganic Nail Spa & More
Beauty and organic wellness intertwine at Veganic Nail Spa to provide customers with masks, herbal soaks, feet and leg scrubs using freshly made products…
November Thanksgiving Craft: Thankful Turkey Centerpiece
(Photo Courtesy of Adriene Madden/Adventures in the Schoolhouse) The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Thanksgiving Turkey Centerpiece. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://youtu.be/SXYawt-fyEw Craft Supplies Fall-colored construction paper or card stock 2 round foam spheres from the floral section of any craft store (1 small and 1 large) 2 large balls or skeins of yarn 1 7-10 inch skewer or wooden dowel Scissors Glue gun Stick pins Googly eyes Colored felt Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your...
Spring Happenings
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) Egg-cited for spring? Here are 20 spring and Easter-themed events across OC sure to keep your schedule packed. 1 – Buena Park Spring Eggstravaganza & Pancake Breakfast www.buenapark.com (Photo Courtesy of Buena Park) The city of Buena Park brings its Spring Eggstravaganza to Boisseranc Park on April 16. The pancake breakfast starts the party at 8 am with festivities beginning at 9 am. The morning’s activities include bounce houses, train, field games, a petting zoo and spring crafts. Local first responders will be there with their vehicles too. The Candy Hunt commences at 12 pm and...
Football Fears
My son wants to join the football team at school but I’m worried about concussions. If I let him join, how can I keep him safe? …
Mom Time
Mompreneur Cristina Gamarnik saw a need in the community for a safe space for new moms, and The Mommy Center was born…
Where Are They Now?
(Phillip Chow and students at Beckman High School in Irvine) We sit down with past Top Teacher winners to find out what they’ve been up to since their big win. (Elizabeth Zoellner/Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Elizabeth Zoellner Top Teacher 2022 Background: Zoellner is currently teaching a combination class with kindergarten and first grade. When winning the award, she was teaching first grade. She has spent her entire 27-year teaching career at Commonwealth Elementary School in Fullerton. Why She Won: Zoellner was known for really engaging her students and sparking excitement with the subject matter every day. She went above...
Sensory Summer
How to support your child’s sensory needs this summer. For many kids, summer is a time for fun, play, rest and discovery. But summer can be difficult for kids.
Navigating Divorce with Children
My husband and I are currently getting divorced and I know that it can be traumatic for kids, so how can I help them work through these kinds of traumas?
Have a Mindful Summer
Try one or more of these practical ways to help your family mindfully ease into summer. Mindfulness is a healthy coping skill that can help you regain focus
Art De-Stress
Help reduce anxiety in kids during the back-to-school season through these fun art projects. Many kids experience anxiety. Different feelings can come up
The Return of Pumpkin Palooza
A Pumpkin Dance Party Extravaganza is at the center of Pumpkin Palooza II, returning to Discovery Cube in October. The fall fun event is full of activities.
Looking Forward at OC Education in 2024
Parenting OC asks Ramon Miramontes what trends in education are seeing and how they might impact the 2024 educational Orange County landscape.
Spring Nature Lessons
Spring break offers a chance to learn mindful lessons from nature. Spring break is just around the corner. It’s the perfect time to take a break from our daily
Robot Learning
How robots are helping kids on the autism spectrum. Children with special needs coming to the Santa Ana Public Library are meeting robots ready to help.
Unearthing Dino Quest at Discovery Cube
Discovery Cube Orange County brings back its popular dinosaur exhibit bigger and better than ever. A dinosaur dig. A flying reptile called the Quetzalcoatlus.
Theme Park Fun
New adventures await at local theme parks this summer. Bright summer sunshine is the best medicine after a long El Niño winter. Southern California adventures
Kids Play & Places
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County kids’ play and places, plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Moms at Work
Discover the inspiring journey of working moms balancing career and family. Highlighting the joy, chaos, and the resilience that defines their every day lives.
Looking Forward to 2025
Stefan Bean, provides answers to questions on everything from AI to mental health in education for the 2025 school year and beyond…
David Fenstermaker – Top Teacher 2025
David Fenstermaker loves teaching — and it shows. As activities director at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton, student participation and dance attendance…
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