Transforming Theme Parks for the Holidays
Working at night, crews with cranes & ladders transform theme parks for the holidays in a hurry. Visiting local theme parks is an extra special experience for families during the holidays as the parks are dressed in their holiday best. But it takes fast-working crews to, in a matter of weeks, transform Knott’s Scary Farm into Knott’s Merry Farm, turn Disneyland into something less spooky, take the Halloween Horror Nights out of Universal Studios and end the “Brick or Treat” at LEGOLAND. Getting those holiday decorations in place is an extra-special challenge for the decorating teams at the parks as...
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....
Some OC Public Schools and Districts Working to Attract New Students
[caption id="attachment_32830" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Capistrano Unified School District - H2019 Honor Concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall[/caption] OC Schools up their game with quality programs as families have more education options than ever For Orange County parents considering their children’s educational future, it’s all about options. Whether it’s public schools, private schools, charter schools or even home schooling, families have many choices when it comes to where kids will be attending school. And school districts are taking note. “Over the past several years, public education has significantly changed,” said Brea Olinda Unified School District Communications Specialist Nichole Pichardo. “These days, ‘choice’...
Setting the Bar for Hot Chocolate
[caption id="attachment_34219" align="aligncenter" width="346"] Photo by Sarah Mosqueda[/caption] In-N-Out That’s right, OC’s favorite burger chain serves hot cocoa. In-N-Out’s tightly edited menu includes a cup of hot cocoa reportedly made with Ghirardelli Chocolate and freeze-dried marshmallows. Honesty, drinking hot cocoa out of a palm tree-adorned cup is about as California as it gets. Bonus points if you are wearing flip-flops. Multiple Locations [caption id="attachment_34221" align="aligncenter" width="402"] Photo courtesy of Sugarbuzz[/caption] Sugarbuzz With milkshakes, ice cream, and cake by the slice, it is hard not to achieve a sugar high at Sugarbuzz in Anaheim. There is also a selection of hot...
Coping with Uncertainty
Q: [All Ages] I’m super stressed out with everything that’s going on right now. How do I overcome this anxiety? A: To say these are unprecedented times is an understatement. Our parents did not talk to us about that time in their lives when the entire world was brought to its knees by a tiny RNA strand. Although we may have heard from grandparents and history books about the 1918 flu pandemic, the notion of a similar occurrence overwhelming modern technology was remote for most of us. But nature has shown us once again that its power overcomes human desires,...
Editor’s Picks: July 2020
PICK OF THE MONTH: Knott's California Marketplace Knott’s Berry Farm’s first public “attraction” was its roadside stand, so it makes sense that, during its 100th anniversary, Knott’s re-opens its Marketplace first while exiting its pandemic hiatus. Folks now can go to Marketplace stores and restaurants (like Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, Peanuts Headquarters, Candy Parlour, and The Knott’s Berry Market and Bakery) — and perhaps more of the park will be open too by the time you read this. Knott’s is following state and CDC health guidelines and has implemented safety measures at the Marketplace — including that all employees...
Learning Better and Faster
The key to learning is first learning how. When we talk about education — whether our own, our children’s or other people’s — we talk a lot about the importance of learning. We talk surprisingly little, though, about how to learn. We fail to address the reasons why learning is hard or wonder if there are things we can do to make learning easier or even more effective. Training your brain to help the learning process along rather than hindering it is a kind of superpower. It is like possessing a magical key to a secret treasure. It can make...
Reader’s Choice Awards 2020: Health Winners
Best Cosmetic Surgeon CosmetiCare CosmetiCare is not only a recognized name in Southern California but throughout the nation. Offering treatments ranging from non-surgical to surgical treatments, CosmetiCare prides itself on its top-of-the-line MedSpa treatments and results for every patient. CosmetiCare’s social media is a fan favorite, with videos from beauty gurus that are informative for anyone curious about beauty or cosmetic treatments. cosmeticare.com | Corona Del Mar Best Dermatologist Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Located in the Fashion Island area of Newport Beach, Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery specializes in individualized comprehensive dermatological care and plastic surgery for...
STEM Survival
(Photo Courtesy of Bionerds) How STEM programs survived and continue to thrive in public schools and throughout the county. The massive, nationwide experiment that was the 2020-2021 school year is now essentially over. Whether parents, teachers or students liked it or not, every student got a taste of being home schooled. The ability to adapt — either financially, technologically or logistically — was often the key to success. As an entire school year operated on a makeshift plan, some subjects fared better than others. So while it was not a great time to be a P.E. teacher, others were seemingly...
Halloween Health Safety
(Photo Courtesy of Jeremy McKnight/Unsplash) What are some ways to help keep my kids safe this Halloween? All ages As a cancer physician caring for immunocompromised patients and a mom of young children, I’m grappling with this question myself. Last year, big Halloween festivals, parades and parties were a no-go in most areas, which means so many kids are excited this year to don those costumes and go on the hunt for their favorite treats. But with schools back to in-person learning and the COVID-19 Delta variant being so easily transmissible, hospitalizations among kids are rising nationwide and in Orange...
Easy Holiday Craft: Christmas Wreath
(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 Christmas wreath. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3FYZ6bRkME&t=3s Craft Supplies 1 wooden ring from any craft store floral or fabric section Faux or real festive greenery Baker's twine Scissors Ribbon (optional) Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your child with this craft or any other craft of your choice below for a chance to be featured in Parenting OC Magazine, on The Little Red...
Moms Doing Good
(Photo Courtesy of Julia Bendis) Moms across the county share their stories of how and why they give. Julia Bendis City: Rancho Santa Margarita Family: Husband and two sons ages 17 and 22 How do you give back? “Since Day 1 of the war in Ukraine I got on the phone connecting with volunteers, civilians and military personnel on the ground, translating documents from the Ukrainian government with requests for medical supplies, connecting NGOs and other volunteers for evacuations, calling Ukrainian people stuck in their homes to get them evacuated safely, a lot of them elderly, disabled or with medical...
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? …
Teaching Gratitude
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Learn some research-backed tips for fostering a thankful child. Wanting to raise a thankful child has its challenges. The entitlement cultural narrative can be a significant challenge in your quest. Has your child been given a birthday gift or invited to a friend's party? You know they really liked the gift or party, and when it was time to leave, you say what all good parents do, "What do you say?" Your child looks at you and mumbles a "Thank you" to the host or gift giver. As you smile and laugh it off, you wonder...
Picky Eater Problems
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) My toddler is a very picky eater. What should I know about picky eaters? Toddlers Picky eating is a common problem among many children, and we know it can be very difficult for parents who want to ensure their child is receiving the appropriate nutrition. Picky eating, however, can also be a symptom of a more serious issue, such as a pediatric feeding disorder. Feeding difficulties can be related to a number of factors, including but not limited to, decreased sensory processing skills, decreased oral motor skills, a variety of medical conditions, anxiety or a combination. ...
Looking Back and Ahead With Disney100
(Photo Courtesy of Disneyland Resort) Disneyland Resort celebrates Disney100 with new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride, new Nighttime Spectaculars and more — while honoring the history of Disney. Oh, how different the country was in 1923. Just five years removed from World War I, women had just won the right to vote and the population of California was less than the population of Los Angeles today. Barely a third of Americans owned a phone, even less had indoor plumbing and electricity and Orange County was an agricultural community. When local developers erected massive letters on a hillside overlooking LA,...
Planting Change
A Huntington Beach student leads a beautification project to bring some vibrancy back to her high school. Pauline Blumenkrantz finds power…
Meet Mickey the Jaguar
In spring of last year, the OC Zoo in Orange unveiled its brand-new Large Mammal Exhibit, with two young, orphaned mountain lion sisters, a young, injured male
Community Comments
Best Bowling Alley Saddleback Lanes “I’ve been going to Saddleback Lanes since the ‘90s when I was a child growing up in Mission Viejo. I always looked forward to birthday parties and events there and even joined a league as a young teenager. I’m excited to share these experiences with my daughter when she’s old enough to bowl.” — Maureen Boswell, Mission Viejo Best Swim Class Goldfish Swim School “I highly recommend Goldfish Swim School to parents who want great instructors to teach their children water safety skills. Every staff member is highly trained to make sure you have a...
Treat Yourself
Indulge in these mouthwatering Halloween creations with no tricks involved. A sweet tooth is harder to avoid on Halloween than witches and vampires.
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.”
Elizabeth Ellison – Top Teacher 2024
Destination Imagination, Speech and Debate, Volleyball Coach, Creative Writing Club, Literacy Coalition, Instructional Rounds, Leadership Team to name a few
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.
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!
Sponsorship Opportunities & Exhibitor Information
Parents come to Jamboree to plan their family summer schedule with the friendly representatives from gold sponsor Stepping Forward, Wild Rivers Waterpark, Segerstrom Theatre, Excel Academy School, Camp James Summer Camp, Platinum Performing Arts, Aqua-Tots Swim School, Happy Feet Soccer, Destination Science Summer Camp, Skyhawks Sports Camps, Bowers Museum, Galileo Summer Camps, Compass Charter School, OC Catholic Schools, Urban Air Adventure Park, Camp Integem STEM/STEAM Camps, and many more. More photos from our 2024 event at The District at Tustin There are openings for exhibitors and sponsors, as well as entertainment on stage for Learn & Grow. Parenting OC is...
Top Teacher & Employee Awards 2024 – Winners Announed
We celebrate our 11th Annual School Heroes — Top Teachers, Top Employees and Top Leaders — of Orange County Awards and Issue. With more than 200 nominations, we were impressed as we are year after year with the caliber of teachers, employees and administrators that are clearly making the lives of our students and families so much better. This year we expanded our criteria to include all kinds of education — from private and public to alternative and online schools — and the response was truly overwhelming. All of the finalists and winners are featured in our March Issue. Also,...
Managing ‘Chatter’
Learn how to empower your children to develop healthier internal dialogues. In today’s fast-paced world, parents are no strangers to the constant stream of…
Top Teacher Finalists
Top Teacher 2025 David Fenstermaker - Sunny Hills High School Top 10 Teacher of Orange County 2025 Amy Andi Sunset Lane Elementary School Amy Andi exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and transformative educational leader, displaying an unwavering commitment to fostering student achievement and supporting school-wide reform. Her passion for teaching, innovative approaches and inclusive attitude make her an exceptional role model for students and peers. She exceeds expectations as an instructional leader, mentor and community contributor. Andi radiates enthusiasm and positive energy, inspiring students and staff alike. Whether starting the day with a hug or high five or maintaining...
Tips for Helping Your Back
Everyone loves a good massage, but sometimes it is more necessity than luxury. It is hard to juggle home, relationships, work and motherhood when you can’t even juggle a couple of foam balls without wincing. Getting away to a spa doesn’t always fit into our busy schedules, so here are a few at-home helpers we checked out to keep your back on track. Varidesk Pro Plus 36 Anyone with back troubles knows how challenging the simple act of sitting can be. This sit-to-stand desk keeps back pain from cramping your style at work. Simply set the ergonomically designed platform atop...
The Art of the Heart
Help kids express their inner artist, and feelings, with these fun kits themed to the season. Foodstirs Valentine’s Kit How sweet is it to be loved by someone who ordered this chic kit by Sarah Michelle Gellar. Brownie heart pops are Pinterest-worthy, and tasty. $19.95, www.Foodstirs.com Mandala Expressions They might be too old for scrawled crayon roses, but these blossom-themed grown-up coloring books with Sargent Art pencils might be just the thing to de-stress tweens/tweens from their young love woes. $34.95, store.discovery.com Crystal Creation Kit Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend this time of year, but we loooooove STEM-activities...
Facial Treatments
Women face a lot of daily stress…and then stress even more when it shows on our face! If you can sneak away for a little me-time, pull double duty with a relaxing treatment that will leave you glowing and ready to, ahem, face the world. Many facials include scalp, hand, feet or neck massages — or that 15 minute pick me up can be tagged on simultaneously for a small fee without extending your time away from juggling all those home-and-family balls. If you can’t spare the hour, check out these at home helpers that can help you fake it...
Going Tech-Free at Camp
Kids Unplug and Make Lifelong Connections In our world of constant connectivity, some might argue that kids shouldn’t be expected to “unplug” for weeks on end. And yet most overnight summer camps are still tech-free zones. Why? Recent studies reveal there are good reasons for taking a tech break. And seasoned camp directors are privy to a little known fact: Kids actually enjoy it. Erec Hillis, boys’ camp director at Camp Champions in Texas, says, “Many of our campers actually thank us for the opportunity to put away their phones for a while. Some of them say that it is...
Camp Fear
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter is about to spend her first week at Sleep away Camp. But every week, there’s a new cause for panic. What if I get bitten by a snake, what if I get stung by wasps, what if I can’t pass the swim test, what if I can’t sleep, what if I can’t remember the words to the camp fire songs…how do I help quell her anxiety and get her excited about camp? A: Going off to camp for the first time is an exciting event. There is a new type of independence, new friends, new foods,...
Practicing in the Heat
Q: [School-Aged] You hear these tragic stories of kids who suddenly drop in the middle of a game or match, passing away from heart issues. Is this genetic? Is it from the heat or overworking during practice? I know the odds of anything like that happening are remote, but is there anything the parents can do? A: Thank you for the question. Definitely excess heat, overworking and exhaustion can impose health risks. However, it sounds like what you are thinking of is sudden cardiac death (SCD) from unknown pre-existing cardiac disease. The chances of these SCD events are rare and...
Best Foot Forward
One of the most exciting things about the first day of school was busting out your new kicks for the year. Share the tradition with your little one with these picks for every personality. For Your Beachy Keen Kid If your little ones are in denial about summer’s end, these sneaker-sandal hybrids by Keen might put the skip back in their step. With a full back structure (that should satisfy those picky school restrictions) and open weave toed front, these reverse-mullet shoes are party in the front, business in the back. KEEN Newport H2 & Uneek Sandal $40/$60, www.keenfootwear.com For...
Secretly Straighten
Less visible solutions to new smiles. October is National Orthodontic Health Awareness Month. As new “invisible” technology has expanded and improved, it’s becoming more and more common for adults to seek orthodontic treatment. Research shows that having a “good bite” can improve dental health and prevent the need for dentures later in life. As a child, Tina McDermott received dental advice that was commonly given in the ‘80s. “My teeth weren’t horribly crooked,” she says, “so my dentist told my mom that I didn’t need braces, and that I could keep my wisdom teeth.” Once considered to be primarily cosmetic,...
Speakers
Hear ye, Hear ye. Want great audio for your kids, or your backyard parties? Try out these tech’y finds. (We approve this message.) TURTLE BEACH ELITE PRO T.A.C. This tactical audio controller from well-known gaming headset and headphone operation is designed to make the most of audio needs for eSports, movie-viewing and gaming. The tech manages and controls Surround Sound and “Superhuman Hearing” with powerful chat and microphone tuning tools to cover all the AV bases. $199.95, www.turtlebeach.com WavHello’s SoundBub This lightweight bluetooth-enabled portable speaker and soother can be easily attached to the car seat or stroller, and features a...
Inspiring Families of OC
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming, even in the idyllic environs we enjoy in Orange County. As reflections about the past and new year kick in, we wanted to share the inspiring stories of a few OC families. The Brown Family 100 Miles and Counting Last December, Kelly and Allen Brown sat their small children, Eden 5 and Elijah 3, around the kitchen table. They felt it was important to teach their kids about the rewards of hard work and began an elementary conversation about goals. As January approached with resolutions soon to follow, the Brown family comtemplated setting a goal...
Serenity Now! Sleep Makeover
Those of us in, or remembering, baby days know the key to peace and happiness (and sometimes survival) can be as simple as a good night’s sleep. Too rarely do we make it a true priority, though. Our bedrooms are an afterthought. It’s the one room where friends generally aren’t traipsing through, so we don’t give it the same attention when it comes to décor or even comfort. And in the priority game of keeping the kids happy and healthy, crawling around picking up legos a little sibling might choke on, or making a platter of nachos or grilled cheese...
It Isn’t Your Cooking…
Q: [Infants] Is the “witching hour” a real thing? Our normally chipper newborn seems to be happy all day and right as the house starts humming around dinnertime, the wails begin. Is it us? Is there too much chaos that it is stressing her out? Does she hate the smell of my cooking? HELP! A: It tends to strike when parents most need a break. At the end of the day, your well-fed, otherwise happy baby begins to fuss and cry and nothing seems to help. It isn’t your cooking, it’s colic. Colic is common. It is estimated about 40...
OC Eco-Heroes
From recycling to redefining green-clean, protecting the environment is more than a passion for these eco-heroes. Bo Glover Forefront on Bo’s mind as he jumped into his VW Bug and headed west to California was making sure the car would survive the nearly 3,000-mile trek from Pennsylvania to Newport Beach without breaking down. After several days’ journey, Bo was breathing in the beach air and charting a course for his new adventure. Instead of spending his days sipping sodas, toes in the sand, he immediately settled into his new community by seeking out ways to volunteer his time. Bo made...
A Good Foundation
Mom might love a box of chocolates, but these collections of natural beauty-booyah will earn a (perfectly glossed) smile from even the most careful of mamas. LOVE GOODLY This eco-beauty company’s April/May box features a selection of 100% toxin-free, cruelty-free, and stylishly vegan beauty + wellness essentials. Each purchase benefits Farm Sanctuary, a leading farm animal protection organization. Treat Mom with a one time gift or every other month subscription. $29 (with value over $125), www.LoveGoodly.com Whole Foods Beauty Bag Want to show you have good taste in eco-makeup? Head to Whole Foods. While they might be known for organic...
Picking the Right Sunscreen for Your Family
Daily sunscreen use is essential to the prevention of skin cancer, skin damage and premature aging. But with so many options, picking the right one can become a daunting task. My recommendation? Choose one that meets your family’s skincare needs and lifestyle. So why so much emphasis on regular sunscreen use? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 5 million skin cancer cases are diagnosed annually. While some people are at an increased risk, individuals of all ethnicities and skin tones can develop skin...
The Summer Fun Guide
The Chill List If climbing temps have kids climbing the walls, let off some steam with these cool options for summer fun. Seven New Water Slides at Knott’s Soak City One of OC’s best places to chill out just got cooler, with seven new slides making a total of 22 speed, tube and body slides plus the 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool; the one-third-mile long Sunset Lazy River; and the three-story Beach House, featuring 200 water guns, nozzles, sprayers and other interactive surprises. Four of the new slides start with guests climbing a 60ft tower, stepping inside an Aqua-Launch...
Jodi’s Royally Fun Party
Jodi, 8, Newport Theme: Princess Mermaid Location: Once Upon an Island, Balboa Island Photography by: Jessica Miles Invites by: eVite Snacks and Refreshments: Homemade Decorated Sugar Cookies, Tea Party-style pizza and lemonade provided by Once Upon an Island Entertainment or Party Planner: Once Upon an Island, Rapunzel led dress up, story time, craft and beauty salon to do the girls’ hair & nails. The Goods on the Goody Bag: Mermaid Bouncy Balls, treats and Mermaid Stickers from Target “It was a great party! Princess Rapunzel and the mermaids were all in character and made it fun and special. The girls...
Editor’s Picks: January 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Polar Bear Plunge January 20th Sometimes to rally the whole family together to have a little fun, you need to amp up the cool meter. The Polar Bear Plunge certainly does that, no pun intended. This family-friendly event is perfect for kids, teens and fun-loving adults who long for a bit of winter without the long and stressful drive on snowy or icy roads to the mountains. At this annual Mission Viejo event, you’ll get a taste of winter and summer. Folks can have fun getting into snowball fights with 180 gallons of artificial snow as...
Chronic Catalina
The impact of a million visitors a year and the arrival of dozens of activities can’t shake off the original Catalina. Here’s hoping it never fades away. By the nature of their isolation, separated by sea from other influences, islands can be slow to evolve. When a people, a way of life, a plant or an animal takes hold, these things happily cling and resist the forces of change as the world spins. Therein lies the charm of Catalina Island, at least for me. Most of Avalon took shape in the ‘20s and ‘30s. The shaper was William Wrigley Jr.,...
Shopping Locations for Back-to-School Fashion
Peek Clothing Empowering messages, internationally-inspired trends and unique graphics are among the finds kids can make at this Fashion Island shop. Peek carries Bohemian-inspired dresses, rompers and playful shorts for girls. The boutique clothing store is also stocked with laced eyelet dresses, embroidered trench coats and knit, multi-color cardigans. Accessories such as hats, shoes and jewelry are available for purchase as well. Its selection for boys includes thick terry knit hoodies, space-themed T-shirts and twill jeans. Peek’s items are unique in that they often feature international destinations (recent picks have included Italy, Australia and Africa) and quotes from celebrated scientists,...
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...
Editor’s Picks: May 2019
PICK OF THE MONTHBear Awareness DaySaturday, May 4th Ursine enthusiasts will barely be able to contain their excitement over today’s activities (10 am–3 pm). Gather family and friends for a day of bear-themed activities, zookeeper chats and more. Chat with bear keepers and visit learning stations where you can discover the latest in bear research and conservation. Find out how to react in a bear encounter and ways to “bear-proof” camping sites. There will be bear-related craft projects designed for kids too.Reservations are not needed. Activities are free with paid zoo admission ($2 per person, ages 2 & under free)....
Back-to-School Fashion 2019
From left to right, Greyson Mino, Gianna Acacio and Savanna Pablo hang out on the Ocean Institute’s brig Pilgrim in Dana Point, ready for the new school year ahead. Greyson is wearing Billabong Sundays Mini shirt ($42.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Quiksilver Wax Out shorts ($35 at Jack’s Surfboards) with Robert Kids Stance Socks ($12 at Stance at Irvine Spectrum Center; stance.com). Gianna is wearing Billabong Baja Cove sweater ($55.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Billabong Mad for You shorts ($29.95 at Jack’s Surfboards). Savanna is wearing a Billabong Artic Oasis jacket ($59.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Billabong Little Bella Day...
Answering Dreaded Questions
Q: [Toddler] My toddler just asked me an embarrassing question. What should I do? A: Whether the question was, “Where did I come from?” or “Why does Daddy pee different from Mommy?” a parent’s worst fear is that they’ll be caught off guard and totally tongue-tied when their toddler asks a challenging question. (Or that it will happen loudly and in public!) If you’ve just found yourself in this situation, take a breath. First, know that what’s come out of your toddler’s mouth may be different than what you’re imagining, so start by clarifying the question. You might think they...
Autism & Health
Good health and wellness practices for children with autism are important to overall well-being. There’s a lot for parents to process when a child receives a diagnosis of autism. And there are some important needs to tend to beyond behavioral symptoms. Oftentimes, health and wellness practices can be compromised by symptoms and behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is important for parents to make health and wellness a top priority for children with ASD to make a difference in their lives now, and for years to come. Feeling a sense of belonging within a community is an extremely...
Motherhood and Depression in a COVID World
Q: [Adults] I’m pregnant and I’ve heard a lot about postpartum depression. Is the pandemic impacting this issue for new moms? Maternal depression is the most common complication of pregnancy in the nation. An estimated one in five new or expectant mothers will experience a mental health disorder during pregnancy or in the first year following childbirth. These disorders include depression, anxiety and the less prevalent but most severe of the disorders, postpartum psychosis. Low-income populations often have higher prevalence of depression and sadly, the impact of the woman’s early childhood hardship can influence depression or anxiety later in her...
6 Spooky Goodies to Inspire the Halloween Spirit
Get the family into the Halloween spirit this year with these fun products. Feeling Witchy Gift Box Feeling that Halloween itch? This gift box from Peace Organics includes a black charcoal cold-process soap bar, a candle of choice and a box of matches. The candle is available in several fall fragrances including Autumn Wreath, Black Amber & Plum, Fallen Leaves, Fireside and Pumpkin Spice. They made sure not to leave out any dads either with their masculine scent Oakmoss & Amber. Overall the perfect gift for anyone wanting to add some spooky vibes to their self-care routine. $29, peaceorganics.com Embroidered...
Reader’s Choice Awards 2020: Kids Play & Places Winners
Best Mommy & Me My Gym A fifth-year winner, My Gym in Yorba Linda is the perfect place to get kids and babies moving. Arts and crafts, music and games help keep kids engaged and active. From tumbling to handstands, classes grow with your kids, and drop-off programs and pay-by-day options make choosing My Gym easy. Birthday party packages are available too, with so many themes to choose from like Hello Kitty and Star Wars. mygym.com/yorbalinda | Yorba Linda Best Party Caterer Chick-fil-A With multiple locations throughout Orange County, Chick-fil-A’s quality and customer service keep fans coming back. As one...
Ballet Academy & Movement (BAM)
A new dance studio has opened in South Orange County. Owner and mother of two Amanda Cobb teaches ballet, hip-hop, jazz dancing, modern, gymnastics and more at Ballet Academy and Movement (BAM)…
Reader’s Choice Awards 2021: Community Comments
Best Fair / Festival: OC Fair & Event Center “The most complete fair around with rides, games, awesome food, entertainment, concerts, cute animals and more.” — Debbie Moretti Best Place to See Sea Creatures: Aquarium of the Pacific “So many different sea creatures to see and fun activities for the kids as well, like face painting!” — Maria Montalvo Best Science Museum: Discovery Cube Orange County “Great variety and interactive attractions for the kids. They also switch up themes and attractions regularly to keep it fresh and engaging.” — Sayda Alongi Best Bilingual School: Orange County Educational Arts Academy “Kids...
Pine Cone Birdfeeder
The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Holiday Wreath. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos…
Readers’ Choice Awards Winners — 2023
Congrats to all the places, services, schools, and more that our readers have chosen as the best around Orange County for the 21st annual Readers’ Choice Awards
Goal-Setting for the School Year
(Photo Courtesy of Taylor Wilcox/Unsplash) How to help your kids achieve goals in the new school year with a sensory vision board. Does your child have ADHD, autism, anger problems or other issues that get in the way of effective learning? If so, you're not alone. Many parents struggle with helping their kids succeed academically. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to support your child with the goal of becoming an effective and enthusiastic student. One of the things that can be very helpful is a vision board. We'll talk about how to make...
Mom Time
Mompreneur Cristina Gamarnik saw a need in the community for a safe space for new moms, and The Mommy Center was born…
Metta Love
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Metta meditation offers a boost of love for you, the kids and the world. Loving-kindness meditation, or Metta meditation, is an ultimate form of generosity, selflessness and love toward ourselves and others. In fact, Metta is a Pali word for benevolence, friendship, affection and kindness. The Dhammapada says, “Hatred cannot co-exist with love and kindness. It dissipates when supplanted with thoughts of love and compassion.” Try a Metta meditation. May I be happy, may you be happy, and may all our family members be happy. May I be safe, may you be safe, and may all...
Summer At Sesame Place
Plunge into this new San Diego amusement and waterpark for a memorable family summer adventure. “Five, four, three, two, one!” Splash. “Here it comes again,”
Tangled Web
A local mental health professional offers useful tips on how to protect and prepare children in an increasingly online world. Nicole recently arrived at the youth shelter I oversee. She is 15 and in crisis. Her home life is pretty overwhelming, so she turned to social media to escape and numb out. But over time, that source of solace grew into a full-blown addiction. Nicole is disengaged from extracurricular activities, choosing instead to spend hours each day on social media. She will often miss meals, classes and sleep as she stares into her cell phone. Her addiction has exacted a...
Moms with Unique Passions
Meet these fascinating local moms with driving passions ranging from Bollywood dance to scare acting. Apra Bhandari Family: Daughter, Saanvi,…
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
Family Fun
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County fun for families and plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
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.
The Evolving Landscape of Parent Wellness
The new year brings advancements and transformative changes in parenting and well-being. Parenting is a beautiful journey that requires constant adapting.
Tania Morales – 2024 Top Employee
(Photo by A&C Photography) Beyond Blindness, Santa Ana Charlie was born with a rare genetic condition called Hunter syndrome. He went into the hospital at 3 months old for an intensive two-week chemo course before receiving a stem cell transplant. The treatment worked, but at 5 months old, an incident occurred during a surgery where his heart stopped for 35 minutes. Charlie survived, but suffered a massive brain injury. “We went to save our baby only to go home with a list of disabilities and ailments we were never prepared for,” says his mom, Kristin McKay, in a letter to...
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
Learn & Grow: Exhibitor Information
FREE Family Fun Event! Learn & Grow is back! Keep an eye out for more information to come! Learn & Grow Expo is a FREE EVENT where families can find exhibitors and experts focusing on all aspects of healthy living—offering the tools and wisdom parents need to know to help raise boys and girls with strong minds and bodies. There will be plenty of free resources! For more information, call 714-630-4510 https://www.youtube.com/embed/OuQNynRfjAY General Information and Download Forms Speak to your sales representative today for more information, or call the Parenting OC office at 714-630-4510. Directions to Learn & Grow at The District...
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!
Halloween for All Ages
SoCal has Halloween covered, packed with special and reworked attractions, Halloween-themed food and live shows. Family-Friendly chills all spooky season long!
Leading through Reading
Shannon Woest helps kids connect to the world through a love of books. She volunteered at Mission Viejo’s Del Lago Elementary School 13 years ago and never left
Valentine’s Day Art
Show you and your family some love with these arts and crafts projects. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and why not show yourself some love in the…
Beaver Creek
[caption id="attachment_13590" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Beaver Creek Resort is the perfectly designed ski village of family vacation dreams.Photo by Jack Affleck[/caption] The Ultimate Family Ski Getaway There’s a wonderful indefinable energy about Colorado’s Beaver Creek Ski Resort, something akin to getting a family hug by a destination. Swoosh your way into this easy peasy one-stop spot that has everything you need to build memories and some serious quads from the world class skiing. Getting Around Don’t feel chained down by worries over snowy driving, let the pros at Colorado Mountain Express whisk you from the airport to your getaway. Once in...
CIT, a Summer Solution for Tweens and Teens
Is your tween insisting she’s too old to attend camp this summer? If your child isn’t old enough to get a summer job and just hanging around for three months is off the table, look into your local Counselor-in-Training (CIT) programs. These programs are for young teens serious about assuming the responsibility and effort it takes to work with young children in a camp setting. Openings are limited, and some camps only consider those teens who have been “campers” in previous years, so now is the ideal time to do your research. What It’s All About CIT programs (sometimes called...
Special Needs Camps
Sending a child to summer camp for the first time can make any parent nervous. But worries are often magnified for parents of kids with special needs. Images of sunlit lakes and carefree campers are often trumped by concerns about behavior, communication, and physical safety. Stacy De La O, whose daughter has high functioning autism, remembers the weeks leading up to Fia’s first overnight camp experience as a 10-year-old. “I was a wreck!” she admits. “But we prepared well, and in the end I trusted the counselors at Blue Compass to take care of her.” Children with physical, cognitive, or...
Screen-Free Survival Guide
Can your children survive a week without their favorite TV shows, computer games, and videogames? More importantly, can you? According to the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, children who spend less time with the TV, computer, and videogames do better in school and have more time for creative play and interaction with caring adults. For this reason, the group advocates for Screen-Free Week from May 2nd to May 8th. We have suggestions for activities that can make the week not just bearable, but great fun. Bonus: Because your family will burn extra calories during Screen-Free Week, we’re making daily dessert...
Spelling Bee 2016
F-U-N, Parenting OC’s Annual Spelling Bee Recap On May 7, Parenting OC’s Annual Spelling Bee kicked off at Fairmont Private Schools’ Anaheim Hills Campus in an interactive chat with award-winning author, Debra Garfinkle, who served as Spelling Bee judge. Garfinkle spoke about her journey as an author, and how she was told “no” several times before she was able to publish her books, encouraging the spellers to never give up. The fierce competition involved 58 elementary students from throughout Orange County. After 12 rounds, six spellers remained. The word list had been exhausted. Much to the surprise of the entrants,...
Summertime Chutes and Ladders
Q: [School Aged] I let the kids lounge for the first week or two of summer, but I can practically feel their little brains mushing out with every passing hour on the couch. How can I sneak in some learning so they don’t go into shock when summer is over? A: Without finding ways to spark educational enrichment, the dreaded “summer slide” can occur. According to National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), most students score lower on standardized tests at the end of summer vacation than at the beginning. Their retention of certain skills suffers even more: NSLA reports that most...
First Impressions
Q: [School-Aged] My son has been diagnosed as ADHD. We are about to start a new school, how should I present this to the teacher to best get an advocate for him when I’m not around and make sure he isn’t misunderstood as a ‘bad kid’? A: In my experience, the best way to approach this issue to be honest and upfront with the school and teachers. Hopefully, your son has an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or a 504 Accommodations Plan, to get any extra help or services he may need. Federal Law requires schools to provide an environment where...
Ciao’ing Down at Brio Tuscan Grille
As we ramp up into the hectic fall weekends filled with soccer tournaments and football games, hours spent scouring a massive shopping center for just the right Halloween accessory for our little ghoul or boy, the Irvine Spectrum seems like a great spot to get everything knocked off the list at once. The problem? You’ll only get halfway through before the “I’m staaaaarving!”s start. We checked out Brio Tuscan Grille, partly because we liked the wine list (and the sound of those Black Raspberry Cosmos and Italian Lemonades!), but also because a quick spin around their children’s menu left us...
Baby-to-Boardroom Bags
Moms don’t have to give up style to be prepared for every toddler trauma or baby blowout, and these carryalls pull double duty at the office or at home. Work it, Mama! Robert Matthew Jordan Tote We are so thankful for the perfectly harvest-inspired look of this Animal-Friendly pu Leather, we don’t even mind that it might not technically be a diaper bag. It’s big enough to handle a full sized laptop for work, while offering enough room for the odds and ends your little one would be lost without. The attached mini-wallet can carry the necessities for those time...
New Year, New Family Dynamic
Families going through separation and divorce often struggle with how to talk with each other about all the transitions their family may be experiencing. Often, changes in the family situation take place after holidays, with both parties wanting to wait until after the festivities to make big changes that could cause upset. Here are a few tips during this time of transition: Be consistent with rules/boundaries: Kids need your guidance, and that includes firm rules or boundaries. Try to keep the children’s rules/boundaries the same as they were before the separation or divorce, if you can, and consistent between homes,...
Picking the Perfect Pediatric Dentist for Your Child
She carries a wand, she wears a crown, and she loves healthy smiles! We all know and love the tooth fairy—even though she may force you to make regular trips to the ATM, but the tooth fairy could not do her job if there wasn’t a healthy mouth to work with. Long before the tooth fairy takes flight, children as young as age one should be making trips to the dentist at least twice a year to prevent cavities and gum disease. In fact, this preventative work is so important that tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease in...
Back at The Ranch (at Laguna Beach)
The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a special sort of place, tucked in a box canyon, it feels swept away from the traffic and hustle of Orange County. This is the sort of place where kids take in the otherworldy air of serenity and breathe a little easier. Parents worried about the junk food populating many kids’ menus these days can breathe easier, too. Part of that is thanks to Harvest’s Executive Chef Charles Imbelli, an exuberant father whose love and pride toward his daughter, Frankie, is as obvious as that he shows in his food. Charles Imbelli’s love affair...
Sand in Their Hair?
Q: [School-Aged] My kids spent their whole vacay in the hotel kids’ club, much of it mashed in with new friends taking group selfies. Now I am looking at the pics with a shudder after catching both of them itching their scalps…yep, lice. How could this happen? A: As school vacation approaches, families look forward to a break from the demands of the daily routine. You want to come home relaxed and renewed after travels. You certainly do not want your children to return from hotel kids’ clubs or a cruise with an unexpected souvenir like head lice, turning a...
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