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...
Kids Camps Adventures
Enjoy sailing, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, shark dissection and more at Newport Sea Base in Newport Beach. There are undeniable benefits to sending your kids to camp. And in Orange County, the camping possibilities are endless. Ask any kid what he or she liked about summer camp and the response might go something like this: “It was fun!” Though the underlying theme of most camps—whether day or overnight—is indeed fun. Kids who attend camps are getting much more. “As children grow, they face a variety of developmental tasks as they transform and become more sophisticated in how they think,...
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...
Steve & Kate’s Camp
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s has put kids in charge of their own learning experience. Kids ages 4-12 choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, film, sports, and more! Families can buy any number of days, and use at any time–no weekly reservations required. Or, buy a Summer Pass, which covers the whole season. Either way, any unused Passes will be automatically refunded at summer’s end. Lunch, snacks & all hours (8am–6pm) included. 949.669.5134 | steveandkatescamp.com/Irvine irvine@steveandkate.com
Top Employee of Orange County 2023
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Patty Fabian Vibrant Minds Charter School in Anaheim Just a few things Patty Fabian does for Vibrant Minds Charter School include answering phones, payroll, collaborating with the school district for homeless issues and the meal program, arranging transportation, translation at meetings, cleaning restrooms when needed, tending to sick students and the list goes on. “I do anything and everything that is needed,” she says. “It’s never boring. Every day is different.” Though technically her title is lead office clerk/office coordinator, she goes far above and beyond that. Fabian is Parenting OC Magazine’s Top Employee winner...
Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services presents Camp Newport
With hundreds of camps to choose from you’re invited to Newport Beach to explore our shores in a sailing, surf, and bodyboarding camp, enjoy the breeze in a range of outdoor sports and active camps, or embrace the shade in one of the many science, music, technology, and art camps awaiting you. For more information, visit campnewport.com. Sign up by May 4 and receive a 10% or more discount on most camps! 949.644.3151 | www.campnewport.com recreation@newportbeachca.gov
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...
Best Parks in OC
Play in the Park! Find the best family friendly parks and play places that Orange County has to offer. 1. Irvine Regional Park (Photo Courtesy of OC Parks) Irvine Regional Park features close to 500 acres of picnic areas, sport fields, hiking and equestrian trails. Other attractions include Orange County Zoo, Irvine Park Railroad and pony rides, bike and paddle boat rentals and plenty of playgrounds. The park’s train guides passengers through the historic park, which sits in the foothills of Orange. The petting zoo is nestled among the park’s live oak and sycamore groves, where families can feed goats...
Wild Rivers is Back
We introduce our new blog focused on finding fun, themed adventures in and around OC. Wild Rivers is pumping with activity, rides and water. The OC Zoo has a new
High Expectations
Special education teacher Nicole Messick has a deep passion for helping nurture student potential. They may look different. They may behave differently.
Holiday Gift Guide
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) Unwrap excitement this season with on-trend stocking stuffers and unique local finds for everyone on your list. FOR KIDS (Photo Courtesy of Red & Olive) Red & Olive Co. Stuffed Dolls Each doll created by stepmother-and-daughter team Lita Barreda and Destiny Conner has its own personality, from Sassy Cassy the cat to Stinky Reed the adventurous skunk. Designed in Newport Beach and hand-knitted by artisans in Peru, the 7-inch baby collection animals fit perfectly in the crook of tiny arms, while 22-inch dolls make the perfect friends for kids with big imaginations. $35-$98; redandoliveco.com (Photo Courtesy...
Hot Educational Toys
These educational toys make learning a blast! Smithsonian Mold & Paint Kits The education craft kits by Skullduggery combine creativity, discovery, and learning in one. Each kit includes everything needed to create a masterpiece and an Illustrated Educational Booklet. We love the Dolphin and Whale Kit for marine mammal fans, while the Space Kit launches imaginations as they recreate history. $15, www.skullduggery.com PLAYMOBIL Pharaoh’s Pyramid Spark a love of history, and let imagination unlock ancient secrets and mysteries. Uncover sneaky traps and hidden treasures throughout five chambers, climb to the top to explore the mummy’s tomb chamber, or remove the...
Parents’ COVID-19 Vaccine Questions Answered
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) What should I know about the COVID-19 vaccine for younger kids? Ages 5 to 11 As a pediatrician, I see firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions parents go through regarding the recent emergency use approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. While some parents are elated by the approval, others have described the process of deciding whether or not to vaccinate their young children as the most nerve-wracking experience they’ve had as parents. I work with my parents to try to allay fears and separate fact from fiction. With a vast array of...
What to Know About RSV
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) What do I need to know about RSV to protect my kids? 0 to 2 Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is common, and one of the many viruses that cause respiratory illness — illnesses of the nose, throat and lungs. For healthy children, RSV symptoms resemble a common cold, but it may lead some immunosuppressed and young babies to develop lower respiratory illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia. RSV is spread from respiratory secretions through close contact with infected people or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Its typical peak season of transmission is from October to March. ...
Conquering Fears of the Dentist
Help make visits to the dentist a breeze for your kids with these expert tips. Dr. Azi Ardakani knows that fear of the dentist can become a significant challenge for children and their families. “I have a now 9-year-old girl that two years ago wouldn’t even sit in our dental chair,” said Ardakani, who owns Little Heroes of Orange County Pediatric Dentistry in Laguna Hills. “From the start, she had the fear in her eyes.” Ardakani learned from the girl’s mom that she’d had a very bad experience with a non-pediatric dentist. “I made sure we talked about other things...
Back-to-School Sleep Prep
(Photo Courtesy of Robo Wunderkind/Unsplash) A local child sleep expert offers some helpful tips for getting families onto a healthy sleep program in time for returning to school. Back to school is almost here! It might sound shocking or unreal, especially after learning how to home school, but it’s time to get back in the groove of things and to a normal life. Back to school is one of parents’ busy times of year. Parents can easily get overwhelmed by all the back-to-school preparing and shopping, and usually an important part of preparing for back to school is missed —...
Fourth of July Fun
(Photo Courtesy of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort) Whether it involves fireworks or not, there’s plenty to do this July 4th holiday across OC. WITH FIREWORKS June 30 Huntington Beach Annual 4th of July Celebration www.hb4thofjuly.org Huntington Beach devotes five days celebrating the Fourth of July. June 30 has a Block Party on Main Street, with the Pier Plaza Festival, featuring carnival rides, live music, food trucks and vendors, happening July 1-4. July 4th starts with the Surf City Run & Kid's Fun Run, followed by the 10 am Independence Day Parade along PCH at 10 am, and concludes with majestic...
Montessori Prep
A Montessori mom and educator offers tips for preparing for your child’s early school days. Montessori education instills important values and life lessons.
Crafting with Heart
Make some art with the family for Valentine’s Day and help continue the year with self-care. With Valentine’s Day near and as we fully embark into this new year
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...
Betsy Ross: Flag-Making
We are counting down the days to the 4th of July! The Little Red Schoolhouse has created an ADORABLE Betsy Ross cross-curricular lesson in History, Language Arts, and writing to keep your kids busy and avoid the COVID/Summer slide in learning! Your little patriots will love this craft, as we hone our seamstress fine motor skills creating our very own American flags just like Betsy! Craft Supplies White card stock or piece of light weight cardboard (like a cereal box) in the shape of a rectangle. White, red, & blue yarn A large plastic needle safe for kids Scissors Glue...
Best of OC Awards 2019: Lifestyle & Services
Best Shopping Destination South Coast Plaza The carousel turns in the middle of 250 shops and 30 restaurants, balancing shop and play. But the kid-friendly options for clothing and food also make it an easy choice for parents looking to fit and feed different ages. South Coast Plaza has been a readers’ favorite for 10 years. southcoastplaza.com | Santa Ana Best Family Photographer Ralph Palumbo The veteran magazine photographer specializes in making people look like they belong on the cover. His work has appeared in local and regional magazines, online publications and in advertising. Creative, friendly and affordable, the work...
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.
The District at Tustin Legacy to Host Learn & Grow Family Fun Fair
Join us on September 14 for a free, fun, family-friendly fair that features learning resources and after-school activities at The District at Tustin Legacy.
Food
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County food for families and plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Jamboree
Hosted by... Sponsorship Opportunities & Exhibitor Information Directions to The District at Tustin Jamboree Exhibitor Packages Jamboree Sponsorship Opportunities Exhibitors Map Jamboree 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...
Editor’s Picks: November 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH: Holidays at the Disneyland ResortFriday, November 8 - Monday, January 6“World of Color — Season of Light” again illuminates evenings at California Adventure, where you can also experience Disney Festival of Holidays and Santa’s Holiday Visits. Disneyland presents the festive “A Christmas Fantasy” parade and “Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular, with its magical snowfall finale. You’ll discover more holiday attractions at both parks too. Hours vary; check the website for full details.Disneyland, 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim714-781-4565 | disneyland.disney.go.com Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad DayFriday, November 8 - Sunday, November 24Have a very...
Editor’s Picks: March 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Dana Point Festival of Whales Saturday March 3 - Sunday March 4 Saturday March 10 - Sunday March 11 An over-whale-ming amount of fun is to be had at the 47th annual Festival of Whales in Dana Point Harbor. For two full weekends, this exciting event has a little (actually big) something for all ages – real life whales! The festival invites families to experience some of the greatest animals alive during the gray whale’s annual migratory ritual. Besides whale watching, the event also offers a gigantic list of activities, including sand sculpting competitions, a clam...
Teaching Giving
Light the World Giving Machines offer teachable moments of service for kids while giving locally to those in need. Kourtney Harrison says she and her husband…
AI in Progress
As AI technologies evolve, local educators work to develop best practices preparing kids for the addition of AI to school curriculums in the near future.
Camp Lessons for Life
It is often said that summer camp helps children make memories to last a lifetime. But camp does more than build memories — it builds strong, resilient and…
Escape to Cambria
Where Moonstones, kayak paddles, otters and elephant seals compete with Hearst Castle for attention. The time was when families traveled to the San Simeon area solely to tour Hearst Castle and take in views of the dramatic Central Coast shoreline. Don’t get me wrong, those are still around and as eye-popping as ever — and the prices at the castle have been kept at a surprisingly reasonable $25 for adults and $12 for children. These days, though, there’s so much more to do and see in the area. Elephant seals, sea otters, whales, monarch butterflies, hikes in the woods, waterfalls...
Destination Science
The fun science day camp for curious kids 5-11! This summer enroll your camper in Solar Engineers & Sci-Mystery, Robot Island Marine Science, and Space Adventures Camp to experience fun, hands-on science encouraging year-round learning. Three science stations daily, 15 science activities plus games, silly songs and all the fun of camp! Our staff are enthusiastic professionals who love kids, science & camp. Multiple OC locations including The Fullerton Arboretum @ CSUF. Hurry for Early Bird Savings! Fullerton Arboretum (at CSUF) 1900 Associated Drive Fullerton info@destinationscience.org 888.909.2822 | www.destinationscience.org
Summer Movie Guide
Summer family movies bring popcorn and smiles. The doors to summer open up each May and so does the summer box office. A little bit of escapism, humor and life
Magnolia Science Academy — Orange County Opens in Anaheim
The nonprofit, tuition-free public charter school promises a well-rounded, college-preparatory curriculum emphasizing STEAM. Magnolia Science Academy…
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Where Community Grows
Discover the Montessori, Reggio and Nature-Based Experience at Westcliff Early Learning Academy. Finding the right early learning program in OC…
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LePort Montessori
Have you been searching for the “best Montessori school near me in Southern California”? If so, you have come to the right place. At LePort, we offer an authentic Montessori education from infancy through middle school. We believe that every child should have the chance to reach their full potential in a safe and engaging place. Your child will learn critical life skills—like independence, problem-solving, and confidence—that will help them succeed in school and beyond. You’ll find LePort Montessori schools in Solana Beach, Huntington Harbor, Irvine – Mandarin Immersion, Irvine – Orchard Hills, Irvine – Spectrum North, Irvine – Spectrum South, and Irvine – Westpark. Huntington 16081 Waikiki Ln....
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