Themed Summer Fun
Local theme parks offer families a great way to play, eat and ride together under the summer sun. Summer in Southern California is beaches, big movies…
Wander with Wonder
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) How to practice mindful parenting on the road. Traveling with children can be both a delightful adventure and a daunting challenge. As parents, we often find ourselves juggling the logistics of packing, planning and navigating the unpredictable nature of kids on the go. However, mindful parenting can transform these chaotic journeys into enriching experiences that foster connection, curiosity and joy. In this article, we explore how to embrace the spirit of wanderlust while cultivating a mindful approach to parenting on the road. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination In our fast-paced lives, it is easy...
Summer Tutoring
Help avoid the summer slide and encourage intellectual passion with a summer tutor. As a teacher and tutor for more than 20 years, I have seen the tremendous…
Know Your Sound Frequencies
Do those baby sound machines really work? Babies: It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately. The short answer is “yes.” But before we put the matter to…
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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Discover Where Little Minds Flourish: Westcliff Early Learning Academy
At Westcliff Early Learning Academy, experience and discover how curiosity and curriculum come together.
Back to School with a Plan
Superintendent Stefan Bean reflects on his first year in leadership and what to expect this coming school year.
Strawberry Lemonade
Ready to sip on something sweet and tart? Try this sweet strawberry lemonade drink that brings sunshine to any moment.
Alps Adventure
Pristine Lake Cauma was formed 10,000 years ago from a massive avalanche. It's a swimmer's delight, as its temperature reaches 74 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Father and son hike, bike and dine to the sound of cowbells in the stunning Laax region of Switzerland. If you find yourself day-dreaming about your next family vacation as you sit in the school drop-off line, consider a mind-expanding, activity-packed Swiss mountain adventure, namely a trip to the Alpine recreation area of Laax, Switzerland. Laax is located 2.5 hours south of Zurich, but the journey there is not as arduous as it might...
Building Community
Learn how building community supports your child’s growth — and yours too. As parents, we are inundated with messages urging us to buy all the stuff that will
The Power of Routine
How consistent habits can boost your child’s school success. As a father, I am dedicated to both the personal growth and well-being of my children. I often find
Family Fun
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Food
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Kids Play & Places
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Camps
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Education
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Classes
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Health, Lifestyle & Beauty
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Community Comments
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Apple Cinnamon Tart
This apple puff pastry tart is a perfect fall recipe for kids to join in on. It’s super simple, but looks amazing when it’s done — like something you’d see…
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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Sleep Tips
How can I help my child sleep better? One of the most effective ways to set a child up for success at the start of the school year is by helping them return…
DIY Halloween
Goodwill OC offers tips and tricks for the ultimate Halloween costumes you can create as a family as well as a spooky craft with Victoria Tran…
Overcoming Fears
Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding journeys, but it’s not without its challenges. Alongside the joy and laughter many parents experience fear and anxiety
Invested in Community
Stratford offers an advanced STEAM curriculum that is intentionally balanced. The school focuses on core subjects with the addition of specialty classes in Spanish, music, arts, physical education and computer science.
From Spooky to Sweet
You know your child best. Seasonal festivities offer a unique opportunity for young children to interact with adults in ways that are both new and meaningful. So how can families make fall celebrations feel more wholesome than hectic? YMCA of Orange County offers some “tricks” to help young families experience Halloween as a real “treat.”
Discovery Cube OC Launches Fourth-Annual Pumpkin Palooza
Pumpkin Palooza is where education meets pure fun. This event is packed with two floors of thrilling activities, a frightfully fun dance party and a festival full of spooky science. Head to the second floor theater for the electrifying Pumpkin Palooza Dance Party.
Pumpkin Spiced French Toast
This cozy fall breakfast is everything you love about pumpkin spice — warm, sweet and comforting — all wrapped up in crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside slices of French toast. It’s an easy, kid-friendly recipe where everyone can get involved: dipping the bread, mixing the batter and even choosing their own toppings. Great for lazy weekends or festive holiday mornings!
Theme Park Halloween
Before you go trick-or-treating, there is plenty of fun still to be had at Southern California amusement parks this fall…
Creative Moms at Work
These local moms are thriving in creative fields — theater, music, design and more.
How to Prepare Your Child for High School
We spoke with three high school leaders who shared their insights on how families can help their children navigate this transition through academic preparation, intentional choices about extracurricular activities and the equally important but often less tangible work of building social and emotional readiness. Here, our experts discuss the skills, values and practices that can set students up for success in high school.
A Parent’s Guide to Montessori
When you first hear that Montessori children choose their own work, it may sound like a lot of freedom for a young child. This freedom exists within a proven structure. Clear routines and respectful guidelines allow classrooms to thrive with a high level of independent activity.
Balance for Working Moms
Embark on a journey of work-life balance as a mom with Katy McInnes, a First 5 Orange County board member and the director of partnerships at Child Creativity Lab.
School Listings
Stratford School We are committed to connecting students with our unique futures. We offer an unparalleled education that inspires children to be creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. We approach the learning experience by infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning....[SEE MORE] Multiple locations stratfordschools.com Heritage Oak Private Education For more than 50 years, Heritage Oak Private School has inspired future leaders with an advanced, well-rounded curriculum and a focus on character development. From foreign language starting in Pre-K, violin classes beginning in first grade, and cotillion starting in second grade, Heritage Oak’s enriched curriculum promotes responsibility, collaboration,...
Stratford School
We are committed to connecting students with our unique futures. We offer an unparalleled education that inspires children to be creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. We approach the learning experience by infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning. Mission Viejo Campus Stratford Private Preschool, Elementary & Middle School in Mission Viejo is committed to providing quality education and care to children in the Laguna Hills, Acacia Knolls, Galivan, Lake Forest, Irvine, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel communities. Located in a quiet, residential neighborhood with beautiful views of Saddleback Mountain and easy access from the...
Heritage Oak Private Education
For more than 50 years, Heritage Oak Private School has inspired future leaders with an advanced, well-rounded curriculum and a focus on character development. From foreign language starting in Pre-K, violin classes beginning in first grade, and cotillion starting in second grade, Heritage Oak’s enriched curriculum promotes responsibility, collaboration, and creative thinking. And don’t forget to ask about Camp Heritage Oak! We have it all: action-packed days on campus, field trips to Disneyland and Knott’s, 100+ specialty camp options, and free extended care for full-time campers. https://heritageoak.org/ Preschool to Grade 8 (714) 646-1546 16971 Imperial Highway Yorba Linda, CA 92886 heritageoak.org
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....
Fairmont Schools
Since 1953, Fairmont has been focused on one thing – our students. It’s a focus that has served our families well for generations, and we believe it’s more important now than ever before, as we prepare our students for success in the 21st century. fairmontschools.com Our secular, co-educational P-12 educational program balances time-honored fundamentals with innovative approaches to learning, taking into account intellectual as well as social and emotional growth. We employ caring, passionate educators who participate in rigorous training and mandatory yearly evaluation to ensure each child has an A+ teacher every year. Fairmont provides award-winning academics as well as numerous opportunities...
10 easy mindfulness hacks for working moms
Most working mums I know could out-manage half the boardrooms in the city (except their team at home rarely follows instructions and always needs…
Skypark at Santa’s Village
Nestled high in the San Bernardino mountains is an outdoor adventure theme park unlike any other. With a world-class bike park…
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Urban Workshop’s Youth Programs
Urban Workshop isn’t just a makerspace, it’s a place where curiosity becomes skill, creativity turns into tangible results, and learning is hands-on, fun and…
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Top Teacher & Employee Awards —Nomination Criteria
Judging Criteria Top Teachers Criteria 2026 Do you have a teacher at your school who does more than educate students? Who gets students excited about learning, teaches life lessons, is valued by parents, peers, administration and students, and whose classes consistently rank among the top in test scores? Nominate him or her to be honored by Parenting OC in our upcoming March 2026 Top Teachers issue. Teacher Award Categories Preschool Teacher Grade School Teacher Middle School Teacher High School Teacher Nomination Rules Only one nomination per category, for each school Teacher must be actively teaching in Orange County Nomination must...
ABT Gillespie School and annual “Nutcracker” turn 10
This season’s production of “The Nutcracker” runs Dec. 11-21. Rosey and Mabel Francis have been students at the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie…
Theme Park Holiday Tips
Get holiday fun while keeping things affordable at Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm. Affordability is the current buzzword in politics but a humbling…
New year, old tale
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Explore a beloved folktale retold in a vibrant cultural display for the whole family! Celebrate Chinese New Year at Segerstrom Center for the arts with…
Digital Detox for Summer
Summer camps and activities create an opportunity for mindfulness through less screen time. Summer promises freedom. Fewer schedules, later nights and that…
Love That Builds
Try these ideas for at-home activities with your young kids to nurture relationships. For many Valentine’s Day means cards, candy and celebrations of romantic…
How to Pick a Camp
What should parents consider when choosing a summer camp for kids? Summer offers growth through exploration, learning, and relationships beyond classroom..
STEAM Camp Summer
Orange County offers a variety of summer camp options that explore science, tech, problem-solving and more. Carolina Garcia’s 9-year-old daughter is coding…
Circus Arts
Orange County aerial arts classes and camps teach kids to soar to new heights with silks, hammocks and other equipment. Eight-year-old Jessie Payne expertly…
Knott’s Berry Farm to Open Crafty’s Kitchen
Rendering of the new Crafty's Kitchen. Photo Courtesy of Knott's Berry Farm Knott’s Berry Farm is getting a new themed restaurant this summer, expanding on the story of Crafty Coyote, from the Knott’s Bear-y Tales ride. Starting April 15, what’s now Johnny Rockets will begin its transformation into Crafty’s Kitchen, based on Crafty Coyote — who’s known for stealing pies from the adjacent Knott’s Beary Factory in the Weird Woods of Knott’s Bear-y Tales. Serving chicken and fries, guests can expect plump chicken tenders, crispy wings, a take on chicken and biscuits and various “pup sauces.” There will also be...
Summer Camp Hidden Gems
These 10 OC-area camps for kids will keep summer packed with unique adventures. Farm School OC: To cultivate appreciation for animals and farming, Farm School…
School Hero Goals
We asked our 2025 School Heroes Awards winners: What are your 2026 goals in education? 2025 Top Teacher David Fenstermaker: Social Science Teacher and…
From Screens to S’mores
Why camp still matters for today’s modern kids. Parents often think of summer camp as a nostalgic throwback — s’mores, songs and mosquito spray. But in a world…
Looking for Moms Who Give
As part of our May Moms Issue, we are in search of moms who give back. Do you know an Orange County mom who spends countless hours volunteering for a local nonprofit as she juggles caring for her own family? Or one who started her own charity to help others? Or one who is always looking for a way to give in some form? Then, we want to hear from you. Please email Editor-in-Chief Jessica Peralta at [email protected] by March 15 with the mom’s name, contact information and a short description of how she gives back.
Spend some time this spring creating art as a family.
Spring break and St. Patrick’s Day offer a nice opportunity for some creative family-bonding time with the help of themed arts and crafts projects…
Top Teacher Finalists 2026
We spotlight the Top Teachers of Orange County. Congrats to the Top Teacher of 2026 Lauren Vargas of La Habra High School, La Habra
Top Leader Finalists 2026
We spotlight the Top Leaders of Orange County. Congrats to the Top Leader of 2026, Christina June Carrera of Foothill Ranch Elementary School, Foothill Ranch
Top Employee Finalists 2026
We spotlight the Top Employees of Orange County. Congrats to the Top Employee of 2026, Melissa Dunham of Heritage Oak Private Education, Yorba Linda
How can mentoring help kids with anxiety or social challenges?
Anxiety and social challenges are increasingly common among children and teens. From academic pressure and social media to the lasting effects of the pandemic…
Discover Hands-On Skills This Summer at Urban Workshop!
This summer, give your child more than just something to do, give them something to build. Less screen time and more hands-on skills. Urban Workshop Summer Camp…
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Mother’s Day Makeover Giveaway —2026
Enter our Deserving Mom Makeover Contest for two lucky moms to win a fabulous makeover package and a mini-portrait session to show off the final results!
Slow Down for Spring Break
With more togetherness and awareness, make this spring break mindful. Spring break promises breathing room. Fewer alarms. Less rushing from one place to the next…
Tasty Highlights from Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
Disney California Adventure’s Food & Wine Festival is back, through April 27, with a long menu of food and drink items, live entertainment and culinary demonstrations, ready to bring out your inner foodie. This year’s festival offers eight marketplaces, with both new and returning items, that guests can find at locations throughout the park. Sip and Savor Passes are available for four items ($34) and eight items ($64) for use on select food items and non-alcoholic beverages from festival marketplaces and participating locations. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSa3YO9M56s Some of the menu highlights are: California Punch — a non-alcoholic blend of mango purée, guava...
Small Wins, Big Love
Practice gratitude in special needs parenting. Parenting a child with special needs is both deeply meaningful and incredibly demanding. It requires strength…
Child Care for Special Needs
Get tips for choosing the care that best supports your child’s needs. As a parent, choosing the right child care is one of the most important decisions you’ll…
Find out how allergies could be behind your child’s symptoms.
Do you ever wonder whether your child’s constant sneezing, lingering cough or unexplained skin irritation might be more than just another cold? You’re not alone…
Family Financial Planning Tips
I have a newborn and am trying to think about financial planning for my family. What are some tips to save and earn?…
Pets & Special Needs
What you should consider before bringing home a new pet. Pets in the home can help children practice empathy and responsibility, boost their confidence and…
Last Chance for Knott’s Boysenberry Fest!
Springtime means that boysenberry season is back at Knott’s Berry Farm. From March 13 through April 12, park-goers can enjoy scrumptious pie-eating contests, live music, stage performances and other “berry” fun, live activities. Of course, there's a vast selection of boysenberry-related food and drinks to try too. All of these festivities are in honor of Knott’s historic roots as a boysenberry farm. https://youtu.be/iyyWoSbG2YQ
Surviving Senioritis
Tips and tricks for ending high school strong. Is your child experiencing burnout as we hit the final months of the school year? Are they already thinking about…
Performing Arts for All
Learn how performing arts can benefit children with disabilities. Wyatt Wennekamp, 9, loves lyrics and dancing. He began attending Segerstrom Center for the…
Strawberry Sunshine Yogurt Bark
Bright, sweet and full of spring flavor, this frozen yogurt bark is a fun treat kids can help make from start to finish. With juicy strawberries and crunchy…
Strength Training Tips
Q: What are the best ways to strength train youth athletes safely and effectively? A: Strength training for youth athletes should always…
Mom Art
This Mother’s Day, create art together as a family and let the process strengthen your bond. Art — just like a mother’s care and attention…
Theater of the Impossible
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Experience the awe-inspiring aerialists, world-class acrobats, internationally-acclaimed clowns and death-defying daredevils of Circus Vargas…
Moms Who Give
Orange County is full of moms who give back through philanthropy, volunteerism and in other ways. Every Saturday from about 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kaylyn Marony and…
The Invisible Boy May 9-10 in Samueli Theatre
Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party, until, a new kid comes to class…
A Mindful Shift for Mother’s Day
Free yourself from the myth of perfection in parenting. Modern motherhood comes with constant pressure, from keeping homes organized to managing endless…
Berry Sweet Mother’s Day Shortcake Cups
These berry shortcake cups are the perfect Mother’s Day treat for little helpers to make! They’re colorful, a little messy (in the fun way), and feel fancy…
Building Maternal Mental Health
There is power in everyday moments for moms. I am a mother of two boys. In my experience, motherhood is one of life’s most joyful and rewarding seasons…
Learn & Grow 2026
Hosted by... Get Your Event Tickets Here! At Learn & Grow families can discover after-school activities, school choices and other learning options, and special needs resources. Sponsorship Opportunities & Exhibitor Information Directions to The District at Tustin Learn & Grow Exhibitor Packages Learn & Grow Exhibitor Map Learn & Grow Space Reservation Form Exhibitor Map 2026 Exhibitors The Learn & Grow event offers families a one-stop resource fair for after-school activities, school choices, tutoring options, enrichment programs, and special needs resources. This event connects families with organizations across Orange County that support educational growth, developmental needs, and extracurricular engagement. Whether...
Summer Family Movie Guide
Find re-releases, reboots and new adventures on the big screen for the whole family this summer. It could be a long, hot summer. Maybe an expensive one as well…
Pollinator Power
Discover the secret world of pollinators. Next time you are outside, look down! If you look closely, you just might spot a team of tiny superheroes in action…
What to Know About Dual Enrollment
What should high school students consider? Nearly one-third of the high school Class of 2025 — 165,000 students — earned college credits through their local…
Readers’ Choice Awards – 2026
Voting has now closed. Winners are listed below and will be featured in the September Issue! SectionCategoryNameWinnerFamily FunBest Amusement ParkBoomersFamily FunBest Fair / FestivalOC FairFamily FunBest Fishing at SeaDana WharfFamily FunBest Science MuseumDiscovery CubeFBest WaterparkWild RiversFamily FunBest OC ZooOC ZooFamily FunBest Family TheaterSegerstrom Center for the ArtsFoodBest Birthday CakesPorto's Bakery and CafeFoodBest Healthy SnackNekter Juice BarFoodBest Ice Cream/Frozen TreatHandel's Ice CreamFoodBest Place to Satisfy a Sweet ToothSee's CandiesFoodBest Vegan FoodMother's Market & KitchenKids Play & PlacesBest Mommy & MeThe Mommy CenterKids Play & PlacesBest PlaygroundAdventure PlaygroundKids Play & PlacesBest Storytelling TimeHuntington Beach Public Library StorytimeKids Play & PlacesBest Roller RinkFountain...
Kids Rule Summer at Disneyland Resort
Outside of Galaxy’s Edge, Space Mountain transforms back into Hyperspace Mountain in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland for a limited time. Here, guests can go on a…
Strong Starts with Awesome Dads
Q: How can I make those early years of my kids’ lives count as a dad? A: The month of June and Father’s Day offer a meaningful opportunity to celebrate and…
Reclaiming Summer
Reconnect as a family and take summer back, mindfully. I think about this more than I expected to. Back in the early 1900s, during the rise of the Industrial…
Baby Summer Care Guide
Keep these warm-weather safety tips in mind for your new baby. There is no strict age requirement for when babies can start going outside. If your newborn is…
En Garde!
Why fencing might be the sport you never knew you needed. People are often surprised when I tell them I fence. They picture something theatrical or…
Less Screen Time – More Hands-On Skills This Summer at Urban Workshop!
This summer, give your child more than just something to do, give them something to build. Urban Workshop Summer Camp is where students ages 10–16 turn curiosity into confidence through hands-on projects in a real workshop environment…
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Budget-Friendly Travel
Families can take memorable trips this summer without a hefty price tag. Summer vacation costs could be the most expensive in years, thanks to rising fuel prices..
Checkmate
Why chess may be the best brain gym for kids this summer. Chess is having another moment. Years after The Queen’s Gambit brought the game back into mainstream…
Rainbow Veggie Pinwheel Wraps
Colorful, crunchy and perfect for little hands, these rainbow pinwheel wraps are a fun way to get kids excited about veggies. Packed with vibrant layers…
Summer Fun Guide
Keep your family’s schedule packed this summer. Arts Entertainment: Segerstrom Center for the Arts has loads of family-friendly offerings this summer…
Learn & Grow 2025
Hosted by... An estimated 2,500 visitors came out to be entertained and to meet the Learn & Grow exhibitors on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at The District at Tustin Legacy. The Learn & Grow event offered families a one-stop resource fair for after-school activities, school choices, tutoring options, enrichment programs, and special needs resources. This event connected families with organizations across Orange County that support educational growth, developmental needs, and extracurricular engagement. Whether parents were seeking academic support, alternative schooling options, or creative outlets for their children, Learn & Grow was designed to showcase a wide range of programs that...
Jamboree 2026
Parenting OC’s annual Kids Summer Opportunities Fair, Jamboree!, was back at The District at Tustin Legacy in April for another year of learning and fun.
