Why Camp is More than S’mores and Canteens
Parents spend a lot of time trying to motivate kids. We use chore charts, checklists, reminders and rewards to get them to feed the dog, clean their rooms, and complete schoolwork. But these techniques don’t change behavior long-term. Real motivation must come from within. The Psychology of Summer Camp Time at camp may be all it takes to spark a little self-determination in your kid. I know it sounds too good to be true. Your school-age slacker — the one who expects you to find his homework and pack his lunch — might start doing some things for himself. And...
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...
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...
Camp Worries
Q: [Parents of Campers] I have read many advice pieces on how to deal with first time camper stress…but not for the parents. Am I the only mom freaking out about my baby being away for a whole week? A: If your kids are going to sleep-away camp this summer, you may be wrestling with worries and what-ifs. What if he wets the bed? What if the other kids are cliquish or mean? Will the camp director call me if she’s miserable? Why Parents Worry You may worry that without structure kids won’t be able to handle routine tasks like...
Teething Terrors
Q: [Infants/Toddlers] We love, love, love our baby…but do NOT love the terrible pain our normally chipper little sweetie is apparently suffering through as her first teeth are coming in! We are only dealing with her very first tooth and are both out of our minds trying to soothe her sore gums. And this is just the beginning! Nothing seems to work. She is fussy and miserable and we feel like crying right along with her. Help? A: A baby’s smile can light up a room, but it can be painful watching a baby go through the stage that makes...
Follow the Leader
T(w)een Camps and Afterschool Organizations Camps and extracurriculars often focus on teaching a skill or honing a talent. These OC opportunities teach our tweens and teens something even more important, how to become a leader Stopping Bullies with a Roar Giving back. It is the opposite of what we think of when “teen” is mentioned. However, this concept is a worthy draw for those inspired to change the landscape of the society in which they live. Open to any teenager with a desire to invest their time in helping others, Lion’s Heart empowers teens to volunteer for a multitude of...
Full STEAM Ahead to Camp and Afterschool Clubs
Learning about science used to involve dusty textbooks, the dissection of frogs and chalkboard benzene ring renderings. Judging by the experiments OC kids are up to at extracurricular school clubs and educational camps, science has become considerably cooler. These days, kids are learning about physics through bungee-diving Barbies, engineering through flying Legos and trigonometry through leaps from moving Ferris wheels. Indeed, educators and camp directors are finding innovative ways of engaging children as they strive to strengthen a passion for science, technology, math, art and engineering (STEAM) subjects. It’s an effort that’s being made on both local and federal levels....
Play Ball!
Is Sport Camp Right for My Child? The ides of a camp that pairs summer fun with skill building in a sport seems like a no brainer. But what if your child isn’t a lifelong gymnast or soccer player? Will they fit in and be happy at a sports camp? Perhaps you want to encourage your child to try a new sport or to consider taking a stab at junior high or high school tryouts. We talk with Sport Psychologist, Dr. Casey Cooper, about how athletic camp can be the answer. “Evidently, there was a time when high school sport...
Momma Chef: Moroccan Chicken
How easy is it to make dinner while holding a 4-year-old on your hip, calming a 7-year-old throwing a tantrum and helping a 12-year-old with his homework? Sound familiar? Well I have finally mastered a way to serve a fabulous meal with little effort and few ingredients. My recipes are simple and delicious, using no more than six ingredients and under six minutes of prep time. It will look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen with help from Momma Chef. Prepare to impress with this delicious Moroccan Chicken recipe. Ingredients: 8 Bone-In Chicken Thighs 3 lemons 5 chopped cloves...
Linda Vujnov: An Elephant Eventually Forgets
At some point we were only allowed to call our only daughter Mrs. Jumbo. This followed her obsession with the movie Dumbo and her compulsion to nurture a fictional elephant painted on a television screen. For Halloween she dressed as a newsboy, donning tweed boy pants, red suspenders, and a Scottish touring hat because “Elephants don’t dress up as elephants, silly,” she remarked. While most girls in the 1st grade had their bedroom strewn with princesses, all things glitter and fluffy, and closets bulging with tutus, and dresses that twirl, our girl was swooning over animals, not cute animals, ugly...
Bump Up Your New Year’s Game!
Love your bump, but bummed about a diminished New Year’s? Here are our hacks to keep your party on, Mama! A Smooth Pregnancy Being pregnant certainly doesn’t end the grown up fun, and just might be seriously amp up the action. No matter how maintained you are in non-bump life, at a certain point shaving becomes a feat reserved for yogi and can even be downright…dangerous. The pros at OC Waxing have you covered. Or uncovered. Many are moms, and all have been trained in positioning for pregnancy waxes. (Keep this in mind pre-delivery, vastly superior to seeing that nurse...
Coding Toys
When tech is introduced in a way that enhances critical thinking, it can enhance education and create a comfort level with the world our kids are entering. Here are a few of our favorites to start them on the path. Cubetto Preschool to Kindergarten Cubetto is the only screen-less programming system, powered by a coding language made of colorful blocks that lets children three and up write their first computer programs. Kids use coding to guide a friendly wooden robot named Cubetto, through stories, challenges and illustrated maps by placing uniquely shaped hardwood blocks in different patterns on the control...
Workout Gear
Refresh your workout by taking runs out of the gym and onto the beach. The sand amps up your exertion and the water is right there for a post-run cool down. Here are our fave tools for the job. Laguna Blue Towels These eco-friendly, bacteria-resistant microfiber towels are super soft, quick wicking and have the bonus of lab tests boasting a 99.8% level of effective prevention of the spread of germs and diseases, including life threatening MRSA. You’ll love the handy running towel, but pop for the Active Set and share with your kiddo to combat those school gym germfests....
Jessica Rivera Sleep Consulting
If there’s anything new moms dream about it’s, well, the opportunity to dream at all. Indeed, a good night’s sleep can be a challenge for new parents struggling to catch some much-needed rest. Jessica Rivera can help. The certified sleep consultant launched her business aimed at helping parents teach babies to nap independently and sleep through the night. “Equipping your little one to enjoy sleep is one of the most beneficial and long-lasting gifts you can give them,” says Rivera. “Research proves that sleep is restorative and greatly improves physical, mental, and emotional health.” Rivera, who provides both private sessions...
Watertable
Hyatt Regency, Huntington Beach The innovative menu at this picturesque dining spot features contemporary American fare — a sort of accomplished Cali-comfort food. Sunday Night’s Southern Supper offers roasted salmon, six different side dishes, and warm biscuits for the table to share while the Family Kitchen features an active cooking station. (A build-your-own meal option gives room to try several of their addictive sauces.) We love that this restaurant offers a classy and romantic evening out for date night, but early sunset hours are ideal to grab an outdoor patio table with the family and let the kids wander the...
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,...
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...
Mommy Works
Have you ever dreamed of bringing your kids to work with you? Well, now you can. Mommy Works is a child-friendly office that gives work-from-home moms a space to engage, collaborate and work with other professionals, all while keeping a watchful eye on their children. The office, which describes itself as a “co-working community for all moms”, offers desks, Wi-Fi, coffee and conference rooms for moms and a safe, supervised playroom for kids. Geared at children aged six months-to-six years, Mommy Works also features breastfeeding and pumping stations, a child-friendly kitchen and a quiet room with a children’s reading corner....
“I Will Make this World My World.”
Diagnosed with Sickle Cell at birth, Alyssa Simmons is on a crusade of compassion for sick children. A typical Saturday night for most teen girls might bounce between boys, bantering on social media, and blasting beats through their earbuds. However, Alyssa Simmons, Laguna Hills High School freshman, is not your typical teenager. Her weekends are spent selecting the next hospital to visit in order to lift the spirits of children suffering through illness and pain. Afterall, Alyssa can relate. At birth, Alyssa was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease, a chronic blood disorder which is extremely painful and incurable. She has...
Jen’s Candy Sushi Party
Jen, 10 Theme: Sushi party Location: at home Refreshments: Little chefs created their own! Invites by: eVites Decor: Japanese Décor, unique lighting and table settings Entertainment: Caroline Smile, www.carolinesmile.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: Sushi To-go Containers, Personalized Sushi Chef Jackets, Hats and Chopsticks “My daughter’s birthday party was awesome, we are still talking about it. The sushi candy and dumpling making was great. The kids learned so much, tried so many foods they wouldn’t have otherwise and loved Caroline. It was fun for my daughter and her friends.” — Julie L., Long Beach
Whole Foods for the Whole Family
When it comes to what makes the meal for Christmas, many might argue it is the classic turkey, others might vote for ham — but what truly matters is having the family gather around and spend quality time…while feasting till their buttons pop! A rather unwanted side dish that often makes an appearance, especially for the host/hostess, is a heaping help of stress. Managing dietary restrictions, timing so as not to miss Santa’s arrival, kitchens made to cook normal-sized family meals rather than army-level attendees, stores that deservedly give their employees a break by closing, making those last minute dashes...
Family Feud, Holiday Edition? Not This Year
During the holiday season, even the closest families can experience friction. If your mother-in-law can’t quit complaining about this year’s contentious election, or Uncle Bob launches into another lifestyle debate, take heart. With advanced planning and a handful of tactful responses at the ready, your holiday celebration can be enjoyable for everyone. Step 1: Identify the Issues Let’s be honest. The topics that can turn a joyous family dinner into a war of words are not a big secret to anyone. You already know which individuals and issues are likely to lead to trouble. Make a list of possible triggers...
Toddler Misbehavior
Naughty or Normal Ah… toddlers. They amaze us with their energy and new abilities such as walking and starting to talk while also frustrating us with their energy and new abilities such as making messes and saying, “No!” to our sweet requests. How we respond to the frustrating behaviors our toddlers uniquely exhibit greatly impacts how they feel and behave as they grow into adolescents, and thus, can make our parenting job either much easier or much harder. How is dealing with toddler misbehavior connected to a child’s future well-being? The answer lies in research showing us that close parent-child...
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...
Travel Diary: Kids in the City
There’s no city that screams “holiday” like New York. And for those parents with kids in middle school or teens who can’t miss exams or sports practice, holiday break might be the only time you have a long enough break to make it worth the trip. Here’s our visual round up of the best sights, sounds, and sweets of The Big Apple. Sweet Spots Serendipity 3 Home of the famous frrrrozen chocolate, big spenders can knock back a $1000 sundae for bragging rights. (That’s some pricy brain freeze!) serendipity3.com Dylan’s Candy Bar A lookalike to a sparklier version of Wonka’s...
Holiday Gift Guide 2016
Activity Kits Kiss Naturals Kits Kids learn about what goes into lip balms when they mix beeswax, Shea butter and safflower oil to get the perfect formulation into a jar, or a twist-up tube. This all natural kids’ cosmetics line pulls back the curtain on what goes into beauty products like hair chalk, lip gloss and bath fizzies. $19, www.kissnaturals.com Personalize Your Riding Center This brand new, colorful playset includes rider, horses, numerous additional accessories. The riding school can be quickly and easily transformed into an open riding arena. And just like a real horse farm, it has troughs, saddle...
Dealing with Allergies at Potlucks
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter is so excited about her pot luck holiday party at school, her first big celebration in Kindergarten. The problem is parents are encouraged to bring in family favorites to celebrate their ancestral culture, and my daughter has food allergies. We haven’t had any serious reactions (anaphylaxis), but she definitely has sensitivities. How can I handle this? A: As a father of five, I think the party sounds like a fantastic time. However, as an Allergist, with all of these different recipes it could also be a recipe for disaster for a child with food allergies. Without...
Tween Tokens of Affection
Q: [Teens & Tweens] My son has a crush...or girlfriend...or girl he doesn’t think is “lame”. He’s only 12 so they don’t actually go anywhere, it’s just a social relationship. He’s thinking she should be on his holiday gift list. What’s the etiquette? I’m not sure how the girl’s parents would feel or if his present ideas are too much. A: The etiquette of gift giving can be a tricky and emotional decision at any age! The holidays especially present a number of gift giving challenges – add a tween and a crush to the mix and the dilemma gets...
Picking a Pediatrician
Q: [Maternity/Newborn] We must have been good this year, because Santa is bringing us our first bundle of joy. But we need to score a great pediatrician, STAT. It’s so confusing and stressful to choose, would it be greedy to ask him to toss one of those in his bag, too? A: Your belly is growing … and so is your anxiety. Luckily, you’re not in this alone. Your pediatrician is your partner in keeping your newborn healthy and in monitoring her development and milestones. That is why finding the right pediatrician for your family is so important. Many parent...
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Stylish Finds
Coyuchi Handwoven Stripe Scarf This silky, translucent scarf rests lightly across the shoulders as a perfect chill-chaser for those first brisk days of fall. Hand-loomed from yarn-dyed cotton with hand-twisted yarns, it’s crafted in partnership with Indigo Handloom, whose products help sustain centuries-old weaving practices support local artisans and their families in rural India. $84, www.coyuchi.com Ebony & Silver Earrings West African tradition of fine silver jewelry is seen at its best in these graceful hook earrings. Hand-engraved silver falls to five decorative bands of inlaid ebony. This Fair Trade Product supports Nigerian Artisans working with the Union of Peasants...
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...
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...
Wagly
Tails will surely be wagging thanks to a new pet care facility that aims to offer kibbles of convenience to both Fido and his fur-baby mom. Wagly, which launched its first California location October 31, is a one-stop shop for pet owners. It offers veterinary services, boarding, grooming, training, consultations and more. A soon-to-be-launched app will also give pet parents access to a slew of Wagly home services. This includes hiking, walking, house sitting and nutritional support. Wagly says its goal is to help give pets the best possible care, while alleviating the workload of busy parents Tustin | www.wagly.com...
A Venti-Sized Dose of Gratitude
Years ago, I struggled through an airport with my toddler and a heap of coats and carry-ons to catch a 6 a.m. flight. After making my way through the security line, I landed by the gate with my laptop still hanging out of my briefcase and my sock-footed son trying to make a run for it. I stared longingly at Starbucks. It was only 15 yards away, but it might as well have been 15 miles, since a loudspeaker kept warning that leaving your bags unattended was not allowed. Then I noticed a well-heeled woman observing me. As she walked...
Girl of the Year Party
Reagan, Ladera Ranch, 8 Theme: Girl of the Year 2016, Lea Location: American Girl Place Photography by: Vrinkley Pruna Cake (or Cupcakes) by: American Girl Cafe Decor by: American Girl Place Entertainment: Queen of Arts Paint Parties, www.queenofartspaint.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: American Girl Magazine and the Lea-Inspired Art to bring home. “What an absolute dream for a girl at any age to paint at the beautiful American Girl Place. The Girl of the Year this year is Lea. She loves outdoor adventures in the rain forest. We painted a really cute toucan taught by the amazing Queen...
Max Page
San Clemente Joy Maker Here come the holidays, and the glittering, vibrant cheer they bring. But the holidays are not just about families feeling joyful and exchanging gifts. They’re about sharing and caring for others, who are less fortunate, too. Because while many lucky children and their relatives think of the holidays as a warm, happy time, countless others all around are instead struggling to cope with illness, hospitalization, loneliness, poverty, homelessness, hunger or other serious difficulties. The generationOn Joy Maker Challenge (joymaker.generationon.org) is an effort aimed at engaging youth in volunteer service. To empower kids to feel twice as...
Starter Vacation Getaways
We’d all like to see our kids grow up as well-traveled citizens of the world, but they have to start somewhere. Here are our picks for easy first time trips to take with the kids. El Capitan Canyon Resort Cabin. Newbie Campers Ocean Mesa Campground & El Capitan Canyon Resort www.oceanmesa.com | elcapitancanyon.com If you want to add a dose of laidback nature to your kiddo’s hectic lives, there are few places more lovely than Ocean Mesa Campground and adjacent El Capitan Canyon Resort along the Santa Barbara coast. Pack up a rental RV with all the necessities and park...
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,...
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...
Mark Tenney: A Boy with a Bike
Woodbridge High School senior, Mark Tenney, had no idea that eavesdropping while washing the dinner dishes would change his life forever. One evening, Mark’s parents invited family friend, Tim Ballard, to dinner. As in most dinner conversations with people you don’t see often, “Tell us what you have been up to, Tim?” was the springboard to a story, one which tugged violently on the Irvine teen’s heartstrings. Mark, the third of four boys, listened to Ballard’s stories of rescue missions devoted solely to snatching kids out of sex trafficking rings and returning them to safety. Mark knew in an instant...
Addison’s “Princess in Black” Birthday
“Our experience with this store was fantastic. They definitely brought her favorite book character to life. We also called the publisher and asked for anything they might have had left over from the book launch and they mailed us free Princess in Black shirts for our guests. Albertsons printed the most recent book cover straight onto the cake, which looked fantastic. And our party favors were the actual book, “Princess in Black”. The store was very helpful in finding ideas for decor, crafts/games and local food vendors made the planning easy.” — Joy Carter, Mom Theme: “Princess in Black” a...
See Jane Go
Founder William Jordan’s daughter, Savannah of Laguna (pictured), expressed interest in driving for an existing ride-hail service. William was adamantly opposed, due to concern for his daughter’s safety. With that, the idea for See Jane Go, the first women-driving-women ride-hail app, was born. Today, See Jane Go meets the specific needs of female drivers and passengers in Orange County. It is steered by an all-female executive management team and committed to providing women the opportunity to earn an income on their terms and providing a trusted ride-hail alternative for female passengers. www.seejanego.co | Photo by Sandra Sellani Kind Karma Lake...
Fall Weather Prep
Q: [Whole Family] I’m new to OC and it seems like summer here might never end (in a good way!), but are there things I should be doing around the house to prep for the upcoming seasons? A: Welcome to Orange County! Though the temperatures may still be high in our area, cooler weather is drawing near, and it’s time to start thinking about prepping your home for it. Prepping for cooler weather can ensure that your home is ready for seasons to come. You could be surprised by how much some home and preventative maintenance can save on your...
Changing of Schools
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter just moved into a different school for fourth grade and it just isn’t gelling. The older crowd has her worried about bullies and a lot of the joys of her day at her elementary school (music, art, drama) are missing due to budget cuts. We’re thinking private, but is switching midstream bad? Should we make her stick it out? Is it too late to jump into a new school? We just want her to love and be excited about school again. A: Making a school change is a difficult decision for any family, however, there are...
Early School Stress
Q: [School-Aged] My son is only in second grade, but he seems really stressed about schoolwork! We never had homework at this age, but he’s been dealing with that since Kindergarten, so I didn’t think it would be a big deal. But this year he gets emotional and frustrated when we even approach his homework nook at home and makes dramatic exclamations “I HATE SCHOOL!” “I CAN’T TAKE THIS!” as he sits there trying to muddle through. He seems so stressed that he can’t think straight and then is stuck for even longer and gets really down on himself when...
Mermaids!
Mermaids aren’t “little” any more, the mystical creatures from the sea are HUGE! Here are a few of our favorite goods to splash out on. Fin Fun Mermaid Doll Tails Turn your favorite Barbie-style or American Girl-style friend into a creature of the sea with these pull on tails for dolls. $12, www.finfunmermaid.com Sea Sparkles by Aurora These soft plush mermaids are just the right size to swim along for the ride. We love how they embody the enchantment of the creatures without going “too mature” in their look. $8, www.auroragift.com Mermaidens Swimmable Mermaid Tail As close as you could...
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...
Alexandria Marshall
There are times when one’s goals align with a well-plotted life journey. And there are times when that path changes directions and life hand delivers something different. A visit to Camp Footprints, a place for children with disabilities and their families, put a young OC teen on the path to giving. Alex has always loved having a big sister. From an early age she knew that her big sister was unlike other big sisters. Courtney, who was born with Down syndrome, grew up watching her little sister sing, dance, and perform. Whether Alex was a lost lamb in a skit...
The Emotional Side of SIDS
Parents usually do not bury their children. Children outlive their parents and make way for the next generation. For me, that reality shattered when my third child, and only son, died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) at three months of age. I felt my sanity slip through my fingers the morning I found my sweet Erik in his crib, as purple as an eggplant. I called the police; they came and cordoned off the room, forbidding me to see my son. The police had to rule out foul play. And one does not learn the cause of death until...
Halloween DIY
Frightfully Easy Entertaining Planning a party and feeling overwhelmed by all the little goblins and ghouls you’ll have to cater to? We’ve got you covered with trick’d out treats and pages of impressive, but super-simple ways to celebrate the season. Dracula Donuts Krispy Kreme Donuts, Chocolate Chips, Plastic Vampire Fangs We don’t blame you if you vant to suck the crème from Krispy Kreme treats, but the simple round rings work best for this one. Just slip a pair of plastic fangs into the large opening (other donut brands can work in a pinch, but KK have just the right...
Thinking About Homeschooling?
Here’s what it is and what it isn’t. Today, homeschooling looks and feels very differently than it did decades ago. Homeschooling is practically mainstream; everyone seems to know someone who is homeschooling and most moms have thought about it themselves. As opposed to traditional schooling, homeschooling is when parents or guardians take on the role of teacher and the responsibility of educating their children. In contrast to public or private school, children receive a personalized, individualized education — one of the main benefits of homeschooling. According to the U.S. Department of Education, from 2003 to 2012, the number of homeschooled...
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Back to School Bits and Bobs
Eagle Creek No Matter What Top Load Backpack Moisture-wicking 3D air mesh back panel with reflective accents keeps kids cool and safe on the go. This top loader offers enough room for the essentials and even sports a side handle to carry suitcase-style for those days sporty students are hauling lacrosse or batbags on their shoulder. Guaranteed for Life makes this backpack a value. $89, www.eaglecreek.com Simply Personalized Swim and Extra Curricular Bags If you are always on the run to practice or dance or art club, give yourself a break and pop for a few bags to keep packed...
Bailey’s Boomers Bash
10, Trabuco Canyon Theme: Fun in the Sun Location: Buccaneer Cove at Boomers Photography by: Mom, April Wright Invites by: Evite Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cupcakes, pizza and drinks provided by Boomers Decor by: Mom and Party City Entertainment: Slides and water fun at the venue The Goods on the Goody Bag: Cup with swirly straw packed with Chapstick and treats. “My 10-year-old daughter and her 16 friends had a BLAST at Buccaneer Cove inside Boomers. It was great for a birthday because the area allowed the girls to stay together and my daughter got to enjoy the company of...
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...
Early Empty Nesting
Q: [Preschool to Kindergarten] My youngest is heading off to full-day Kindergarten. For some reason, this is hitting me harder than it did with my older kids. I feel like I’m empty nesting. I don’t want him to pick up on any stress or negativity and connect it with school. What are some good distractions to deal with this? A: You’re not alone in feeling this way. It is a symbolic “cutting of the cord” and represents a type of separation that is new for the parents and child, but it is a positive step toward growth. It’s understandable that...
First Taste of Freedom
Q: [Teens & Tweens] My daughter has been in junior high for almost a month and suddenly has a lot more food choices open to her at school, where we aren’t around to monitor or advice. She’s used to our pretty healthy cupboards, and seems lethargic and appears to be putting on weight. I know puberty could be at play, but I found a handful of stashed sweets wrappers and sugary drink bottle stuffed in the pocket of her backpack, so I think it might be what she’s choosing at lunchtime. I don’t want to give her a complex about...
Vegas Luxe
Opulence is standard in Sin City Having just returned from a weekend in Las Vegas, it’s easy to see why the time-starved OC moms and dads chose Sin City as a favorite in our Reader’s Choice Awards. It’s not for the same reasons that bachelorette party revelers, spring breakers and middle-aged conventioneers like to come here. No, the young parents who voted for Vegas as their favorite child-free weekend getaway are after luxury theme hotels, palatial pools and sensuous spas. This affordable escape to extravagance is just a four-hour drive from OC, up the I-15. Says Reader’s Choice voter Robin...
A Parent’s Guide to Augmented Reality
Pokemon GO makes tiny monsters appear everywhere from museums and malls to backyards and kitchens. Entire families have cheerfully headed out into their neighborhoods and beyond to collect as many monsters as they can. Keep your family safe with common sense rules for this and the many AR games likely to follow. Permissions Children under 13 can’t sign up for games unless they have permission from parents. That’s a reminder that younger children need augmented supervision in augmented reality. Play together if you can. Or ask your child to walk you (literally!) through the game so you can see and...
How to Pack a Safe Lunch
September is National Food Safety Education Month and STOP Foodborne Illness (stopfoodborneillness.org), the leading national advocate for safe food, is shining the spotlight on ways to keep school lunches safe. Keep your kids healthy with these tips. Keep in mind the bacteria danger zone. Bacteria grow rapidly in the temperature “danger zone” of 40-140° F. Wash your hands. When preparing lunches, wash your hands thoroughly and keeping all surfaces you’re working on clean. Use this as an opportunity to explain the importance of hand-washing in preventing foodborne illness. Use an insulated lunch box. Whether hard-sided or soft, this helps keep...
The Science of Fear
Q: [School-Aged] My little one has heard her older brother complain about ‘how hard’ science was for him and now as second grade looms, is worried she won’t be able to cut it. How can I build her confidence? A: The misconception that science is difficult to learn – or that kids either naturally understand subjects such as science and math, or they don’t – is pervasive. A highly publicized theory (Dweck) proposes that children either have a growth mindset (a belief that their abilities can be developed) or a fixed mindset (a belief that they have innate abilities). According...
Serenity Now
Q: [School-Aged] My son struggled with ADHD and his cousin has been diagnosed on the spectrum. My sister and I dread trips to the dentist because both boys have issues, for different reasons, being comfortable to be still and confined for the dentist or hygienist to do their work. How can we help them relax and make visits go more smoothly? A: It is important to work together, as a partner with the dentist and staff. Collaborating is the key to making the appointment successful. Call ahead of time and notify the doctor of your child’s condition so that everyone...
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...
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...
Mon Reve Dance Studio
The latest dance studio to hit OC’s “culture of character” is defined by “Le Gros Trois” (the big three):1. Hard work 2. Respect 3. Kindness. Mon Reve offers ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop classes for children ages 2-12, but was created to combine a strong culture of character within the beauty of dance for all children. “Establishing the ballet program for children with Down Syndrome helped me realize that dance is about so much more than just dance,” says Paige Peplow, founder of Mon Reve (my dream). “It can help children build self-esteem, confidence, a work ethic, et cetera.”...
Scott Walker
Helps Parents Parent in a world of sexting and cyberbullying Protecting his most valuable treasure, his family, is a commitment Irvine’s Scott Walker takes seriously. When he saw signs of withdrawal and despair in his teen, the OC tech professional created and installed cell software to check deleted text messages. “I knew something was wrong and I couldn’t get a solution,” Walker said. He discovered his child, like so many others, was the target of digital bullying. After several attempts to find a program to help him retrieve deleted messages or to block messages failed, he created his own software...
Anthony, 7, Laguna Niguel
Theme: Superhero Photography by: Andrea Fisher (Anthony’s mom) Invites by: Anthony’s mom, Andrea, is a wedding planner and designed the invitations herself. She also sent out a matching email invitation. Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Peridot Sweets www.peridotsweets.com Food or Snacks by: The onsite LifeCafe created an assortment of pizzas for the kids. Entertainment: Life Time Athletic. The Life Time team provided the superheroes, face painter and bounce house. www.lifetime.life The Goods on the Goody Bag: Masks and other superhero-themed items. “Anthony’s superhero-themed seventh birthday party was the second we have held for our kids at Life Time; they just make...
White House Interns
We elect Sir Bruno Serato one of the best guys in OC. Not only does his Anaheim White House come in tops for a great Italian menu and charming ambiance, he does an abundance of charity work helping out the families of our local communities. Knighted by the nation of Italy and named a CNN Hero, he is best known for feeding 1,600 SoCal “motel kids” nightly, making copious amounts of pasta and salads for kids who might otherwise go to bed hungry or without a hot meal due to the lack of kitchen in their temporary homes. His newest...
Calling all Vikings!
Discover Norse Legends aboard the ms Koningsdam of Holland America Line The Queens Lounge Deck, featuring the BB King Jazz Club is the place to hear some royally good tunes. Mexican and Pacific coastline cruises are a great option for fun in the sun, beach time and serious margarita tasting options, but if you are angling to pack a little more culture and education value into your family escape, heading to the far north (recent trips have even glimpsed rare sightings of the aurora borealis) can be worth the long haul. Set sail on the newest ship in the Holland...
Raising Responsible Digital Citizens
Today, there are over 37 million kids ages 3-17 that have access to the internet in the U.S. This reality has been ushered in as internet-connected devices become more plentiful and affordable. While kids have easier access to the internet at home, they increasingly need to access it for school. It is therefore paramount that parents, teachers and communities work together to teach kids how to be good digital citizens so that they use the internet in safe, positive and productive ways. However, with the arrival of new devices, apps and the range of their uses – risks and rewards...
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...
First Day of School Survivals
It happens to the best of us, we suddenly look up from blowing up inflatable dolphins and flipping burgers on the backyard grill and summer has come to a shocking halt. We know it’s coming, but every year it sneaks up on us. Here’s a PreK-through-12 cheat sheet on how to start your school year off right, with tips from some of the brightest minds of OC and beyond. Preschool to Kindergarten Preparing for the first year of school. By Alexa Bigwarfe The summer has passed by more quickly than you thought, and now you may be panicking because you...
Home Alone Checklist
A new school year often brings new rules and new responsibilities your kids are deemed ready for. (Whether you are or not!) One of these milestones is the time when you decide your child can handle being alone at the house, before or after school, when work obligations cause scheduling conflicts. Here are a few helpful things that will give you peace of mind. Electrohome Alarm Clock If your day involves a long commute and starts before theirs, you might be relying on their phones to wake those sleepy, sleepy heads. Most digital media pros know the reason their heads...
2E Kids and Non-Traditional Schooling
Twice Exceptional (2e) students are the kids that are intellectually gifted, but have a learning disability or other challenge that affects their ability to progress effectively in a mainstream school environment. Most 2e students are too gifted for traditional special education classes, or excluded from them because their learning disability is not as apparent. In the typical “teach to the top” American schoolroom the general population is taught to suppress their individuality for the sake of the whole in order to be a good student. Kids are expected to engage in academia by being well-behaved boys and girls; by listening,...
Montessori Soaring
The Out of Box Education. The founder of Montessori education, Maria Montessori, brought her philosophy to the United States from Italy over a hundred years ago. It enjoys over fifty years of history within the Orange County community, where generations of children have benefitted from the unique way of learning. The Montessori educational philosophy provides children with the freedom to grow and experiment within a comfortable environment. Without endless directives, children are able to develop independently through sensorial work. By allowing students to take charge of their own education, they advance at their own pace and develop real world skills...
Tween Hygiene
The kids are getting older and their hygiene needs are growing with them. Here are some products that help bring balance to the wildly hormonal years of tween-dom. Dove Go Fresh Cool Essentials Antiperspirant We love the body-image message from Dove, and you’ll love the 48-hour formula that covers your kid even when she forgets to swipe left, or right (underarm). Our favorite is the mildly scented Cucumber and Green Tea, which works for sensitive skin just adjusting to shaving, and doesn’t stain clothes or leave wet-looking streaks behind. $4, www.dove.com Febreze Fabric Refresher Middle school and junior high kids...
Mission Hospital: Kick Tobacco to the Curb
Kick Tobacco to the Curb & Protect Your Unborn Baby's Heart Did you know that unborn babies exposed to tobacco are at higher risk of a-fib and stroke? One in every 4,000 newborn babies will suffer from a stroke, and that risk increases drastically with smokers. It's no news that smoking is bad for you, not to mention, highly addictive. But the chemicals tobacco contains, such as formaldehyde and tar that are absorbed by your lungs when you smoke, don't only affect you. Smoking is highly poisonous to your unborn child and can damage your baby’s lungs, heart and brain....
Mission Hospital: Summer Swimming Safety
Whether it's a pool, lake or ocean, summer is the time to make a splash. But before you cannonball into the water, plan ahead and keep in mind important safety tips. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 10 people die of accidental drownings a day. It is the second most common cause of death in young children in the U.S. It's vital that parents take precautions to protect their children, especially when they’re playing in and around the pool and ocean. Keep your child’s swimming adventures safe by following these guidelines. Keep a Close Eye...
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...
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...
Backyard Pool Safety
Q: [Infants & Toddlers] My husband surprised our family by announcing we were getting a backyard pool. The kids are thrilled, but with a toddler in the house and two often distracted or forgetful older kids running in and out, how do I keep my little one safe? A: Keeping a toddler safe around a body of water is difficult. Throw in a couple of older siblings and it becomes a much tougher task. There is hope though. Although you can never fully substitute for good adult supervision, you can offer yourself peace of mind by enrolling your toddler in...
Aaron and Evan Steed, Meatheads that Will Move You
By popular belief, the term “meathead” conjures up visions of an excessively muscular guy, who cannot spell “protein shakes”…but consumes them regularly. Aaron and Evan Steed, Founders/CEO of Meathead Movers (Santa Ana), have a new take on the term. Their moving company hires competent student athletes who are concerned with providing great customer service at a rapid pace to move families all over California. But their story has even more muscle behind it. While in high school, Aaron and his brother Evan needed a job that was both flexible and also fit with their sport schedules. They began letting their...
Ibtissam the First
Chino Hills, 5 years old Theme: Sofia the first Location: Billy Beez, Anaheim, CA Photography by: Madison Bruce Food: Pizza, salad and drinks Invites by: Billy Beez Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cake: Darla's Cake Design, Cupcakes: Food 4 Less Decor by: Billy Beez Anaheim, Party City Entertainment: Billy Beez The Goods on the Goody Bag: Assorted Candy “The party was a success due to the friendly environment and great service. The parents and children both had fun and instantly loved the idea of returning to Billy Beez . The advice that I would have for parents planning their child’s birthday party would be to definitely think of your...
Kids and Competition
Pros and Cons of Competition Competition and athletics are pervasive in our cultural values especially when it comes to young people. We strongly encourage kids to play sports at every level to help them learn leadership, discipline, respect, determination, responsibility and many other important life skills. We teach that sports resembles “real life” and that it is a microcosm of being a productive member of society. From the outside, it appears that by being immersed in this culture kids are learning how to better handle adversity and the challenges that life sometimes brings. Athletics can also bring families together to...
Saint Marc
Our apologies to those vegetarian and vegan readers, we promise to have something just for you coming up soon (as in, next paragraph!). But when it came to reading about this particular new OC eatery, our minds stopped registering words when we got to “Bacon Bar”. We are fans of bars to enjoy a nice craft cocktail made with organic ingredients and a lot of artistic flair (which you can certainly do here, we’re looking at you, Pommery Pop Champagne). And we certainly love bacon, particularly when it comes in a range of finely cured options, ala the 11 varieties...
Going for Gold
These products that make the lives of elite athletes (and their parents!) easier deserve medals, in our book. Team U.S.A airweave Sleep like an Olympian with this luxury mattress topper constructed with an ergonomic, temperature-regulated breathable design and choice between a firm and soft side. In partnership with the United States Olympic Committee since 2014, Olympians Ryan Lochte and Bubba Watson are among the product’s big fans. From $610, www.airweave.com Diono radian rXT Designed with safety as top priority, the narrow design and steel alloy frame allows a comfortable ride even when carpooling with the soccer team, or if accommodating...
Elite Athletes 2016
Meet a Few of OC’s Future Olympians We have an embarrassment of riches in Orange County when it comes to stellar young athletes. Over a quarter of the last Summer Games’ Olympians held SoCal ties. The year-round balmy climate and world class trainers and training facilities available certainly don’t hurt, but the goals and dreams these kids are making into reality are due to the incredible passion, discipline and hard work they pour into their daily lives. By Sascha Zuger Photography by Ana Brandt Elisha Cameron Athlete age: 16 City of Residence: Huntington Beach Sport: Rowing Achievements: 10th in...
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...
Summer Boredom Buster
A Month of Weekday Fun Heading into month two of summer, you might have emptied your bag of tricks and fear the impending “I’m boooooored”s to come. Here’s a handy guide with a month worth of activities to help you fill those long empty weekdays with fun. (We suggest pooling resources with another three or four parents and create a schedule to keep the kids occupied without endless running.) Brain Drain 1. Mad Science Camp in Huntington Beach — Mad Science camps offer a daily combination of in-class discovery and exploration, outdoor games and physical activities, and hands-on applications of...
Summertime and SPF
We hardly need summer to come around to start getting serious about sun protection in OC, but there is never a bad time to freshen up your SPF game. In the soaring temps of July and August, even high-end makeup skin options can get runny or separate when accidentally left out uncovered or in the car, making it difficult to reapply as often as we should. We love these melt-proof options that not only keep you covered when it comes to skin safety, but nicely take sweat to the, ahem, matte on those sizzling summer days. Clinique Almost Powder Makeup...
Arizona, Tanque Verde Ranch
City Slickers Meet Saguaros at Tucson’s Tanque Verde Ranch When it comes to family adventure in Arizona, Tanque Verde Ranch, an upscale dude ranch set in the hills above Tucson, is a horse of a different color — up to 180 horses, actually, of many sizes and colors. In fact, there is such a wide variety of horses on the ranch, that the wrangler, who seemed to know each and every horse by name, located a perfect equine match for each human in our group, based on size, experience and personality. All the horses at Tanque Verde are geldings, the...
CalOptima: Keeping Indoor Allergies at Bay
A large number of Orange County’s young and old are sniffling, sneezing or wheezing their way through spring’s allergy triggers. Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with a cost of $18 billion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With increasing amounts of money being spent on treatment against outdoor allergens, we often forget about the small changes indoors that can collectively make a difference for our family. According to Dr. Miles Masatsugu, Medical Director at CalOptima, the health insurance provider for thousands of adults and children throughout Orange County, it’s...
Palm Desert
A June Oasis While Palm Springs might not seem like an obvious trip to make in the heat of June, this jewel in the desert is an easy one-tank trip to a whole other world. Here are a few reasons we love it for a School’s Out or Father’s Day getaway. The Digs JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa The Caribbean Island Resort energy is so strong at this fabulous and luxe destination, you will catch yourself straining to hear the waves as you relax in nicely appointed rooms above an endless expanse of five freeform pools and waterways....
Jessie’s Joy Jars
‘Her hope was to muster a fragment of joy in the hearts of children’ In March of 2011, Erik Rees and his family suffered a devastating blow when his 11-year-old daughter Jessie was told her skewed vision was the result of two inoperable brain tumors (DIPG). As Jessie and her parents drove away from Children’s Hospital of Orange County, Jessie looked at the panes of glass nestled in the cement wall of the hospital and asked her dad, “How can we help them?” Jessie knew behind each one of the windows on the oncology floor was a kid fighting cancer....
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,...
Food Portion Management
The Magic Trick to Meet Your Goals It’s almost always bikini season in OC, but with the kids about to hit the waterparks and invites to family pool parties rolling in, a little maintenance never hurt anyone. Rather than deprive yourself of favorites because they might not be on your personal plan, indulge…in moderation. Dr. Caroline Cederquist, M.D., founder of bistroMD (www.bistroMD.com) offers some tips on how to keep portions under control. When eating out at a restaurant, have the server box half your meal before it is served so you aren’t tempted to overeat. Don’t eat from the box...
Hot Musical Products
Get those tiny (or tween) toes tapping with these fun musical products that will be harmony, or at least a lot of fun, to your household. Karaoke Machine Portable Speaker System This all-in-one machine plays CDs or allows streaming from smartphones/tablets, with 3.5” screen display for lyrics (or show on TV for parties and sleepovers). Auto-tune and “voice coach” keeps things sounding great and even fills in the blanks when a singer forgets a line. $69, www.ElectroHome.com Aquatune Floating Water Speaker A lot of speakers claim to be waterproof, but this puppy actually floats. Let them get their groove on...
Exodus Escape Room Birthday Party
Carter, 13, Orange Theme: Masquerade Ball Location: Exodus Escape Room, Anaheim Hills www.ExodusEscapeRoom.com Photography by: Holly Bruning Invites by: Paperless Post Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Nothing Bundt Cakes, Orange Decor by: Themed-room provided as part of clue-filled game Entertainment: Staff at Exodus Escape Room Food by: Whata Lotta Pizza of Orange The Goods on the Goody Bag: Party City props & trinkets “Exodus Escape Room was a big hit with the 12 and 13 year old girls, they all said they wanted to do it again. We passed out Mardi Gras-style eye masks from Party City for all the girls....