Anika Ortiz
Turning the Blues of Grief, Pink Anika Ortiz never imagined that she would be opening her own pop-up fashion boutique at the age of 11. Or that she would be a public speaker and vocal advocate against domestic violence at the age of 13. The surprise comes not only from the fact that she is incredibly young to have accomplished so much, but that as a child Anika often hid behind her mother’s knees because she was astonishingly shy. Her ability to command a crowd and her poise among adults and peers is surprising to those who have known her...
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...
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Sign up for Parenting OC’s bi-monthly newsletter and get a family 4-pack of tickets to the Sawdust Festival Tickets.
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...
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...
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....
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....
Going Tech-Free at Camp
Kids Unplug and Make Lifelong Connections In our world of constant connectivity, some might argue that kids shouldn’t be expected to “unplug” for weeks on end. And yet most overnight summer camps are still tech-free zones. Why? Recent studies reveal there are good reasons for taking a tech break. And seasoned camp directors are privy to a little known fact: Kids actually enjoy it. Erec Hillis, boys’ camp director at Camp Champions in Texas, says, “Many of our campers actually thank us for the opportunity to put away their phones for a while. Some of them say that it is...
Facial Treatments
Women face a lot of daily stress…and then stress even more when it shows on our face! If you can sneak away for a little me-time, pull double duty with a relaxing treatment that will leave you glowing and ready to, ahem, face the world. Many facials include scalp, hand, feet or neck massages — or that 15 minute pick me up can be tagged on simultaneously for a small fee without extending your time away from juggling all those home-and-family balls. If you can’t spare the hour, check out these at home helpers that can help you fake it...
The Art of the Heart
Help kids express their inner artist, and feelings, with these fun kits themed to the season. Foodstirs Valentine’s Kit How sweet is it to be loved by someone who ordered this chic kit by Sarah Michelle Gellar. Brownie heart pops are Pinterest-worthy, and tasty. $19.95, www.Foodstirs.com Mandala Expressions They might be too old for scrawled crayon roses, but these blossom-themed grown-up coloring books with Sargent Art pencils might be just the thing to de-stress tweens/tweens from their young love woes. $34.95, store.discovery.com Crystal Creation Kit Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend this time of year, but we loooooove STEM-activities...
Tips for Helping Your Back
Everyone loves a good massage, but sometimes it is more necessity than luxury. It is hard to juggle home, relationships, work and motherhood when you can’t even juggle a couple of foam balls without wincing. Getting away to a spa doesn’t always fit into our busy schedules, so here are a few at-home helpers we checked out to keep your back on track. Varidesk Pro Plus 36 Anyone with back troubles knows how challenging the simple act of sitting can be. This sit-to-stand desk keeps back pain from cramping your style at work. Simply set the ergonomically designed platform atop...
Art for the Holidays
(Photos Courtesy of Diana Shabtai) Making art as a family can help encourage bonding while creating something special for the holidays. Creating art together as a family this holiday season allows a parent to possibly gain better insight into how their child is feeling or thinking by encouraging them to participate in arts and crafts activities or other activities. Arts and crafts, for example, are a great way for youth to turn to their endless imagination all while doing something productive and expressive with it through creativity. There are many materials and activities to choose from, which can allow children...
Cool to Be Kind
Local mom creates book systems teaching kids that success is built on character. Being a mother doesn’t come with a handbook. So Danielle LaBriola, mother of two, decided to write her own book. A series of them, actually. Her book series, Crafting Character, is a five-trait system of books with accompanying interactive plushies that help cultivate the best character from kids. “I struggled to conceive my ‘miracle babies’ so I went all-in trying to be a perfect parent,” says LaBriola. Living in Coto de Caza with her 11-year-old twins, Jack and Scarlett, LaBriola says she planned amazing adventures for her...
Tunes in the Parks
Pack a family picnic and head out to one of these outdoor summer concerts Brea’s Summer Concerts in the Park Add a little excitement to your hump day slump at Brea’s City Hall Park, where summer concerts will be held each Wednesday. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket and a picnic and relax while groups take the outdoor gazebo stage. A different genre will be featured each week. This is a family friendly event – even dogs are welcome. Shows run from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. 401 S. Brea Blvd. | July 11 to August 5 | www.ci.brea.ca.us/...
Kids Who Haunt
Wyatt Stanley working on the Hatbox Ghost for the Haunted Mansion-themed yard display at his Aliso Viejo home. (Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Younger generations of Halloween lovers are finding pathways to careers in theme parks, prop making and more. Jacob Larson was born into the haunting life. His dad, Dave, started a home haunt in Orange five years before Jacob was even born, in 1999. Now at 18, Jacob is busy working at Knott's Berry Farm as an FX technician in the Entertainment Department during the theme park’s biggest event: Knott’s Scary Farm. “In our department we create animatronics,...
Sleepaway Summer Camp Ready?
Q: [School Age] With summer just around the corner and camps filling up quickly, I want my kids to have a great summer packed with fun activities. How do I know if my child is ready for sleepaway camp – or better yet, how do I know if I’m ready? A: The late-night cabin talks, the songs around the campfire, the beloved cafeteria food and the adventures in the great outdoors—it’s an exciting time when your child reaches the age where he or she can attend a sleepaway camp. Here are some simple tips to help you assess if your...
Sea Change
Students ready to board the Crystal Cove Conservancy Science Cruise out of Davey’s Locker. (Photo courtesy of Davey’s Locker Sportfishing) The Marine Protected Area Science Cruise offers underserved students hands-on science field trips. For some, it’s a chance to get out of class and do something different. For others, it’s a pivotal moment that opens doors to new opportunities and career choices. Either way, local students — many from Title 1 and underserved schools — are playing an important role in protecting the environment. All of this is happening through the Marine Protected Area Science Cruise, a program that’s been...
Make a Summer Camp Plan
A pediatric and sports medicine expert offers tips on getting the most out of summer camp for your child….
Top Leader of Orange County 2023
(Photo by Ralph Palumbo) Adrienne Kessler Speech and Language Development Center in Buena Park Adrienne Kessler strives to help others do the right thing. She was first introduced to autism spectrum disorders in 1995. Her work in the special needs community has evolved over the years and she now serves as CEO of Speech and Language Development Center in Buena Park. “All too often individuals with special needs are looked over, forgotten or excluded from society, be it accessibility to places in our community to inclusion from activities, programs or events,” she says. “Individuals with special needs are just that...
LePort Montessori
The essential purpose of a LePort Montessori education is to offer each child an environment in which they can develop the skills and habits they need for a lifetime of learning and happiness. Our seven locations in Irvine and Huntington Beach offer programs from infancy through middle school, as well as Spanish and Mandarin immersion. At LePort, our mission is to equip each child with Knowledge for Life: the essential knowledge, thinking skills, and strength of character needed to flourish as joyful children today and as successful adults tomorrow. Schedule your tour today! 949-544-8859 | leport.com
5 Tips for Emotional Regulation
Teaching children emotional regulation is essential for ensuring that they can move through life without emotional outbursts that leave them feeling out of control. Emotional regulation is fundamental to…
Best Museums in OC
Explore, Learn, Discover! Find the best kid friendly museums that Orange County has to offer. 1. Discovery Cube Orange County (Photo Courtesy of Discovery Cube) Discovery Cube Orange County claims the top-ranking spot on our list for the sixth time. The interactive activities at the kids’ museum make science education fun for young visitors. Jump into a hurricane, take a simulated helicopter ride, survive the bed of nails, explore the solar system or go on a dinosaur quest, the immersive attractions can easily offer hours of entertainment. discoverycube.org | Santa Ana 2. Pretend City Children’s Museum (Photo Courtesy of Pretend...
Business in Detail
An Orange County nonprofit teaches children how to become entrepreneurial leaders through the work of auto detailing. You might look at a dirty car and see a mess that needs to be taken care of. Kevin Jones sees a blank canvas. An opportunity to bring back its shine through auto detailing. “When people come out, and you see a smile on their face, it puts a smile on my face as well,” he says. He looks at today’s youth similarly: as a blank canvas he can fill with practical knowledge to help them advance in life and avoid falling into...
When You Inspire a Passion for Learning … the Extraordinary Happens
When You Inspire a Passion for Learning… the Extraordinary Happens. At Stratford School outstanding outcomes only occur through intentional balance.
Special Products for Special Kids
Myths for Little Yogis Megan Henderson wrote the book “Myths for Little Yogis — Shiva's Dance” to share what the wonders of yoga practice can do for everyone. Henderson’s passion for yoga accessibility stems from her work promoting the healing power of yoga to children with special needs. Yoga helped her own daughter, who has Down syndrome, develop enough strength and balance to begin crawling. The book is an introduction to an ancient Indian myth and source of the dancer’s pose in yoga. Your kids will be enthralled with the story of Shiva restoring balance to the universe all while...
OC Moms: Kate Casey, Briana Vartanian, Kenna Florie and Audrina Patridge
These moms may be in the public light, but they’re moms doing the real work of raising kids. [caption id="attachment_31921" align="aligncenter" width="330"] Photo by Ralph Palumbo[/caption] Kate Casey Comedian/Host/Author | www.loveandknuckles.com Married to: Dan Kids: Mia, 9, Jack, 7, Hayes, 5, Sutton, 3, and Caroline, 9 months Lives in: Newport Beach Podcast: “Reality Life with Kate Casey” (since 2016) In a nutshell: “Philadelphia suburbs born and raised, college in Washington, D.C. Worked in government and then ran my own public relations firm media consulting for global law firms. After the birth of my first child I began writing television recaps,...
Halloween Health Safety
(Photo Courtesy of Jeremy McKnight/Unsplash) What are some ways to help keep my kids safe this Halloween? All ages As a cancer physician caring for immunocompromised patients and a mom of young children, I’m grappling with this question myself. Last year, big Halloween festivals, parades and parties were a no-go in most areas, which means so many kids are excited this year to don those costumes and go on the hunt for their favorite treats. But with schools back to in-person learning and the COVID-19 Delta variant being so easily transmissible, hospitalizations among kids are rising nationwide and in Orange...
Virtual Dental Help
Q: My child is having dental issues, but I don't feel comfortable taking them to a dental office. What is telehealth and how can my family use this while we are all trying to social distance? All ages Dental decay does not stop progressing because of a pandemic. More than ever, it is essential to care for your family’s oral and overall health. In the wake of COVID-19, Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County (Healthy Smiles) offers a virtual service called telehealth to ensure families have access to oral health care while reducing the risk of coronavirus transmission. Q:...
Coping with Uncertainty
Q: [All Ages] I’m super stressed out with everything that’s going on right now. How do I overcome this anxiety? A: To say these are unprecedented times is an understatement. Our parents did not talk to us about that time in their lives when the entire world was brought to its knees by a tiny RNA strand. Although we may have heard from grandparents and history books about the 1918 flu pandemic, the notion of a similar occurrence overwhelming modern technology was remote for most of us. But nature has shown us once again that its power overcomes human desires,...
What Parents Should Know About COVID-19
It all starts with clean hands and cool heads. Wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. Cough into a tissue that you immediately discard. Stay home. By now, we’ve all heard the advice from government and health officials regarding COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, but when it comes to safeguarding yourself and your children, proper hygiene — and a sense of calm — go a long way. This is a fast-moving and ever-changing challenge, so I have been telling parents to check in with cdc.gov for updated information. In addition, there are some pieces of universal advice that I...
Where’s Santa?
Los Cerritos Center’s Santa HQ Friday December 1-Saturday December 24 At this interactive experience, kids not only can meet, and get a photo with, Santa, but they can check out the Elf-Ray Vision and the Naughty-or-Nice ‘O Meter. Santa HQ guests are invited to bring new unwrapped toys or sports equipment on December 1 that will be donated to underprivileged families through the Spark of Love’s Stuff-A-Bus drive. On December 5, it is dogs and cats’ turns can pose with Santa for a photo (6-8 pm), with $3 of every pet photo package purchased will go to spcaLA. Los Cerritos...
The Montessori Difference
LiMai Montessori Academy directors weigh in on why to choose a Montessori education. Why should I choose a Montessori preschool for my 3-year-old child?
Breaking Barriers
Fairmont Preparatory Academy’s Role in Advancing Young Women in STEM. Network of organizations committed to informing and encouraging girls to pursue careers
Pistachio Loaf Cake
For this month’s Cooking with Kids recipe we’re fusing two cultural holidays, sneaking in a healthy ingredient, and perhaps introducing a new flavor to the kids
Being a Mindful Mom
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being REAL. In a world that often glorifies the idea of the perfect mom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and inadequate.
New Year’s Resolutions Vision Board
Scrap the usual New Year’s resolutions and make a vision board instead. New Year’s resolutions can give us fresh hope and perspective, starting us on new habits. Or, possibly more often, they become a millstone of our own making around our necks, dragging us down as we fail over time to live up to the lofty goals we’ve set for ourselves. That list of good intentions—lose weight, stop smoking, act more generously, save a certain amount of money, get better grades, read at least a book a week—fades in our memories as we tackle the ups and downs of life...
Sports Dads
Get to know some local dads, and their passion for athletics and coaching. Athlete dads are happy to share their passion for sports with children.
Theme Park Fun
New adventures await at local theme parks this summer. Bright summer sunshine is the best medicine after a long El Niño winter. Southern California adventures
Classes
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County classes for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
2024 Top Teacher & Employee Award Winners
Winners were featured in our 2024 March Issue! Samuel PerlaFranklin Elementary School Elizabeth EllisonRobert C. Fisler School Tania MoralesBeyond Blindness Top Leader Finalists Top Teachers Finalists Top Employee Finalists ALL FINALISTS [ninja_tables id="64185"] [ninja_tables id="64187"] [ninja_tables id="64189"]
Editor’s Picks: September 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH Parenting OC’s Learn & Grow Expo Saturday, October 5 This health, education and special needs expo gives families the opportunity to connect with more than 60 exhibitors that focus on healthy living. These are experts in the community that can offer parents valuable tools, experience and wisdom to help them raise kids that are healthy in body and mind. The event includes free health screenings, nutrition and fitness demos and family activities, including face painting, balloon art and strolling entertainment. Also, for kids who can climb, dash, hop, roll and slide faster than any other kid,...
Editor’s Picks: January 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Polar Bear Plunge January 20th Sometimes to rally the whole family together to have a little fun, you need to amp up the cool meter. The Polar Bear Plunge certainly does that, no pun intended. This family-friendly event is perfect for kids, teens and fun-loving adults who long for a bit of winter without the long and stressful drive on snowy or icy roads to the mountains. At this annual Mission Viejo event, you’ll get a taste of winter and summer. Folks can have fun getting into snowball fights with 180 gallons of artificial snow as...
Have a Balanced Holiday
Find joy in all feelings and keep holiday stress at bay with these mindful tips. As the holiday season approaches, it is essential to embrace festivities…
Managing ‘Chatter’
Learn how to empower your children to develop healthier internal dialogues. In today’s fast-paced world, parents are no strangers to the constant stream of…
Spring Journeys
Cultivating mindful parenting on the road. As spring unfolds, it brings a spirit of renewal and adventure, inspiring many families to embark on memorable…
Anaheim White House Restaurant
The Anaheim White House Restaurant, run by renowned philanthropist Sir Bruno Serato, received a multimillion-dollar makeover after an electrical fire in February 2017. Serato is well known for feeding local children in need. While the restaurant was being rebuilt, Serato volunteered to cook for the children at the Diocese of Orange’s Christ Cathedral kitchen in Garden Grove. The steakhouse restaurant is now open to the public, resembling the original 1909 Colonial-Style mansion. The main dining area has 11 rooms; eight of which are available for private gatherings. 887 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim | 714-772-1381 or anaheimwhitehouse.com Joon Shabu Shabu The...
City of Tustin Parks & Recreation
The Tustin Parks and Recreation Department offers a large variety of summer activities and camps for kids ages 3-16. Day and teen camps for 1st through 8th grade and half-day camp for pre-k kids. Other summer camps include basketball, Lego, manners, science, engineering, lacrosse, dance, baseball, football, tennis, and more. Check us out at tustintodaymagazine.com or call 714-573-3326 today!
Brain Games with Art
Stimulate your brain while getting creative with these art projects. Art activities can stimulate our intellect and mind. Brain games with art can encourage…
Back to School with a Plan
Superintendent Stefan Bean reflects on his first year in leadership and what to expect this coming school year.
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…
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…
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.
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…
The Mental Health Struggle Is Real
(Photo Courtesy of Heritage Oak) Orange County educators discuss how the pandemic has affected their students’ mental health and what they’re doing about it. The pandemic has left its mark on pretty much every field, including, of course, the school system. Being confined to the home without much social interaction has impacted many students within both public and private school systems. We talked to some experts at private and public schools about how they’re working to overcome the mental health struggles presented by COVID-19. Mental Distress "We have noticed that many students have higher levels of anxiety brought about by...
The Bubble-Dash 2017
Online pre-registration is now closed! We will be accepting walk-ins throughout the day at Learn & Grow, but participation is subject to availability. Can you climb, dash, hop, roll and slide faster than any other kid on your block? Enter the Bubble-Dash Games at the Discovery Cube on September 30, and if you win, age group finalists will win fun outdoor toys, a family-four pack of tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, and the grand prize of appearing on our 2018 Summer Fun Issue cover. Age Groups Ages 5 to 6 Ages 7 to 9 Ages...
Golfboarding
With its scenic 3rd hole fronting Salt Creek Beach, and the rest of the Robert Trent Jones Jr. course commanding sweeping views of the Pacific, Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point has always mixed in a surfing vibe to the 70-par course, but players never actually expected to surf there when they slipped on their golf cleats—until now. Line up a round of golf for dad this month for Father’s Day with the added twist of a GolfBoard instead of a cart, and he’ll be smiling through the bogeys. Golfboards, which top out at 10 mph and handle like...
OC Yoga Mom & Son, Sahel Anvarinejad and Tabay Atkins
Dangling from the threads of an unraveling rope, Sahel Anvarinejad tried eating the right foods and taking on what mild exercise she could manage in order to help her endure the debilitating effects of chemotherapy for her non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. With no hair, appetite, or zest for life, this mother of one fought hard. On a recommendation from a friend, Sahel turned to yoga in order to boost her energy, healing, and hope. She could never guess this trial would lead to a future of helping others in her position, a lesson her child, too, would inherit. Six-year-old Tabay, Sahel’s son,...
Special Beds for Special Kids
Q: [Infants & Toddlers] Our special needs little one is about to outgrow her crib, but I can’t imagine a regular bed working for her. She doesn’t have great physical control and it just doesn’t seem safe. But specialized beds are very pricy. Any tips on how to keep her sleeping safe? A: You are smart to recognize the potential hazard of a standard bed. Entrapment and falls are real concerns, especially if these vulnerable children don’t have full control over their body movements. The Food and Drug Administration has identified seven zones of bed entrapment: Zone 1. Within the...
Jessica and Alejandra
Creating a Cycle of Good One day in 2010, Jessica Romley (pictured on left) sat sipping coffee with a friend, listening to a story that would change her path forever. Her friend shared her enthusiasm about being part of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County, and of the sweet girl she helped through their mentoring program. Remembering her own childhood mentors, coupled with the positive example of a solid work ethic and successful marriage bestowed on her by her parents, Jessica thought, “I can do that for someone else.” Jessica completed the necessary paperwork in order to become...
Puesto
Irvine area OC’ers have been excitedly awaiting Los Olivos’ latest addition, a familiar hotspot for those enjoying the San Diego Marina or La Jolla’s laid back food scene. Now, they can share this fresh look at Mexican with their own families. “When launching Puesto with my brother and cousin, much of the inspiration came from our childhood memories of sharing delicious home-cooked meals with the rest of our family, says Eric Adler, one of Puesto’s owners. “Now, as a new dad to a 6-month-old baby girl, I’m looking forward to her trying her first taco, and celebrating my family’s love...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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....
Meet our New Social Media Mama!
As if she didn’t have enough going on, we decided Jennifer Hulick needed to add a bit more to her plate and tagged her as our new Social Media Mama. What’s it like to raise a very full house of two teens, triplet kindergarteners, husband and boxer-mix Marley? “We’re busy, but that’s how I grew up – we had a big family and were always on the go. On Sundays, we spend time as an extended family at my parents’ in Huntington Beach. We’re all no more than a bike ride away, which is great. The kids all play in...
The Top Five Mental Health Myths
To truly end the stigma surrounding mental health, it’s important to understand the truths behind the causes, symptoms, and treatments of these disorders. It’s imperative to dispel the myths surrounding these illnesses in order to eradicate the fear and misconceptions so prevalent in families. Debbie Hutchinson, Psy.D., Manager of Outpatient Behavioral Health Programs and the Psychiatric Emergency Team at the Laguna Beach campus of Mission Hospital, identifies the following as common misperceptions about mental health: 1. Children with a mental illness are more prone to violence. When a tragic and violent crime occurs, people are too often quick to blame...
I Chews You!
Beat the chewy-blues with these clever teethers and gum soothers your baby will love. Eco-Teether Crib Rail Cover We all cringe at the sight of our little ones gnawing on the crib rail, toxic-free paint or not. These handy crib rail covers offer a comfy textured fabric that is machine washable and free of chemicals or dyes. $49, www.BabeeTalk.com Chubby Gummy Zoli’s toothbrush’esque version of a teether is made with BPA & phthalate-free thermoplastic rubber (TPR) and polypropylene (PP). The handle is easy to grasp, with an anti-choke shield ensuring they don’t poke those soft-textured nubs in too far. $12,...
Key to 2023
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Why mindfulness is an essential skill of the new year. Navigating the modern world is not easy — our culture places excessive demands on our time and attention, often pulling our focus away from those nearest to us and even away from our personal health and well-being. Technology dominates every aspect of our lives. While it has undoubtedly delivered incredible opportunities and improvements to so many aspects of our lives, we must recognize the impact on our health and the health of our children while finding solutions that best protect our families. So much of our...
Art Therapy OC
Art Therapy OC is a cheerful, colorful, encouraging, & inspirational art studio for all ages. Come explore the enjoyable world of Art, it's endless creative, expressive, & therapeutic benefits, & possibilities for healthy better-living. Everyone is a creative artist! Dr. Diana Shabtai, “MissDee” looks forward to seeing you and yours this season for some fun holistic self-care for mental health. Diana offers a wide variety of unique beneficial creative wellness workshop choices where the art is tailored especially for you! You may schedule a private session, creative play date, join her awesome “creative kids camps,” have a personalized pARTy, corporate...
A New Normal for Mompreneurs
Find out how these OC mompreneurs have adjusted and adapted throughout 2020. Jasmine Roth Age: 36 Family: Husband, Brett; daughter, Hazel, 5.5 months City: Huntington Beach Star of: HGTV’s “Help! I Wrecked My House”; previously on “Hidden Potential” How did your passion for home construction and design begin? “By accident! I started building a house for my husband and I, and it sorta snowballed into a career. Whoops! That said, it's been a lot of hard work and dedication to get into this space and leave my mark. I still feel like an outsider and I'm constantly trying to prove...
Going Gourmet with Goofy
The Food & Wine Festival at Disney California Adventure might sound like it’s for adults, but Disney makes sure there’s plenty of things to do for children too. One of those offerings for kids is a chance to learn how to bake the right way at an event called “Jr. Chef.” But this is no simple live cooking show; after all, this is a Disney theme park – so the children chefs have a special teacher. “It’s Goofy’s show,” said Gary Maggetti, general manager of Disney California Adventure. “He does make a mess.” The baking takes place on the Hollywood...
Kids in a Pod: Parents Seeking Educational Alternatives
In a COVID-19 world parents are now forming ‘pandemic pods’ for their kids. When her 7-year-old twins’ Los Alamitos school shut down in March — along with the rest of the state — Eunice Shin started thinking about alternatives. “I've been talking to two other families that are from my kids' classes about possibly doing a group learning,” said Shin. “All of the families have moms working full time from home and it has been challenging juggling both work and school for kids.” Following the school shutdowns and resulting move for education onto virtual platforms, parents were thrust into new,...
Tech Camp Stars
Your future programmer, filmmaker, video game-maker, or scientist will benefit from a summer full of fun and learning. Planet Bravo Whether it’s learning to code, film production, Minecraft, or even building robots, this camp allows kids to use create something awesome with technology in a fun one-week session. The 8 to 1 ratio of students to mentor allows kids to have the attention they need to develop as a programmer, while having fun with their peers who have their similar interests. 4947 Alton Pkwy, Irvine | planetbravo.com iD Tech Kids and teens of all skill levels will learn and interact...
Southern California Railway Museum
All Aboard for a full day of Family Fun with Thomas the Tank Engine & Percy! Day Out With Thomas is returning to the Southern California Railway Museum November 2021. Take a train ride behind Thomas & Percy, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy a day of family fun! Additional activities include: Character Photo Ops Live Music Costume Contest Balloon Twister Petting Zoo Hay Maze Bubble Zone & more! Tickets Available Online https://socalrailway.org/scrm-events/thomas/
A True Warrior
Local mom Vanessa Warrior helps children with developmental delays improve their gross motor skills while offering hope to families…
Top Teacher of Orange County 2023
(Photo by Ralph Palumbo) Rebeca Martinez Los Amigos High School in Fountain Valley One visit to Rebeca Martinez’s economics class is enough to see just how much her students enjoy it. Whether it’s the student she’s picked out as “class greeter” offering enthusiastic support as students walk into the room, or one of her exercises, like drawing your feelings — it’s clear Martinez engages her students in innovative and inspired ways that make a deep impact on their lives. “My students inspire me every day,” says Martinez. “They inspire me with the obstacles that they overcome, their hard work, their...
St. Paul’s Lutheran School
St. Paul’s Lutheran School exists to educate children, nurture their faith, and equip them to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are fully accredited by WASC, and NLSA, School of Distinction and National Blue Ribbon School! When you enroll at St. Paul’s, you become part of our family. Our loving and caring teachers and staff prepare our students to be future leaders, to think critically, show empathy, and to share Jesus’ love with others. 901 E. Heim Ave., Orange 714.921.3188 | www.splsorange.org
Toon-Up
The redone Mickey’s Toontown awaits families with a freshly designed experience. Your kids might have been missing Mickey’s Toontown for a few years now…
Circus Vargas Ticket Giveaway
See Circus Vargas’ amazing 2023 production at Laguna Hills Mall May 5-May 22! A must-see, show-stopping spectacular certain to spark the imagination.
Summer Family Art
Learn about the benefits of practicing art as a family and some creative activities for parents and kids for fun, summer self-care. The art process allows the family to strengthen their bond through creativity and to appreciate each other’s different perspectives. It also empowers the family’s creative thinking and stimulates the family’s identity as a team. This, in turn, improves mental health and well-being for the family. Creative expression through the therapeutic art process allows the family to gain new insights about themselves and each other. It fosters creative thinking and is a healthy, creative outlet for the family. It...
Have a Disney Playdate this Weekend
Get ready for a three-day magical extravaganza with “Disney Junior & Friends Playdate,” celebrating the entertaining and music-filled stories of Disney Junior’s popular series for preschoolers and their families at Disney California Adventure Park on Friday, Aug. 18 and Downtown Disney District on Saturday, Aug. 19 and Sunday, Aug. 20. The festivities kick off Friday at California Adventure with a Playdate Party Parade featuring Disney Junior characters — including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, Elena of Avalor, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Vampirina, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Goofy, Pluto and Mira, Royal Detective. Special “Disney Junior Live!...
The OC Holiday Gift Guide 2019
Your guide to holiday shopping at Orange County-based businesses. FOR KIDS Learn to Surf Let the pros teach your little ones how to surf the best waves with surf lessons at Newport Beach-based Learn to Surf. All surf instructors are either lifeguards or pro surfers ready to teach all ages and ability levels. Each session consists of a 30-minute sand demo followed by 1 1/2 hours in the water. Use of wetsuit and surfboard are included. Starting at $150 for a two-hour lesson for one surfer; learntosurfhb.com Tillys With an enormous list of name brands — from Adidas and Vans...
Moms at Work
(Photo Courtesy of Marcella De Anda) These busy OC moms share their insights on running their businesses while balancing family life. Marcella De Anda Family: Matteo, 14, Sebastian, 13 City: Yorba Linda Business: Taqueria De Anda headquartered in Fullerton How does Taqueria De Anda stand out? “Taqueria De Anda was founded by my mother and father 40 years ago. Taqueria De Anda is different and special because of its authenticity — our dishes are truly those you’d find from the best cooks in Mexico, whether they are street vendors or chefs specializing in the region’s traditional foods. We use only...
Discussing Active Shooters
(Photo Courtesy of Note Thanun/Unsplash) How do I talk to my young child about active shooters? Elementary age The world is seemingly becoming a more dangerous and violent place post-pandemic. We can’t seem to turn on the news without a story of an active shooter or violent event somewhere in the country. As parents, it can be difficult to cope with the images and stories of the victims, but for a child, it can be even more devastating. While many try to shield their children from these types of news stories, or even the topic in general, kids today are...
Mindfulness for Childhood Anxiety
(Photo Courtesy of Kampus Productions/Pexels) How mindfulness can become a useful part of your child’s mental-health toolkit. Parents shouldn't be intimidated by conversations about how to manage childhood anxiety. It's very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that anxiety is a problem that needs to be fixed. In reality, anxiety is a very expected, everyday part of the human experience that can be managed. All of us will experience anxiety at some point. While we never want to downplay or dismiss the debilitating impact that anxiety can have when it's left unchecked, we also want to avoid the...
Shedding Light on Emotional Special Needs
Mental health challenges in kids can sometimes hide in plain sight. Special needs are often associated with physical disabilities. While not as visible, special needs also includes learning, emotional and behavioral challenges. Common mental health challenges are anxiety, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and (obsessive-compulsive disorder) OCD. There are different levels of emotional challenges ranging from mild and moderate to more severe. Mental health challenges in children often go under-diagnosed for different reasons. Parents might unintentionally ignore their child’s needs as they think their child is just acting out and may not realize that there is an...
Apps to Help with Anxiety, Sleep and Relaxation
Apps can be a priceless tool. Imagine your child having a coping skill in their pocket that can bring harmony and presence at home or in the classroom. Meditation apps are fostering great results, they can help young ones calm down and help improve focus and concentration. Many environments can be overstimulating. Mindfulness apps can help reduce the effects by calming the mind. If your child is dealing with social anxiety and their health-related symptoms or disorders such as ADHD, apps can be very beneficial to aid in the reduction of symptoms. In many cases, all that is needed is...
Mental Vacations
Break away to a world of peace and tranquility – and still be back on time to pick the kiddies up from school. These day spas throughout OC offer everything from skin care to deep tissue massages, for the stress relief and relaxation every parent deserves. MassageLuXe Escape from carpool schedules, kids’ extracurricular activities, picking up the dry-cleaning, etc. etc. etc. that clouds your daily routine, and take two hours for yourself for a deep tissue or Swedish massage. Feel the ease from stress and tension, and improve your overall health, without having to book a getaway vacation. Expectant mothers...
Room with a Disney View
Inspired by the famous work of Walt Disney Animation Studios, the new 344 rooms immerse visitors in Disney stories while they relax near the gates of the parks.
Summer Camps for All
There are many local summer camp options for kids with disabilities. Here are some to get you started.Every quintessential summer includes summer camp. It’s
Spring Happenings
From north to south Orange County, here all the egg-citing activities for the Easter season.
Berry Best Mom’s Day Scones
Celebrate Mother’s Day than with a sweet treat! These blueberry scones perfectly crumble with even the softest bite and are absolutely scrumptious.
Dealing with Spring Allergies
Do you find yourself constantly wiping your child’s runny nose, soothing their persistent cough, or noticing red, itchy skin? It common for parents to worry
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