Summer Camp Support
(Photo Courtesy of Endless Sun Surf Camp) Mental health remains in view for camp directors as we head into summer camp season. In 2020, Camp James directors received emails or had parents coming in to say — often with tears in their eyes — that they had not seen their child smile for the past months prior to coming to camp. “That they see that their precious little child is still in there after months of being homebound essentially and that at camp they see all their happiness returning,” said Camp James Newport Dunes co-director Theresa Collins. “We have returning...
Autism and Fanfiction
‘Harry Potter’ fanfiction may help those with autism tell their stories. A study led by UC Irvine researchers and published in January in the Journal of Literacy Research found that those with autism—along with family members, teachers and advocates—use “Harry Potter” fanfiction to cast autistic characters in their stories that can help challenge stereotypes. “We expected to find that fanfiction authors with autism, or friends, family members and close advocates of autistic individuals, would write about autism in ways that challenged pervasive stereotypes about neurological difference that are often found in popular media,” said Rebecca W. Black, UCI associate professor...
Navigating Divorce with Children
My husband and I are currently getting divorced and I know that it can be traumatic for kids, so how can I help them work through these kinds of traumas?
The New Fiesta Village at Knott’s
The redesigned Fiesta Village at Knott’s is opening in time for summer and promises to be full of Mariachi music, storytelling, Folklorico dance performances an
Kids Play & Places
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County kids’ play and places, plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Holiday Gift Guide 2018
Unique, trending and local — suggestions for everyone on your list For the Family 52 Essential Conversations Card Game A busy mom of three, Jenny Woo, of Irvine, wanted to create something to help maximize quality time with her children. She came up with a simple yet effective card game. Made up of questions in categories like compassion and responsibility (“What is a new responsibility that you want to have?”), the game works to open a family dialogue about important topics in a fun setting. $25, mindbrainparenting.org SafeSleeve Phone Cases Carlsbad-based SafeSleeve makes multi-functional anti-radiation phone cases for families concerned...
A Sweet Life
Mom, social worker and entrepreneur Kimberly Luu taps her social network to help others…
Distance Learning Tips for Working Parents
I’m a manager at a large company and a mom. Do you have advice on how I can manage my team from home while also managing my kids’ distance learning? All ages I can certainly relate with many parents in this situation that balancing work and home life is often a struggle. And if your role at work requires daily team and client meetings, along with managing virtual learning — well, let’s just say it’s not easy, especially for parents with young kids. And, it’s even more challenging because socialization with their friends is extremely important and impactful, while also...
Gaming and Screen Time Pros and Cons
(Photo Courtesy of Stillness InMotion/Unsplash) How do we balance gaming and screen time with off-screen activities? All Ages Let me be clear. I’m not a gamer. But I do spend many hours looking at screens. What are the pros and cons of gaming and screen time from the viewpoints of education and health? And who is to decide what’s too much or just right? As an educational consultant who speaks to parents about this topic almost daily, I must first say that I don’t claim to know the answer. But there is an answer for each family that can be...
Coping with a Child’s Anger
Q: [School Ages] What can I do to effectively approach my child’s anger or emotional outbursts? A: It’s common for children to have occasional tantrums and outbursts, but when their anger seems to flare up repeatedly or turn into aggression, it can be distressing for parents and often they feel unprepared with solutions. Here are a few helpful tips to help your child cope with anger: Lower Your Tone: It’s your natural inclination to verbally get loud to try to get ahold of an escalating situation. The problem with this is that for many children and teens, this can escalate...
Ways to Get Your Kids Moving
Q: [All Ages] All my kids want to do lately is to play video games or watch TV. How can I get them to exercise? A: In a day and age when technology is king, screen time is everywhere, and families keep busy schedules—sometimes we forget one of the most important things to our overall health and well-being: exercise. Good exercise habits start at a young age and hold many benefits, including improved physical health, increased self-confidence and mood, enhanced quality of life and better academic and work performance. But recent studies show that nearly one in five Orange County...
Halloween Mindfulness
Embrace the spooky season with a mindful approach. While Halloween tends to be associated with fright, it’s essential to remember the power of mindfulness.
Holiday Mindfulness Hacks
The holiday season is a time for parents to practice mindfulness and impart this invaluable skill to their children to teach them presence and gratitude.
Summer Camps for the Future
Learn how summer camps can help inspire careers. Summer camp is a time for fun, learning and making new friends. And for some, it’s also the chance to think abo
Thriving at Camp
Learn how to help your child with special needs have an enriching summer camp experience. Choosing a summer camp — and preparing your child with special needs
Valentine’s Day Heart Craft and Lesson
(Photo Courtesy of Adriene Madden/Adventures in the Schoolhouse) The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you how to create a craft for your Valentine. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://youtu.be/bksqjLxmu8w Craft Supplies 1 Pinecone Paper plate Yarn Safe Needle Scissors Hole puncher Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your child with this craft or any other craft of your choice below for a chance to be featured in Parenting OC Magazine, on The Little Red Schoolhouse’s socials and to win a free class with Mrs. Madden! Plus, the...
The Mom’s Guide to Choosing a Preschool
Learn how to find a preschool that fits the needs of your child and family…
Learn & Grow 2024
An estimated 1800 visitors came out to be entertained and to meet the Learn & Grow exhibitors on Saturday, September 14, at The District at Tustin Legacy.
November Thanksgiving Craft: Thankful Turkey Centerpiece
(Photo Courtesy of Adriene Madden/Adventures in the Schoolhouse) The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Thanksgiving Turkey Centerpiece. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://youtu.be/SXYawt-fyEw Craft Supplies Fall-colored construction paper or card stock 2 round foam spheres from the floral section of any craft store (1 small and 1 large) 2 large balls or skeins of yarn 1 7-10 inch skewer or wooden dowel Scissors Glue gun Stick pins Googly eyes Colored felt Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your...
DIY Halloween
Discover 4 creative and easy DIY Halloween costume ideas that you can create last minute with items that you already have at home. Perfect for all ages!
The Montessori Method
What is experiential learning in Montessori education? All ages Maria Montessori, a pioneer in the field of neuroscience and child development, was the first to recognize the connection between movement and cognition. Her scientific observations led her to conclude that physical action helps to create stronger neural connections in the brain. Her idea of the “absorbent mind” clearly describes a process where the child integrates information from the environment through experiences gained from sensory integration. She stated, “What the hand does, the mind remembers.” To put it simply, children learn by doing. They need to explore and discover through hands-on...
Editor’s Picks: May 2019
PICK OF THE MONTHBear Awareness DaySaturday, May 4th Ursine enthusiasts will barely be able to contain their excitement over today’s activities (10 am–3 pm). Gather family and friends for a day of bear-themed activities, zookeeper chats and more. Chat with bear keepers and visit learning stations where you can discover the latest in bear research and conservation. Find out how to react in a bear encounter and ways to “bear-proof” camping sites. There will be bear-related craft projects designed for kids too.Reservations are not needed. Activities are free with paid zoo admission ($2 per person, ages 2 & under free)....
Rhythm Service
Learn how Orange County Music & Dance has served both children and veterans with the healing powers of music throughout the pandemic…
Math Solutions
Learn the unique approach of the Russian School of Mathematics and how it shapes students mathematical abilities and critical thinking skills.
Picking a Pediatrician
What are some questions to ask when choosing a pediatrician? Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions parents will make. Since…
Positivity and Partnership
Positivity and Partnership
When you first learn that your child has special needs, you may feel as though you have been tossed into turbulent waters, with…
Los Olivos Community Park
Taking place on March 2, the grand opening of the Los Olivos Community Park will let the public come and see the sprawling 12.5 acre location, which has fields for multiple kinds of sports and activities. These areas even include lighted baseball fields and basketball courts, a soccer field and four tennis courts for community use. The fun doesn’t have to be strictly outdoors either, as the park now comes with a sizable and modern community center. The 6,700-square-foot facility is equipped with a large multipurpose room, a patio area for those perfect summer days and even a warming kitchen....
Grace Bay Club, Turks & Caicos
Best Inclusive for Little Ones Heading out to a beach vacation with little ones isn’t exactly a stress-free option for travel when the surf rises. However the natural geography of Provodenciales and its shallow shelf makes it an ideal spot to splash and have fun with the kids, without concern about them wandering into deeper water. The white sand in front of the gorgeous Grace Bay Club is soft for baby’s sensitive feet and if your crew gets too salty, ten waterslides, a lazy river and endless pool options await. When kids get a little older (5-12), they will be...
Fun Ways to Exercise with Your Kids
How can we keep active as a family? Between school drop-off and pick-up, work duties, homework and dinner prep, squeezing in a workout sounds impossible…
The Power of Routine
How consistent habits can boost your child’s school success. As a father, I am dedicated to both the personal growth and well-being of my children. I often find
Discovery Cube OC Launches Fourth-Annual Pumpkin Palooza
Pumpkin Palooza is where education meets pure fun. This event is packed with two floors of thrilling activities, a frightfully fun dance party and a festival full of spooky science. Head to the second floor theater for the electrifying Pumpkin Palooza Dance Party.
Overwhelmed to In Control
It is Back to School season, so more likely than not the word “overwhelmed” has popped up in your mind, if not out of your mouth. The life you had before kids looks a lot different than the one you’re living now. I struggled with finding balance. Balance between who I wanted to be and the reality of responsibilities, tight schedules and unforeseen complications that seeped into every crevice of my life. I am here to tell you there is hope for women who feel overwhelmed. The first step is taking a deep breath, grabbing a pen (or the nearest...
Theme Park Staycations
When your bag of tricks is nearing that mid-summer empty point and you can’t handle hearing one more “I’m boooored” it’s time to bust out the big guns…theme parks. Amp up the fun with these overnight extenders to turn your long day into a long weekend to remember. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park www.disneyland.com Even before donning the gear from the Studio stores, the kids will look at you like a hero for bringing them to Disney California Adventure Park to get a glimpse of their favorite Supers and characters from Guardian of the Galaxy. Epic dance offs, chance...
Talking about Mental Health Issues
Q: [Tweens/Teens] Mental Health month just passed, which is great and so important to get awareness raised in the community. But I feel like a bit of a hypocrite when I am supporting the cause as my teen deals with eating disorder issues, and rather than share it at orientation with her new high school, I feel like it might be better to keep it to ourselves. This just feels like a new start and I don’t want her judged. A: One of the hurdles that people living with mental illness continue to face is stigma. A child with a...
Cruising, A Mother of A Vacay
Sometimes a vacation feels like anything but, for parents. Schlepping beach toys over dunes, making endless rounds of sandwiches, picking up around campsites to avoid nighttime wildlife visits, packing-unpacking-repacking on roadtrips… maybe it is time to set sail to an escape where someone else makes the bed, entertains the kids, makes meals and snacks on command, tidies the room, even cuts your little one’s chicken! This is what cruising can do for you. Princess Cruise to Alaska www.princess.com Exploring Alaska by sea is an ideal way to cover a lot of ground, in a place which doesn’t have an overabundance...
News for the Spectrum and Beyond
What’s new in the world of Special Needs? Here are a few of our favorite lesser-known resources helping OC families of those with Autism and ND Disorders. Smile and Say ZZZZZZ’s! Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County announced the unveiling of a new general anesthesia wing at their Garden Grove Smile Center. Children who have a physical, developmental, mental, behavioral, cognitive, or conditions that require medical management and specialized services may benefit from sedation dentistry. In 2016, 41 percent of Healthy Smiles’ general anesthesia cases were children with special needs. The expansion, which will cut long general anesthesia treatment...
Super Easy and Kid Approved Healthy Banana Muffins
When it comes to baking and cooking, parents know there are times that we just want to get the meal prepared without the helping hands of our sweet children -- because we know that just doubles our prep time! But a recipe my kids love making with me — and I love having their helping hands -- is my Yummy Banana Muffins. I usually add chocolate chips, and they become the kids’ dessert. And best of all, the muffins are a one-bowl and six-ingredient recipe. Enjoy! Super Easy and Kid-Approved Yummy Banana Muffins Ingredients 1 ½ c. whole wheat flour...
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...
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
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...
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...
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...
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...
Nicole Steinert
Raising Awareness, Funds, and Spirits When a young mother discovers a lump on the skull of her three-month-old baby boy, anxiety and fear run amuck. Nicole and her husband Todd feared the worst and searched for answers to their child’s noticeable bump. Four years and countless doctor visits later revealed an official, yet devastating diagnosis that changed their lives forever. When Nicole and her husband Todd married in 1999, they knew that a family was going to be in their future. Luke was born first. He epitomized all things boy and often ran the young couple ragged with his constant...
A Rockin’ Good Time
Sophia, 6, Anaheim Theme: Donuts and Pajamas Location: Rockin’ Jump Orange County, sna.rockinjump.com Photography by: Family Invites by: Etsy Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Delicious Gourmet Cupcakes Entertainment/Party Planner: Stephanie Courtillier The Goods on the Goody Bag: Sippi Cereal Bowl, mini cereal, marshmallows, fruit by the foot, erase pencil, gummies, stickers “I think the key for a successful party is the location. Rockin’ Jump Orange County was very flexible and helpful with all the ideas I had for our party. Our guests loved all the different activities for the kids and all the food. So much fun!”
Alana Yarbrough: Odysseo by Cavalia
As a parent, experiencing a sense of sheer wonder like you did as a child can be a rare experience. From stunning horses to enthralling riders, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, musicians and singers, Cavalia is a family affair. Created by the Latourelle family and their sons for your family’s delight, the internationally acclaimed show is an epic journey of nature’s greatest wonders while showcasing the beautiful relationship of horse and human. Take your eyes, ears, mind, and heart on a galloping adventure with 65 horses of 11 different breeds and 45 artists from around the world, including the United States, Canada,...
Controlling Your Child’s Diabetes Helps the Whole Family
The beginning of the new year is a great time to get your family’s health back on track. But what does this mean if your child is living with diabetes? Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose (sugar). People with Type 1 diabetes have a pancreas that cannot make insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin but the insulin does not work the way it should. Because of this, the glucose or sugar from food stays in the blood and your child can have “high blood sugar.” Your child may feel tired or low...
Social Media and Mental Health
(Photo Courtesy of Emily Wade/Unsplash) How can I keep my kids safe from the mental health risks of social media? All ages Children’s access, reliance and relationship with technology has skyrocketed in the past two years. Online schooling, increased dependence on laptops during the pandemic and isolation have directly impacted how children interact with technology. Many children became reliant on social media to alleviate feelings of isolation. According to a recent poll by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital on Children’s Health, 49 percent of children ages 10-12 and 32 percent of children ages 7-9 are using social media. The primary focus...
Specializing within Sports
Q: [School Age] With springtime sport team tryouts and summer camp registrations there are so many decisions for my baseball-playing son. Does specializing in one sport lead to more success than playing year-round? A: Joining a higher level club or travel team to get better coaching and play with more talented teammates can definitely improve skills in that one sport. Studies have shown, though, that Division 1 NCAA athletes are more likely to have played multiple sports in high school and that their first organized sport was different from their current one. Reviews of studies of elite athletes revealed that,...
Summer Science Programs for Kids
[caption id="attachment_31917" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo courtesy of Bionerds Inc.[/caption] The ruddy duck is a diving bird. Its plump, cinnamon-colored body bobs on the surface of a pond at the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, supposedly catching its breath. Audubon naturalist Jay Miller points out the duck’s baby-blue beak, a beak so bright people have asked him if it was painted on. A collective gasp rises from the audience as it dips out of view. Another cry is heard: “Look! An osprey!” The giant bird, wings poised in a shallow V, sails across the sky. But it wasn’t Miller who identified it:...
Hair Therapy
Is your hair getting out of control? Check out these tips from a local stylist…
Teacher Inspired
OC teachers reflect on what the past year has been like and what they expect from this new school year…
Off to Camp Checklist
As a parent, the thought of sending your little one (or not-so-little one) off to camp, whether it be day camp or a week of camp, can get your stomach all in knots. Making a checklist to follow when the process gets overwhelming can help you stay on track and not mired in an emotional spin that could raise your stress level, or even worse give your observant kiddo a sense of uneasiness. 1. Compile a list of all the camps going on in and around you area. Ask your friends, look online, visit your community center, ask the teachers...
Gaming Insights
(Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock) Learn how to set healthy limits for your video-gaming kids. Over the last several years, there has been a steady upward trend in the amount of time our children spend engaging in video game play. As a parent, you may find yourself questioning how to monitor and set limits on video game use without becoming “the bad guy” to your child. Before setting limits on video games, a good starting place may be exploring and reflecting on your relationship with your child. Research suggests that when parents have open communication and explore ideas and concepts with...
Orange County Special Needs Directory
Our mission is to provide a helpful, comprehensive directory that special needs families can start with when looking for therapies, education, counseling and activities. We will continue to expand this guide online. We want to hear from parents and professionals with your suggestions. Here we have the searchable directory with links to each resource. Use the submit form to suggest other helpful resources. – The Editors Compiled by Sophia Morales, Jocelyn Quirate, & Madison Amirehteshami Education [ninja_tables id="73656"] [ninja_tables id="73120"] Learning Resources [ninja_tables id="73123"] Sports and Activities [ninja_tables id="73125"] Therapies & More [ninja_tables id="73658"] [ninja_tables id="73127"] Check each website for...
Bald Eagle Live Nest Cam, Big Bear
Check Out the Live Footage of Eagles Jackie and Shadow Friends of Big Bear Valley planned, raised funds, obtained permits and installed a Bald Eagle Nest camera on the first ever active bald eagle nest in Big Bear Valley, California. The camera and sound system is solar powered and runs live stream—available to watch 24/7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE This nest is in the San Bernardino National Forest land. It has been in active use since the fall of 2013. The surrounding area is closed to the public during nesting season to protect the eagles—bald eagles have been known to abandon nests...
In the Moment
Enter to Win Tickets Winner will receive a four-pack of tickets to various prizes in OC. Pictures should capture your little one(s) being "in the moment" - it could be something funny, something memorable, or something clever. 50 words or less. To enter, submit your photos below. *One win limited per year*
Destination Mission Bay
Mission Bay offers vacationing families access to the very best of San Diego. School’s out for summer and most families are in need of a getaway — something fun
7 Mom Entrepreneurs
From writing to baking and organizing, these OC mompreneurs are putting their own unique stamp on business. Leslie Bruce Lives in: Laguna Beach With: husband, Yashaar, and her daughter, Tallulah, 5, and son, Roman, 1.5 Profession: Author; writer of “You Are A F*cking Awesome Mom” Connect: @leslieannebruce on Instagram, @lesliebruceamin on Twitter, unpacified.com Background: “As cliché as this might sound, I’ve actually been writing my entire life. As a little girl, I always kept journals, and would make little books out of construction paper and crayons. As an adult, I received my graduate degree in journalism at the University of...
Art De-Stress
Help reduce anxiety in kids during the back-to-school season through these fun art projects. Many kids experience anxiety. Different feelings can come up
STEM Toys
Pendulonium STEM Challenge Let your child explore the fundamentals of physics without them ever knowing. The Pendulonium STEM Challenge from Learning Resources is an entirely kid-powered activity set that will develop early engineering, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Kids launch balls at goal cups using a three-piece adjustable pendulum that introduces them to early physics concepts like force and momentum. As your child masters each challenge, use the included activity book to increase the level of difficulty to encourage continued development. If only all physics classes could have been this fun when we were in school. $19.99, www.amazon.com Beaker Creatures Greetings...
Moms at Work
(Dr. Behnaz Motlagh/Photo Curtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Local mompreneurs talk about their passions for business and family — and how they’ve overcome challenges. Dr. Behnaz Motlagh Family: Husband, Omid Nazeri; daughter, Moneli Nazeri, 13, son, Keon Nazeri, 7 City: Laguna Niguel Business: Health Solution Medical Corporation (healthsolutionsmedical.com) in Laguna Niguel What inspired you to become a doctor? “When I was 15 years old, I experienced a medical miracle. My father was in desperate need of a heart transplant at the age of 45. The heroes, his doctors and surgeons, were able to do the high-risk procedure and give my father...
Summer Sports Camp Tips
What should I keep in mind about sending my kids to a summer sports camp? All ages Enrolling a child in a sports camp positively focused around their interests ensures their vacation time and your money is well spent. When choosing a camp it’s important to consider the following: Safety Dropping your child off can sometimes be a daunting experience for any parent, particularly for the first time. A good camp will have a robust check-in and pick-up procedure in place that gives you peace of mind that the safety of participants is at the forefront of the planning process....
Mental Health Tips for Teens
(Photo Courtesy of Jonathan Cosens Photography/Unsplash) A teen mental health expert offers parents advice on avoiding the pitfalls of bad habits. The early months of the year are usually a time for reflection, resolutions and starting anew. But with the pandemic clearly seeping into 2021, it can be more difficult for teenagers to embrace a fresh start. That doesn’t mean they can’t try. Breaking bad habits — whether on Jan. 1 or on some random Tuesday in July — is about making conscious decisions. For parents and teachers, this means helping kids stick to routines. And for teens, this means...
Acknowledging Autism Awareness
Q: As a mother of a child with autism, I am often given eye rolls or useless parenting advice from others when she is acting up in public. What is some encouragement advice for others to be kind to the parents of special needs children and their parents? A: Maybe it is the month of April and the heightened awareness to special needs and particularly Autism, or the plethora of school shows and activities, but there so many different dynamics that bring the topic of Special Needs to an intense level at this time of year. Please always start with...
Autism and Adulthood
Supporting child with autism spectrum disorder through the transition of childhood to adulthood. The transition to adulthood for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be challenging, and requires planning and special considerations. As adolescents graduate from high school or receive their certificate of completion, the structured supports they may have been receiving often are terminated, leaving them and their families confused about what resources are available as they pursue college, employment, and greater independence. Today’s statistics show that most adults with autism (84%) remain living with their parents and nearly half of 25-year-olds with autism have never held a...
Enriching Activities
In searching for the right after-school activities for your kids, here are five questions to ask. After-school activities help children explore new interests.
Holiday Gift Guide
Check out these educational, fun and functional gift ideas for the family. They will have your kids learning and laughing at the same time while looking stylish
“You’re My Jam!” Heart Cookies
A twist on traditional Norwegian cookies, these flakey pastries are filled with delicious jam…
Mindfulness Parenting for Special Needs
Learn about this powerful approach to help in raising your special needs child. Parenting can be a unique and rewarding journey filled with joys and challenges.
Pine Cone Birdfeeder
The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Holiday Wreath. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos…
Navigating the Return to Work for New Moms
Local parenting experts share their strategies and support for helping new moms return to paid work. Transitioning back to paid work after a baby is a journey.
Coaching for Success
Learn what to look for in an Olympic-level coach for your young athlete. With the Olympics approaching this summer — July 26 to be exact — fans will wonder
Easy Holiday Craft: Christmas Wreath
(Photo Courtesy of Adriene Madden/Adventures in the Schoolhouse) The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Christmas wreath. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3FYZ6bRkME&t=3s Craft Supplies 1 wooden ring from any craft store floral or fabric section Faux or real festive greenery Baker's twine Scissors Ribbon (optional) Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your child with this craft or any other craft of your choice below for a chance to be featured in Parenting OC Magazine, on The Little Red...
Pumpkin Spiced Loaf Cake
These modern-day muffins capture the essence of the cozy season in every bite, transforming simple pumpkin puree into a comforting delight…
Moms at Work
Discover the inspiring journey of working moms balancing career and family. Highlighting the joy, chaos, and the resilience that defines their every day lives.
Editor’s Picks: March 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH 48th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales March 2-3, 9-10 This whale-sized festival crams an incredible number of events into two weekends at Dana Point Harbor during the gray whale’s annual winter migratory ritual. The Festival of Whales Parade kicks off the festivities on Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m. Attendees can view the parade from the side of Pacific Coast Highway between Selva Road and Street of the Golden Lantern, where they can enjoy the parade featuring giant helium balloons, community organizations and more. The sand sculpting competition, the clam chowder cook-off, the Diamond Dig,...
Dad on a Mission
A local dad turns tragedy into teaching and helps other dads become the best they can be…
Holiday Peppermint Hot Cocoa
‘Tis the season for this stove-top peppermint hot cocoa which is made with creamy oat milk, maple syrup, double the chocolate and peppermint, of course!
Happy Campers
Tips to help kids with their first camp experience. School’s almost out. You found the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer or scientist, but…
7 Simple Mindfulness Activities for Autism
Add these to your coping toolbox
In recent years, mindfulness has gained popularity across various settings, from schools to workplaces. It is not just a…
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve
A trail on the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve near Murrieta offers families a nearby hike full of natural wonders. People often ask me what my favorite local hike is. That’s a tough question. How can I compare a wildflower hike with a walk in the woods or a scramble to a waterfall? Each hike tends to be its own experience. It’s an especially fraught question this year, when the rains have led to spectacular superblooms. The creeks are flowing and the local waterfalls, which often lead ephemeral lives in our dry climate, are gushing. Yet I do have a...
Oak Canyon, Anaheim
Oak Canyon offers an easy trail along a year-round stream, a cactus-covered ridge and a wide variety of flowers. It seemed as though the rains were never going to come this past winter, didn’t it? The hills remained brown and wildflowers that usually show up in early January still hadn’t made an appearance two months later. But even though Orange County never got the real dousing it needed to cause the spectacular blooms we saw last year, there are still a few wildflowers to be found through the end of May, and the vibrant blossoms of the prickly pear cactus...
70 Looks Good on Disneyland
Disneyland Resort celebrates seven happy decades. “To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of…”
Family Fun
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Pumpkin Spiced French Toast
This cozy fall breakfast is everything you love about pumpkin spice — warm, sweet and comforting — all wrapped up in crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside slices of French toast. It’s an easy, kid-friendly recipe where everyone can get involved: dipping the bread, mixing the batter and even choosing their own toppings. Great for lazy weekends or festive holiday mornings!
Engine Ear Toys
A popular Fashion Island toy store has a new home within the mall. Engine Ear Toys made a move in order to expand its inventory and provide higher quality products for customers, says Fashion Island spokeswoman Meredith Foye. “As part of the move, they have introduced the ability to demo products, (allowing) customers… to test games and toys before purchasing them,” she says. “Additionally, they offer a wider variety of games reaching a broader audience, more brain games and STEM products.” Newport Beach | shopfashionisland.com The Game Chest You might call it a treasure trove chock-full of gaming goodness. The...
Importance of Taking Care of Yourself
Explore the benefits of focusing on your own happiness. Life is busy —with families to raise, jobs to work and dishes to wash—we often forget to make time for ourselves. Yet, not taking time for ourselves can undermine our efforts to be the best we can be. “It is important to find things you can do that can help you de-stress. If that means finding time to go for a walk, getting up an hour before everyone else in the house to have some alone time or engaging in a hobby for a few hours a week, then you should...
Locks of Love
When teacher Heather Lopez decided to cut 12 inches of her hair to donate to Locks of Love, a company that creates wigs for children suffering the effects of chemo, she decided to take her act of generosity one step further. After connecting with her principal at Fairmont School in Anaheim Hills, she rallied students and fellow teachers to join her. Their first ponytail-cutting assembly had 19 participants. After the inspiring event, many vowed to participate the following year, those with shorter hair being inspired to grow their hair in order to have enough length to donate. The ponytails are...
MOhM
MOhM = Mom + Ohm…or at least it will after a few classes at this center of education, community, and support for moms and families. Parenting courses like “Surviving the Toddler Years” join pre-and-postnatal yoga, Mommy and Mini-Me and Sensory or Music classes geared toward babies and toddlers — all taught by doctors or parenting experts in their field. Other classes help expecting parents prep for baby, while moms wanting to breastfeed can benefit from tips by a lactation expert. Mission Viejo | www.mymohm.com Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Costa Mesa Whether they’re in for a trim or a proper makeover,...
Family Resiliency, Supporting Autism and ND Disorders
Raising a child with a disability brings a unique set of joys and challenges for a family — increased struggles with daily routines, finances, and navigating the maze of doctors and support services. This can be complicated by decreases in the amount of time parents spend engaged in the community, with friends or as a couple. However, research demonstrates that many families who have a child with a disability are able to balance these demands and believe their family is closer, stronger and happier because of their challenges. Resilience is the ability to withstand hardship and rebound from adversity, becoming...
Girl Power
Celebrating Women’s History Month in OC In the field of women’s history, Orange County is a goldmine. It is home to the fastest woman on record, a former First Lady, world-famous actresses and singers, Olympic medalists and more. And so, with March’s National Women’s History Month before us, parents needn’t look far when seeking ways to teach and inspire children. Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum Anaheim, www.nixonlibrary.gov Beside every man stands a strong woman – and that’s especially true when he happens to be president of the United States. Learn more about one former president’s right-hand woman at the...
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...
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