The Prentice School
The Prentice School is designed for students with language-based learning disabilities, including dyslexia, and co-occurring conditions like ADHD. Located on a beautiful 6.6 acre campus in the central Orange County foothills, Prentice offers a premiere educational environment for our students. Our research-based, multisensory teaching methods focus on how students learn. Our innovative program is common-core aligned and includes Orton-Gillingham Structured Literacy, ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies/History, Social Communications, Social-Emotional Learning and PE. www.prentice.org | 714-538-4511
Readers’ Choice Awards Winners — 2023
Congrats to all the places, services, schools, and more that our readers have chosen as the best around Orange County for the 21st annual Readers’ Choice Awards
Top Teachers & Employees 2022 Winners Announced
Learning During the Pandemic is challenging every educator, administrator and school employee, not to mention the parents and students. The COVID Pandemic is the most disruptive force of our time, bringing health and safety concerns along with the pressure to continue quality education through a patchwork schedule and a hybrid model of in-class and online learning. All school workers and teachers are heroes this year, so it was difficult to find the very best of 2021-2022. In honoring the top, we honor all. Top Teacher - Top 10 Teachers - Top 25 Teachers Top Employee - Top 10 Employees Top...
Best Beaches in OC
Family fun in the sun! Find the best family friendly beaches that Orange County has to offer. 1. Huntington Beach Once you’re on the beach sand, it’s no surprise that dogs and their owners love Huntington. Known as “Surf City USA” Huntington Beach is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike. Big crowds can often be found on the pier with local artisan markets, tons of restaurants and other large events like the annual US Open of Surfing. Ideal for animal lovers, the 1.5-mile stretch on Pacific Coast Highway between Goldenwest and Seapoint streets is designated for dogs with...
10 Picks for Summer Fun
Start your summer off right with some of our favorite options for family fun in Orange County. Take a Family Hike Crystal Cove TrailsCrystal Cove State Park has
Dealing with School Anxiety
How do I help my young child with anxiety about starting school this fall? Ages 2-6: Are you stressed about your little one starting school?
Animal Appreciation
How can I teach my young child to respect, observe and appreciate wildlife at zoos and while in nature? There are many ways to help children respect wildlife.
Environmentally Safe Products
These safer versions of simple products will help you and your family to be more environmentally conscious, healthy and happy. Talking Telescope Does your child yearn to live among the stars? Encourage your own version of Elon Musk with this talking telescope, which contains twenty-four fascinating images and facts to encourage them to explore our galaxy and beyond. With this telescope it’ll only be a matter of time before they fire their own car into space… $49.99, educationalinsights.com Play and Learn: Compost Kit Want to teach your child about composting and the importance of buying biodegradable products? Nancy B’s Science...
Back-to-School Items for Mom & Dad for Home, Office and More
Yanoda Memo Board Let’s face it: Back-to-school can get hectic. Make life simple and never forget another dance recital or PTA meeting with this gorgeous gold-framed Yanoda Memo Board. Featuring a calendar, notes and to-do section, there’s room for the whole family’s busy schedule, and the white board format makes it easy to erase and change items as needed. Best of all, Yanoda Memo Boards are made from recycled materials, which makes them a win for your family and the environment. That’s a no-brainer in our book. $49.98, vistaframes.com Jamber Mugs Say goodbye to burns and spills and start your...
Snoozing to Success
(Photo Courtesy of Leo Rivas on Unsplash) Learn how catching some Zzzs can help you and your kids have a productive new year. There is no doubt that getting enough quality sleep is essential for overall physical and mental health. We could come up with a slogan-based sleep recommendation: “Eight (or more) hours is enough” for school-aged children (with a throwback to a popular ‘70s TV show). However, getting those eight hours can be quite elusive, and the quality of sleep is important as well. As we close out 2022 and usher in the new year, let’s offer some tips...
Keeping Children Safe Online During COVID-19
[caption id="attachment_36173" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash[/caption] Q: [All Ages] With the shelter-in-place, my kids are online all the time. How do I balance their distance learning needs with the usual concerns of too much screen time? Yes, it is a reality — school is out for the rest of the academic year due to COVID-19. It’s a hard pill to swallow for parents and students alike, as we are all learning how to do things differently. Distance learning will present us all with formidable challenges, but with a little guidance we can help us all make...
Practical Mindfulness
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) Learn how to create a mindful household for your child for parenting in unprecedented times. Is mindfulness possible in the chaos? It's the question that every parent asks. Life comes at us fast when we're helping our kids navigate the stress of school, socializing, family dynamics and the world at large while juggling our own professional and personal battles daily. Our ideal of living in a calm, emotionally connected house is often sacrificed to the realities of just how much we have on our plates. There's a secret that so many parents miss. Mindfulness happens best...
Goodwill Haunting
(Photo Courtesy of Goodwill of Orange County) In a costume quandary? Pop some cash at the thrift shop down the road. Most people probably didn’t know there was an official day for it, but National Costume Swap Day is the second Saturday of October. Something many parents have already become proficient at, Costume Swap Day offers up the idea of a money-smart and eco-friendly way to celebrate Halloween. “Halloween has been Goodwill’s biggest shopping season of the year for decades,” says Eric Smissen, Goodwill of Orange County’s director of Employee & Brand Engagement. “Especially with a look you’re going to...
The Return of Pumpkin Palooza
A Pumpkin Dance Party Extravaganza is at the center of Pumpkin Palooza II, returning to Discovery Cube in October. The fall fun event is full of activities.
South Coast Repertory: Alice’s Wonderland
In this pop and hip-hop musical, Alice is a brilliant, passionate teen who dreams of making the world better by creating a video game called “Wonderland.”
Preparing for Camp
Here’s what you need to know about summer camp for kids. It’s never too early to begin thinking about summer camps. From day camp to overnight programs
Summer Camp Success
How Special Needs Camps Adapted to a Pandemic Two years of pandemic transformed everyday normal moments in life into the annoyingly and sometimes comically difficult. We often complained. We grumbled. We worried how we would do things. Then somehow we just got on with it. Life can be like that every day for kids with physical or cognitive disabilities. Yet, they must learn at an early age just how to get on with it as well. These lessons in adaptation, grace and dignity can become much more complicated in a pandemic. And teaching kids with special needs during a pandemic...
Family Staycation Guide
(Photo Courtesy of Dana Point Marina Inn) From north to south Orange County, here’s your guide to fun family travel while staying local. North Buena Park From Knott’s Berry Farm and Soak City to Medieval Times and Pirates Dinner Adventure, there’s no lack of things to do in this busy city. Knott’s Hotel offer several packages for those wishing to stay a night or two. The Summer Nights Vacation Package is themed around the park’s summer entertainment and food. Summer at Knott’s is running now through Sept. 5 and includes activities both day and night — from the interactive Ghost...
Stay Water Safe
Learn some important tips for keeping your kids safe around the water this summer. In the next few months, families will be heading out to the beach.
Fairmont North Tustin Breaks Ground on Expansion to Meet Growing Need
Fairmont North Tustin has long been recognized for its exceptional academic outcomes, including its students achieving some of the highest test scores in OC.
Fall into Mindfulness
Follow this parent’s guide to embracing presence and peace this fall season. As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, fall presents an opportunity
Halloween Spooktaculars
Have a scary good time at all the fun Halloween events and pumpkin patches in and around Orange County.
Editor’s Picks: July 2020
PICK OF THE MONTH: Knott's California Marketplace Knott’s Berry Farm’s first public “attraction” was its roadside stand, so it makes sense that, during its 100th anniversary, Knott’s re-opens its Marketplace first while exiting its pandemic hiatus. Folks now can go to Marketplace stores and restaurants (like Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, Peanuts Headquarters, Candy Parlour, and The Knott’s Berry Market and Bakery) — and perhaps more of the park will be open too by the time you read this. Knott’s is following state and CDC health guidelines and has implemented safety measures at the Marketplace — including that all employees...
Editor’s Picks: August 2018
Pick of the Month The OC Fair Don’t let the summer pass you by without a visit to the OC Fair. With a theme of “Free Your Inner Farmer” this year, it’s the perfect time to teach your little ones more about agriculture. Wander over to Centennial Farm for photos of the adorable baby piglets and the energetic goats. Also, among the new attractions are the Selfie Pop-Up Museum and the nerve-wracking Daredevils & Wheels stunt show. And of course, there’s carnival rides and games, live performances, action sports events, agricultural demonstrations and animal competitions. You definitely don’t want to...
Tutor Help
Katherine Dang is a local college student helping kids experiencing homelessness through education…
Looking Forward to 2025
Stefan Bean, provides answers to questions on everything from AI to mental health in education for the 2025 school year and beyond…
David Fenstermaker – Top Teacher 2025
David Fenstermaker loves teaching — and it shows. As activities director at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton, student participation and dance attendance…
Stay Golden
The Golden Gate Bridge as seen from the historic Armory. It's a little tricky to find this spot, but it pays off with a unique angle of the City's signature monument. The Rise of the Golden State Is Told in the Storied Streets of San Francisco San Francisco is our editor’s choice for best road-trip getaway for a number of reasons. It’s world-class in its museums, monuments, architecture, dining, its parks and its setting. Parents looking for an enrichment vacation to share with their fifth-grader, or a kids-free retreat to rekindle romance can find both in this multi-faceted jewel of...
Readers’ Choice Awards – 2025
From Family Fun to Education and Camps, see the Readers’ Choice Award Winners for 2025!
Maximizing the Annual School Physical
How can I get the most out of my child’s school physical? The school physical is more than just a routine doctor’s appointment. It’s a great way to get your child’s school year off to a healthy start. School physicals, or well-child exams, offer a golden opportunity to share information and listen to your child. They also allow your physician to evaluate your child’s growth and development, screen for common childhood conditions and make sure their immunizations are up to date. Annual or school physicals should be more than checking off a form. You can get a form checked off,...
Wander with Wonder
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) How to practice mindful parenting on the road. Traveling with children can be both a delightful adventure and a daunting challenge. As parents, we often find ourselves juggling the logistics of packing, planning and navigating the unpredictable nature of kids on the go. However, mindful parenting can transform these chaotic journeys into enriching experiences that foster connection, curiosity and joy. In this article, we explore how to embrace the spirit of wanderlust while cultivating a mindful approach to parenting on the road. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination In our fast-paced lives, it is easy...
Health, Lifestyle & Beauty
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
School Listings
Stratford School We are committed to connecting students with our unique futures. We offer an unparalleled education that inspires children to be creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. We approach the learning experience by infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning....[SEE MORE] Multiple locations stratfordschools.com Heritage Oak Private Education For more than 50 years, Heritage Oak Private School has inspired future leaders with an advanced, well-rounded curriculum and a focus on character development. From foreign language starting in Pre-K, violin classes beginning in first grade, and cotillion starting in second grade, Heritage Oak’s enriched curriculum promotes responsibility, collaboration,...
What You Can/Cannot Eat While Breastfeeding
Q: [Maternity/Infant] I have read the studies, talked to other new moms (and a fair number of veterans in the baby game) and have decided to nurse. I guess this puts the kaibosh on my plans to dive into all those spicy tuna rolls and glasses of vino I have been longing for the past year of trying/growing this baby? A: You have such great timing for your question, as August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month! Funded by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, this campaign empowers women to commit to breastfeeding. Even with all of its benefits,...
Teen Blues or Something More
Q: [Tween/Teen] “My daughter goes from rainbows and unicorns to a dark place where everything is a disaster, sometimes in the same day. How can I tell if this is just being a hormonal teen or something more serious? Are there warning signs?” A: Unfortunately, there is not a clear way for you to determine exactly what is going on with your daughter. But it’s not unusual for both teens and parents to experience adolescence as a challenging time. Teens go through a range of emotions, which may be the result of developmental changes or environmental influences. Biological changes, such...
Adelaide’s Perfectly Polished Party
Adelaide, 9, Irvine Theme: Hearts Location: Polished Perfect Los Olivos. Irvine Photography by: Polished Perfect Invites by: eVites Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Target Decor by: Party City Entertainment or Party Planner: Kate Hare, Mom The Goods on the Goody Bag: They wore their party souvenir out, their pick of polish or nail art! “We had our daughter’s ninth birthday party at the Los Olivos Salon. The salon and staff went beyond our expectations! Awesome experience— the girls had a wonderful and amazing time.” — Kate Hare, Irvine
Naaaaaailed it!
Love the last and look of gel, but not the process? These two new formulas will wow without the ow. Twila True Beauty’s Lasting Shine Lacquer This OC-born 60 strong nail polish collection not only gets you runway-ready, it’s made with a five-free formula: no Toluene, DBP, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin or Camphor. Add the Fortifying Base Coat and Volumizing Top Coat and an extended wear time kept us looking our best for a good five days. We loved the pop of: That’s My Man-tra!, Sunnies + Sunscreen, Wonder Seeker, Goal Digger and Maybe, Baby. $12, twilatruebeauty.com OPI Infinite Shine ProStay...
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is now offering music and dance classes for children with disabilities. The six-week session, which begins February 6, allow children with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and Down’s syndrome to explore music, movement and creativity in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Organizers say the program can help students improve balance, coordination and confidence. Classes at the Costa Mesa arts hub are aimed at students aged four to 12. Parents of children outside that age range, who believe their kids could benefit from such a program, are encouraged to contact the center. The series...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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,...
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...
Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita
Celebrate your independence from the daily grind with a May getaway in the picturesque Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita. Just a hop, skip and an ole south of bustling Puerto Vallarta is a lovely stretch of coastline packed with enough fun activities to satisfy everyone in the family, and a top class resort you’ll be happy to call your casa away from casa. The Digs Five star Iberostar Playa Mita offers an upscale, but family friendly oasis from the hectic Puerto Vallarta hotel zone. A picturesque hour south, passing through the grand gate doors sets the tone (even before...
Mission Hospital: Why You Can’t Stop Playing Candy Crush
Candy Crush, Cookie Jam and other “match three” smartphone games seem so innocuous and fun. With simple rules—string three or more of the same objects together to work your way up through levels of play—and an aesthetic heavy on bright colors and jingly sound effects. But it’s also very easy to become obsessed with this type of gaming app. Innocent Habit or Addiction? The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder states that it’s worth the research to determine if Internet Gaming Disorder warrants formal inclusion in the manual. That’s because findings so far indicate that...
Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016
We asked the students and parents of Orange County to share tales of their favorite teachers, and they did not disappoint. Over 200 essays were sent in, honoring the educators who go above and beyond. Here are a few we had to share. Read the full versions of the parent/student nominations as well as all of the other amazing teachers who were nominated! Top Nominated Family Favorite Kamee Nuzman, Irvine High School Reading through the 27 (!) essays written about Kamee Nuzman of Irvine High School, I was both awed by the inspiration and love “Nuz” obviously made her students...
DIY Valentines
Hallmark is great, drugstore cheapies have a certain allure, but there’s no beating the heart of a hand-crafted Valentine. Here are a few fun ideas to try with the kids, young and old. Free-Form Striped Heart Making this heart-shaped image is self-explanatory, but kids will love adding personal flair to their heart design…and they just LOVE tape. You will need 5 strips decorative tape in different patterns but within the same color family, each 3½” 1 white folded note card, 4¼” x 5½” 1 piece wax paper at least 4¼” x 5½” bone folder scissors rubber stamp of heart (optional)...
Pollen Pointers
With spring in full bloom, here’s what families should know about this year’s OC allergy season…
Waterpark Nostalgia
(Photo Courtesy of Wild Rivers) Wild Rivers is back in Irvine to create new lasting memories for families. It’s been 11 years since Orange County waterpark Wild Rivers made a splash in Irvine. This summer, locals and visitors can make their way back for a new wave of memories as the iconic park returns to Irvine “bigger and better” than ever. “Wild Rivers President Mike Reidel has been tirelessly working for 12 years to bring an all-new Wild Rivers to Orange County by securing the funding and the ideal location in the heart of Orange County at the Great Park,...
Establishing a Healthy Relationship with Autism and Anxiety
A young Orange County man establishes a healthy relationship with autism and anxiety. “I’m feeling pretty good about myself right now.” That’s my son talking. My son, Drew, the 22-year-old movie blogger and aspiring screenwriter who happens to be on the autism spectrum. Yes, those words and that self-awareness have been a long time coming. But now they are music to my ears. It’s not a constant state, mind you, but when it does come around it’s ever so sweet. And the fact that he clues me in to it is pretty cool, too. He was yukking it up with...
Integrating STEM Education into Local Private Schools
The concept of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) has opened up the floodgates of practical and creative classroom learning.
Cooking Camp for Kids
[caption id="attachment_34808" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Cute Kid Winner Aliya Wallace at Lil Chef School in Irvine. Photo by Ralph Palumbo[/caption] Lil’ Chef School in Irvine celebrates 10 years of teaching local children a passion for cooking. Tracey Doty started cooking with her mom and grandma at a young age. When she was still in elementary school and around the holidays, they would spend the whole day cooking during a given holiday. As she got older, she started doing more cooking and even made dishes ahead of time, so the family could devote more time on their other holiday tradition: a family...
Tips for Trips with Pets
Some pets make great travel companions. Here are some things to know about traveling with pets. Most pet parents are quite familiar with that sad, puppy-dog look whenever they leave home and wave to their four-legged child as they head off to work. We love our pets and want to bring them with us to places as much as they’d like to go—especially vacations. But is bringing our dogs and cats with us during travel a good idea? Orange County Certified Professional Dog Trainer Kate Connell says it really depends on your pet’s temperament, physical health and the form of...
Catching the Acting Bug
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Acting Academy for Kids and Teens’ programs and summer camps teach OC kids a passion for performing arts along with lifelong skills. Stephen Zygo’s love of acting goes back to early childhood. He and his older brother, Mike, were lucky to have a robust arts program in their elementary and middle schools. Their favorite teacher, Mr. Richard Milks, led a show choir performing group and directed full-scale musicals. “After I was cast as Smee and my brother as Peter in ‘Peter Pan,’ we both caught ‘the bug’ and were hooked,” he said. Sadly, when he...
Holiday Kid Guide
Still don’t know what to get the kids? We got you covered with this toy and game gift guide sure to light up your kids’ holidays. Create & Play Magnetic Monsters A monstrously good time awaits as kids create one-of-a-kind monsters by mixing & matching magnetic heads, arms, torsos and more. All 20 parts turn a full 360 degrees to bring these monsters to life. $29.99, ages 3-8, lakeshorelearning.com Superspace A life-sized modular magnetic play space set that connects like magic. Kids can create almost any structure they dream up and then play in their innovations. Packs away into a...
Camp Invention
Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity with our all-new Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate with friends to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From building a mini skate park to launching a pop-up shop to transforming a robot into a stuffie, each experience adds up to an imagination-stretching, confidence-boosting summer. Visit invent.org/local to secure your spot! Use promo code SUM25 by 3/30 to save $25. invent.org/local
Top Teacher & Employee Awards
Finalists are announced! Thank you to those who submitted an essay nominating the top teachers, employees, and leaders who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty.
Moms with Unique Passions
Meet these fascinating local moms with driving passions ranging from Bollywood dance to scare acting. Apra Bhandari Family: Daughter, Saanvi,…
Best Bike Trails in OC
Happy Trails! Find the best biking trails that Orange County has to offer. 1. Back Bay Loop (Photo Courtesy of Sunny Zhao) The Back Bay Loop Trail is a 10.5-mile, well-marked trail that goes around Upper Newport Bay and is frequented by outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. It has multiple entry points with options for scenic stops. The flat paved trail easily accommodates bikes and strollers so the whole family can experience the bay. newportbeachca.gov | Newport Beach 2. Oak Canyon Nature Center Trail (Photo Courtesy of Mucio Vidales: All Trails) Nestled in the Anaheim Hills, Oak Canyon Nature Center...
Fairmont Schools’ Legacy of 70 Years of Student Success
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Since its founding in 1953, Fairmont Schools has stood as a leader in education and a model of what education should be. This year marks Fairmont’s 70th anniversary and while many things have changed over the past seven decades, one has not — the school’s commitment to transforming the lives of its students through best-in-class educational programs and people. Since its humble beginnings as a summer program run out of the home of founder Kenneth Holt, Fairmont has grown to five campuses that serve Orange County and beyond. Today, it is the county’s oldest and...
Mindfulness for Back to School
Tips for getting your family back-to-school ready. Heading back to school after the summer break is a big moment for any child and requires a shift of gear
Leading through Reading
Shannon Woest helps kids connect to the world through a love of books. She volunteered at Mission Viejo’s Del Lago Elementary School 13 years ago and never left
Items to Keep Your Life Simple, Safe, and Spotless
Check out these new products on the market created to make your life simpler, safer and spic-and-span. On-the-Go Cup Kafe in the Box is a square-shaped cup will make you look stylish while reducing coffee or tea spills all over your car or gym bag. With a splash-proof lid and double wall insulation, you can take whatever hot drink you enjoy everywhere you go — and its BPA, BPS and Pthalate-free, so you will feel good about drinking from it. $15.99 (12 oz), $17.99 (16 oz), amazon.com Safe Earphones Protect your child’s eardrums while they’re listening to their music or...
Health and Business Goods for Moms
You stock your house with all the kids’ needs, attend to your own at the office with a few of our favorite biz goods. Vaya Tyffyn Elevate your lunchbreak with the Cadiilac (or Bentley or Rolls) of lunch boxes. The ingenius design is only enhanced by the copper finished stainless steel eco-vacuum vessels which keep food warm, or cold, for five hours. (You’ll never be tempted by el Pollo Loco bowls again!) $59, www.vayalife.com Samsonite Mobile Office Take your business for a spin with one of these mobile offices that let you put your hands on anything you need for...
Growth Spurts & Athletes: Less Physical Activity
I think my son has grown a lot recently. Is this normal considering he has been much less active? Adolescents Have you noticed that your teenage athlete had a big growth spurt over the last few months? I’ve seen several young athletes recently for annual physicals and found that many of them have grown quite a bit taller since March. This shouldn’t be a major surprise. In the past, athletes and other performers/dancers who have taken months off have also tended to experience growth spurts. So, why have athletes grown taller when not spending time on the field or court?...
Answering Dreaded Questions
Q: [Toddler] My toddler just asked me an embarrassing question. What should I do? A: Whether the question was, “Where did I come from?” or “Why does Daddy pee different from Mommy?” a parent’s worst fear is that they’ll be caught off guard and totally tongue-tied when their toddler asks a challenging question. (Or that it will happen loudly and in public!) If you’ve just found yourself in this situation, take a breath. First, know that what’s come out of your toddler’s mouth may be different than what you’re imagining, so start by clarifying the question. You might think they...
Adolescent Mental Health Tips
(Photo Courtesy of Any Lane/Pexels) Learn about three common mistakes parents make with adolescent mental health and how to fix them. Missing Warning Signs The saying kids will be kids is problematic. I mean, I get it: Sometimes kids will be kids. But unfortunately, where adolescent mental health is concerned, adopting this mindset creates significant blind spots for noticing potential warning signs. Historically, 20 percent of children have a diagnosable mental health condition; that’s pre-pandemic; pre-quarantine; pre-new-normal. It’s safe to say that the number of children suffering (even situationally) is dramatically higher. When kids begin to be more aggressive, or...
Back with a Bang
(A view of the City of Newport Beach fireworks show from Newport Dunes. Photo courtesy of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort) Fourth of July events of all kinds are lighting the 2021 skies this month. Laguna Niguel’s July 4th Week of Festivities https://ca-lagunaniguel4.civicplus.com Take a musical “road-trip” across America at this patriotic drive-thru event held at Laguna Niguel’s City Hall July 2-3 (7:30 pm-9:30 pm). Then, on the Fourth, you can view six acrobatic airplanes soar through the skies over the Crown Valley Parkway at 6 pm while a digital celebration, featuring inspiring music, a fireworks display and a patriotic video...
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Giveaway
(Photo Courtesy of Chris Miller/VistiGreaterPalmSprings.com) DEADLINE: Friday November 24 Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is giving away a family 4-pack giveaway to The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! Aboard the World’s Largest Rotating Tramcar you’ll experience a breathtaking journey up the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon. Begin the 10-minute ride at the Valley Station elevation 2,643 ft. and end at the Mountain Station elevation 8,516 ft. In the winter, visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe. During the summer, camping and hiking trails are popular. Enjoy spectacular views of the desert below or dine at one of two restaurants: Peaks Restaurant or Pines...
Looking Forward at OC Education in 2024
Parenting OC asks Ramon Miramontes what trends in education are seeing and how they might impact the 2024 educational Orange County landscape.
Spring Nature Lessons
Spring break offers a chance to learn mindful lessons from nature. Spring break is just around the corner. It’s the perfect time to take a break from our daily
Animals for All Needs
From dogs and goats to cows and horses, animals offer calm, joy and acceptance for children with all needs. Irvine Heritage Park Library’s Read to a Dog program
Adolescent Growth Spurts & Athletes: What’s Normal?
I think my son has grown a lot recently. Is this normal considering he has been much less active? Adolescent Growth Spurts Have you noticed that your teenage athlete had a big growth spurt over the last few months? I’ve seen several young athletes recently for annual physicals and found that many of them have grown quite a bit taller since March. This shouldn’t be a major surprise. In the past, athletes and other performers/dancers who have taken months off have also tended to experience growth spurts. So, why have athletes grown taller when not spending time on the field...
Beat the Summer Slide
Educational experts offer proactive tips for lessening summer learning loss. It’s time for summer break, while that means free time and vacations for many kids
Reader’s Choice Awards 2020: Camp Winners
Best Girls Softball League Mission Viejo Girls Softball Mission Viejo Girls Softball puts instilling good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty and courage at the center of their program. With the goal of creating well adjusted, stronger and happier children, young girls between the ages 4.5 to 14 get the chance to bond with teammates through sports. And with no initial cost needed to register, young girls get the chance to experience the excitement of softball. mvgs.org | Mission Viejo Best Baseball Camp Coach Ballgame James Lowe, often referred to as Coach Ballgame, helps kids fall in love with baseball by emphasizing a...
Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal has been a beloved breakfast choice for families for generations, evolving from simple, hearty porridges into the delightful dish we know today.
Halloween Treats
From theme parks to local mom-and-pop shops, what are some of the hot Halloween treats families can find in and around OC?
Editor’s Picks: January 2020
PICK OF THE MONTH: California Adventure’s Lunar New Year CelebrationFriday, January 17 - Sunday, February 9At California Adventure, Lunar New Year is all about the mouse — the Year of the Mouse to be exact. You can celebrate Year of the Mouse with multicultural activities that salute Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cultures. Guests will enjoy 24 days of Lunar New Year celebrations from Jan. 17 to Feb. 9, 2020. The limited-time festival gives people of all ages the chance to experience unique holiday entertainment, special Disney-inspired Asian cuisine items, kid-friendly crafts projects, and popular Disney characters dressed up in festive...
Editor’s Picks: July 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Family, Fun and Fine Arts The annual Laguna Beach Festival of Arts invites families of all ages to indulge in the arts through hands-on activities and art projects that they can all participate in together. The festival presents its weekly Art and Story Time series every Monday for children ages 5 and under, which features a different book read aloud plus a hands-on art project. There may even be special surprise visits from illustrators, story characters, and more. The festival also presents Family Art Day on Sunday, July 8, which is a fun-filled, art-filled and...
How-to: Craft a Vision Board
The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Vision Board. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos…
Tips for Holiday Brain
Leanne DiSanto from LearningRx Irvine Brain Training Center weighs in on how to help kids bounce back academically after the holiday break…
Andrea Alvarez – Top Employee 2025
When a teacher was struggling with last-minute event prep, Andrea Alvarez stepped in, reorganized the schedule and made sure everything was ready on time…
Day 8: Great Wolf Lodge – ENDED
On the Eighth Day of Giveaways, Parenting OC gives to you… a Family Stay at a Great Wolf Lodge... Great Wolf Lodge Stay Value: $300 | www.greatwolf.com It’s that time of year, when we celebrate all that Southern California has to offer…oh, and a few holidays, too! Parenting OC is playing Santa and we have a heck of a bag of goodies this year, with daily prizes ranging from $200 to $800. And we won’t make you wait until Christmas, each contest runs from midnight to midnight, the first twelve business days of December, with the winner being announced the...
Must-Try Hikes for August
[caption id="attachment_43322" align="aligncenter" width="500"] (Dripping Cave/Courtesy of OC Parks)[/caption] Get some fresh air and exercise with the family this summer at these local scenic hikes. Planning for school is always nerve-wracking, for sure. And by now, many parents feel as though they have pulled out all the stops on finding creative activities in the home and backyard. Maybe there were some trips to a beach with physical distancing. What next? During this frenetic time of planning both for the school year and for continued safety measures around the coronavirus, it’s a lifesaver for the family nerves to go...
Chocolate Chip Cookies
(Photo & Recipe by Madison Amirehteshami) There’s something magical about the way chocolate chip cookies can turn a regular day into a sweet memory. For me, it's time spent with my mom, measuring flour, sneaking a taste of dough and watching the cookies bake in the oven. These cookies have always been a family favorite — golden brown edges, a chewy center, and of course, a few extra chocolate chips for good measure. Whether you’re baking alongside loved ones or just indulging in a quiet moment, these cookies never fail to deliver that warm, comforting feeling. Ready to share a...
Summer Tutoring
Help avoid the summer slide and encourage intellectual passion with a summer tutor. As a teacher and tutor for more than 20 years, I have seen the tremendous…
Community Comments
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Stratford School
We are committed to connecting students with our unique futures. We offer an unparalleled education that inspires children to be creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. We approach the learning experience by infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning. Mission Viejo Campus Stratford Private Preschool, Elementary & Middle School in Mission Viejo is committed to providing quality education and care to children in the Laguna Hills, Acacia Knolls, Galivan, Lake Forest, Irvine, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel communities. Located in a quiet, residential neighborhood with beautiful views of Saddleback Mountain and easy access from the...
Back-to-School Fashion
Out-of-the-Box Classroom Learning During the beginning stages of Pegasus School’s Outdoor Classroom, a group of teachers, teacher assistants and administrators researched the importance of children exploring nature and visited several schools with outdoor classroom space. The Pegasus team had a goal of creating a dedicated environment to provide hands-on sensory experiences for pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students. They strove to make a space where critical thinking skills and mathematical and visual spatial skills would be strengthened, where students would learn to master physical challenges in order to gain self-confidence and control over their surroundings. Their hard work and dedication was rewarded...
Helpful Baby Items
One day you will fight the good fight against tech and screens…but for now, harness the power and make your life easier with these new baby helpers that keep you connected. Baby Brezza Baby Food Maker The “set it and forget it” of baby noshing, this device steams and auto-blends your choice of wholesome fresh organic foods into perfect puree. The three cup capacity makes a quick meal or stock up, with an included funnel and reusable baby feeding and storage pouches. $129, www.babybrezza.com Lansinoh Smart Pump This hi-tech double electric breastpump uses Bluetooth to connect to the Lansinoh Baby...
Scream-Free Screen-Free Week
Q: [Toddlers/Preschool] “Screen-Free Week looms and our family pledged to participate with our older kids. Now I am wondering how to address it with my younger ones (18 months and 3 1/2)? I’m afraid I do take advantage of PBS-distraction while I scramble to get their older sibs out the door to school. Do I get a pass for having four kids? Kidding...kind of.” A: Making a commitment to participate in Screen-Free Week is a great way for you and your children to unplug from the world of media and digital entertainment and focus on quality time together playing, exploring,...
Judiel Ennis
Saving Two Lives with One Swab “You’re a match!” Seeing the email in her inbox, Judiel Ennis wondered how she had landed on an online dating junkmail list. Happily married, the Foothills Ranch mom ignored the email. When a persistent unknown number began showing up on her phone days later, she noted the lack of a voicemail and decided the calls were a mistake as well. No alarms went off, time passed, and Judiel went on with life. Two years before the email and anonymous phone calls began, Judiel wandered past a room at her workplace where DKMS (a bone...
Guidepost Montessori
South Orange County is home to a new Montessori with the opening of Guidepost, which began welcoming students in early January. Though it’s been in business just a short while, the school is approaching capacity will full-time enrolment. Its sunny classrooms serve babies through students in Grade Six. Guidepost Montessori is a project of Higher Ground Education, which is dedicated to expanding the reach of Montessori education. “We offer authentic Montessori education at every level, drawing on the child’s natural, joyful exploration of the world to promote independence, concentration and logical thinking, leading ultimately to advanced academics,” says Rebecca Girn,...
Date Night
It’s Date Night in OC, and not just any date night…Valentine’s Day! Here are our picks for a great night out. SOL Cocina Bare your SOL to your significant other this Valentine’s weekend. In addition to Executive Chef Deborah Schneider’s award-winning regular menu, guests can enjoy Valentine’s Dinner Specials on Tuesday, February 14th. Perfect for a romantic Saturday or Sunday morning, SOL’s famous Baja-inspired brunch is available for guests on both Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th. Reservations are recommended by calling (949).675.9800. Newport Beach | www.solcocina.com Selanne Steak Tavern Cupid, Chef Josh Severson and his team will cast...
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