Sharing Secrets
IMAX filmmaker, activist and local Greg MacGillivray talks about his upcoming projects, the ocean and his optimism for the future…
Editor’s Pick #3: Maritime Festival
Maritime Festival The Ocean Institute has taken a starboard turn and gone virtual with this year’s festival. Taking place September 11-13, this free, interactive online event contains live demonstrations, interview with experts and ship tours from around the world. Families will enjoy live music (including shanty sing-alongs), mermaid encounters, and explorations… [More]
Summer Fun Guide
(Photo Courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center) Looking for places to go and things to do this summer? We got you covered. Summer of 2021 is unleashing a world of fun in Orange County. Knott’s Berry Farm has reopened to celebrate 100 years. Disneyland Resort is back with Disney California Adventure Park’s whole new hero-filled land: Avengers Campus. And Legoland has returned with a land of its own: The Lego Movie World. “This is going to be the largest assembly of these heroes any place, anytime, anywhere,” said Disney Parks Live Entertainment Executive Creative Director Dan Fields in a...
Knott’s Is Nutty with Its Annual Peanuts Celebration
Charles M. Schulz gave us some of the most recognized and beloved characters through his comic strip, “Peanuts.” You and your family can celebrate Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and good ol’ Charlie Brown at Knott’s Berry Farm’s Peanuts Celebration each weekend now through March 1. Look out for unique photo opportunities that let you step right into the “Peanuts” comic strip at the park’s main entrance and throughout Camp Snoopy. Rock out to family-friendly band The Jelly of the Month Club at the Calico Mine Stage for Woodstock’s Music Festival. Kids can pen their own comic strip at Peanuts Sketch School...
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...
St. Patrick’s Day Green Treats
St. Patrick’s Day may have started as a religious festival day in Ireland, but cultures all over the world have adopted traditions and customs to celebrate the day. Nearly all of them involve the color green. Here are some green treats you can find in Orange County that are a lot less predictable than green beer. Mr. Matcha Follow the glow of a green neon heart-shaped sign to find your way to Mr. Matcha. The organic soft serve shop in Downtown Santa Ana serves matcha (finely ground Japanese green tea leaves) as a hot tea, cold tea, latte and a...
The Hula Children
Competition is fierce but the aloha spirit presides over this event on Maui for young dancers, the Hula O Na Keiki. According to our annual Parenting OC Reader’s Choice survey, Maui was the top choice for the family vacation. One reader explained its popularity by saying it’s a place that feels “comfortably exotic.” All islands in the Hawaiian chain are simultaneously far-flung and filled with friendly folks who spread the aloha spirit, but Maui, with the most activities available of all the Hawaiian Islands, is uniquely qualified to fulfill any type of goal for summer travel. There’s downtime goals to...
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/...
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...
The “Big Island” of Hawaii
Touching down in Kona, you might be confused as you exit the plane. But yes, that is the whole airport and yes, you would be correct in observing that most of it is outdoors. This is just the start of the charming quirks of the largest of the Hawaiian islands, the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Fortunately for families visiting the Hilton Waikoloa Village (www.HiltonWaikoloaVillage), the fun in store is equally abundant. An Ohana Aloha From the purple orchid lei greeting as you step off a shuttle (don’t bother with a car, you’ll want to scoot right to the waterfalls at...
Gardening with Kids
Playing in dirt isn’t just loads of fun — it’s healthy, too! There’s no question, playing in the dirt tops the list of fun for young children despite the protests of many well-intended parents. If you’re one of those parents, you can put your fears aside. It turns out dirt is actually beneficial to the long-term health of kids, according to a Northwestern University article, “Germs at Four, Less Inflammation at Forty,” by Clare Milliken. Studies have found that early exposure to certain germs, like those found in dirt, actually help kids’ immune systems learn to better regulate inflammation. In...
Family Hiking Magic
The wonders of hiking can be enjoyed by the whole family with just a bit of planning. This is shaping up to be a spectacular hiking season. The early, drenching rains set the creeks flowing with water again. The warm sunshine interspersed among the storms provided just the right conditions for colorful wildflowers to pop open by mid-January. If you haven’t taken your family out on the trail yet this year, don’t worry. The very best of the season is in March and April, when the blooms are at their most abundant, the hills are thick with greenery and the...
Bringing the Family Together Through Fishing
Start a new tradition with an old classic and let the serenity of fishing bring you together. The most restful adult day I ever spent was on a sport fishing boat out of Dana Point Harbor. (The second most restful day was rock climbing out at Lake Perris.) In both cases, my mind was totally focused all day on what I was doing and the scenery around me. Climbing, my nose was inches from the rock face, my hands and feet attuned to every ridge and bump that might give me a handgrip or foothold. I was concentrating too hard...
Hair Therapy
Is your hair getting out of control? Check out these tips from a local stylist…
Items for the Outdoors
Kijaro Kubie Streamline your next outdoor adventure with the Kijaro Kubie. The Kubie can be used as an insulated blanket or sleeping bag, folded into a pillow, used as a ground cover, turned into a shade canopy, be strung up as a hammock then folded into its compact carrying case for easy portability. Perfect for picnics, soccer games, backyard barbecues, hiking or just a breezy afternoon reading a book in the park. Outdoor adventures just got a whole lot better with the Kubie. $80, www.kijaro.com SPI LED Accessories This is for the night owls. Whether you love overnight camping trips...
Shopping Locations for Back-to-School Fashion
Peek Clothing Empowering messages, internationally-inspired trends and unique graphics are among the finds kids can make at this Fashion Island shop. Peek carries Bohemian-inspired dresses, rompers and playful shorts for girls. The boutique clothing store is also stocked with laced eyelet dresses, embroidered trench coats and knit, multi-color cardigans. Accessories such as hats, shoes and jewelry are available for purchase as well. Its selection for boys includes thick terry knit hoodies, space-themed T-shirts and twill jeans. Peek’s items are unique in that they often feature international destinations (recent picks have included Italy, Australia and Africa) and quotes from celebrated scientists,...
Stylish Baby Accessories
When you need to go from chickies to chic, from baby to boardroom — these bags have your back. Itzy Ritzy Boss Backpack With chunky silver hardware and black leather trim, this heavy-duty bag with ergonomic straps will let you sling all you need for the day (from lap pillow to laptop) hands-free and in style. (Also so sturdy and indestructible, it makes an excellent carry-on!) $150, www.itzyritzy.com Lassig Glam Rosie The trendy Glam Rosie Bag stands out thanks to its unusual trapezoid shape and handle with rosé gold detailing. The smartest thing about this bag, other than how polished...
Helpful Hairstyling Tools
Try these hair helpers to look polished, even if you’re in full holiday meltdown mode! Dyson Supersonic Blowouts are the bomb, but you don’t always have kid-free time (and during the busy holiday party season, it can be tough to score an appointment). This genius dryer can focus for speed drying or diffuse if you’re a curly girl. Magnetic attachments are simple to pop on and off and the whole process can be safely accomplished with one toddler wrapped around your leg. $399, www.dyson.com Pai-Shau A darling of the Fashion Week set, these silky concoctions can smooth even the most...
SoCal Summer Must-Have Items
Comfy and summery items from local vendors and beyond. OC Girl Hello Kitty Tankini This adorable baby blue Tankini with seashell pattern features a Mermaid Hello Kitty on the chest with bow detail on the back. Comes in sizes 2T-6. $54; available online at Oneill.com, Sanrio.com and at select Sanrio stores and independent specialty retailers. OC Reusable Bag Stash your beach essentials, toys, or snacks while reppin’ your roots. This reusable handmade bag is water-resistant and is big enough to tote around your beach towel, sunscreen, sunglasses and more. Choose from two sizes and black or white ink. Made by...
Private School Versus Public School
When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, there are a lot of aspects to consider that parents may find difficult to sort through. With so many choices within public and private sectors, however, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Having the option to choose what works best for your individual child’s needs allows you to feel comfortable with your decision and the chance for your child to soar. With a growing volume of magnet schools, charter schools, open enrollment policies and alternative schools, public schools offer a large selection of educational options. Private schools also...
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.
Some OC Public Schools and Districts Working to Attract New Students
[caption id="attachment_32830" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Capistrano Unified School District - H2019 Honor Concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall[/caption] OC Schools up their game with quality programs as families have more education options than ever For Orange County parents considering their children’s educational future, it’s all about options. Whether it’s public schools, private schools, charter schools or even home schooling, families have many choices when it comes to where kids will be attending school. And school districts are taking note. “Over the past several years, public education has significantly changed,” said Brea Olinda Unified School District Communications Specialist Nichole Pichardo. “These days, ‘choice’...
STEM Survival
(Photo Courtesy of Bionerds) How STEM programs survived and continue to thrive in public schools and throughout the county. The massive, nationwide experiment that was the 2020-2021 school year is now essentially over. Whether parents, teachers or students liked it or not, every student got a taste of being home schooled. The ability to adapt — either financially, technologically or logistically — was often the key to success. As an entire school year operated on a makeshift plan, some subjects fared better than others. So while it was not a great time to be a P.E. teacher, others were seemingly...
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,...
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,...
At-Home Learning for the Working Parent
Don’t miss these valuable expert tips for adapting to the new home environment for both learning and working. Orange County families have probably heard “education starts at home.” Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, however, this adage takes on new meaning. Some parents are working from home while also taking the lead on their child’s education. Managing your workload while ensuring your child doesn’t fall behind can be stressful. Fortunately, there are many experts in Orange County with sound advice. “Start from a place of empathy,” says Sarah Shawesh, CEO and founder of Orange County-based Building Resilience in Communities and Kids Consulting Group. “[Children]...
Camps and After-School Programs Teaching Academic and Life Skills
Storymakery in Laguna Hills teaches children a passion for writing by giving them the tools to create stories. Camps and after-school programs can teach important academic and life skills while creating a memorable, enjoyable experience. Faith Vidal was only 6 when she started attending the Storymakery writing camp. And she wasn’t super excited about writing then, according to her mom, Gina. But that quickly changed for Faith, who is now 8, and has attended the camp for the past three summers. “For the past three years, writing is her favorite subject in school,” says Gina. “She loves to write all...
OC Cooking and Baking Classes
Whether it’s girls’ night out or family bonding time, these OC cooking and baking classes will make you feel like a domestic goddess with fun, food, and laughter. Sweet Crumb Bakery Every little girl dreams of owning a pet unicorn, and while they can’t be bought, they can be made. Sweet Crumb Bakery runs a class that teaches moms (and children ages 10 and up) how to bake a cake that takes the form of the mystical and elusive horned horse (pictured). Students begin the class by learning how to assemble, cut, fill and level their cakes. Next, they crumb...
e-Scholars Network
Covid safe online tutoring Assistance in K-8, high school, and college subject matter Our teachers or "e-Scholars" will help your student get back on track with distance learning, homeschooling, in-person learning, or any combination All sessions designed and taught exclusively by licensed and credentialed teachers from across the United States and are personally tailored to your student's ability, schedule, and taught at their pace Where teachers TEACH and students LEARN Click HERE to visit our website and learn more!
Teacher Inspired
OC teachers reflect on what the past year has been like and what they expect from this new school year…
Create a DIY Summer Camp for Your Kids at Home
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash With a little research, you can design a fun, enriching and free summer camp experience for your kids this summer. Now that social distancing has moved from spring to summer, parents have shifted, too, from their school-year roles as academic tutors during a time of remote learning, to summer camp counselors. That wasn’t an easy end to the school year, was it? It also wasn’t the same kind of instructional experience — many students didn’t learn as much as they would have in the classroom. Then there’s the phenomenon of summer learning loss, in...
Make Your Own Face Mask
Q: [Adults] I need face masks for my family. Is this something I can do myself? When this crisis started, I knew I wanted to put my hands to work to make a difference. I watched a lot of video tutorials on mask-making since my sewing knowledge was limited to say the least! This step-by-step guide combines ideas and tips I picked up from each of them to create what I hope is an easy-to-follow guide to mask-making. I wanted to make a mask for myself, my family and others that would protect us as much as possible from this...
Camp Resilience
Courtesy of Camp James We interview the Camp James executive director about how the camp stayed open through 2020 to return this summer. Summer camps, like most of the world, were turned upside down in 2020. Despite the quick pivoting that was required when California locked down last spring, some camps managed to stay open. Among them was Camp James, Newport Dunes, which remained open with some adjustments. “While camp looked a little bit different in 2020, the majority of our campers had an amazing time,” said Executive Director Scottie Roach. “We did surveys of our families towards the end...
Happy Campers
Making the best of the 2020 season, local camps now look ahead to continue offering kids much-needed socialization with health and safety in mind. Each quarter at the Acting Academy for Kids & Teens, kids produce a musical theater experience complete with singing and dancing. “The crown jewel at AA4K is [our] Summer Performing Arts Camps for kids starting as young as 4,” says Acting Academy for Kids & Teens Founder/Director Stephen J. Zygo. “These week-long mini-musicals are a wonderful opportunity for kids.” But the pandemic shut down the Mission Viejo-based Acting Academy two days before their winter production of...
A Campfire Story
A tale of "The Two Wolves" is a helpful allegory to help guide our pursuit of mindfulness. An old Cherokee Indian is huddled around a campfire with his grandson, with only the shine of the moon and hum of the turning world for company. "A fight is going on inside me," the Cherokee said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight; it is between two wolves. One is angry. It has envy, greed, arrogance, guilt, resentment, inferiority and superiority. The other is good. Joyful, peaceful, loving, hopeful, humble, kind, benevolent, has empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and is faithful.” "The...
Preparing for Camps
With some preparation, parents can ready children for a successful camp experience. In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness on the need to expose children to camping activities. Exposing children to camps increases their sense of self-reliance, ambition, adventure, optimism and self-esteem. Camps offer unique opportunities that enable children with varying abilities to distance themselves from daily stressors. Such a favorable environment enables children to explore their individuality. Gaining in-depth insights about themselves increases their sense of autonomy and responsibility. Children often spend most of their formative years in the same neighborhoods, reducing the diversity of their...
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...
Kids With Special Needs may Benefit from Traditional Summer Camps
Kids with special needs may benefit from attending traditional summer camps and those catering to all abilities Stacy Harris has seen the benefits of inclusive programs for her 5-year-old son, Alexander, who has Down syndrome. He currently attends a general education transitional kindergarten (TK) classroom with developmentally typical kids and before that he attended an inclusive preschool with half of students enrolled as part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for special needs and the other half developmentally typical. “Alex has models every single day for him to learn from,” says Harris, of Anaheim. “Since August when he began TK,...
Kids Camps Adventures
Enjoy sailing, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, shark dissection and more at Newport Sea Base in Newport Beach. There are undeniable benefits to sending your kids to camp. And in Orange County, the camping possibilities are endless. Ask any kid what he or she liked about summer camp and the response might go something like this: “It was fun!” Though the underlying theme of most camps—whether day or overnight—is indeed fun. Kids who attend camps are getting much more. “As children grow, they face a variety of developmental tasks as they transform and become more sophisticated in how they think,...
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...
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...
Picking the Right Summer Camp
There are several considerations to keep in mind when finding a summer camp for your kids. It’s no exaggeration to say that the one event kids really look forward to all year is the summer camp. But how do you choose the right one? Based on my experiences as the parent of a 15-year-old boy, as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve figured out the top six things to consider. Cost It goes without saying that cost is an important factor, especially if you have more than one kid. Summer camps can range widely in price, depending on whether...
Orange County Surf Camps
Instead of surfing TV channels this summer, your child can surf the waves at these OC surf camps. What better way for your child to take advantage of SoCal living than hitting the waves this summer? Surf camps are an Orange County staple, sprinkled throughout the various beaches, and they offer a lot more than just learning the art of balancing on a board. Children of all ages can attend one of these many fun, engaging and educational camps to gain knowledge, friendships, and confidence in themselves and others. Banzai Surf School offers a great and safe location for beginners...
Performing Arts Camps for All Ages
OC performing arts camps teach more than just drama and dance numbers. Whether your child dreams of lighting up Broadway, dancing in “The Nutcracker,” or is just looking to make lasting memories with their peers, performing arts camps may be the way to go this summer. Back in the day, parents with stars-in-the-making used to have to commute to Los Angeles for prestigious summer theater and dance programs. However, the performance bug took a big bite out of OC for the past couple of decades with nationally recognized theaters, universities, and institutions popping up all over the county offering onstage...
Helping Children’s Anxiety with Summer Camps
Q: [School-Age] How can I help my son ease his anxiety of going to summer camp? How can I ease my own anxiousness with it? A: Going off to summer camp for a child can cause them to become real anxious – especially if they are gone for a long period of time and if it is their first time going. So what is a parent to do if a child is having anxiety about going off to camp? The Child Mind Institute offers these words of advice for parents who have children that are having anxiety about going to...
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...
Special Camps for Every Child
Summer is short, but the experiences made and friendships forged during the school break can be everlasting. Children with special needs can get in on the fun, too, thanks to a wealth of programs serving them throughout Orange County. They’ll have a chance to ride the waves, dance the months away, and soak up the summer like every kid should. Surfer’s Healing – Dana Point www.paskowitz.com Autistic children can find a little summer sizzle by hitting the waves through a program that helps teach special needs kids how to surf. Surfer’s Healing is offering a free, one-day camp for autistic...
Camp Fear
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter is about to spend her first week at Sleep away Camp. But every week, there’s a new cause for panic. What if I get bitten by a snake, what if I get stung by wasps, what if I can’t pass the swim test, what if I can’t sleep, what if I can’t remember the words to the camp fire songs…how do I help quell her anxiety and get her excited about camp? A: Going off to camp for the first time is an exciting event. There is a new type of independence, new friends, new foods,...
Happy Campers
Keep your kids safe and comfortable at their home away from home with these outdoorsy options. Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D The next best thing to sleeping on a bed at home, this 4 inches of cushion, self-inflating, no pump required sleeper is worth the effort for longer term camps and can ensure tweens and teens a great night rest. Once camp is done, it doubles as a spare bed back at home for sleepovers or hotel road trips, once sibs get too big to want to share. $179, www.thermarest.com Roll’N Go Airbed This cot sized thin airbed offers extra durability through...
Pulling Strings
(Photo Courtesy of Soka Performing Arts Center) Soka Performing Arts Center starts the year off with a children’s classic: puppets. Soka Performing Arts Center is starting the year off with puppets. Not just any puppets, either. The historic Bob Baker Marionettes lands on the Aliso Viejo stage on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023 at 3 pm. It’s a unique form of theater, intended to spark imagination in children while bringing families together for an afternoon of entertainment. “Arts programming promotes creativity and encourages children to think out of the box,” said Renee Bodie, general manager at Soka Performing Arts Center. “This...
The Benefits of Classroom Pets
How children can benefit from pets in the classroom. Pets and kids seem like a natural match. Not always, but many times they are quite fond of each other. And there’s something to it. Research has been supporting the idea that animals can benefit children — even in the classroom. “Many studies have shown and confirmed that companion animal ‘pets’ have taught children to be gentler and caring to all living beings, which they retain as grownups,” said holistic veterinarian and researcher Dr. Jean Dodds, of Hemopet veterinary center in Garden Grove. Hemopet recently posted an article on its blog...
Healthy Food for Healthy Pets
While most brands are labeled healthy, experts disagree. You want your pet to have a long, healthy life, and you do your best to accomplish this. So maybe you have a checklist: Daily walks? Check. Regular grooming and dental cleanings? Check. Annual physicals? Check. Quality pet food? Check? As with humans, good nutrition is a big part of health. And while many pet food brands say they are healthy, some pet owners and industry experts disagree. “Pets were never meant to eat little brown pellets,” said Shawn Buckley, founder of Orange County-based JustFoodForDogs, which makes food fit for humans fresh...
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...
Seasonal Allergy Tips for Pets
Help keep your pet itch-free with these natural strategies for allergy season. As we fully embrace the sights and sounds of spring—birds singing, bees buzzing, butterflies migrating and the super blooms that recently overtook Southern California—there’s another bit of imagery that pet owners are less happy about: seeing our pets itch. Spring often brings with it a set of less desirable symptoms for allergic pets, which is why spring is often known as allergy season for our pets (and many of us). “Pollens, plants and grasses are more abundant,” said Dr. Kathy Wentworth, holistic veterinarian at PetPoint Medical Center &...
Setting the Bar for Hot Chocolate
[caption id="attachment_34219" align="aligncenter" width="346"] Photo by Sarah Mosqueda[/caption] In-N-Out That’s right, OC’s favorite burger chain serves hot cocoa. In-N-Out’s tightly edited menu includes a cup of hot cocoa reportedly made with Ghirardelli Chocolate and freeze-dried marshmallows. Honesty, drinking hot cocoa out of a palm tree-adorned cup is about as California as it gets. Bonus points if you are wearing flip-flops. Multiple Locations [caption id="attachment_34221" align="aligncenter" width="402"] Photo courtesy of Sugarbuzz[/caption] Sugarbuzz With milkshakes, ice cream, and cake by the slice, it is hard not to achieve a sugar high at Sugarbuzz in Anaheim. There is also a selection of hot...
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...
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/
Mental Health In Focus
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) What are some warning signs of a mental health crisis in kids and what should I do if I see these signs? All ages In the last few years, I have responded to mental health crises in children as young as 5 years old. I recently encountered a young student who was struggling with suicidal thoughts. In a letter, the student wrote a chillingly specific suicide plan. Then, at the bottom of the page, they jotted down their hopes and dreams for the future. This is what mental health crises look like in children and adolescents:...
Summer Camp Prep for Special Needs
Summer camp offers the chance for new friends and experiences, and lifelong positive memories for all kids. Here are some tips on how to prep your special needs child for a great time at camp…
Top Teacher & Employee Awards 2023 — Winners Announced
We celebrate our 10th Annual School Heroes — Top Teachers, Top Employees and Top Leaders — of Orange County Awards and Issue. With more than 200 nominations, we were impressed as we are year after year with the caliber of teachers, employees and administrators that are clearly making the lives of our students and families so much better. This year we expanded our criteria to include all kinds of education — from private and public to alternative and online schools — and the response was truly overwhelming. Adrienne Kessler Speech & Language Development Center Rebeca Martinez Los Amigos High School...
Guide to a Healthy Mind
Learn some insightful tips for keeping the mind in an optimal state. There are many approaches to mental health, and finding the one that fits you is a journey…
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...
Metta Love
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Metta meditation offers a boost of love for you, the kids and the world. Loving-kindness meditation, or Metta meditation, is an ultimate form of generosity, selflessness and love toward ourselves and others. In fact, Metta is a Pali word for benevolence, friendship, affection and kindness. The Dhammapada says, “Hatred cannot co-exist with love and kindness. It dissipates when supplanted with thoughts of love and compassion.” Try a Metta meditation. May I be happy, may you be happy, and may all our family members be happy. May I be safe, may you be safe, and may all...
Picky Eater Problems
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) My toddler is a very picky eater. What should I know about picky eaters? Toddlers Picky eating is a common problem among many children, and we know it can be very difficult for parents who want to ensure their child is receiving the appropriate nutrition. Picky eating, however, can also be a symptom of a more serious issue, such as a pediatric feeding disorder. Feeding difficulties can be related to a number of factors, including but not limited to, decreased sensory processing skills, decreased oral motor skills, a variety of medical conditions, anxiety or a combination. ...
Special Lessons
From comic books to virtual reality, therapists and teachers look forward at innovations in special needs programs…
Aaron Cassaro, CEO of The All-American Boys Chorus
All-American Boys Chorus’ CEO continues giving the gift of song through the organization that gave so much to him. The All-American Boys Chorus is a lot like a song. One of those songs that has a light, catchy melody, but the lyrics carry a sly message. Below all the catchy harmonies, the objective of the chorus is as much about making leaders as it is about making singers. You figure that out pretty quickly talking to those who’ve been a part of it for a few years. And it’s a quality carried from chorus members right up to the boss....
Elite Aquatics Sports Team
EAST is a year-round program consisting of swim lessons for ages 2+, competition swim teams and competitive water polo teams. We offer high quality professional coaching and technique instruction for all ages and abilities. The goal of our team is to provide every member an opportunity to improve swimming and water polo skills and achieve success at his or her level of ability, from novice to international competitor. eastaquatics.com | 714-402-7166
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...
Color Me Mine Metro Pointe – Fun Creative Ceramic Painting!
Color Me Mine Metro Pointe offers fun, creative ceramic painting for the whole family every day! Enjoy special events and deals all year long. Kids (grades K-6) can also participate in six weeks of fun and hands-on summer camp. Paint a new ceramic piece everyday, along with treasure hunts, mystery eggs, scavenger hunts, and secret surprises! Explore fun themes each week like Star Wars, African Safari, Myths and Legends, and more. Dates: July 11 – August 19, 2022 Time: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – noon Cost: $194 per week, per child Call the studio to book
Steve & Kate’s Camp
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s has put kids in charge of their own learning experience. Kids ages 4-12 choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, film, sports, and more! Families can buy any number of days, and use at any time–no weekly reservations required. Or, buy a Summer Pass, which covers the whole season. Either way, any unused Passes will be automatically refunded at summer’s end. Lunch, snacks & all hours (8am–6pm) included. 949.669.5134 | steveandkatescamp.com/Irvine irvine@steveandkate.com
Make a Summer Camp Plan
A pediatric and sports medicine expert offers tips on getting the most out of summer camp for your child….
A True Warrior
Local mom Vanessa Warrior helps children with developmental delays improve their gross motor skills while offering hope to families…
Rescue Therapy
(Photo courtesy of FarmHouse Rescue) Danielle Judd during storytime at the chicken coop on the farm. Children can tune in to live cameras through the farm's Smile Club program. A local mom founds a nonprofit that saves animals and brings healing to others after her own near-death experience. Danielle Judd is the first to tell you: She. Is. Exhausted. Not that you’d ever guess hearing about her days of juggling three kids ages 6, 7 and 18, 10s of volunteers and 60-plus farm animals in her front and backyard while still finding time for her husband and side projects. But,...
Inclusive Adventures
Photo Courtesy of Disneyland Disneyland and Legoland have made some improvements — for children of all abilities. New and Improved Mickey’s Toontown Mickey’s Toontown has reopened at Disneyland and while the land has been updated extensively in design, there’s one big focus underlying many of the changes: inclusivity. “We got a lot of guests who utilize our parks in different ways, who see, hear, feel our experiences in different ways. And we wanted every child to know that when it came to this land, this land was designed for them. That they were seen and that this place was welcoming...
Sensory Summer
How to support your child’s sensory needs this summer. For many kids, summer is a time for fun, play, rest and discovery. But summer can be difficult for kids.
Looking Back and Ahead With Disney100
(Photo Courtesy of Disneyland Resort) Disneyland Resort celebrates Disney100 with new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride, new Nighttime Spectaculars and more — while honoring the history of Disney. Oh, how different the country was in 1923. Just five years removed from World War I, women had just won the right to vote and the population of California was less than the population of Los Angeles today. Barely a third of Americans owned a phone, even less had indoor plumbing and electricity and Orange County was an agricultural community. When local developers erected massive letters on a hillside overlooking LA,...
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 Raquel Diaz & Madison Amirehteshami Education [ninja_tables id="65404"] Learning Resources [ninja_tables id="65079"] Sports and Activities [ninja_tables id="65080"] Therapies [ninja_tables id="65402"] Check each website link for a complete list of services. Special Needs Focused Events...
A Growth Mindset
LiMai Montessori Academy is setting the bar for expansion of the famous method…
Where Are They Now?
(Phillip Chow and students at Beckman High School in Irvine) We sit down with past Top Teacher winners to find out what they’ve been up to since their big win. (Elizabeth Zoellner/Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Elizabeth Zoellner Top Teacher 2022 Background: Zoellner is currently teaching a combination class with kindergarten and first grade. When winning the award, she was teaching first grade. She has spent her entire 27-year teaching career at Commonwealth Elementary School in Fullerton. Why She Won: Zoellner was known for really engaging her students and sparking excitement with the subject matter every day. She went above...
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
Tustin Unified School District
Tustin Unified School District (TUSD), is committed to a tradition of excellence, ensuring that each student optimizes individual achievement through challenging and exciting learning environments. TUSD provides personalized and equitable learning experiences for all students and staff. Leveraging comprehensive social and emotional support, family and community engagement, technology, a dedicated and professional staff, and community and industry partnerships TUSD is truly a destination district. Visit www.tustin.k12.ca.us to learn more!
YMCA of Orange County
We are a place where everyone belongs. We are a place to be healthy and make meaningful connections. Our 5 fitness facilities provide equipment and classes for all fitness levels and abilities. They provide a place to build and foster friendships, reclaim healthy habits, overcome challenges and set new goals. We are a positive place for kids. With 80 before and after school enrichment locations, we offer children K-8th grade the opportunity to learn, connect, and thrive in a safe and educational environment.
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
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...
Wayfinder Family Services
In our special education school, students ages 5 - 21 with moderate-to-severe disabilities get a chance to thrive. We believe in their potential and foster strong partnerships with our families. Students enjoy spacious classrooms, compassionate, credentialed teachers and a 1:2 staff-to-student ratio on a beautiful eight-acre Los Angeles campus. Speech, occupational and physical therapies are available, as well as vision impairment services. We are a California state-certified non-public school with students from districts throughout Southern California. www.WayfinderFamily.org
Top Employee of Orange County 2023
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Patty Fabian Vibrant Minds Charter School in Anaheim Just a few things Patty Fabian does for Vibrant Minds Charter School include answering phones, payroll, collaborating with the school district for homeless issues and the meal program, arranging transportation, translation at meetings, cleaning restrooms when needed, tending to sick students and the list goes on. “I do anything and everything that is needed,” she says. “It’s never boring. Every day is different.” Though technically her title is lead office clerk/office coordinator, she goes far above and beyond that. Fabian is Parenting OC Magazine’s Top Employee winner...
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...
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...
Teaching Kids Good Money Habits
(Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock) How should I teach my kids about managing money? All ages It’s never too early to start teaching children about wise financial habits. By educating them about how to manage their money, you are setting them up for a successful future and helping them avoid the common financial mistakes many adults make. With this in mind, I want to offer some advice for parents who are looking to help their children develop good money habits. Set an Example The first and most important step in teaching your children about smart money management is to lead by...
Torrey Pines Story
The trails at Torrey Pines offer spectacular views of the coastline.(Photo Courtesy of The Lodge at Torrey Pines) At the Nature Reserve and luxury Lodge, spring means adventure and indulgence on the bluffs. If you are thinking about nearby spring break travel options that combine outdoor adventure with indoor splendor, consider Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla. In about an hour by car from much of OC, you and the kiddos can be walking on a seaside bluff at the wild and spectacular Torrey Pines Nature Reserve, then kicking it afterwards at...
Deserving Mom Makeover Giveaway —2023
To celebrate the hard-working, selfless moms of our community, Parenting OC Magazine teamed up with local businesses to give two lucky moms a fabulous makeover package. Family and friends submitted essays about why a mother in their life is deserving of a makeover. A huge congratulations to Maria Ferrel and Kimmie Le for winning Parenting OC’s Mom Makeover! Our deserving moms received the following prizes… Therapeutic spa services Haircut and styling Makeup Manicure Customized eyebrow microblading (Photo Courtesy of Madison Amirehteshami) Deserving Mom Essay Winner... Maria Ferrel, of Orange My mother is deserving and in need of a makeover. In...
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...
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...
‘Beauty and the Beast’ Live in Concert at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University
[caption id="attachment_26776" align="alignnone" width="1024"] "Beauty and the Beast" Live in Concert[/caption] Some stories have the ability to bring generations together. “I saw this movie in theaters when I was your age,” said a mother to her daughter, who was dressed in Belle’s iconic yellow gown as they filed into the Musco Center at Chapman University. The venue was alive with Disney fans young and old Sept. 29 for the first-ever “Beauty and the Beast” Live in Concert event that paired the Chapman Orchestra with professionals from the American Federation of Musicians. The tale as old as time, with music from...
Reader’s Choice Awards 2022: Family Fun Winners
Best Amusement Park/Family Fun Center Boomers! Irvine Boomers maintains its top spot in the ranking, which is no surprise considering the variety of activities offered at the park. From miniature golf, Go Karts, rides, Lazer Tag and climbing walls to batting cages and arcade games, just about anyone can find something entertaining. boomersparks.com | Irvine Best Arcade Dave & Buster’s Dave & Buster’s is still a readers’ favorite thanks to its mix of food and games. From billiards and bowling to arcade classics and virtual reality, it’s always game on at the popular hangout. Prefer to watch a game? They’ve...
The Family That Rides Together…
Quality time at One of California’s Top Dude Ranches, Alisal Guest Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley As the world opens up and normalcy creeps back one cautious step at a time, the annual summer getaway takes on a special significance this year. It must be good, a vacation so memorable that it will restore your child’s smile and wipe away bad thoughts left from the past 15 months of pandemic anxiety, civil unrest and politics-fueled kerfuffles. A stay at a dude ranch is meant to be that kind of memory-maker and mood enhancer. I tried it, and it’s not even...
Art Therapy for Emotional Healing
Feeling the stress of recent world events? Art therapy may help. Art is a fantastic coping mechanism and tool for emotional healing, wellness, self-care, stress relief and therapeutic creative expression — particularly when dealing the aftermath of this pandemic. Art making aids in healthy mindful communication and expression of feelings and emotions — such as grief, depression and trauma ... what we’ve all been experiencing lately. It is a fantastic mindful coping mechanism, helps healing and brings more clarity. There are many beneficial creative ways to utilize art in our daily lives to practice healthy expression. If possible, it’s always...
Keeping it Real: Alexis Bellino
Alexis Bellino is not your typical reality star. She and her husband Jim attend church with the children weekly and pray together as a family at meals and bedtime. While both were previously married, they seem determined to do it right the second time around and if the whole world happens to be watching as they try, well, chalk that up to America's voracious appetite for reality programming. Bravo's "Real Housewives" franchise is big business as former OC Housewife Jeana Keough (who has a new reality weight loss show premiering on Bravo in September), knows well. But whether it's conducive...