Eye for Education
Jimmy Bui melds’s photography with teaching to develop something new at Vibrant Minds Charter School. Jimmy Bui has always been passionate about teaching.
Spring Zing Lemon Bars
These lemon bars are light, airy and the epitome of spring. Made with a shortbread crust and zingy lemon filling — it melts in your mouth!
Living La Vida Garza
Butlers, Bidets and that Bon Vivant Feeling At Garza Blanca in Los Cabos. The sun was shining bright, and the temperature was a comfortable 80 degrees
Strawberry Bliss Cake Bites
Recipe and Photography by Madison Amirehteshami Delightfully sweet and irresistibly fruity, these strawberry cake bites are the perfect treat for any occasion. Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and nestled in a moist, tender cake crumb, each bite-sized morsel is a miniature celebration of summer. Get ready to savor the essence of strawberries in every bite of these adorable treats. Now let's get to baking! Ingredients: Cake 1 1/4 cups gluten-free 1 to 1 flour* 1/2 cup sugar 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/3 cup vegan butter, softened at room temperature ¼ cup plant-based milk 1/2 tbsp lemon...
Health, Lifestyle & Beauty
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County health, lifestyle, and beauty plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Learn & Grow 2025
Sponsored by... SCHOOL-YEAR PREP In September of 2025, with the new school year starting off, the Learn & Grow event offers families after-school activities, school choices and other learning options, and special needs resources. Entertainment Sponsors Check out what happened at our Learn & Grow 2024 event! Exhibitor Information Directions to Learn & Grow at The District at Tustin Exhibitor Packages Sponsorship Opportunities Exhibitors Map Space Reservation Form Welcome Packet Check out Learn & Grow 2024 Book Jamboree along with Learn & Grow and receive a 10 percent discount on both!
Open House Guide
Attending a school open house is a valuable opportunity to gather insights and determine if the school aligns with your family’s values and your child’s needs.
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…
Star Wars Birthday Party
Sofia, 7, Laguna Beach Theme: Star Wars Jedi Training Location: Alta Laguna Park in Laguna Beach Photography: Boyd Carr Invites by: Evite Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cake from Albertson’s - Sandwiches and chips from Costco - Pizza from Pizza Hut Decor by: Party City Entertainment: Party Karacters , www.partykaracters.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: Halloween items, since Sofia’s party was in October. Vampire teeth, erasers, pencils, candy, stickers and plastic spiders. “Sofia had a great time with her friends and loved the Jedi Training with Darth Vader and the Girl Jedi! The kids were always occupied and having fun...
RIDEMAKERZ Birthday Party
Trevor, 12 years old, Mission Viejo Theme: Car Mania Location: RIDEMAKERZ shop, Downtown Disney Invites by: Mom, via Evite Food: Haagen-Dazs, next door, for kids’ sundaes Decor: Vehicle design studio offered perfect backdrop! Entertainment: Ridemakerz Pit Crew The Goods on the Goody Bag: No need! Each guest went home with a car! “Best Party EVER! The best part was the pit challenge – racing against the clock, and my friends, to build our RIDEZ. Can’t wait to come back!” — Trevor, Birthday Boy, pictured above
Special Products, Born in the OC
Babies hit developmental milestones at their own pace, and those with sensitivities (emotional to physical) can especially benefit from products with their needs in mind. Bonus —these goods were born (or their creators were) right in OC! Laceez Anaheim Hills dad, Jason Flores, has created a simple fix to the stress of trying to get tiny shoes on, and keeping those laces tied. These brightly colored accessories look like real laces, but are elasticized and stay put with a t-aglet design. $8, www.laceez.com Cibo Made by Ladera Ranch mom, Amy Chandler, who got tired of crawling under the table and...
Hot Musical Products
Get those tiny (or tween) toes tapping with these fun musical products that will be harmony, or at least a lot of fun, to your household. Karaoke Machine Portable Speaker System This all-in-one machine plays CDs or allows streaming from smartphones/tablets, with 3.5” screen display for lyrics (or show on TV for parties and sleepovers). Auto-tune and “voice coach” keeps things sounding great and even fills in the blanks when a singer forgets a line. $69, www.ElectroHome.com Aquatune Floating Water Speaker A lot of speakers claim to be waterproof, but this puppy actually floats. Let them get their groove on...
Ibtissam the First
Chino Hills, 5 years old Theme: Sofia the first Location: Billy Beez, Anaheim, CA Photography by: Madison Bruce Food: Pizza, salad and drinks Invites by: Billy Beez Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cake: Darla's Cake Design, Cupcakes: Food 4 Less Decor by: Billy Beez Anaheim, Party City Entertainment: Billy Beez The Goods on the Goody Bag: Assorted Candy “The party was a success due to the friendly environment and great service. The parents and children both had fun and instantly loved the idea of returning to Billy Beez . The advice that I would have for parents planning their child’s birthday party would be to definitely think of your...
Anthony, 7, Laguna Niguel
Theme: Superhero Photography by: Andrea Fisher (Anthony’s mom) Invites by: Anthony’s mom, Andrea, is a wedding planner and designed the invitations herself. She also sent out a matching email invitation. Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Peridot Sweets www.peridotsweets.com Food or Snacks by: The onsite LifeCafe created an assortment of pizzas for the kids. Entertainment: Life Time Athletic. The Life Time team provided the superheroes, face painter and bounce house. www.lifetime.life The Goods on the Goody Bag: Masks and other superhero-themed items. “Anthony’s superhero-themed seventh birthday party was the second we have held for our kids at Life Time; they just make...
Halloween DIY
Frightfully Easy Entertaining Planning a party and feeling overwhelmed by all the little goblins and ghouls you’ll have to cater to? We’ve got you covered with trick’d out treats and pages of impressive, but super-simple ways to celebrate the season. Dracula Donuts Krispy Kreme Donuts, Chocolate Chips, Plastic Vampire Fangs We don’t blame you if you vant to suck the crème from Krispy Kreme treats, but the simple round rings work best for this one. Just slip a pair of plastic fangs into the large opening (other donut brands can work in a pinch, but KK have just the right...
Girl of the Year Party
Reagan, Ladera Ranch, 8 Theme: Girl of the Year 2016, Lea Location: American Girl Place Photography by: Vrinkley Pruna Cake (or Cupcakes) by: American Girl Cafe Decor by: American Girl Place Entertainment: Queen of Arts Paint Parties, www.queenofartspaint.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: American Girl Magazine and the Lea-Inspired Art to bring home. “What an absolute dream for a girl at any age to paint at the beautiful American Girl Place. The Girl of the Year this year is Lea. She loves outdoor adventures in the rain forest. We painted a really cute toucan taught by the amazing Queen...
Jen’s Candy Sushi Party
Jen, 10 Theme: Sushi party Location: at home Refreshments: Little chefs created their own! Invites by: eVites Decor: Japanese Décor, unique lighting and table settings Entertainment: Caroline Smile, www.carolinesmile.com The Goods on the Goody Bag: Sushi To-go Containers, Personalized Sushi Chef Jackets, Hats and Chopsticks “My daughter’s birthday party was awesome, we are still talking about it. The sushi candy and dumpling making was great. The kids learned so much, tried so many foods they wouldn’t have otherwise and loved Caroline. It was fun for my daughter and her friends.” — Julie L., Long Beach
Camp Worries
Q: [Parents of Campers] I have read many advice pieces on how to deal with first time camper stress…but not for the parents. Am I the only mom freaking out about my baby being away for a whole week? A: If your kids are going to sleep-away camp this summer, you may be wrestling with worries and what-ifs. What if he wets the bed? What if the other kids are cliquish or mean? Will the camp director call me if she’s miserable? Why Parents Worry You may worry that without structure kids won’t be able to handle routine tasks like...
Super Easy and Kid Approved Healthy Banana Muffins
When it comes to baking and cooking, parents know there are times that we just want to get the meal prepared without the helping hands of our sweet children -- because we know that just doubles our prep time! But a recipe my kids love making with me — and I love having their helping hands -- is my Yummy Banana Muffins. I usually add chocolate chips, and they become the kids’ dessert. And best of all, the muffins are a one-bowl and six-ingredient recipe. Enjoy! Super Easy and Kid-Approved Yummy Banana Muffins Ingredients 1 ½ c. whole wheat flour...
News for the Spectrum and Beyond
What’s new in the world of Special Needs? Here are a few of our favorite lesser-known resources helping OC families of those with Autism and ND Disorders. Smile and Say ZZZZZZ’s! Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County announced the unveiling of a new general anesthesia wing at their Garden Grove Smile Center. Children who have a physical, developmental, mental, behavioral, cognitive, or conditions that require medical management and specialized services may benefit from sedation dentistry. In 2016, 41 percent of Healthy Smiles’ general anesthesia cases were children with special needs. The expansion, which will cut long general anesthesia treatment...
Cruising, A Mother of A Vacay
Sometimes a vacation feels like anything but, for parents. Schlepping beach toys over dunes, making endless rounds of sandwiches, picking up around campsites to avoid nighttime wildlife visits, packing-unpacking-repacking on roadtrips… maybe it is time to set sail to an escape where someone else makes the bed, entertains the kids, makes meals and snacks on command, tidies the room, even cuts your little one’s chicken! This is what cruising can do for you. Princess Cruise to Alaska www.princess.com Exploring Alaska by sea is an ideal way to cover a lot of ground, in a place which doesn’t have an overabundance...
Locks of Love
When teacher Heather Lopez decided to cut 12 inches of her hair to donate to Locks of Love, a company that creates wigs for children suffering the effects of chemo, she decided to take her act of generosity one step further. After connecting with her principal at Fairmont School in Anaheim Hills, she rallied students and fellow teachers to join her. Their first ponytail-cutting assembly had 19 participants. After the inspiring event, many vowed to participate the following year, those with shorter hair being inspired to grow their hair in order to have enough length to donate. The ponytails are...
Tween/Teen Summer Skincare
Between an increased sweat factor clogging pores, sport and day camp schedules disrupting morning routines and the need to slather sunscreen lotions onto already sensitive and breakout-prone skin, summer can seem like a minefield for tweens and teens struggling to keep a clear complexion. We had a chat with Dr. David Lortscher to pick up tips to help our kids save face. Summer Skincare While wearing sunscreen year round is important, it is especially crucial during the summer with increased sun exposure. It is estimated that damage caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun is responsible for up to 80%...
End-of-Summer Road Trips
Summer is drawing to a close, but there is still time for one last family getaway. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa www.omnihotels.com Located on 240 lushly landscaped acres in the heart of the desert, the Rancho Las Palmas feels like a relaxing oasis. Set against a backdrop of mountains and palm trees, the villas are inviting and offer plenty of space for large families to makes themselves at home. With patios overlooking a perfectly manicured golf course or a tropical garden bordering one of the resort’s many pools, the property is a sprawling complex where service soars. Five...
Where’s Santa?
Los Cerritos Center’s Santa HQ Friday December 1-Saturday December 24 At this interactive experience, kids not only can meet, and get a photo with, Santa, but they can check out the Elf-Ray Vision and the Naughty-or-Nice ‘O Meter. Santa HQ guests are invited to bring new unwrapped toys or sports equipment on December 1 that will be donated to underprivileged families through the Spark of Love’s Stuff-A-Bus drive. On December 5, it is dogs and cats’ turns can pose with Santa for a photo (6-8 pm), with $3 of every pet photo package purchased will go to spcaLA. Los Cerritos...
Special Toys for Special Needs
These toys and products will stimulate and encourage the imaginations of all sizes and ages. Busy Barn Bright Basics Based on the nursery rhyme “Old MacDonald Had a Farm,” the Busy Barn expands on the busy board concept by incorporating eight different engaging activities. Not only does the Busy Barn encourage imaginative play, but also presents educational concepts like cause and effect, making it ideal for emerging learners. $24.99; age range: 2+ years; amazon.com Nurture Smart Mobile Not your standard mobile, the Nurture Smart Mobile is designed to be the “most advanced crib mobile ever created”. With multiple sound options...
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...
STEM Toys
Pendulonium STEM Challenge Let your child explore the fundamentals of physics without them ever knowing. The Pendulonium STEM Challenge from Learning Resources is an entirely kid-powered activity set that will develop early engineering, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Kids launch balls at goal cups using a three-piece adjustable pendulum that introduces them to early physics concepts like force and momentum. As your child masters each challenge, use the included activity book to increase the level of difficulty to encourage continued development. If only all physics classes could have been this fun when we were in school. $19.99, www.amazon.com Beaker Creatures Greetings...
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...
Summer Trips and Tips to Help Relax and Reconnect with Your Family
Summer trips can serve to refuel the family unit by keeping actively mindful. Enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Trips are an ideal time to reset, reconnect and refocus the family. Cultivate joy with mindfulness on your summer vacation. Traveling provides opportunities for your child to learn patience and responsibility. Children thrive on routine but travel can interrupt their schedule. If you remain optimistic and patient when flights are delayed, luggage lost or itineraries go off track, your child will learn to model this behavior. Children tend to struggle with transitions so keeping meal times and bedtime consistent is...
The OC Holiday Gift Guide 2019
Your guide to holiday shopping at Orange County-based businesses. FOR KIDS Learn to Surf Let the pros teach your little ones how to surf the best waves with surf lessons at Newport Beach-based Learn to Surf. All surf instructors are either lifeguards or pro surfers ready to teach all ages and ability levels. Each session consists of a 30-minute sand demo followed by 1 1/2 hours in the water. Use of wetsuit and surfboard are included. Starting at $150 for a two-hour lesson for one surfer; learntosurfhb.com Tillys With an enormous list of name brands — from Adidas and Vans...
Mourning Kobe
How to listen to our kids when they lose their icon. When a child’s hero passes away, a part of their innocence is gone forever. When we lost Kobe Bryant, it was a striking reminder that life isn’t just a game. It sometimes is tragically and inexplicably taken away, never to be replaced. Our children often do not have the words or understanding of death and loss, let alone the awareness of the stages of grieving. On an otherwise average Sunday, Jan. 26, many of our local families’ lives changed forever. Kobe and his daughter, Gianna, were an integral part...
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...
Mom Power— Giving Birth to Premature Twins During the Pandemic
Local nurse becomes a patient and a mother in the midst of COVID-19. Becoming a working mom is hard enough. Being a nurse is hard enough. Life during the pandemic has been hard enough. Melissa Leite pulled off something like the modern mom hat trick, giving birth to twins at the hospital she works in during a pandemic. You may applaud if you like. As a nurse at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital, she’s worked in various departments, so she understands the value of preparedness. But there are only so many things you can plan for. “Nothing was normal with our...
What to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccines
I’m a little nervous about the new vaccines. Are they safe? All ages Many of my patients ask me if I think there are any risks to taking a COVID-19 vaccine that has been developed so quickly? And my response to them is that I will be the first in line to take a vaccine as soon as it becomes available. The vaccines have been tested for safety and efficacy, just as they would in a longer process. One of the reasons these vaccines are able to move through the clinical trial process so quickly is due to increased government...
Gaming and Screen Time Pros and Cons
(Photo Courtesy of Stillness InMotion/Unsplash) How do we balance gaming and screen time with off-screen activities? All Ages Let me be clear. I’m not a gamer. But I do spend many hours looking at screens. What are the pros and cons of gaming and screen time from the viewpoints of education and health? And who is to decide what’s too much or just right? As an educational consultant who speaks to parents about this topic almost daily, I must first say that I don’t claim to know the answer. But there is an answer for each family that can be...
Teen Vaccine
(Molly Ringwald) Eighties icon Molly Ringwald partners with campaign urging parents to vaccinate their teens, and it’s not for COVID-19. It was 2005 and Jonathan DeGuzman was just a regular college student. “The thing I remember is I was turning in my psychology paper for our final exam. And at that time, I was headed home and I was experiencing flu-like symptoms,” recalled DeGuzman. DeGuzman’s symptoms quickly progressed and soon he was in and out of consciousness with his parents rushing him to the hospital. “And then all of a sudden, I just blacked out … and then I all...
Passion Project
(Photo Courtesy of Paige Cody/Unsplash) Learn ways to support your children in building upon their passions. Have your children been stuck with their heads in their computers, tablets and phones for the last 18 months? Children have had limited opportunities to build upon and explore their passions outside of the classroom or virtual walls. I like to use the word passion interchangeably with words like determination, pride and love. Passion is a strong desire that can enable children to do amazing things. Passion is an emotion that needs to be acted upon. Without action, passion yields no worthwhile results. In...
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!
Destination Mission Bay
Mission Bay offers vacationing families access to the very best of San Diego. School’s out for summer and most families are in need of a getaway — something fun
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/
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...
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...
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…
Wild Rivers is Back
We introduce our new blog focused on finding fun, themed adventures in and around OC. Wild Rivers is pumping with activity, rides and water. The OC Zoo has a new
Q&A with Ramon Miramontes, Ed.D.
Orange County Department of Education’s deputy superintendent of Instructional Programs talks education challenges, successes and the new school year.
Getting Crafty and Spooky
With the spooky season upon us, it’s time for some family craft time, utilizing items you probably already have lying around the house and making them your own
A Guide to School Types
From private to online, we explore school options now available for families post-pandemic. Schools have no doubt changed since 2020 and its difficult to choose
Theme Park Foodie Fests
Spring time now means the return of annual food festivals at Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland Resort. The dark purple smear across the faces of the six people
A Stoic Dad is a Mindful Dad
Learn how the ways of the ancient Stoics can help you as a parent. As modern fathers, we often express our love for our children through consumerism
Cute Kid Cover Contest 2020
Below are the little ones that have been crowned Cutest Baby, Toddler, Tot and Kid of 2020 as well as first and second runner-ups! Cute Kid Cover Contest Photographer And the Cute Kid Winners Are… Parenting OC is proud to announce this year’s Cute Baby, Cute Toddler, Cute Tot and Cute Kid Contest winners! Adam Corcoran, of Adam & Claudia Photography, skillfully captured the essence of each child in ultimate cute form. Parenting OC’s readers then voted for their favorites. Each winner was featured on a Parenting OC cover. Parenting OC would like to thank all of the participants, and...
Food
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County food for families and plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Parenting OC 2025 Events with The District at Tustin
We are excited to announce an expanded partnership with The District at Tustin Legacy in 2025. In September of 2024, The District hosted the wildly successful return of our Learn & Grow event. Next year, 2025 brings the return of our Summer Opportunities Jamboree. FREE FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT Both events offer a free, fun-filled day, with entertainment on stage, strolling princesses and super heroes, face painting, balloon artists, bubble artists, arts and crafts, contests, prizes, and games. JAMBOREE, MARCH 15, 2025: GET READY FOR SUMMER In March 2025, families looking to plan summer activities—like summer camps, learning programs, sports,...
Holiday Fun-cation
Get your fix of holiday fun locally — at theme parks, theaters and more. You can almost set your watch for the falling snow. At many of our favorite places…
Sensory-Friendly OC
For parents of a neurodivergent child, finding the right environment makes all the difference. Don’t miss these venues offering sensory-friendly accommodations.
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...
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market’s first North Orange County location is scheduled to open Wednesday, February 17 in the Village at La Floresta in Brea. The 38,000 square-foot store will have a restaurant and bar as well as a community room for special events. Whole Foods Market Brea will host a, “Eat. Drink. Play. Give. — Brea Block Party,” Saturday, February 6, from 12 to 4 p.m. with a suggested donation of $5 adults, $3 children benefitting the Brea Education Foundation. On February 25, five percent of the day’s net sales will benefit the MaxLove Project, a local organization that supports children...
What’s in your Easter Basket?
Listen up, Peeps! Chocolate eggs and colorful jellybeans might sweeten the pot, but these adorable trinkets are completely sugar-free (and just might fit nicely into medium or large plastic eggs!). Bunny Slippers Toddler toes can race through the egg hunt on these adorable non-slip suede soles, approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. $20, robeez.com Soapsox In a contest for cuteness, this cuddly ducky cleans up — and also has a slot for a bar of soap to help with little ones’ baths. $10, www.soapsoxkids.com Piggy Paint Their little piggies will cry “Wheee! Wheee! Wheee!” all the way to the...
Eco-Friendly Laundry Products
Want to get your clothes clean while staying green? Try these eco-friendly products to save energy (and time!). deFUNKit This odor neutralizing kit might take several steps to treat (for the lifetime of the clothes), but keeping workout and athletic clothes fresh for a week at a time thanks to the permanent odor control, saves huge when it comes to needless rewashing. $10, www.deFUNKit.com Method Laundry Products Many of us have discovered the irresistible scents in this line of hand soaps and spray cleaners, but new-to-store shelves are the concentrated liquid laundry soaps (each small bottle does 66 loads) and...
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...
Aaron and Evan Steed, Meatheads that Will Move You
By popular belief, the term “meathead” conjures up visions of an excessively muscular guy, who cannot spell “protein shakes”…but consumes them regularly. Aaron and Evan Steed, Founders/CEO of Meathead Movers (Santa Ana), have a new take on the term. Their moving company hires competent student athletes who are concerned with providing great customer service at a rapid pace to move families all over California. But their story has even more muscle behind it. While in high school, Aaron and his brother Evan needed a job that was both flexible and also fit with their sport schedules. They began letting their...
Scott Walker
Helps Parents Parent in a world of sexting and cyberbullying Protecting his most valuable treasure, his family, is a commitment Irvine’s Scott Walker takes seriously. When he saw signs of withdrawal and despair in his teen, the OC tech professional created and installed cell software to check deleted text messages. “I knew something was wrong and I couldn’t get a solution,” Walker said. He discovered his child, like so many others, was the target of digital bullying. After several attempts to find a program to help him retrieve deleted messages or to block messages failed, he created his own software...
Thinking About Homeschooling?
Here’s what it is and what it isn’t. Today, homeschooling looks and feels very differently than it did decades ago. Homeschooling is practically mainstream; everyone seems to know someone who is homeschooling and most moms have thought about it themselves. As opposed to traditional schooling, homeschooling is when parents or guardians take on the role of teacher and the responsibility of educating their children. In contrast to public or private school, children receive a personalized, individualized education — one of the main benefits of homeschooling. According to the U.S. Department of Education, from 2003 to 2012, the number of homeschooled...
A Venti-Sized Dose of Gratitude
Years ago, I struggled through an airport with my toddler and a heap of coats and carry-ons to catch a 6 a.m. flight. After making my way through the security line, I landed by the gate with my laptop still hanging out of my briefcase and my sock-footed son trying to make a run for it. I stared longingly at Starbucks. It was only 15 yards away, but it might as well have been 15 miles, since a loudspeaker kept warning that leaving your bags unattended was not allowed. Then I noticed a well-heeled woman observing me. As she walked...
“I Will Make this World My World.”
Diagnosed with Sickle Cell at birth, Alyssa Simmons is on a crusade of compassion for sick children. A typical Saturday night for most teen girls might bounce between boys, bantering on social media, and blasting beats through their earbuds. However, Alyssa Simmons, Laguna Hills High School freshman, is not your typical teenager. Her weekends are spent selecting the next hospital to visit in order to lift the spirits of children suffering through illness and pain. Afterall, Alyssa can relate. At birth, Alyssa was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease, a chronic blood disorder which is extremely painful and incurable. She has...
Good Hydrations
Q: [All Ages] I’ve noticed that while watching games, our daughter seems to be lagging during the second half. She seems to perk up shortly after the team takes water breaks, though. We also observed this at home after practices, but figured she was just tired. Could she be dehydrated? A: During the summer, we’re pretty good about following our young children around with water bottles, urging them to stay hydrated. But as the weather cools, keeping thirst at bay is no less important. Water helps regulate our body temperature, transport nutrients and oxygen to our cells and carry away...
Trappings of Gold
Q: [School-Aged] I have just been informed by my first grader that I am to help make a ‘leprechaun trap’ that will somehow result in a leprechaun leaving gifts on March 17th. I am all for celebrating holidays in fun ways, but why does everything have to involve the expectation of getting ‘stuff’? Even if we balk, there will be kids that score and then mine will feel sad when she gets to school empty-handed. Is there any hope of raising a child who is not materialistic in OC? A: What a wonderful opportunity to battle “entitlemania”. Entitlemania is a...
Family Project
20 Green-Clean Hacks for Spring What if the microwave cleaned itself, or the shower never grew mold, or stains disappeared from clothing in the spring air? Okay, we can’t deliver that, but some of these tricks are so effortless (and with no caustic cleaners!), the kids can roll up their little sleeves and help. Make it fun by drawing rooms or tasks from a hat and planning a family treat to celebrate a job well done. Kitchen 1. Remove dried on food particles from the microwave without scrubbing. Cut a lemon in half and put both halves in a microwave...
The Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2017
Queen B(each) You’ll feel like royalty with this beach gear that ups your “cool factor” on even the hottest summer day. Sandusa Bean Bag Blue Boss We’ve long loved Sandusa’s nonstick sand and water-resistant towels, now they’ve gone next level and created a beach mattress which will have the kids happily cozying up for a nap, or mom kicking back with a book while Dad pulls Splash Duty. Perfect for a drive-up seashore day or stargazing. $99, www.sandusa.com It Cosmetics If you’ve seen the infomercials and thought “no way”… you would be wrong. We have tested for ourselves, and this...
Dad and Graduate Getaway Destinations
When you want to treat your family’s guest of honor with a little escape to celebrate, you don’t have to go far for a memorable family trip. The Garland North Hollywood | www.TheGarland.com This retro chic iconic Hollywood boutique hotel sits in the heart of LA. Once a hideaway for the rich and famous tinsel town set, it now offers hip lodging with a ton of perks for families looking for a relaxing spot to hang. Visiting families will love the easy proximity to Hollywood landmarks and popular attractions, some of which you might not have yet explored reasoning it...
Importance of Taking Care of Yourself
Explore the benefits of focusing on your own happiness. Life is busy —with families to raise, jobs to work and dishes to wash—we often forget to make time for ourselves. Yet, not taking time for ourselves can undermine our efforts to be the best we can be. “It is important to find things you can do that can help you de-stress. If that means finding time to go for a walk, getting up an hour before everyone else in the house to have some alone time or engaging in a hobby for a few hours a week, then you should...
Engine Ear Toys
A popular Fashion Island toy store has a new home within the mall. Engine Ear Toys made a move in order to expand its inventory and provide higher quality products for customers, says Fashion Island spokeswoman Meredith Foye. “As part of the move, they have introduced the ability to demo products, (allowing) customers… to test games and toys before purchasing them,” she says. “Additionally, they offer a wider variety of games reaching a broader audience, more brain games and STEM products.” Newport Beach | shopfashionisland.com The Game Chest You might call it a treasure trove chock-full of gaming goodness. The...
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...
Acknowledging Autism Awareness
Q: As a mother of a child with autism, I am often given eye rolls or useless parenting advice from others when she is acting up in public. What is some encouragement advice for others to be kind to the parents of special needs children and their parents? A: Maybe it is the month of April and the heightened awareness to special needs and particularly Autism, or the plethora of school shows and activities, but there so many different dynamics that bring the topic of Special Needs to an intense level at this time of year. Please always start with...
Fried, Fatty, Fun Fair Foods
The annual OC Fair is back at the Costa Mesa fairgrounds with an eclectic assortment of the most unique eats for the entire family to stuff their faces. Here are six of this summer’s must-tries. Spaghetti Donut No, it’s not spaghetti on top of a donut; it’s donut-shaped spaghetti. This latest food craze, which reaches far beyond the culinary laboratories of county fairs, combines the mobility of a donut with the flavor of pasta. The “donut” (which more closely resembles a bagel) is made with heavy whipping cream, mozzarella cheese and spaghetti and is topped with pesto, Alfredo or marinara...
Editor’s Picks: December 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Winter Fest OC Thursday, December 20 - Sunday, January 6 This seasonal extravaganza comes packed with ice tubing, ice skating, and two real Snow Play areas, along with carnival rides, games and special events, like a Flying Santa. This year also presents 40,000 square feet of new wintry adventures - a Festival of Lights, a Candy and Snowflake Wonderland and a SoCal Dickens Village. The SoCal Dicken's Village takes guests through the 1800s with holidays past, present, and future. The Candy and Snowflake Wonderland is an interactive wonderland full of candy and snowflakes with a selfie...
Toys for All Needs
Playfoam Playfoam Pals Fantasy Friends has a surprise in every container. In each of these fun, colorful and squishy Playfoam pods, there lies a Fantasy Friend who is waiting for your child to be their best friend. Not only that, but the Playfoam that hides the Fantasy Friend can be used to shape and sculpt nests, beds, perches and anything else your child dreams up. The foam is three-toned and covered in eye-catching sparkles and it never dries out—letting the fun go on and on while your kid makes different shapes, animals, props and more out of this extremely versatile...
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...
ZOOMARS Petting Zoo and Gillie the Guinea Pig
[caption id="attachment_34157" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Cute Kid Cover Contest 2019 Winner Leilani Salvador also loves horses. At ZOOMARS she meets this gorgeous Norwegian Fjord named Thor, one of the world’s oldest and purest breeds. [/caption] The fast and furry-ous rise of San Juan Capistrano–based ZOOMARS is a story within a story. It’s a place for horses, rabbits, goats, and of course, guinea pigs. It’s a place for kids to play and learn. It’s a place with a long and unique history. It’s ZOOMARS Petting Zoo in San Juan Capistrano, where Gillie Guinea Pig’s story began. “Last year I launched the children’s...
What Parents Should Know About COVID-19
It all starts with clean hands and cool heads. Wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. Cough into a tissue that you immediately discard. Stay home. By now, we’ve all heard the advice from government and health officials regarding COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, but when it comes to safeguarding yourself and your children, proper hygiene — and a sense of calm — go a long way. This is a fast-moving and ever-changing challenge, so I have been telling parents to check in with cdc.gov for updated information. In addition, there are some pieces of universal advice that I...
Baseball Dad
[caption id="attachment_36208" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Courtesy of Los Angeles Angels[/caption] COVID-19 and stay-home orders have impacted all people and industries — including baseball. In time for Father’s Day, we spoke with Los Angeles Angels baseball outfielder Justin Upton to get a glimpse of a professional athlete and father living life in the age of coronavirus. Justin Upton Los Angeles Angels outfielder City: Newport Beach Family: Wife, Ashley; daughters, Sydnee, 4, and Evyn, 1 Los Angeles Angels player: Since 2017 How long did you know you wanted to be a professional baseball player? “I started playing when I was 4 years old...
Picking the Right Tutor for Your Child
In a time when parents are exploring educational options for their kids, a tutoring expert offers tips on how to find the right service and tutor. With the majority of Orange County schools still teetering between distance learning and hybrid in-school programs, many children have been left with large developmental and educational gaps, leaving many far below grade standards, and many parents flocking to private education services to supplement or even replace virtual schooling entirely. With the increased demand for private education this year came an influx of options into a space that has always been overwhelming with choices. As...
Post-Injury — Now What?
My son recently wrecked his knee in a skateboarding trick gone wrong. How do I get him through surgery and recovery? Adolescents When you crash and burn and immediately have a burst of pain or when your medical provider examines you and has that look on their face, you know something is seriously wrong. So if you are facing surgery and/or several months of recovery, here are some key things that might ease the recovery process. School Missing school or attending in a fair amount of pain or discomfort, is no fun and it isn’t surprising that studies have shown...
Dive Into Summer Fun
(Photo Courtesy of Larry Crayton/Unsplash) We hope this summer will be full of water and fun. But are there any precautions we should take as a family? All ages The CDC has advised that pools and beaches are relatively COVID-safe — but is your family water safe enough to hit those pools and beaches? As people emerge from their homes after more than a year of COVID restrictions, lifeguards are expecting to see record crowds at beaches and pools this summer. Many people, kids in particular, might be a bit out of practice when it comes to swimming. The combination...
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...
Parents’ COVID-19 Vaccine Questions Answered
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) What should I know about the COVID-19 vaccine for younger kids? Ages 5 to 11 As a pediatrician, I see firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions parents go through regarding the recent emergency use approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. While some parents are elated by the approval, others have described the process of deciding whether or not to vaccinate their young children as the most nerve-wracking experience they’ve had as parents. I work with my parents to try to allay fears and separate fact from fiction. With a vast array of...
Spring Happenings
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) Egg-cited for spring? Here are 20 spring and Easter-themed events across OC sure to keep your schedule packed. 1 – Buena Park Spring Eggstravaganza & Pancake Breakfast www.buenapark.com (Photo Courtesy of Buena Park) The city of Buena Park brings its Spring Eggstravaganza to Boisseranc Park on April 16. The pancake breakfast starts the party at 8 am with festivities beginning at 9 am. The morning’s activities include bounce houses, train, field games, a petting zoo and spring crafts. Local first responders will be there with their vehicles too. The Candy Hunt commences at 12 pm and...
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...
Moms at Work Spotlight
(Photo Courtesy of Foster Family) These OC moms share their personal challenges and offer advice to being your own boss. Savannah Foster Family: Husband, Brooks, Beckham, 4, Romy, 2, and Millie, 6 months City: Aliso Viejo Business: NFL agent and vice president of client relations at Athletes First Biggest challenge: “With a 24/7 career, I find myself on my phone way too much, and I struggle with unplugging and remaining fully present while at home with my family. I’m constantly working to maintain a better balance and give my kids the best version of me.” Best advice for mompreneurs: “Take...
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...
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...
A Growth Mindset
LiMai Montessori Academy is setting the bar for expansion of the famous method…
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