Saint Marc
Our apologies to those vegetarian and vegan readers, we promise to have something just for you coming up soon (as in, next paragraph!). But when it came to reading about this particular new OC eatery, our minds stopped registering words when we got to “Bacon Bar”. We are fans of bars to enjoy a nice craft cocktail made with organic ingredients and a lot of artistic flair (which you can certainly do here, we’re looking at you, Pommery Pop Champagne). And we certainly love bacon, particularly when it comes in a range of finely cured options, ala the 11 varieties...
The Bank of Mom
Educating Kids on Money Matters Scheduling annual wellness exams for our children is a high priority, but complete wellness goes beyond mental and physical health. Raising kids to become happy independent adults includes teaching them to be financially responsible. A recent study by the Council for Economic Education shows that children who receive financial education have higher credit scores at the age of 22 as opposed to those who do not. We can boost our children’s financial health by talking about money matters in our daily life both early and often. Unlike hiring tutors or paying for travel team trainers,...
Haven Gastropub
This gastropub is a true haven for culinary-minded parents who want to venture into the land of gourmet, kids-in-tow. Familiar classics, amped up with sophisticated spins, will have kids pigging out on truffle fries and loving the lamb burger. This cozy spot does get busy, so if you are schooling your kids on great food, shoot for the quieter late lunch to early dinner period. The hand-twisted pretzel with bacon-fontina cheese and mac-n-cheese with gruyere and black truffle disappeared in a flash. Almost as quick as our handcrafted Peaches O’Houlahan (with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Crème de Peche, wildflower honey, lemon...
Breastfeeding Safety with Alcohol
Q: [Infant] I’m looking forward to St. Patrick’s Day. It will be the first time my husband and I go out since the baby was born, but I’m nursing. My friends have told me to just ‘pump and dump’ and enjoy myself, but I’m not sure how it works? A: There’s so much to celebrate following the birth of a baby. So what’s the harm of imbibing a little, right? Women are cautioned against consuming alcohol while pregnant with good reason. However, the risks of drinking alcohol while breast-feeding aren’t as defined. Many women think the “pump and dump” method...
De’Bunking Camp Concerns
Q: [School-Aged] My middle-schooler is getting ready to go to camp for the first time. It seems like friendships at this age are in flux, to put it mildly. Is it better to lock her into her time away with friends who might be frenemies by then, or encourage her to make new friends and branch out by signing her up solo? A: Sending your child to camp for the first time can be exciting and seen as a marker in the birth of their emerging independence of adolescence. It is understandable for parents to feel apprehensive about the unpredictability...
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
This postcard perfect beachfront resort lies where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. With cliffside tiers down to the water, these luxury digs have panoramic views over tranquil infinity pools to the crashing waves below. Sophisticated décor worthy of the JW brand adorns public areas and the well appointed suites, while the property offers a wide range of exceptional dining, an impressive signature spa, multiple sparkling pools and fitness center that make leaving the oasis simply unnecessary. www.marriott.com | San Jose del Cabo Jasha Spa and Salon Elements of the local culture are celebrated in the treatments at...
Father’s Day Gifts for Dad
Skin Care This affordable yet luxurious skin care line by Brickell Men Products steps in to make dad’s skin smooth and thrumming with vitality again—offering only the best of the best to the special man in your life. Brickell Men Products prides itself on using only the most natural and high-quality organic ingredients in its entire line of 73 products that range from skin care to body care and even hair and beard care. They also offer a variety of sets to fit every man’s needs, so you can find the best option possible for your needs. $13+, www.brickellmensproducts.com E.C....
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...
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,...
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 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,...
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. ...
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...
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...
RCA Page Code
Nominate Here Throw some love around and nominate! It doesn’t hurt that you could win a very cool prize for your entire family. The top nominees go on to the voting round, and when we tally the votes and pick the winners, we will, as Parenting OC has done for the past 20 years, celebrate online and in our Reader’s Choice Special Issue all the family friendly businesses, places and activities that make this community the country’s best place to live and raise a family. Read the 20th Annual Readers' Choice Awards Issue
Difference Maker
Matthew Kenslow, a Costa Mesa man with autism spectrum disorder raises awareness and inspires children as a teacher, volunteer, social media star and juggler.
Fiesta Time
A new and improved Fiesta Village is back at Knott’s Berry Farm. The bright colors of Fiesta Village light up a little brighter this summer. Fires burn and a
Classes
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County classes for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Books to Toys and More for Going Back-to-School
Kudo Banz Looking for a way to motivate and cultivate your child’s best habits? Then look no further than Kudo Banz! Kudo Banz is an innovative behavior reward system similar to a sticker chart, only worn on your child’s wrist. Children earn “kudos” for good behavior, and can see their progress easily and frequently. With a tie-in story “The Adventures of Drago and George” and an augmented reality component compatible with smartphones, Kudo Banz will encourage and cultivate better behavior in no time. $29.99; age range: 3-10 years; kudobanz.com Highlights Big Fun Activity Books Is the “Summer Slide” kicking in?...
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...
5 Tips for Preventing the Summer and Pandemic Slide
(Photo Courtesy of YMCA of OC) This summer is key to continue children’s learning. Summertime in Southern California means beach trips, road trips, swimming pools and shaved ice. And after more than a year of enduring the challenges of a pandemic, many students and teachers are counting down the days until a summer break with no schedule — and no Zoom. This year, schools have struggled to teach students remotely or in classrooms as children wear masks and sit behind plastic shields. One national testing organization reported that the average student in grades 3-8 who took a math assessment this...
Special Needs Summer
[caption id="attachment_15420" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Learning advice for the lazy days While a carefree summer of “whatever” might seem like an idyllic plan for childhood, not all students are built the same. For some, a stretch of months without routine can bring anxiety, frustration and even a sense of loss. For others, a summer without educational anything might seem like a dream, only to become a nightmare when fall comes and they are overwhelmed emotionally and academically. We talk to some of Orange County’s top special needs experts about finding balance. The Slide Back Issue “The summer time is a great...
Back-to-School Fashion at the Outlets of San Clemente
A day at Outlets at San Clemente for these kids (left to right)—Gavin Acacio, Kailyn Hukriede, Gianna Acacio, William Hukriede, Kaleb Fisher—meant larger-than-life games, a visit to the Ruby’s Diner ice cream shop and back-to-school shopping with Pacific breezes. Practical meets personal, when you make this year’s back-to-school shopping a fun collaboration with your student. Yes, comfort, function and neutrals are necessary—that’s your department—but allow your child’s personality to shine with pops of their favorite colors and funky accessories from head to toe. And don’t let the summer sun fool you… Remember to stock up on layers to take your...
Treat Yourself
Indulge in these mouthwatering Halloween creations with no tricks involved. A sweet tooth is harder to avoid on Halloween than witches and vampires.
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
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!
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 book,...
FAQ: Readers’ Choice Awards
Want to know how our Annual Readers’ Choice Awards work? See our frequently asked questions.
Festivities for the Fourth
Plan out your Independence Day celebrations with our guide to local fireworks fun and more.
Q&A with Superintendent Stefan Bean
O.C. Board of Education trustees, from left, Jorge Valdes, Ken Williams, Tim Shaw and Mari Barke with newly appointed Orange County Supt. Dr. Stefan Bean, seated.(Photo Courtesy of Orange County Department of Education) We get to know the new Orange County superintendent of schools. The Orange County Board of Education recently appointed longtime educator Stefan Bean as Orange County’s 12th superintendent of schools. Bean is completing the rest of former Superintendent Al Mijares’ term, which ends in January 2027. Mijares announced in April that he would step down on June 30 after more than a decade in the role because...
Mindful Monsters
Try these Halloween activities to enchant your kids’ minds. Halloween is a season filled with excitement, creativity and a sprinkle of spookiness!
Thanksgiving Recipes
A beloved staple, the pot pie. A comforting dish, wrapped in tasty nostalgia, with a vegan twist that will keep bellies full during the holiday eating season.
Editor’s Picks: February 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH:Jamboree Summer Opportunities at the CubeMarch 2, 2019Parenting OC returns to the Discovery Cube for its 13th anniversary of the Free Kids’ Summer Opportunities Jamboree event. The event will take place on March 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is the fourth year the iconic Orange County family destination has partnered with Parenting OC to host the summer-fun planning extravaganza. And it gets even better. Make sure to enter your cute kid in Parenting OC’s Cute Kid Cover Contest. The contest will be taking place at the Jamboree event. Everyone who enters will receive a free...
Climate Crusader
UC Irvine PhD graduate, NASA scientist and dad, JT Reager imparts his knowledge of water science…
Lightings and Sightings
Find your tree lighting or Santa event for the holiday season here!
School Hero Goals
We asked last year’s School Heroes: What are your 2025 goals? Elizabeth Ellison This year: teaches eighth grade language arts and comprehensive English, an…
Boysenberries, Food and Wine
OC theme park food festivals are underway this spring.
Knott’s Berry Farm was just a farm and roadside restaurant for hungry travelers between L.A. and San…
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
[caption id="attachment_31889" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Photo by Randall Tierney[/caption] A uniquely serene setting and a world-class 9-hole course make this staycation a gem. Whether you’re ready to hit the open road with the family this summer and explore life outside of OC, or you want to chill closer to home and enjoy a bit of what this local paradise has to offer, we will be presenting family-focused destinations over the next three months, tried and tested by Parenting OC’s intrepid travel crew. [caption id="attachment_31890" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo by Randall Tierney[/caption] Canyon seclusion meets sandy shores at The Ranch at Laguna Beach...
Memorable Mini-Getaways
School may be out for the summer, but schedules can still be difficult to get away too far and for too long. Fortunately, there are numerous attractions and mini vacation spots up, down, and around Orange County to have a fun and unique family vacation for the scrapbooks. Palm Springs About a 2-hour drive Soak up the desert sun at one of the many family-oriented hotels in Palm Springs, which offer large swimming pools, waterslides, and family-friendly dining options. The area is also filled with sightseeing and attractions, including the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert in Rancho Mirage, which...
Staying Connected on the Go
To truly enjoy your newfound me-time, you might need to know you have a solid connection to the outside world (especially if you are new to the drop-the-kids-for-the-schoolday gig). Hum If driving carpool has taxed your nerves and your wifi signal, hum a little happy tune (or just pick up a Hum). This gadget turns your vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 connected devices. The whole basketball team can be online at once – from tablets to gaming consoles. (That’s in addition to helpful vehicle diagnostics when you need them, from roadside assistance and HD calling.) www.Hum.com...
Learn & Grow at the Cube
FREE Family Fun Event! Visit us on Saturday, September 30, 2017 and get a FREE child admission to Discovery Cube OC for the same day! Hosted by Directions to Parenting OC's Learn & Grow 2017 at Discovery Cube Orange County. What is Learn & Grow Expo? Learn & Grow Expo is a FREE EVENT where families can find over 60 exhibitors focusing on all aspects of healthy living—experts offering the tools and wisdom parents need to know to help them raise boys and girls with strong minds and bodies. There will be free health screenings, nutrition and fitness demonstrations, and...
Father’s Day Gift Guide
Dad Duds, from Tops to, ahem, Bottoms By Sascha Zuger Commission Long Sleeve Button Down Perfect for the active dad who wants to look good for the boardroom, but stay cool under pressure. This Qwick Oxford wicking shirt is perfect for summertime brunch or steamy date nights. $108, shop.lululemon.com HP Fjord Jacket and Dynamic Short Let Pop set sail in style with this high performance, ultralight watersport jacket that keeps him high and dry in even the saltiest of seas. Shore shorts also get a makeover thanks to uber-quick dry tech material for even the most avid kayaker, fisherman or...
Government Getaways
Miss Abigail Goes to Washington (and So Can You!) Twelve-year-old Abigail, a native of Huntington Beach, was born with a congenital heart condition. She has endured three open-heart surgeries and additional operations throughout her short life. Although she has faced many challenges because of her condition, she doesn’t let it get in her way from succeeding in school. Abigail has always enjoyed learning and has developed a fascination with the government and how it works. On Friday, March 17, Abigail learned her Make-a-Wish wish to go to Washington D.C. to learn more about the nation’s history, would soon be granted....
Mexico Dos Ways
It’s that time of year, to plan Spring Breaks and look ahead to Summer Vacations. If you haven’t yet shared the culture South of the Border with your kiddos, here are two ways to ensure a fabulous family getaway. Grand Velas Rivera Maya Everything at this very exclusive Riviera Maya luxury resort is impressive. The massive scale of the entrance is just a taste of jaw-droppers inside; the acres-big pool expansive enough to support a giant hamster wheel ball inflatable for kids to scramble inside, jungle trails that pass hidden historic underwater-springfed cenote caves, mariachis and authentic Mexican performers (with...
Well Checkups Are… Well, Great!
Parents take their newborns to the pediatrician six times during the first year of life. But the baby isn’t the only one receiving a checkup during these visits. Before medical school I double-majored in biology and psychology, and it’s that second major that I find myself leaning on most during well-child visits. From mothers coping with post-partum depression to parents who feel hollowed out by the difficult-to-interpret cries of their infants, pediatricians attend to parents as much as their babies. And that’s good. A healthy parent makes for a healthy baby. So don’t be afraid to ask questions: Checkups are...
Full STEAM Ahead to Camp and Afterschool Clubs
Learning about science used to involve dusty textbooks, the dissection of frogs and chalkboard benzene ring renderings. Judging by the experiments OC kids are up to at extracurricular school clubs and educational camps, science has become considerably cooler. These days, kids are learning about physics through bungee-diving Barbies, engineering through flying Legos and trigonometry through leaps from moving Ferris wheels. Indeed, educators and camp directors are finding innovative ways of engaging children as they strive to strengthen a passion for science, technology, math, art and engineering (STEAM) subjects. It’s an effort that’s being made on both local and federal levels....
Toddler Misbehavior
Naughty or Normal Ah… toddlers. They amaze us with their energy and new abilities such as walking and starting to talk while also frustrating us with their energy and new abilities such as making messes and saying, “No!” to our sweet requests. How we respond to the frustrating behaviors our toddlers uniquely exhibit greatly impacts how they feel and behave as they grow into adolescents, and thus, can make our parenting job either much easier or much harder. How is dealing with toddler misbehavior connected to a child’s future well-being? The answer lies in research showing us that close parent-child...
Secretly Straighten
Less visible solutions to new smiles. October is National Orthodontic Health Awareness Month. As new “invisible” technology has expanded and improved, it’s becoming more and more common for adults to seek orthodontic treatment. Research shows that having a “good bite” can improve dental health and prevent the need for dentures later in life. As a child, Tina McDermott received dental advice that was commonly given in the ‘80s. “My teeth weren’t horribly crooked,” she says, “so my dentist told my mom that I didn’t need braces, and that I could keep my wisdom teeth.” Once considered to be primarily cosmetic,...
Bailey’s Boomers Bash
10, Trabuco Canyon Theme: Fun in the Sun Location: Buccaneer Cove at Boomers Photography by: Mom, April Wright Invites by: Evite Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cupcakes, pizza and drinks provided by Boomers Decor by: Mom and Party City Entertainment: Slides and water fun at the venue The Goods on the Goody Bag: Cup with swirly straw packed with Chapstick and treats. “My 10-year-old daughter and her 16 friends had a BLAST at Buccaneer Cove inside Boomers. It was great for a birthday because the area allowed the girls to stay together and my daughter got to enjoy the company of...
Raising Responsible Digital Citizens
Today, there are over 37 million kids ages 3-17 that have access to the internet in the U.S. This reality has been ushered in as internet-connected devices become more plentiful and affordable. While kids have easier access to the internet at home, they increasingly need to access it for school. It is therefore paramount that parents, teachers and communities work together to teach kids how to be good digital citizens so that they use the internet in safe, positive and productive ways. However, with the arrival of new devices, apps and the range of their uses – risks and rewards...
Going for Gold
These products that make the lives of elite athletes (and their parents!) easier deserve medals, in our book. Team U.S.A airweave Sleep like an Olympian with this luxury mattress topper constructed with an ergonomic, temperature-regulated breathable design and choice between a firm and soft side. In partnership with the United States Olympic Committee since 2014, Olympians Ryan Lochte and Bubba Watson are among the product’s big fans. From $610, www.airweave.com Diono radian rXT Designed with safety as top priority, the narrow design and steel alloy frame allows a comfortable ride even when carpooling with the soccer team, or if accommodating...
Mum’s the Word
Q: [Whole Family] I am a stepmother to an adorable 3 and 5-year-old. They spend a lot of time at our house and sometimes the older one slips and calls me “mom” or refers to me as her mom to her friends. The little one mimics her. I’m hugely flattered, and kind of get it. If someone asks me how many kids I have, I say three (my son is 9) without distinction. But I don’t want to cause a problem with their mother. How should I handle it without hurting their feelings? A: Parenting is a challenging task no...
3 Fun Yoga Poses for Kids with Autism
April is National Autism Awareness Month, and yoga is proving to have many benefits for children on the autism spectrum. For instance, a recent study found that elementary school kids with autism spectrum disorder who participated in a daily yoga program had reduced aggressive behavior, social withdrawal, and hyperactivity. Autism is a developmental disorder that typically appears in the first three years of life; whether mild or severe, autism spectrum disorders nevertheless interfere with a child’s ability to communicate and understand social cues. This causes anxiety, obsessive behavior, and difficulty managing emotions. Children with autism who practice yoga begin to...
Benefits of Music in Schools
Q: [School-Aged] I’ve heard this is ‘Music in Our Schools’ month, which seems like a good thing. But with all the academic obligations and common core standards that have to be met in school, is there really any value to adding music into the mix? A: I can point to countless volumes of research that substantiate the value of musical training in a child’s education —improved test scores, mastery of memorization and perseverance, encouragement of creative thinking, teamwork and spatial intelligence, and advanced development of language and reasoning. These skills help our students become successful in virtually all of their...
Sharing Your Bed with Your Baby
Q: [Infant/Toddler] We are thrilled sharing our life with our new baby...but less thrilled that we somehow ended up sharing our bed, too! It wasn’t planned, just morphed into this. I love my child, but with Valentine’s Day coming up, it would be great to reclaim our bedroom.” A: Believe it or not, “surprise” co-sleeping is quite normal. Many parents end up having children in their beds full-time, even though that was never the original intention. Fortunately, you can reverse this process and send your little ones back to solo snoozing! Begin by spending some non-sleep time with your child...
Teddy Bear Hugs
This Tesoro High teen with scoliosis gives support and teddy bears to others like her…
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Celestial Silk’s 25 Momme Silk Pillowcases Not only are silk pillowcases great for your hair and skin, they are at the height of luxury. Celestial Silk’s 25 Momme Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase will help your mom feel like a queen. The pillowcases regulate body temperature to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They are hypoallergenic and safe for all skin and hair types. They come with either a zipper enclosure or envelope style with a hidden flap. You can select from standard, queen and king sizes along with a variety of colors and prints. $34.99;...
Sharing Secrets
IMAX filmmaker, activist and local Greg MacGillivray talks about his upcoming projects, the ocean and his optimism for the future…
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...
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
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...
Special Lessons
From comic books to virtual reality, therapists and teachers look forward at innovations in special needs programs…
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
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...
Autism & Health
Good health and wellness practices for children with autism are important to overall well-being. There’s a lot for parents to process when a child receives a diagnosis of autism. And there are some important needs to tend to beyond behavioral symptoms. Oftentimes, health and wellness practices can be compromised by symptoms and behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is important for parents to make health and wellness a top priority for children with ASD to make a difference in their lives now, and for years to come. Feeling a sense of belonging within a community is an extremely...
Standout Dads
These OC dads go above and beyond at home and work. Travis Hartman works as a police officer with Westminster Police Department; former K9 officer
Making Waves of the Future
Discovery Cube Orange County launches two new interactive, ocean-themed exhibits for fun, education and hands-on experiences to inspire the next generation.
Camps
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County camps for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Toys That Teach
These new toys on the market stir the imagination and encourage learning with hours of entertainment. Code & Go Coding is an essential skill for emerging learners, but with learning about coding comes more time staring at a computer. The Code and Go Mouse Mania Board takes an analog approach to coding and gamifies STEM by having two to four players take on the role of mice searching for delicious wedges of cheese. In order to win players will have to string together coding cards to make their way around a maze, maximizing their exposure to coding and minimizing their...
Moms on the Frontline
Five steadfast and courageous Orange County moms, serving the community amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Paramedic Stephanie Maynard Job: Orange County Fire Authority firefighter/paramedic Residence: Central Orange County Family: “I’m a single mother of one boy who is 7 years old and is in first grade.” What inspired you to make this your career? “I have been a firefighter for 13 years and a firefighter/paramedic for two years. I had always wanted to be a firefighter as they had helped me when I was in a car accident in my 20s. The camaraderie of station life, uncertainty of what...
Breastfeeding Basics
I’m pregnant and having a lot of anxiety about breastfeeding. How should I prepare? Adults A lot of people think breastfeeding is natural. But in reality, those first three weeks are rough. Breastfeeding is like a dance between mother and baby. The mom has to learn the steps, and each child is different. So, with every child, the mom has to learn new steps. If you’re struggling, reach out for help. A lot of times it’s just a minor change in the steps, and you’re off. Thankfully, there are many resources available to help new “dancers” learn their moves. At...
Learning Better and Faster
The key to learning is first learning how. When we talk about education — whether our own, our children’s or other people’s — we talk a lot about the importance of learning. We talk surprisingly little, though, about how to learn. We fail to address the reasons why learning is hard or wonder if there are things we can do to make learning easier or even more effective. Training your brain to help the learning process along rather than hindering it is a kind of superpower. It is like possessing a magical key to a secret treasure. It can make...
Attending Holiday Family Gatherings
Q [Tweens and Teens]: It is such a treat to have the whole family around the table for the holidays, I wish it could be this way all year. Is it worth the battle to force the issue when my teen is so busy? A: While the holidays find many families gathering around the table together, the rest of the year doesn’t always look that way. But it is a routine that American families would do well to return to. When we fail to prioritize family meals, we deprive teens of numerous physical, emotional and mental benefits. Food that boosts...
Back-to-School Fashion 2019
From left to right, Greyson Mino, Gianna Acacio and Savanna Pablo hang out on the Ocean Institute’s brig Pilgrim in Dana Point, ready for the new school year ahead. Greyson is wearing Billabong Sundays Mini shirt ($42.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Quiksilver Wax Out shorts ($35 at Jack’s Surfboards) with Robert Kids Stance Socks ($12 at Stance at Irvine Spectrum Center; stance.com). Gianna is wearing Billabong Baja Cove sweater ($55.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Billabong Mad for You shorts ($29.95 at Jack’s Surfboards). Savanna is wearing a Billabong Artic Oasis jacket ($59.95 at Jack’s Surfboards) and Billabong Little Bella Day...
DIY Halloween Style
Here are five easy-to-create, popular Halloween looks sure to make a statement for costume season. Put together iconic costumes without breaking the bank.
Holidays at the Cube
Festive fun awaits families at Discovery Cube OC. Discovery Cube ushers in the holiday season with the new Holidays at the Cube from Nov. 18 to Jan. 7.
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
Reader’s Choice Awards 2020: Health Winners
Best Cosmetic Surgeon CosmetiCare CosmetiCare is not only a recognized name in Southern California but throughout the nation. Offering treatments ranging from non-surgical to surgical treatments, CosmetiCare prides itself on its top-of-the-line MedSpa treatments and results for every patient. CosmetiCare’s social media is a fan favorite, with videos from beauty gurus that are informative for anyone curious about beauty or cosmetic treatments. cosmeticare.com | Corona Del Mar Best Dermatologist Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Located in the Fashion Island area of Newport Beach, Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery specializes in individualized comprehensive dermatological care and plastic surgery for...
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
Traveling with Kids and Pets
Get some tips from experts for safe, sane and fun travel with the whole family. Travel is a great way to experience new things, learn and gain enlightenment.
In the Green
Learn about the Orange County public schools that are California Green Ribbon Schools award winners, and one school district awarded for environmental efforts
Tackling Fear
Deciphering anxiety vs fear: Is your child afraid of the dark? Do they often worry about death, wildfires, bad people or you not being there when they need you?
Maple Kissed Pecan Bliss
A classic Thanksgiving dessert, Pecan pie. A delightful blend of gooey texture and nutty flavor, capturing the warmth and richness of the giving season…
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...
Journey to Ukraine
An Orange County couple shares their story on their trip to Ukraine to bring home their newborn in the midst of the Russian invasion…
Legal Lessons
Learn how new state laws might impact local learning and school environments. A historic civil rights case that began in Orange County. Changing biological…
Signs of Autism
What are some signs that my child might have autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can become apparent early in a…
Scottsdale’s Desert Gem and Santa Cruz’s Dream Inn
[caption id="attachment_32301" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Left photo courtesy of Four Seasons. Right photo by Randall Tierney.[/caption] Each of these two family getaways is a six-hour drive from OC—one-tank road trips—but the similarities end there. Off-season (summer) lodging at the Four Seasons in the Sonoran desert of Scottsdale allows for world-class luxury at a reduced rate. A stay at the Dream Inn in Santa Cruz offers the classic and casual Cali beach vacation, along with old fashioned amusement on the historic Boardwalk. Sophistication & Saguaros As summer temps climb, room rates relax at the Four Seasons Scottsdale, making a luxury stay at...
Father’s Day Golf Courses
A Father’s Day gift for dads who love golf — 3 favorite OC courses Pelican Hill Golf Course One pelican, many hills, two golf courses, 36 dramatic holes, and a thousand “oohs” and “ahhs” as you drink in the scenery while playing at this top-ranked Pacific-coast golf paradise located on an ocean-hugging ridge in Newport Coast. Both the Ocean North Course (pictured above) and the Ocean South Course have spectacular views, and each has its own personality; the North known for its sweeping vistas of the coast, the South feeling more secluded with tighter tree-lined fairways, and three holes that...
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