Private School Directory
List your school on our Fall 2023 list or update your school’s information for Spring 2024 with our easy form.
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...
CSI for STEM
Local schools find an innovative way to teach STEM through crime scene investigation and forensics programs…
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...
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.
Fairmont Schools’ Legacy of 70 Years of Student Success
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Since its founding in 1953, Fairmont Schools has stood as a leader in education and a model of what education should be. This year marks Fairmont’s 70th anniversary and while many things have changed over the past seven decades, one has not — the school’s commitment to transforming the lives of its students through best-in-class educational programs and people. Since its humble beginnings as a summer program run out of the home of founder Kenneth Holt, Fairmont has grown to five campuses that serve Orange County and beyond. Today, it is the county’s oldest and...
Dealing with School Anxiety
How do I help my young child with anxiety about starting school this fall? Ages 2-6: Are you stressed about your little one starting school?
Enriching Activities
In searching for the right after-school activities for your kids, here are five questions to ask. After-school activities help children explore new interests.
Holiday Gift Guide
Check out these educational, fun and functional gift ideas for the family. They will have your kids learning and laughing at the same time while looking stylish
“You’re My Jam!” Heart Cookies
A twist on traditional Norwegian cookies, these flakey pastries are filled with delicious jam…
Readers’ Choice Awards — 2024
See who won! Winners will be featured in our September magazine.
FAQ: Readers’ Choice Awards
Want to know how our Annual Readers’ Choice Awards work? See our frequently asked questions.
Back at the Ranch
OC Families share how their trips to Rankin Ranch, a Central California Dude Ranch, have become treasured traditions.
Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal has been a beloved breakfast choice for families for generations, evolving from simple, hearty porridges into the delightful dish we know today.
Jamboree 2025
GET READY FOR SUMMER In March 2025, families looking to plan summer activities—like summer camps, learning programs, sports, and travel will find what they are looking for at the Summer Opportunities Jamboree. PLUS Family Fun Attractions and Activities from all over OC. Entertainment Sponsors Exhibitor Information Directions to Jamboree at The District at Tustin Exhibitor Packages Sponsorship Opportunities Exhibitors Map Space Reservation Form Welcome Packet Book Learn & Grow along with Jamboree and receive a 10 percent discount on both!
Have a Balanced Holiday
Find joy in all feelings and keep holiday stress at bay with these mindful tips. As the holiday season approaches, it is essential to embrace festivities…
Looking Forward to 2025
Stefan Bean, provides answers to questions on everything from AI to mental health in education for the 2025 school year and beyond…
Brady Gardner
Brady Gardner, 13, of Huntington Beach goes to bat for kids with challenges. When Brady Gardner, 13, of Huntington Beach steps up to the plate, he’s already batting a thousand in the eyes of the players and parents affiliated with the Little League Challenger Division. The league is designed to help kids with challenges enjoy a classic sports team experience, and it couldn’t happen without Brady and his friends. “It’s fun helping others who don’t get a chance to do what everyone else can. I used to play Little League — this gives them the opportunity to do the same....
Dragon Kim
“Life is gone, but don’t cry, for you were just visiting.” —Dragon Kim, 2000-2015 The drive from Orange County to Yosemite this past August was meant to be a culmination of a summer filled with camps, college classes, and athletic events for Dragon Kim and his family. This vacation was supposed to mirror the other five Yosemite trips which consisted of morning hikes, sleeping in tents, grilling over an open fire and eating sticky s’mores at evening’s end. Dragon and his friend Justin Lee went to sleep in a tent under a massive star-splashed sky, and fell asleep discussing their...
Super Finds
The whole country is super excited over the latest hero movie. Your kids might be a little young to take in the flick, but they can still look the part with these heroic picks. DaphDaph Giggly Goggles They’ll be swimming faster than a speeding bullet with eyes protected by these goggles (and hair protected from tangles and pulling thanks to the neoprene-like band securing the back). $25, daphdaph.com Bumkins Super Diapies! Mom can be super-earth friendly, while kiddos are super adorable in these DC Comics printed cloth diaper covers…complete with CAPE! Snap-In-One diaper comes with soft Minky insert and is...
Food Portion Management
The Magic Trick to Meet Your Goals It’s almost always bikini season in OC, but with the kids about to hit the waterparks and invites to family pool parties rolling in, a little maintenance never hurt anyone. Rather than deprive yourself of favorites because they might not be on your personal plan, indulge…in moderation. Dr. Caroline Cederquist, M.D., founder of bistroMD (www.bistroMD.com) offers some tips on how to keep portions under control. When eating out at a restaurant, have the server box half your meal before it is served so you aren’t tempted to overeat. Don’t eat from the box...
Kids and Competition
Pros and Cons of Competition Competition and athletics are pervasive in our cultural values especially when it comes to young people. We strongly encourage kids to play sports at every level to help them learn leadership, discipline, respect, determination, responsibility and many other important life skills. We teach that sports resembles “real life” and that it is a microcosm of being a productive member of society. From the outside, it appears that by being immersed in this culture kids are learning how to better handle adversity and the challenges that life sometimes brings. Athletics can also bring families together to...
White House Interns
We elect Sir Bruno Serato one of the best guys in OC. Not only does his Anaheim White House come in tops for a great Italian menu and charming ambiance, he does an abundance of charity work helping out the families of our local communities. Knighted by the nation of Italy and named a CNN Hero, he is best known for feeding 1,600 SoCal “motel kids” nightly, making copious amounts of pasta and salads for kids who might otherwise go to bed hungry or without a hot meal due to the lack of kitchen in their temporary homes. His newest...
Subscribe & Get Free Zoo Tickets!
Sign up for Parenting OC’s bi-monthly newsletter and get a family 4-pack of tickets to the Santa Ana Zoo, home of the 50 monkeys!
Max Page
San Clemente Joy Maker Here come the holidays, and the glittering, vibrant cheer they bring. But the holidays are not just about families feeling joyful and exchanging gifts. They’re about sharing and caring for others, who are less fortunate, too. Because while many lucky children and their relatives think of the holidays as a warm, happy time, countless others all around are instead struggling to cope with illness, hospitalization, loneliness, poverty, homelessness, hunger or other serious difficulties. The generationOn Joy Maker Challenge (joymaker.generationon.org) is an effort aimed at engaging youth in volunteer service. To empower kids to feel twice as...
Whole Foods for the Whole Family
When it comes to what makes the meal for Christmas, many might argue it is the classic turkey, others might vote for ham — but what truly matters is having the family gather around and spend quality time…while feasting till their buttons pop! A rather unwanted side dish that often makes an appearance, especially for the host/hostess, is a heaping help of stress. Managing dietary restrictions, timing so as not to miss Santa’s arrival, kitchens made to cook normal-sized family meals rather than army-level attendees, stores that deservedly give their employees a break by closing, making those last minute dashes...
Teething Terrors
Q: [Infants/Toddlers] We love, love, love our baby…but do NOT love the terrible pain our normally chipper little sweetie is apparently suffering through as her first teeth are coming in! We are only dealing with her very first tooth and are both out of our minds trying to soothe her sore gums. And this is just the beginning! Nothing seems to work. She is fussy and miserable and we feel like crying right along with her. Help? A: A baby’s smile can light up a room, but it can be painful watching a baby go through the stage that makes...
Girl Power
Celebrating Women’s History Month in OC In the field of women’s history, Orange County is a goldmine. It is home to the fastest woman on record, a former First Lady, world-famous actresses and singers, Olympic medalists and more. And so, with March’s National Women’s History Month before us, parents needn’t look far when seeking ways to teach and inspire children. Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum Anaheim, www.nixonlibrary.gov Beside every man stands a strong woman – and that’s especially true when he happens to be president of the United States. Learn more about one former president’s right-hand woman at the...
Family Resiliency, Supporting Autism and ND Disorders
Raising a child with a disability brings a unique set of joys and challenges for a family — increased struggles with daily routines, finances, and navigating the maze of doctors and support services. This can be complicated by decreases in the amount of time parents spend engaged in the community, with friends or as a couple. However, research demonstrates that many families who have a child with a disability are able to balance these demands and believe their family is closer, stronger and happier because of their challenges. Resilience is the ability to withstand hardship and rebound from adversity, becoming...
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...
Space Camp is a Blast
Many kids dream of becoming astronauts and exploring the universe, but have little grasp on the day-to-day life of what it takes to pursue that dream. If you are concerned about summer brain drain, but are looking for a more exciting option for educational fun than summer school, this unique option might ignite their brain boosters. Space Camp (www.spacecamp.com) is the ultimate overnight camp experience where children work as a team and confront mission scenarios that require dynamic problem solving and critical thinking skills. Throughout the week, camp trainees learn about space hardware and the history and future of space...
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...
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...
Health and Business Goods for Moms
You stock your house with all the kids’ needs, attend to your own at the office with a few of our favorite biz goods. Vaya Tyffyn Elevate your lunchbreak with the Cadiilac (or Bentley or Rolls) of lunch boxes. The ingenius design is only enhanced by the copper finished stainless steel eco-vacuum vessels which keep food warm, or cold, for five hours. (You’ll never be tempted by el Pollo Loco bowls again!) $59, www.vayalife.com Samsonite Mobile Office Take your business for a spin with one of these mobile offices that let you put your hands on anything you need for...
Environmentally Safe Products
These safer versions of simple products will help you and your family to be more environmentally conscious, healthy and happy. Talking Telescope Does your child yearn to live among the stars? Encourage your own version of Elon Musk with this talking telescope, which contains twenty-four fascinating images and facts to encourage them to explore our galaxy and beyond. With this telescope it’ll only be a matter of time before they fire their own car into space… $49.99, educationalinsights.com Play and Learn: Compost Kit Want to teach your child about composting and the importance of buying biodegradable products? Nancy B’s Science...
Editor’s Picks: July 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Family, Fun and Fine Arts The annual Laguna Beach Festival of Arts invites families of all ages to indulge in the arts through hands-on activities and art projects that they can all participate in together. The festival presents its weekly Art and Story Time series every Monday for children ages 5 and under, which features a different book read aloud plus a hands-on art project. There may even be special surprise visits from illustrators, story characters, and more. The festival also presents Family Art Day on Sunday, July 8, which is a fun-filled, art-filled and...
The Importance of Children Playing
A new clinical report stresses the importance of play for children. If your pediatrician is up on the latest prescriptions for children, you’ll be told about whatever vaccines might be needed at this age and counseled about the importance of nutritious instead of junk food. And then you’ll be asked: Is your child getting enough play? Not sports leagues or piano practice and certainly not video games. Just plain play: building with blocks, imagining up a traveling circus in space with stuffed animals, climbing a jungle gym at the park with friends, playing a board game, putting on a talent...
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,...
Editor’s Picks: July 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH Wednesday - Sunday, July 12 - August 11 You can explore “Acres of Fun” (that’s also this year’s theme) at the OC Fair. From carnival rides to rodeos; animal competitions to Moto-X racing; acrobats to karaoke—everyone will have many things to enjoy. And don’t forget all the sweet and savory (and sometimes just strange) foods to try! The musical lineup is an event all its own. This year the entertainment summer lineup features 81 performances across the three venues, Pacific Amphitheatre, The Hangar and Action Sports Arena. Pacific Amphitheatre will kick off its summer concert season...
Editor’s Picks: December 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH: Knott’s Merry FarmSaturday, December 1 - Monday, January 6The fun of Knott’s Merry Farm is now underway and continues through Jan. 5 with all its usual merriment and some new additions, too. This year, the park debuts a new holiday-themed production at the Calico Mine Stage called “Home for the Holidays” to enchant park-goers with traditional Christmas tunes, performers, festive lights, dancing toys and dazzling snow, all happening on the most ambitious stage ever created at Knott’s. Of course, some of the Merry Farm favorites are back, including the “Merry Christmas Snoopy!” ice show at the...
Conquering Fears of the Dentist
Help make visits to the dentist a breeze for your kids with these expert tips. Dr. Azi Ardakani knows that fear of the dentist can become a significant challenge for children and their families. “I have a now 9-year-old girl that two years ago wouldn’t even sit in our dental chair,” said Ardakani, who owns Little Heroes of Orange County Pediatric Dentistry in Laguna Hills. “From the start, she had the fear in her eyes.” Ardakani learned from the girl’s mom that she’d had a very bad experience with a non-pediatric dentist. “I made sure we talked about other things...
Keeping Children Safe Online During COVID-19
[caption id="attachment_36173" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash[/caption] Q: [All Ages] With the shelter-in-place, my kids are online all the time. How do I balance their distance learning needs with the usual concerns of too much screen time? Yes, it is a reality — school is out for the rest of the academic year due to COVID-19. It’s a hard pill to swallow for parents and students alike, as we are all learning how to do things differently. Distance learning will present us all with formidable challenges, but with a little guidance we can help us all make...
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,...
Holiday Gift Guide
For Kids Mickey Mouse Activity Bench Mickey Mouse is 92 years old this holiday season and what better way to celebrate than gifting your little one a piece from Delta Children’s licensed Mickey Mouse line. Bring home the fun-loving charm of Mickey Mouse and his friends Minnie, Donald Duck and Goofy with this bench. The Mickey Mouse Activity Bench design features a conversion from a storage bench into desk in a matter of seconds. An adorable addition to any little boy or girl’s playroom, this clever activity bench will have your child smiling from ear-to-ear when they see the colorful...
Influencing for Good
Find out how these social-media-influencing OC moms are using their platforms to give back. (Photo Courtesy of Irma Lomidze) Tina Sadri Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Family: Husband, Ehsan; Sofia, 9, Siena, 5 City: Newport Beach Handle: @tinasadri on Instagram and TikTok Website: tinasadri.com Follower Count: 195K on Instagram What is the focus of your social media influencing? “The overall theme of my social media is living a well-balanced life. I often have clients as a licensed marriage and family therapist who are extremely successful in one or two areas, but are lacking overall happiness. I find that paying equal...
Climate Crusader
UC Irvine PhD graduate, NASA scientist and dad, JT Reager imparts his knowledge of water science…
A Sweet Life
Mom, social worker and entrepreneur Kimberly Luu taps her social network to help others…
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
Parenting Through Trauma
(Photo Courtesy of Xavier Mouton Photographie) How do I help guide my kids through the trauma of school shootings? All ages Earthquake drills. Fire drills. These types of emergency preparations have long been part of student life in Orange County schools. These days, unfortunately, many children have something else built into their school schedules: active shooter drills, to prepare them for the possibility of a mass school shooting. The Robb Elementary School shooting in May was the 27th school shooting this year, according to Education Week. There have been over 200 mass shootings in the US this year alone. It...
Teddy Bear Hugs
This Tesoro High teen with scoliosis gives support and teddy bears to others like her…
Key to 2023
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Why mindfulness is an essential skill of the new year. Navigating the modern world is not easy — our culture places excessive demands on our time and attention, often pulling our focus away from those nearest to us and even away from our personal health and well-being. Technology dominates every aspect of our lives. While it has undoubtedly delivered incredible opportunities and improvements to so many aspects of our lives, we must recognize the impact on our health and the health of our children while finding solutions that best protect our families. So much of our...
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...
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...
Bucket List of Summer Mindfulness
Mindfulness means children can concentrate without anything else distracting them. Everyday life stress can overwhelm and make it difficult for children to refl
OC Report Card
Amid falling test scores nationally and statewide, Orange County schools’ outlook is a bit brighter. The news was disappointing but not shocking.
Halloween Mindfulness
Embrace the spooky season with a mindful approach. While Halloween tends to be associated with fright, it’s essential to remember the power of mindfulness.
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...
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