Halloween Costume Ideas
At a loss for ideas for this year’s costume? Below are 26 DIY options, one for each letter of the alphabet. Each one is just an outline, fashion yours with whatever you have on hand. Have fun! Angel Use an oversized white dress, robe or shirt. Belt with thick gold ribbon. If desired add a chenille stick to the headband in form of a halo. Wings can be made by unbending and reshaping wire hangers, cover with netting or ribbon. Bunch of Grapes Dress child in green tights and leotard. Blow up blue, green or purple balloons and tie with...
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...
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...
6 Spooky Goodies to Inspire the Halloween Spirit
Get the family into the Halloween spirit this year with these fun products. Feeling Witchy Gift Box Feeling that Halloween itch? This gift box from Peace Organics includes a black charcoal cold-process soap bar, a candle of choice and a box of matches. The candle is available in several fall fragrances including Autumn Wreath, Black Amber & Plum, Fallen Leaves, Fireside and Pumpkin Spice. They made sure not to leave out any dads either with their masculine scent Oakmoss & Amber. Overall the perfect gift for anyone wanting to add some spooky vibes to their self-care routine. $29, peaceorganics.com Embroidered...
DIY Halloween Makeup & Costumes
Putting Together Creative Halloween Looks. At the center of any Halloween event or activity is costumes, of course. This year, families can turn their Halloween costumes into a fun DIY project. “It certainly is going to be a different kind of Halloween this year, but that doesn’t mean we need to skip out on the fun of dressing up,” said Theresa Casados, assistant store manager at Goodwill of Orange County’s Santa Ana store on Fifth Street and Fairview Street. “You likely have a lot of what you need in your home already. Take a look at your closets and put...
Goodwill Haunting
(Photo Courtesy of Goodwill of Orange County) In a costume quandary? Pop some cash at the thrift shop down the road. Most people probably didn’t know there was an official day for it, but National Costume Swap Day is the second Saturday of October. Something many parents have already become proficient at, Costume Swap Day offers up the idea of a money-smart and eco-friendly way to celebrate Halloween. “Halloween has been Goodwill’s biggest shopping season of the year for decades,” says Eric Smissen, Goodwill of Orange County’s director of Employee & Brand Engagement. “Especially with a look you’re going to...
Back with a Bang
(A view of the City of Newport Beach fireworks show from Newport Dunes. Photo courtesy of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort) Fourth of July events of all kinds are lighting the 2021 skies this month. Laguna Niguel’s July 4th Week of Festivities https://ca-lagunaniguel4.civicplus.com Take a musical “road-trip” across America at this patriotic drive-thru event held at Laguna Niguel’s City Hall July 2-3 (7:30 pm-9:30 pm). Then, on the Fourth, you can view six acrobatic airplanes soar through the skies over the Crown Valley Parkway at 6 pm while a digital celebration, featuring inspiring music, a fireworks display and a patriotic video...
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...
Fourth of July Fun
(Photo Courtesy of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort) Whether it involves fireworks or not, there’s plenty to do this July 4th holiday across OC. WITH FIREWORKS June 30 Huntington Beach Annual 4th of July Celebration www.hb4thofjuly.org Huntington Beach devotes five days celebrating the Fourth of July. June 30 has a Block Party on Main Street, with the Pier Plaza Festival, featuring carnival rides, live music, food trucks and vendors, happening July 1-4. July 4th starts with the Surf City Run & Kid's Fun Run, followed by the 10 am Independence Day Parade along PCH at 10 am, and concludes with majestic...
Upcoming November 2019 Holiday Events
Roger’s Gardens’ Christmas Boutique Friday November 1-Wednesday December 25 Roger’s Gardens can help make your 12 days of Christmas last almost two months with the return of its Christmas Boutique. “Enchanted Christmas” is this year’s theme, and you will undoubtedly have an enchanting time wandering around all the wondrous decorative holiday items stocked here. The Boutique is open 9 am-6 pm daily through December 25. Roger’s Gardens | 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd., Corona del Mar 949-640-5800 | rogersgardens.com Pumpkin Launch Saturday November 2 Pumpkins will be flying in the skies over Cal State Fullerton as the University and the...
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...
Mental Vacations
Break away to a world of peace and tranquility – and still be back on time to pick the kiddies up from school. These day spas throughout OC offer everything from skin care to deep tissue massages, for the stress relief and relaxation every parent deserves. MassageLuXe Escape from carpool schedules, kids’ extracurricular activities, picking up the dry-cleaning, etc. etc. etc. that clouds your daily routine, and take two hours for yourself for a deep tissue or Swedish massage. Feel the ease from stress and tension, and improve your overall health, without having to book a getaway vacation. Expectant mothers...
Trips with Kids —A Castle in Carlsbad
Beyond LEGOLAND and sandy beaches, a great resort is transformed into something extraordinary. Ranging from laid-back to luxurious, Carlsbad has many looks
Animal Encounters
Get up-close-and-personal to all kinds of animal life with these unique adventures. Knott’s Livery Stable depending on the season, can have different animals
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Pumpkins and Halloween Spooktaculars
Keep your October full of Halloween festivities with this guide to pumpkin patches and spooky fun. Have some Halloween family fun both indoors and outdoors.
Halloween For Everyone
OC offers a wide range of spooky fun for all ages. Come October, Halloween pops up in all forms in and around Orange County. It’s both kid-friendly and scary.
The Return of Pumpkin Palooza
A Pumpkin Dance Party Extravaganza is at the center of Pumpkin Palooza II, returning to Discovery Cube in October. The fall fun event is full of activities.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Giveaway
(Photo Courtesy of Chris Miller/VistiGreaterPalmSprings.com) DEADLINE: Friday November 24 Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is giving away a family 4-pack giveaway to The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! Aboard the World’s Largest Rotating Tramcar you’ll experience a breathtaking journey up the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon. Begin the 10-minute ride at the Valley Station elevation 2,643 ft. and end at the Mountain Station elevation 8,516 ft. In the winter, visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe. During the summer, camping and hiking trails are popular. Enjoy spectacular views of the desert below or dine at one of two restaurants: Peaks Restaurant or Pines...
Cultivating Mindfulness as a Mompreneur
How to nurture your well-being while navigating a business. Being a mompreneur is a unique and rewarding journey, but it can also be quite demanding at times.
Montessori Prep
A Montessori mom and educator offers tips for preparing for your child’s early school days. Montessori education instills important values and life lessons.
Moms at Work
From event planner and leaders in the nonprofit sector to children’s book author and reality TV star, these moms are making waves, find out how they do it.
The Montessori Difference
LiMai Montessori Academy directors weigh in on why to choose a Montessori education. Why should I choose a Montessori preschool for my 3-year-old child?
Room with a Disney View
Inspired by the famous work of Walt Disney Animation Studios, the new 344 rooms immerse visitors in Disney stories while they relax near the gates of the parks.
Ocean Lessons
The Dana Point-based nonprofit has been educating 100,000 children, teachers, parents and visitors with 60 plus marine science and maritime history programs.
Maximizing Your Open House
(Photo Courtesy of Michael Merchan, Fairmont Schools) A guide for parents of young learners looking for a school to call home. Numerous studies have demonstrated that children who receive a solid education during their early elementary years are more likely to excel academically and to thrive personally as they advance through their education. As parents, you want to give your child every possible advantage, so the decision about which school your child attends is vitally important. Just as we encourage our young learners to do their homework, parents also need to do theirs in order to find the best school...
Holiday Mindfulness Hacks
The holiday season is a time for parents to practice mindfulness and impart this invaluable skill to their children to teach them presence and gratitude.
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
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.
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
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.
Take a Holiday Fun-cation!
Stay local and booked with these festivities. Experience snowfall at Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm and warm sunlight while you skate on the ice.
Protect Your Kids from RSV and Flu
Cold and flu seasons are here. Local pediatrician Dr. Ashika Sharma explains what to look out for and how to prevent common respiratory viruses like RSV.
The Evolving Landscape of Parent Wellness
The new year brings advancements and transformative changes in parenting and well-being. Parenting is a beautiful journey that requires constant adapting.
South Coast Repertory: Alice’s Wonderland
In this pop and hip-hop musical, Alice is a brilliant, passionate teen who dreams of making the world better by creating a video game called “Wonderland.”
Looking Forward at OC Education in 2024
Parenting OC asks Ramon Miramontes what trends in education are seeing and how they might impact the 2024 educational Orange County landscape.
Are the Kids All Right?
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates 1-in-5, or about 20 percent, of kids experience some kind of mental health issue by the time they graduate.
Crafting with Heart
Make some art with the family for Valentine’s Day and help continue the year with self-care. With Valentine’s Day near and as we fully embark into this new year
Mental Prep for Summer Camp
Find out how mindfulness can help you guide your children on their summer camp adventures. Summer camp is an exciting and enriching experience for children of
Ear Infection FAQ
What parents should know about ear infections in young children. Middle ear infections are the most common cause of earaches in children. Nearly five out of
Breaking Barriers
Fairmont Preparatory Academy’s Role in Advancing Young Women in STEM. Network of organizations committed to informing and encouraging girls to pursue careers
Summer Camps for All
There are many local summer camp options for kids with disabilities. Here are some to get you started.Every quintessential summer includes summer camp. It’s
Letter from the Publisher
This February issue marks a milestone for me as the publisher of Parenting OC. Twenty years ago was the first Parenting OC ever published by Tierney Publishing.
Winning Goals for 2024
Our past Top Teacher winners share their goals for the year. We have had some amazing Top Teacher award winners, and what makes them all stand out is how each a
Summer Camps for the Future
Learn how summer camps can help inspire careers. Summer camp is a time for fun, learning and making new friends. And for some, it’s also the chance to think abo
“You’re My Jam!” Heart Cookies
A twist on traditional Norwegian cookies, these flakey pastries are filled with delicious jam…
Enter to Win Tickets to Southern Califorina’s Premiere Outdoor show at the Orange County Fairgrounds
Winner will receive a four-pack of tickets Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle, Boat, Travel, and Outdoors Show where there is so much free activities for kids and families to enjoy Are you ready for a full day of fun and outdoors? Then the Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle, Boat, Travel, and Outdoors Show is for you. March 7 – 10 at the Orange County Fairgrounds. In addition to all the boats and outdoor vendors, there are so many FREE kids’ activities including two trout fishing ponds to try their hand and catching and releasing fish, falconry, Jay Prehistoric Reptiles kids get up...
Preparing for Camp
Here’s what you need to know about summer camp for kids. It’s never too early to begin thinking about summer camps. From day camp to overnight programs
Spring Nature Lessons
Spring break offers a chance to learn mindful lessons from nature. Spring break is just around the corner. It’s the perfect time to take a break from our daily
Elizabeth Ellison – Top Teacher 2024
Destination Imagination, Speech and Debate, Volleyball Coach, Creative Writing Club, Literacy Coalition, Instructional Rounds, Leadership Team to name a few
Tania Morales – 2024 Top Employee
(Photo by A&C Photography) Beyond Blindness, Santa Ana Charlie was born with a rare genetic condition called Hunter syndrome. He went into the hospital at 3 months old for an intensive two-week chemo course before receiving a stem cell transplant. The treatment worked, but at 5 months old, an incident occurred during a surgery where his heart stopped for 35 minutes. Charlie survived, but suffered a massive brain injury. “We went to save our baby only to go home with a list of disabilities and ailments we were never prepared for,” says his mom, Kristin McKay, in a letter to...
Samuel Perla – 2024 Top Leader
Santa Ana native and local Principal Samuel Perla has a passion for the arts. He applied for a grant through Disney Musicals and it was accepted for his school.
Pistachio Loaf Cake
For this month’s Cooking with Kids recipe we’re fusing two cultural holidays, sneaking in a healthy ingredient, and perhaps introducing a new flavor to the kids
Stomach Flu, What to Do?
Dr. Ashika Sharma gives her expert advice for what parents should do if their child gets the stomach flu including symptoms to look for and effective treatment.
Spring Happenings
From north to south Orange County, here all the egg-citing activities for the Easter season.
Pixar Haven
Get immersed at Disneyland Resort’s new Pixar Place Hotel. Splashes of color are everywhere you look at Disneyland Resort’s Pixar Place Hotel
Mother’s Day Makeover Giveaway —2024
Our Annual Deserving Mom Makeover Contest! Two lucky moms won a fabulous makeover package and a mini-portrait session to show off the final results!
Thriving at Camp
Learn how to help your child with special needs have an enriching summer camp experience. Choosing a summer camp — and preparing your child with special needs
Mindfulness Parenting for Special Needs
Learn about this powerful approach to help in raising your special needs child. Parenting can be a unique and rewarding journey filled with joys and challenges.
Readers’ Choice Awards — 2024
See who won! Winners will be featured in our September magazine.
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!
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
Fostering Emotional Health
How can I help foster the emotional health and well-being of my child? As a parent, fostering emotional well-being in your school-aged child is crucial
Keep Moving
Learn how children with special needs benefit from sports, dance, swim and other types of physical activities.
Summer Camp Success
How Special Needs Camps Adapted to a Pandemic Two years of pandemic transformed everyday normal moments in life into the annoyingly and sometimes comically difficult. We often complained. We grumbled. We worried how we would do things. Then somehow we just got on with it. Life can be like that every day for kids with physical or cognitive disabilities. Yet, they must learn at an early age just how to get on with it as well. These lessons in adaptation, grace and dignity can become much more complicated in a pandemic. And teaching kids with special needs during a pandemic...
Animals for All Needs
From dogs and goats to cows and horses, animals offer calm, joy and acceptance for children with all needs. Irvine Heritage Park Library’s Read to a Dog program
Robot Learning
How robots are helping kids on the autism spectrum. Children with special needs coming to the Santa Ana Public Library are meeting robots ready to help.
Betsy Ross: Flag-Making
We are counting down the days to the 4th of July! The Little Red Schoolhouse has created an ADORABLE Betsy Ross cross-curricular lesson in History, Language Arts, and writing to keep your kids busy and avoid the COVID/Summer slide in learning! Your little patriots will love this craft, as we hone our seamstress fine motor skills creating our very own American flags just like Betsy! Craft Supplies White card stock or piece of light weight cardboard (like a cereal box) in the shape of a rectangle. White, red, & blue yarn A large plastic needle safe for kids Scissors Glue...
5 Clues that It’s More than ‘Baby Blues’
The newborn is crying and so is the new mom. A few days after childbirth, it is common for women to feel depressed, anxious or upset as their hormones fluctuate
Being a Mindful Mom
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being REAL. In a world that often glorifies the idea of the perfect mom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and inadequate.
Berry Best Mom’s Day Scones
Celebrate Mother’s Day than with a sweet treat! These blueberry scones perfectly crumble with even the softest bite and are absolutely scrumptious.
Big Changes and Big Feelings: A New Sibling
Adding a child to your family is an exciting, joyful time! Especially if you have other kids who will become big brothers or sisters. Will they be excited?
Mompreneurs of OC: Baby Edition
When these hardworking and innovative mamas got down to business, they took inspiration directly from their little ones! Anna Dubrovsky City: Orange Mom to: Leela, 5, Rafael 4 Business Name: Wee Likey | weelikey.com Business Location: Wherever I happen to be Year of Business Creation: Incorporated in 2016, launched in 2017 What inspired you to become a mompreneur? I remember going to Babies“R”Us when pregnant and feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of products. I didn’t know what I would need or want. After my daughter was born, what I really wanted was sleep and the occasional shower. Earrings and bracelets...
Valentine’s Day Heart Craft and Lesson
(Photo Courtesy of Adriene Madden/Adventures in the Schoolhouse) The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you how to create a craft for your Valentine. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos. https://youtu.be/bksqjLxmu8w Craft Supplies 1 Pinecone Paper plate Yarn Safe Needle Scissors Hole puncher Enter Our Craft Photo Contest Submit a picture of your child with this craft or any other craft of your choice below for a chance to be featured in Parenting OC Magazine, on The Little Red Schoolhouse’s socials and to win a free class with Mrs. Madden! Plus, the...
Pine Cone Birdfeeder
The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Holiday Wreath. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos…
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...
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...
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...
Reader’s Choice Awards 2021: Community Comments
Best Fair / Festival: OC Fair & Event Center “The most complete fair around with rides, games, awesome food, entertainment, concerts, cute animals and more.” — Debbie Moretti Best Place to See Sea Creatures: Aquarium of the Pacific “So many different sea creatures to see and fun activities for the kids as well, like face painting!” — Maria Montalvo Best Science Museum: Discovery Cube Orange County “Great variety and interactive attractions for the kids. They also switch up themes and attractions regularly to keep it fresh and engaging.” — Sayda Alongi Best Bilingual School: Orange County Educational Arts Academy “Kids...
Holiday Help for Parents of Kids With Autism
Parents of kids with autism may face added challenges around celebrations. The holiday season is my favorite time of year. The tasty, homemade food, warm embraces from visiting relatives and lots of laughter, expand my heart. But as much as I now look forward to this time of year, I remember when it caused me great anxiety. Having three children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), my husband and I were always on high alert waiting for a behavior to happen — such as a 30-minute meltdown or inappropriate loud yelling in the middle of a room, or our child’s non-stop...
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...
Adolescent Growth Spurts & Athletes: What’s Normal?
I think my son has grown a lot recently. Is this normal considering he has been much less active? Adolescent Growth Spurts Have you noticed that your teenage athlete had a big growth spurt over the last few months? I’ve seen several young athletes recently for annual physicals and found that many of them have grown quite a bit taller since March. This shouldn’t be a major surprise. In the past, athletes and other performers/dancers who have taken months off have also tended to experience growth spurts. So, why have athletes grown taller when not spending time on the field...
Developing Skills for Mindful Parenting
[caption id="attachment_43257" align="alignnone" width="450"] Photo by Madison Lavern on Unsplash[/caption] Parents have a lot to handle these days. Here are some methods for staying sane when things get real. Becoming a parent and having the opportunity to raise a little one of your own is one of the best gifts that life has to offer. Still, as beautiful as the experience is, there’s a lot that goes into parenting that can wear you down until you feel like having a temper tantrum of your own. When it feels like you’re losing control of your emotions, some mindful parenting techniques can...
Best of OC Awards 2019: Lifestyle & Services
Best Shopping Destination South Coast Plaza The carousel turns in the middle of 250 shops and 30 restaurants, balancing shop and play. But the kid-friendly options for clothing and food also make it an easy choice for parents looking to fit and feed different ages. South Coast Plaza has been a readers’ favorite for 10 years. southcoastplaza.com | Santa Ana Best Family Photographer Ralph Palumbo The veteran magazine photographer specializes in making people look like they belong on the cover. His work has appeared in local and regional magazines, online publications and in advertising. Creative, friendly and affordable, the work...
Puffy Paint Starfish Craft
Craft Supplies Cardboard, or cereal box Scissors Glue Shaving cream Paint, variety of colors Paint brush Sand or Pastina pasta Instructions Step 1: Trace a sea star with five rays onto a piece of cardboard or cereal box.Step 2: Cut the sea star out.Step 3: Put equal parts shaving cream and glue into a bowl and mix about 1/4 cup of each.Step 4: Add one good squirt of your choice of acrylic paint and mix color.Step 5: With a paint brush, paint your sea star!Step 6: Sprinkle with coarse sand or Pastina pasta to add texture To see the full...
New Year’s Resolutions Vision Board
Scrap the usual New Year’s resolutions and make a vision board instead. New Year’s resolutions can give us fresh hope and perspective, starting us on new habits. Or, possibly more often, they become a millstone of our own making around our necks, dragging us down as we fail over time to live up to the lofty goals we’ve set for ourselves. That list of good intentions—lose weight, stop smoking, act more generously, save a certain amount of money, get better grades, read at least a book a week—fades in our memories as we tackle the ups and downs of life...
Dealing with Spring Allergies
Do you find yourself constantly wiping your child’s runny nose, soothing their persistent cough, or noticing red, itchy skin? It common for parents to worry
Moms Who Care
Get to know some local Orange County moms who give back to the community in their own unique and charitable ways.
Chronic Catalina
The impact of a million visitors a year and the arrival of dozens of activities can’t shake off the original Catalina. Here’s hoping it never fades away. By the nature of their isolation, separated by sea from other influences, islands can be slow to evolve. When a people, a way of life, a plant or an animal takes hold, these things happily cling and resist the forces of change as the world spins. Therein lies the charm of Catalina Island, at least for me. Most of Avalon took shape in the ‘20s and ‘30s. The shaper was William Wrigley Jr.,...
The Mom’s Guide to Choosing a Preschool
Learn how to find a preschool that fits the needs of your child and family…
Navigating the Return to Work for New Moms
Local parenting experts share their strategies and support for helping new moms return to paid work. Transitioning back to paid work after a baby is a journey.
‘Mommy & Me’ Time
Learning and fun abound at these local programs for moms and young kids. Whether you’re pregnant, taking care of a newborn or adding a sibling to your family