Summer Tutoring
Help avoid the summer slide and encourage intellectual passion with a summer tutor. As a teacher and tutor for more than 20 years, I have seen the tremendous…
Community Comments
Discover Orange County’s best in food, family fun, classes & more with our Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrate community favorites chosen by locals.
Stratford School
We are committed to connecting students with our unique futures. We offer an unparalleled education that inspires children to be creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders. We approach the learning experience by infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning. Mission Viejo Campus Stratford Private Preschool, Elementary & Middle School in Mission Viejo is committed to providing quality education and care to children in the Laguna Hills, Acacia Knolls, Galivan, Lake Forest, Irvine, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel communities. Located in a quiet, residential neighborhood with beautiful views of Saddleback Mountain and easy access from the...
Back-to-School Fashion
Out-of-the-Box Classroom Learning During the beginning stages of Pegasus School’s Outdoor Classroom, a group of teachers, teacher assistants and administrators researched the importance of children exploring nature and visited several schools with outdoor classroom space. The Pegasus team had a goal of creating a dedicated environment to provide hands-on sensory experiences for pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students. They strove to make a space where critical thinking skills and mathematical and visual spatial skills would be strengthened, where students would learn to master physical challenges in order to gain self-confidence and control over their surroundings. Their hard work and dedication was rewarded...
Helpful Baby Items
One day you will fight the good fight against tech and screens…but for now, harness the power and make your life easier with these new baby helpers that keep you connected. Baby Brezza Baby Food Maker The “set it and forget it” of baby noshing, this device steams and auto-blends your choice of wholesome fresh organic foods into perfect puree. The three cup capacity makes a quick meal or stock up, with an included funnel and reusable baby feeding and storage pouches. $129, www.babybrezza.com Lansinoh Smart Pump This hi-tech double electric breastpump uses Bluetooth to connect to the Lansinoh Baby...
Scream-Free Screen-Free Week
Q: [Toddlers/Preschool] “Screen-Free Week looms and our family pledged to participate with our older kids. Now I am wondering how to address it with my younger ones (18 months and 3 1/2)? I’m afraid I do take advantage of PBS-distraction while I scramble to get their older sibs out the door to school. Do I get a pass for having four kids? Kidding...kind of.” A: Making a commitment to participate in Screen-Free Week is a great way for you and your children to unplug from the world of media and digital entertainment and focus on quality time together playing, exploring,...
Judiel Ennis
Saving Two Lives with One Swab “You’re a match!” Seeing the email in her inbox, Judiel Ennis wondered how she had landed on an online dating junkmail list. Happily married, the Foothills Ranch mom ignored the email. When a persistent unknown number began showing up on her phone days later, she noted the lack of a voicemail and decided the calls were a mistake as well. No alarms went off, time passed, and Judiel went on with life. Two years before the email and anonymous phone calls began, Judiel wandered past a room at her workplace where DKMS (a bone...
Guidepost Montessori
South Orange County is home to a new Montessori with the opening of Guidepost, which began welcoming students in early January. Though it’s been in business just a short while, the school is approaching capacity will full-time enrolment. Its sunny classrooms serve babies through students in Grade Six. Guidepost Montessori is a project of Higher Ground Education, which is dedicated to expanding the reach of Montessori education. “We offer authentic Montessori education at every level, drawing on the child’s natural, joyful exploration of the world to promote independence, concentration and logical thinking, leading ultimately to advanced academics,” says Rebecca Girn,...
Date Night
It’s Date Night in OC, and not just any date night…Valentine’s Day! Here are our picks for a great night out. SOL Cocina Bare your SOL to your significant other this Valentine’s weekend. In addition to Executive Chef Deborah Schneider’s award-winning regular menu, guests can enjoy Valentine’s Dinner Specials on Tuesday, February 14th. Perfect for a romantic Saturday or Sunday morning, SOL’s famous Baja-inspired brunch is available for guests on both Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th. Reservations are recommended by calling (949).675.9800. Newport Beach | www.solcocina.com Selanne Steak Tavern Cupid, Chef Josh Severson and his team will cast...
Coding Toys
When tech is introduced in a way that enhances critical thinking, it can enhance education and create a comfort level with the world our kids are entering. Here are a few of our favorites to start them on the path. Cubetto Preschool to Kindergarten Cubetto is the only screen-less programming system, powered by a coding language made of colorful blocks that lets children three and up write their first computer programs. Kids use coding to guide a friendly wooden robot named Cubetto, through stories, challenges and illustrated maps by placing uniquely shaped hardwood blocks in different patterns on the control...
Tween Tokens of Affection
Q: [Teens & Tweens] My son has a crush...or girlfriend...or girl he doesn’t think is “lame”. He’s only 12 so they don’t actually go anywhere, it’s just a social relationship. He’s thinking she should be on his holiday gift list. What’s the etiquette? I’m not sure how the girl’s parents would feel or if his present ideas are too much. A: The etiquette of gift giving can be a tricky and emotional decision at any age! The holidays especially present a number of gift giving challenges – add a tween and a crush to the mix and the dilemma gets...
Fall Weather Prep
Q: [Whole Family] I’m new to OC and it seems like summer here might never end (in a good way!), but are there things I should be doing around the house to prep for the upcoming seasons? A: Welcome to Orange County! Though the temperatures may still be high in our area, cooler weather is drawing near, and it’s time to start thinking about prepping your home for it. Prepping for cooler weather can ensure that your home is ready for seasons to come. You could be surprised by how much some home and preventative maintenance can save on your...
A Parent’s Guide to Augmented Reality
Pokemon GO makes tiny monsters appear everywhere from museums and malls to backyards and kitchens. Entire families have cheerfully headed out into their neighborhoods and beyond to collect as many monsters as they can. Keep your family safe with common sense rules for this and the many AR games likely to follow. Permissions Children under 13 can’t sign up for games unless they have permission from parents. That’s a reminder that younger children need augmented supervision in augmented reality. Play together if you can. Or ask your child to walk you (literally!) through the game so you can see and...
Montessori Soaring
The Out of Box Education. The founder of Montessori education, Maria Montessori, brought her philosophy to the United States from Italy over a hundred years ago. It enjoys over fifty years of history within the Orange County community, where generations of children have benefitted from the unique way of learning. The Montessori educational philosophy provides children with the freedom to grow and experiment within a comfortable environment. Without endless directives, children are able to develop independently through sensorial work. By allowing students to take charge of their own education, they advance at their own pace and develop real world skills...
Arizona, Tanque Verde Ranch
City Slickers Meet Saguaros at Tucson’s Tanque Verde Ranch When it comes to family adventure in Arizona, Tanque Verde Ranch, an upscale dude ranch set in the hills above Tucson, is a horse of a different color — up to 180 horses, actually, of many sizes and colors. In fact, there is such a wide variety of horses on the ranch, that the wrangler, who seemed to know each and every horse by name, located a perfect equine match for each human in our group, based on size, experience and personality. All the horses at Tanque Verde are geldings, the...
Summer Movie Preview 2016
Sure, it might be the month celebrating Screen Free Week, but we feel like an afternoon as a family at the movies is a different critter than eyes-glued-to-apps-and-games. Share the popcorn, and a few laughs (or gasps), with the kids with these new family flicks. Finding Dory Opens: June 17. Rated:G. Cast:Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Hayden Rolence, Diane Keaton, Eugene Levy, Idris Elba, Bill Hader, Kate McKinnon, John Ratzenberger. Plot:The friendly but forgetful blue tang fish reunites with her loved ones. Parenting Points: Finally, a sequel to one of the most beloved animated films of all times. A star-studded casts...
Arts and Autism
A Spectrum of Possibilities The world of the arts might not at first glance seem like a natural fit for those on the spectrum. Teaching art to children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be a challenge, given that ASD’s typically impair social and communication skills, behavior regulation, and coordination and motor function. But many parents have found programs mired in expression and creativity can guide their kids’ broader outlook and help with social interaction in a fun and engaging way. OC Arts in Action Brianna Shaffer offers Let’s Play Music group classes, private music therapy, and piano and guitar...
All Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016
To read Parening OC's Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016, click here! Michelle Lambright Woodland Elementary School Costa Mesa Kirsten Aguilar , Parent Teaching 25 crazy kindergarteners how to begin to navigate their educational journey can not be easy! But somehow Mrs. Michelle Lambright make it seem to be so. She emulates joy for what she does, from her high fives to every child down the line at morning line-up, to her bubbly voice that you can hear from a far, gently rounding up her class. Our son has had educational struggles that she picked up on and is working to support...
Truth on Teeth
February is a great time to recognize the importance of oral health for children and effectively get your child interested in good oral hygiene. Parents can help children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums by modeling good behavior, developing good habits at an early age, and scheduling regular dental visits. It can even start as early as in infancy by familiarizing your child with the feel of a soft infant toothbrush or wet wash cloth as you clean their gums after mealtimes. Give your child, even if they don’t have teeth, a soft bristle...
Fearsome Flu
Steps to Take Today to Protect Your Family. By this point in the flu season, pretty much everyone knows at least a few people who have fallen ill with a nasty case. The flu arrived early and has been more severe than usual as well. Public-health experts aren’t surprised. Australia, which gets its flu season before ours in the Northern Hemisphere, was hit hard and doctors have been bracing ever since. It’s a mistake in any year to confuse influenza with the generic “colds and flu” that people talk about each winter. Influenza can be a serious disease; each year...
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...
St. Patrick’s Day Green Treats
St. Patrick’s Day may have started as a religious festival day in Ireland, but cultures all over the world have adopted traditions and customs to celebrate the day. Nearly all of them involve the color green. Here are some green treats you can find in Orange County that are a lot less predictable than green beer. Mr. Matcha Follow the glow of a green neon heart-shaped sign to find your way to Mr. Matcha. The organic soft serve shop in Downtown Santa Ana serves matcha (finely ground Japanese green tea leaves) as a hot tea, cold tea, latte and a...
Some OC Public Schools and Districts Working to Attract New Students
[caption id="attachment_32830" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Capistrano Unified School District - H2019 Honor Concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall[/caption] OC Schools up their game with quality programs as families have more education options than ever For Orange County parents considering their children’s educational future, it’s all about options. Whether it’s public schools, private schools, charter schools or even home schooling, families have many choices when it comes to where kids will be attending school. And school districts are taking note. “Over the past several years, public education has significantly changed,” said Brea Olinda Unified School District Communications Specialist Nichole Pichardo. “These days, ‘choice’...
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,...
Seasonal Allergy Tips for Pets
Help keep your pet itch-free with these natural strategies for allergy season. As we fully embrace the sights and sounds of spring—birds singing, bees buzzing, butterflies migrating and the super blooms that recently overtook Southern California—there’s another bit of imagery that pet owners are less happy about: seeing our pets itch. Spring often brings with it a set of less desirable symptoms for allergic pets, which is why spring is often known as allergy season for our pets (and many of us). “Pollens, plants and grasses are more abundant,” said Dr. Kathy Wentworth, holistic veterinarian at PetPoint Medical Center &...
Color Me Mine Metro Pointe – Fun Creative Ceramic Painting!
Color Me Mine Metro Pointe offers fun, creative ceramic painting for the whole family every day! Enjoy special events and deals all year long. Kids (grades K-6) can also participate in six weeks of fun and hands-on summer camp. Paint a new ceramic piece everyday, along with treasure hunts, mystery eggs, scavenger hunts, and secret surprises! Explore fun themes each week like Star Wars, African Safari, Myths and Legends, and more. Dates: July 11 – August 19, 2022 Time: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – noon Cost: $194 per week, per child Call the studio to book
Wayfinder Family Services
In our special education school, students ages 5 - 21 with moderate-to-severe disabilities get a chance to thrive. We believe in their potential and foster strong partnerships with our families. Students enjoy spacious classrooms, compassionate, credentialed teachers and a 1:2 staff-to-student ratio on a beautiful eight-acre Los Angeles campus. Speech, occupational and physical therapies are available, as well as vision impairment services. We are a California state-certified non-public school with students from districts throughout Southern California. www.WayfinderFamily.org
Camp James Summer Day Camp
Serving OC Families for over 30 years offering children ages 5-17 an opportunity to connect with friends and the outdoors. Camp James is an ACA Accredited Camp located in the beautiful Back Bay in Newport Beach. Activities include swimming, canoes, archery, Gocarts, kayaks, SUP, climbing wall, crafts, laser tag, drama, dance, STEM, martial arts, mini golf, Gaga, ping pong, Legos, and more. Hours 8:30-4:30 Campers and Parents love the unique setting, quality staff and wide variety of activities. Winner of Parenting OC Magazine Readers Choice Best Day Camp for ten years. 101 N Bayside Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660...
Planting Change
A Huntington Beach student leads a beautification project to bring some vibrancy back to her high school. Pauline Blumenkrantz finds power…
Best Fishing Spots in OC
Hook, Line, Sinker! Find the best family friendly fishing locations that Orange County has to offer. 1. Huntington Beach Pier (Photo Courtesy of Eric Chalifour:Flikr) Huntington Beach Pier is the place to be when it comes to fishing. At 1,850 feet long, the iconic pier is one of the longest on the West Coast. It’s open from 5 a.m. until midnight and because it’s public, a fishing license is not required. Bring your gear and try to get your catch, and if the effort makes you hungry, Bud & Gene’s restaurant sits at the end of the pier for a...
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
Q&A with Ramon Miramontes, Ed.D.
Orange County Department of Education’s deputy superintendent of Instructional Programs talks education challenges, successes and the new school year.
Community Comments
Best Bowling Alley Saddleback Lanes “I’ve been going to Saddleback Lanes since the ‘90s when I was a child growing up in Mission Viejo. I always looked forward to birthday parties and events there and even joined a league as a young teenager. I’m excited to share these experiences with my daughter when she’s old enough to bowl.” — Maureen Boswell, Mission Viejo Best Swim Class Goldfish Swim School “I highly recommend Goldfish Swim School to parents who want great instructors to teach their children water safety skills. Every staff member is highly trained to make sure you have a...
Educational Toys
Want to get an edge on your child’s education? Follow our experts’ advice and make it all about play. TK2 SCOPE This award-winning microscope is a dual light, sturdy metal and plastic piece of tech designed for frustration-free science. Two LED light sources allow for both the viewing of large objects lit from above or the viewing of thinly sliced or translucent specimens lit from below. (Included manual guides through endless learning options.) $135, www.thamesandkosmos.com Build-Your-Own-Computer Piper flips screen time worries to give kids an active role in the tech they use. Kids assemble a handcrafted wooden box and screen...
Holiday Health
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) With the holiday rush here, how do I keep my family healthy, fit and safe? All ages With the upcoming holidays, there’s a lot of focus on meals, preparing for family gatherings, and for families with little ones, creating safe and enjoyable celebrations. The holidays are a wonderful time for creating memories, but it is also important to keep your children and families on track when it comes to nutrition, exercise and safety. Holiday Meals When you think about holiday meals, one of the first things that may come to mind is an excessive intake of...
Passion Project
(Photo Courtesy of Paige Cody/Unsplash) Learn ways to support your children in building upon their passions. Have your children been stuck with their heads in their computers, tablets and phones for the last 18 months? Children have had limited opportunities to build upon and explore their passions outside of the classroom or virtual walls. I like to use the word passion interchangeably with words like determination, pride and love. Passion is a strong desire that can enable children to do amazing things. Passion is an emotion that needs to be acted upon. Without action, passion yields no worthwhile results. In...
Positives of Playtime
Q: [All Ages] "Between sports and music lessons, we are a busy family. Should I be encouraging more unscheduled playtime?" A: “Play is the work of the child,” said famed educator Maria Montessori more than 100 years ago. Her words are as true now as ever — and maybe have even more significance within today’s modern world. Not only is play something that comes naturally to children, it is essential to healthy brain development. Play allows children to express their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. It helps them make decisions and work through...
Teen Vaccine
(Molly Ringwald) Eighties icon Molly Ringwald partners with campaign urging parents to vaccinate their teens, and it’s not for COVID-19. It was 2005 and Jonathan DeGuzman was just a regular college student. “The thing I remember is I was turning in my psychology paper for our final exam. And at that time, I was headed home and I was experiencing flu-like symptoms,” recalled DeGuzman. DeGuzman’s symptoms quickly progressed and soon he was in and out of consciousness with his parents rushing him to the hospital. “And then all of a sudden, I just blacked out … and then I all...
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...
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.
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.
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
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.
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...
Choco Cookie Crunch Ice Cream
Ice cream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Perfect for kids who love chocolate and cookies, this super cool dessert is free of dairy and refined sugar.
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!
Parenting OC 2026 Events with The District at Tustin
Hosted by... We have expanded partnership with The District at Tustin Legacy through 2026. In September of 2025, The District hosted the wildly successful return of our Learn & Grow event. In March of 2025 we brought back the Summer Opportunities Jamboree. FREE FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT Both events offer a free, fun-filled day, with entertainment on stage, strolling princesses and super heroes, face painting, balloon artists, bubble artists, arts and crafts, contests, prizes, and games. JAMBOREE, APRIL 11, 2026: GET READY FOR SUMMER In March 2026, families looking to plan summer activities—like summer camps, learning programs, sports, and travel...
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...
Editor’s Picks: June 2018
Summer is a time for entertainment-filled festivals and Orange County is no exception. Throughout the month of June, there are a variety of family friendly festivals with packed scheduled full of everything from unique food and drinks, arts and crafts, dancing, live music and entertainment, kids' activities, and more. Each festival has its own theme as well, so festival goers can enjoy a new cultural experience. Choosing just from one of these exciting celebrations to highlight for this month's Editor's Pick is too difficult as each of the jam-packed festivals offer a different experience and entertainment for all ages. So...
Ballet Academy & Movement (BAM)
A new dance studio has opened in South Orange County. Owner and mother of two Amanda Cobb teaches ballet, hip-hop, jazz dancing, modern, gymnastics and more at Ballet Academy and Movement (BAM)…
Sensory-Friendly OC
For parents of a neurodivergent child, finding the right environment makes all the difference. Don’t miss these venues offering sensory-friendly accommodations.
Frank Donavan – Top Leader 2025
Frank Donavan started working in education as a teacher’s aide. The idea was to work his way through law school. But once he began working in education, he knew
Romantic Wine, Art, and Hiking Getaway Ideas
A room becomes more romantic when paired with wine, art, or a coastal hike. The Carmel Highlands & Point Lobos. The storms of one year ago destroyed a large swath of the iconic Big Sur Highway, making Carmel inaccessible from the south (reopening is slated for summer of 2018). But if you come to the Coast Highway from the north, from Monterey, you will reach the northern edge of Big Sur, the setting of our first Valentine getaway recommendation. Perched like an osprey’s nest on the hillside above the rugged Big Sur coast, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, which celebrated its 100th...
Southwest Conservatory
Inspiring Creative Minds Through Quality Music Education Southwest Conservatory provides a high-quality learning experience for all students, with teachers who are specialists on their instruments. Our community of students ranges in age from 4 - adult. Online and In-Person Lessons* University trained, experienced teachers Recitals, Evaluations Group or Private Lessons FREE Introductory Lesson! VISIT OUR WEBSITE CALL: 714-964-3410EMAIL: info@southwestconservatory.net 18430 Brookhurst Street, Suite 101, Fountain Valley, CA 92708*In-person lessons will resume when safe.
Sponsorship Opportunities & Exhibitor Information
Hosted by... As an exhibitor, you’ll have the opportunity to directly engage with thousands of families who are actively planning their children's school-year schedules. It's a chance to build awareness, share offerings, and connect face-to-face with your target audience Exhibitors will receive: A dedicated booth space Promotion in event materials and digital outreach Opportunities to provide demos, giveaways, or interactive experiences Direct contact with parents, educators, and caregivers making decisions for the 2026–27 school year Spaces are limited and fill up quickly—register early to secure your place! More photos from our latest 2025 event at The District at Tustin Testimonials...
Know Your Sound Frequencies
Do those baby sound machines really work? Babies: It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately. The short answer is “yes.” But before we put the matter to…
Apple Cinnamon Tart
This apple puff pastry tart is a perfect fall recipe for kids to join in on. It’s super simple, but looks amazing when it’s done — like something you’d see…
Heritage Oak Private Education
For more than 50 years, Heritage Oak Private School has inspired future leaders with an advanced, well-rounded curriculum and a focus on character development. From foreign language starting in Pre-K, violin classes beginning in first grade, and cotillion starting in second grade, Heritage Oak’s enriched curriculum promotes responsibility, collaboration, and creative thinking. And don’t forget to ask about Camp Heritage Oak! We have it all: action-packed days on campus, field trips to Disneyland and Knott’s, 100+ specialty camp options, and free extended care for full-time campers. https://heritageoak.org/ Preschool to Grade 8 (714) 646-1546 16971 Imperial Highway Yorba Linda, CA 92886 heritageoak.org
School Houses
Home-schooling rocks for these OC families While many of us are checking supply lists, picking out new shoes and clipping the tags off this year’s backpack, many OC parents have chosen a different educational route for their kids. Here are a few we’ve met and why out of the box learning gets an A in their book. Carol Freeman School for an Athlete’s Schedule While there are many reasons to look outside of traditional school, for some kids with extraordinary talent in sports, acting or dance, it is a practical choice that offers freedom to pursue greatness. When the immensity...
Beachy Keen Gear
These sandy saviors are a breath of fresh air and great way to celebrate the end of being cooped up in the classroom. Inflatabull Pump up the fun and take a ride on the wild side with this large floatie, best used at the beach for plenty of space to get ‘thrown’ from the bull. (Parents and kids can fight over who rides first.) $59, intexcorp.com Beachmate System Be the hero of the beach when you sling this 8lb tote over one shoulder. The system includes five small-to-large sand castle buckets that can double as drink/lunch/kid seats, two shovels big...
Diving Into Lessons
Q: “My preschooler is afraid of the water, it has been a real struggle to teach him to swim. Now that we have a newborn, we want to make sure we don’t have the same challenge with her. There are a half dozen private pool hazards in our neighborhood alone and I would love to actually enjoy a day at the beach without tears as we cajole our son to get his toes wet. We are on a budget and thought those mommy-and-me swim lessons would be a waste of money when he was an infant. Is it worth it...
IEP, SOS? Navigating the Assessment Process For Your Child
Within every child we can find such unique beauty, characteristics and talents that comprise their individuality. The way they smile, what makes them laugh, whether they are left or right handed or even left or right-brain thinkers, all make them who they are – our precious little gifts. So it should make sense that each child would also have its individual means of learning. In an educational environment of structured, mainstream teaching, there are bound to be roadblocks for many students. We all learn differently. But for some students, the differences present challenges that a typically-structured classroom environment cannot fully...
Chic Lit
Hey, Sam-I-Am, you don’t have to resign yourself to endless picture books to properly celebrate Read Across America day. The best way to inspire young readers is to lead by example and let them see you fall in love with a good book. So put down that phone, and pick up one of these great reads. In Twenty Years By Allison Winn Scotch Twenty years ago, six Penn students shared a house, naively certain that their friendships would endure—until the death of their ringleader and dear friend Bea splintered the group for good. Now, the remaining five reluctantly gather at...
Life Time of Happiness
Amy Fink, 9, Laguna Niguel Theme: There was no particular theme; it was a traditional birthday party. Location: Life Time Athletic Laguna Niguel www.lifetimefitness.com Photography by: Friends, family and parents Invites by: Justine at Life Time Athletic was a big help. She helped create and print the invitations, and Amy gave them out to her friends. Cake (or Cupcakes) by: The kids enjoyed pizza provided by the LifeCafe at Life Time Athletic, followed by a two-tiered cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes for dessert. Decor by: traditional birthday decorations provided by Life Time Athletic Entertainment: The team at Life Time Athletic...
Workout Gear
Refresh your workout by taking runs out of the gym and onto the beach. The sand amps up your exertion and the water is right there for a post-run cool down. Here are our fave tools for the job. Laguna Blue Towels These eco-friendly, bacteria-resistant microfiber towels are super soft, quick wicking and have the bonus of lab tests boasting a 99.8% level of effective prevention of the spread of germs and diseases, including life threatening MRSA. You’ll love the handy running towel, but pop for the Active Set and share with your kiddo to combat those school gym germfests....
Picking a Pediatrician
Q: [Maternity/Newborn] We must have been good this year, because Santa is bringing us our first bundle of joy. But we need to score a great pediatrician, STAT. It’s so confusing and stressful to choose, would it be greedy to ask him to toss one of those in his bag, too? A: Your belly is growing … and so is your anxiety. Luckily, you’re not in this alone. Your pediatrician is your partner in keeping your newborn healthy and in monitoring her development and milestones. That is why finding the right pediatrician for your family is so important. Many parent...
Changing of Schools
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter just moved into a different school for fourth grade and it just isn’t gelling. The older crowd has her worried about bullies and a lot of the joys of her day at her elementary school (music, art, drama) are missing due to budget cuts. We’re thinking private, but is switching midstream bad? Should we make her stick it out? Is it too late to jump into a new school? We just want her to love and be excited about school again. A: Making a school change is a difficult decision for any family, however, there are...
How to Pack a Safe Lunch
September is National Food Safety Education Month and STOP Foodborne Illness (stopfoodborneillness.org), the leading national advocate for safe food, is shining the spotlight on ways to keep school lunches safe. Keep your kids healthy with these tips. Keep in mind the bacteria danger zone. Bacteria grow rapidly in the temperature “danger zone” of 40-140° F. Wash your hands. When preparing lunches, wash your hands thoroughly and keeping all surfaces you’re working on clean. Use this as an opportunity to explain the importance of hand-washing in preventing foodborne illness. Use an insulated lunch box. Whether hard-sided or soft, this helps keep...
Tween Hygiene
The kids are getting older and their hygiene needs are growing with them. Here are some products that help bring balance to the wildly hormonal years of tween-dom. Dove Go Fresh Cool Essentials Antiperspirant We love the body-image message from Dove, and you’ll love the 48-hour formula that covers your kid even when she forgets to swipe left, or right (underarm). Our favorite is the mildly scented Cucumber and Green Tea, which works for sensitive skin just adjusting to shaving, and doesn’t stain clothes or leave wet-looking streaks behind. $4, www.dove.com Febreze Fabric Refresher Middle school and junior high kids...
CalOptima: Keeping Indoor Allergies at Bay
A large number of Orange County’s young and old are sniffling, sneezing or wheezing their way through spring’s allergy triggers. Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with a cost of $18 billion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With increasing amounts of money being spent on treatment against outdoor allergens, we often forget about the small changes indoors that can collectively make a difference for our family. According to Dr. Miles Masatsugu, Medical Director at CalOptima, the health insurance provider for thousands of adults and children throughout Orange County, it’s...
Screen-Free Survival Guide
Can your children survive a week without their favorite TV shows, computer games, and videogames? More importantly, can you? According to the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, children who spend less time with the TV, computer, and videogames do better in school and have more time for creative play and interaction with caring adults. For this reason, the group advocates for Screen-Free Week from May 2nd to May 8th. We have suggestions for activities that can make the week not just bearable, but great fun. Bonus: Because your family will burn extra calories during Screen-Free Week, we’re making daily dessert...
Special Needs Camps
Sending a child to summer camp for the first time can make any parent nervous. But worries are often magnified for parents of kids with special needs. Images of sunlit lakes and carefree campers are often trumped by concerns about behavior, communication, and physical safety. Stacy De La O, whose daughter has high functioning autism, remembers the weeks leading up to Fia’s first overnight camp experience as a 10-year-old. “I was a wreck!” she admits. “But we prepared well, and in the end I trusted the counselors at Blue Compass to take care of her.” Children with physical, cognitive, or...
CIT, a Summer Solution for Tweens and Teens
Is your tween insisting she’s too old to attend camp this summer? If your child isn’t old enough to get a summer job and just hanging around for three months is off the table, look into your local Counselor-in-Training (CIT) programs. These programs are for young teens serious about assuming the responsibility and effort it takes to work with young children in a camp setting. Openings are limited, and some camps only consider those teens who have been “campers” in previous years, so now is the ideal time to do your research. What It’s All About CIT programs (sometimes called...
Beaver Creek
[caption id="attachment_13590" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Beaver Creek Resort is the perfectly designed ski village of family vacation dreams.Photo by Jack Affleck[/caption] The Ultimate Family Ski Getaway There’s a wonderful indefinable energy about Colorado’s Beaver Creek Ski Resort, something akin to getting a family hug by a destination. Swoosh your way into this easy peasy one-stop spot that has everything you need to build memories and some serious quads from the world class skiing. Getting Around Don’t feel chained down by worries over snowy driving, let the pros at Colorado Mountain Express whisk you from the airport to your getaway. Once in...
Talk About Curing Autism This Holiday Season
The Sensitive Santa program is ideal for those who struggle with the chaos of meeting Santa at a nearby mall. Launched more than 14 years ago in November 2000, the Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) organization began as a local support group for OC parents with autistic children. Founded by Lisa and Glen Ackerman, parents of an autistic son, the grassroots program had its humble beginnings in Huntington Beach, with TACA's first meeting held in the Ackerman's living room amongst 10 other families. Since then, it has spread to over 45,000 families, becoming a nationwide non-profit organization focused on supporting...
A Healthy Outlook
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Reality TV star and OC mom Ashley Wahler talks about helping others feel beautiful through hair, and raising awareness about mental health and addiction. For as long as Ashley Wahler can remember, she’s always had a passion for hair. “My great-grandfather was a hair stylist who immigrated here from Italy, so it is definitely in my blood,” said Wahler, of Laguna Hills, who works at Indigenous Salon in Laguna Beach. In fact, she loves hair so much that she recently launched her own hair accessories line called The Gold Collection by Ashley Wahler. If Wahler’s...
The Hula Children
Competition is fierce but the aloha spirit presides over this event on Maui for young dancers, the Hula O Na Keiki. According to our annual Parenting OC Reader’s Choice survey, Maui was the top choice for the family vacation. One reader explained its popularity by saying it’s a place that feels “comfortably exotic.” All islands in the Hawaiian chain are simultaneously far-flung and filled with friendly folks who spread the aloha spirit, but Maui, with the most activities available of all the Hawaiian Islands, is uniquely qualified to fulfill any type of goal for summer travel. There’s downtime goals to...
STEM Survival
(Photo Courtesy of Bionerds) How STEM programs survived and continue to thrive in public schools and throughout the county. The massive, nationwide experiment that was the 2020-2021 school year is now essentially over. Whether parents, teachers or students liked it or not, every student got a taste of being home schooled. The ability to adapt — either financially, technologically or logistically — was often the key to success. As an entire school year operated on a makeshift plan, some subjects fared better than others. So while it was not a great time to be a P.E. teacher, others were seemingly...
Kids Camps Adventures
Enjoy sailing, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, shark dissection and more at Newport Sea Base in Newport Beach. There are undeniable benefits to sending your kids to camp. And in Orange County, the camping possibilities are endless. Ask any kid what he or she liked about summer camp and the response might go something like this: “It was fun!” Though the underlying theme of most camps—whether day or overnight—is indeed fun. Kids who attend camps are getting much more. “As children grow, they face a variety of developmental tasks as they transform and become more sophisticated in how they think,...
Setting the Bar for Hot Chocolate
[caption id="attachment_34219" align="aligncenter" width="346"] Photo by Sarah Mosqueda[/caption] In-N-Out That’s right, OC’s favorite burger chain serves hot cocoa. In-N-Out’s tightly edited menu includes a cup of hot cocoa reportedly made with Ghirardelli Chocolate and freeze-dried marshmallows. Honesty, drinking hot cocoa out of a palm tree-adorned cup is about as California as it gets. Bonus points if you are wearing flip-flops. Multiple Locations [caption id="attachment_34221" align="aligncenter" width="402"] Photo courtesy of Sugarbuzz[/caption] Sugarbuzz With milkshakes, ice cream, and cake by the slice, it is hard not to achieve a sugar high at Sugarbuzz in Anaheim. There is also a selection of hot...
Steve & Kate’s Camp
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s has put kids in charge of their own learning experience. Kids ages 4-12 choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, film, sports, and more! Families can buy any number of days, and use at any time–no weekly reservations required. Or, buy a Summer Pass, which covers the whole season. Either way, any unused Passes will be automatically refunded at summer’s end. Lunch, snacks & all hours (8am–6pm) included. 949.669.5134 | steveandkatescamp.com/Irvine irvine@steveandkate.com
Top Employee of Orange County 2023
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Patty Fabian Vibrant Minds Charter School in Anaheim Just a few things Patty Fabian does for Vibrant Minds Charter School include answering phones, payroll, collaborating with the school district for homeless issues and the meal program, arranging transportation, translation at meetings, cleaning restrooms when needed, tending to sick students and the list goes on. “I do anything and everything that is needed,” she says. “It’s never boring. Every day is different.” Though technically her title is lead office clerk/office coordinator, she goes far above and beyond that. Fabian is Parenting OC Magazine’s Top Employee winner...
Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services presents Camp Newport
With hundreds of camps to choose from you’re invited to Newport Beach to explore our shores in a sailing, surf, and bodyboarding camp, enjoy the breeze in a range of outdoor sports and active camps, or embrace the shade in one of the many science, music, technology, and art camps awaiting you. For more information, visit campnewport.com. Sign up by May 4 and receive a 10% or more discount on most camps! 949.644.3151 | www.campnewport.com recreation@newportbeachca.gov
Tangled Web
A local mental health professional offers useful tips on how to protect and prepare children in an increasingly online world. Nicole recently arrived at the youth shelter I oversee. She is 15 and in crisis. Her home life is pretty overwhelming, so she turned to social media to escape and numb out. But over time, that source of solace grew into a full-blown addiction. Nicole is disengaged from extracurricular activities, choosing instead to spend hours each day on social media. She will often miss meals, classes and sleep as she stares into her cell phone. Her addiction has exacted a...
Best Parks in OC
Play in the Park! Find the best family friendly parks and play places that Orange County has to offer. 1. Irvine Regional Park (Photo Courtesy of OC Parks) Irvine Regional Park features close to 500 acres of picnic areas, sport fields, hiking and equestrian trails. Other attractions include Orange County Zoo, Irvine Park Railroad and pony rides, bike and paddle boat rentals and plenty of playgrounds. The park’s train guides passengers through the historic park, which sits in the foothills of Orange. The petting zoo is nestled among the park’s live oak and sycamore groves, where families can feed goats...
Wild Rivers is Back
We introduce our new blog focused on finding fun, themed adventures in and around OC. Wild Rivers is pumping with activity, rides and water. The OC Zoo has a new
High Expectations
Special education teacher Nicole Messick has a deep passion for helping nurture student potential. They may look different. They may behave differently.
Holiday Gift Guide
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) Unwrap excitement this season with on-trend stocking stuffers and unique local finds for everyone on your list. FOR KIDS (Photo Courtesy of Red & Olive) Red & Olive Co. Stuffed Dolls Each doll created by stepmother-and-daughter team Lita Barreda and Destiny Conner has its own personality, from Sassy Cassy the cat to Stinky Reed the adventurous skunk. Designed in Newport Beach and hand-knitted by artisans in Peru, the 7-inch baby collection animals fit perfectly in the crook of tiny arms, while 22-inch dolls make the perfect friends for kids with big imaginations. $35-$98; redandoliveco.com (Photo Courtesy...
Hot Educational Toys
These educational toys make learning a blast! Smithsonian Mold & Paint Kits The education craft kits by Skullduggery combine creativity, discovery, and learning in one. Each kit includes everything needed to create a masterpiece and an Illustrated Educational Booklet. We love the Dolphin and Whale Kit for marine mammal fans, while the Space Kit launches imaginations as they recreate history. $15, www.skullduggery.com PLAYMOBIL Pharaoh’s Pyramid Spark a love of history, and let imagination unlock ancient secrets and mysteries. Uncover sneaky traps and hidden treasures throughout five chambers, climb to the top to explore the mummy’s tomb chamber, or remove the...
Parents’ COVID-19 Vaccine Questions Answered
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) What should I know about the COVID-19 vaccine for younger kids? Ages 5 to 11 As a pediatrician, I see firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions parents go through regarding the recent emergency use approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. While some parents are elated by the approval, others have described the process of deciding whether or not to vaccinate their young children as the most nerve-wracking experience they’ve had as parents. I work with my parents to try to allay fears and separate fact from fiction. With a vast array of...
What to Know About RSV
(Photo Courtesy of Canva) What do I need to know about RSV to protect my kids? 0 to 2 Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is common, and one of the many viruses that cause respiratory illness — illnesses of the nose, throat and lungs. For healthy children, RSV symptoms resemble a common cold, but it may lead some immunosuppressed and young babies to develop lower respiratory illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia. RSV is spread from respiratory secretions through close contact with infected people or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Its typical peak season of transmission is from October to March. ...
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...
Back-to-School Sleep Prep
(Photo Courtesy of Robo Wunderkind/Unsplash) A local child sleep expert offers some helpful tips for getting families onto a healthy sleep program in time for returning to school. Back to school is almost here! It might sound shocking or unreal, especially after learning how to home school, but it’s time to get back in the groove of things and to a normal life. Back to school is one of parents’ busy times of year. Parents can easily get overwhelmed by all the back-to-school preparing and shopping, and usually an important part of preparing for back to school is missed —...
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...
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