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...
Summer-Only Attractions at SoCal Theme Parks
Walkabout with kangaroos, go under the sea with sharks, hang out with Western characters, Kung Fu with a panda, or pal around with Pixar characters—all at Southern California theme parks this summer. Here are seven summer-exclusive attractions and theme park additions for families to enjoy: 1. Walkabout Australia at the San Diego Safari Park in Escondido offers visitors a chance to walk through a more than three-acre area filled with kangaroos, wallabies and other critters from the Land Down Under. The walking tour emulates the Australian landscape as the ‘roos and other critters hop close by. 2. See sharks, and...
Knott’s Is Nutty with Its Annual Peanuts Celebration
Charles M. Schulz gave us some of the most recognized and beloved characters through his comic strip, “Peanuts.” You and your family can celebrate Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and good ol’ Charlie Brown at Knott’s Berry Farm’s Peanuts Celebration each weekend now through March 1. Look out for unique photo opportunities that let you step right into the “Peanuts” comic strip at the park’s main entrance and throughout Camp Snoopy. Rock out to family-friendly band The Jelly of the Month Club at the Calico Mine Stage for Woodstock’s Music Festival. Kids can pen their own comic strip at Peanuts Sketch School...
Private School Versus Public School
When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, there are a lot of aspects to consider that parents may find difficult to sort through. With so many choices within public and private sectors, however, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Having the option to choose what works best for your individual child’s needs allows you to feel comfortable with your decision and the chance for your child to soar. With a growing volume of magnet schools, charter schools, open enrollment policies and alternative schools, public schools offer a large selection of educational options. Private schools also...
Preparing for Camps
With some preparation, parents can ready children for a successful camp experience. In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness on the need to expose children to camping activities. Exposing children to camps increases their sense of self-reliance, ambition, adventure, optimism and self-esteem. Camps offer unique opportunities that enable children with varying abilities to distance themselves from daily stressors. Such a favorable environment enables children to explore their individuality. Gaining in-depth insights about themselves increases their sense of autonomy and responsibility. Children often spend most of their formative years in the same neighborhoods, reducing the diversity of their...
Healthy Food for Healthy Pets
While most brands are labeled healthy, experts disagree. You want your pet to have a long, healthy life, and you do your best to accomplish this. So maybe you have a checklist: Daily walks? Check. Regular grooming and dental cleanings? Check. Annual physicals? Check. Quality pet food? Check? As with humans, good nutrition is a big part of health. And while many pet food brands say they are healthy, some pet owners and industry experts disagree. “Pets were never meant to eat little brown pellets,” said Shawn Buckley, founder of Orange County-based JustFoodForDogs, which makes food fit for humans fresh...
The Prentice School
The Prentice School is designed for students with language-based learning disabilities, including dyslexia, and co-occurring conditions like ADHD. Located on a beautiful 6.6 acre campus in the central Orange County foothills, Prentice offers a premiere educational environment for our students. Our research-based, multisensory teaching methods focus on how students learn. Our innovative program is common-core aligned and includes Orton-Gillingham Structured Literacy, ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies/History, Social Communications, Social-Emotional Learning and PE. www.prentice.org | 714-538-4511
Readers’ Choice Awards Winners — 2023
Congrats to all the places, services, schools, and more that our readers have chosen as the best around Orange County for the 21st annual Readers’ Choice Awards
Top Teachers & Employees 2022 Winners Announced
Learning During the Pandemic is challenging every educator, administrator and school employee, not to mention the parents and students. The COVID Pandemic is the most disruptive force of our time, bringing health and safety concerns along with the pressure to continue quality education through a patchwork schedule and a hybrid model of in-class and online learning. All school workers and teachers are heroes this year, so it was difficult to find the very best of 2021-2022. In honoring the top, we honor all. Top Teacher - Top 10 Teachers - Top 25 Teachers Top Employee - Top 10 Employees Top...
Best Bike Trails in OC
Happy Trails! Find the best biking trails that Orange County has to offer. 1. Back Bay Loop (Photo Courtesy of Sunny Zhao) The Back Bay Loop Trail is a 10.5-mile, well-marked trail that goes around Upper Newport Bay and is frequented by outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. It has multiple entry points with options for scenic stops. The flat paved trail easily accommodates bikes and strollers so the whole family can experience the bay. newportbeachca.gov | Newport Beach 2. Oak Canyon Nature Center Trail (Photo Courtesy of Mucio Vidales: All Trails) Nestled in the Anaheim Hills, Oak Canyon Nature Center...
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...
Mindfulness for Back to School
Tips for getting your family back-to-school ready. Heading back to school after the summer break is a big moment for any child and requires a shift of gear
Leading through Reading
Shannon Woest helps kids connect to the world through a love of books. She volunteered at Mission Viejo’s Del Lago Elementary School 13 years ago and never left
Items to Keep Your Life Simple, Safe, and Spotless
Check out these new products on the market created to make your life simpler, safer and spic-and-span. On-the-Go Cup Kafe in the Box is a square-shaped cup will make you look stylish while reducing coffee or tea spills all over your car or gym bag. With a splash-proof lid and double wall insulation, you can take whatever hot drink you enjoy everywhere you go — and its BPA, BPS and Pthalate-free, so you will feel good about drinking from it. $15.99 (12 oz), $17.99 (16 oz), amazon.com Safe Earphones Protect your child’s eardrums while they’re listening to their music or...
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...
Growth Spurts & Athletes: Less Physical Activity
I think my son has grown a lot recently. Is this normal considering he has been much less active? Adolescents 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 or court?...
Answering Dreaded Questions
Q: [Toddler] My toddler just asked me an embarrassing question. What should I do? A: Whether the question was, “Where did I come from?” or “Why does Daddy pee different from Mommy?” a parent’s worst fear is that they’ll be caught off guard and totally tongue-tied when their toddler asks a challenging question. (Or that it will happen loudly and in public!) If you’ve just found yourself in this situation, take a breath. First, know that what’s come out of your toddler’s mouth may be different than what you’re imagining, so start by clarifying the question. You might think they...
Adolescent Mental Health Tips
(Photo Courtesy of Any Lane/Pexels) Learn about three common mistakes parents make with adolescent mental health and how to fix them. Missing Warning Signs The saying kids will be kids is problematic. I mean, I get it: Sometimes kids will be kids. But unfortunately, where adolescent mental health is concerned, adopting this mindset creates significant blind spots for noticing potential warning signs. Historically, 20 percent of children have a diagnosable mental health condition; that’s pre-pandemic; pre-quarantine; pre-new-normal. It’s safe to say that the number of children suffering (even situationally) is dramatically higher. When kids begin to be more aggressive, or...
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...
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...
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.
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
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
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...
Beat the Summer Slide
Educational experts offer proactive tips for lessening summer learning loss. It’s time for summer break, while that means free time and vacations for many kids
Reader’s Choice Awards 2020: Camp Winners
Best Girls Softball League Mission Viejo Girls Softball Mission Viejo Girls Softball puts instilling good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty and courage at the center of their program. With the goal of creating well adjusted, stronger and happier children, young girls between the ages 4.5 to 14 get the chance to bond with teammates through sports. And with no initial cost needed to register, young girls get the chance to experience the excitement of softball. mvgs.org | Mission Viejo Best Baseball Camp Coach Ballgame James Lowe, often referred to as Coach Ballgame, helps kids fall in love with baseball by emphasizing a...
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.
Halloween Treats
From theme parks to local mom-and-pop shops, what are some of the hot Halloween treats families can find in and around OC?
Editor’s Picks: January 2020
PICK OF THE MONTH: California Adventure’s Lunar New Year CelebrationFriday, January 17 - Sunday, February 9At California Adventure, Lunar New Year is all about the mouse — the Year of the Mouse to be exact. You can celebrate Year of the Mouse with multicultural activities that salute Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cultures. Guests will enjoy 24 days of Lunar New Year celebrations from Jan. 17 to Feb. 9, 2020. The limited-time festival gives people of all ages the chance to experience unique holiday entertainment, special Disney-inspired Asian cuisine items, kid-friendly crafts projects, and popular Disney characters dressed up in festive...
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...
How-to: Craft a Vision Board
The Little Red Schoolhouse’s (adventuresintheschoolhouse.com) latest crafting video is ready to instruct you and your family on how to create a Vision Board. As you craft, don’t forget to snap some photos…
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…
Andrea Alvarez – Top Employee 2025
When a teacher was struggling with last-minute event prep, Andrea Alvarez stepped in, reorganized the schedule and made sure everything was ready on time…
Day 8: Great Wolf Lodge – ENDED
On the Eighth Day of Giveaways, Parenting OC gives to you… a Family Stay at a Great Wolf Lodge... Great Wolf Lodge Stay Value: $300 | www.greatwolf.com It’s that time of year, when we celebrate all that Southern California has to offer…oh, and a few holidays, too! Parenting OC is playing Santa and we have a heck of a bag of goodies this year, with daily prizes ranging from $200 to $800. And we won’t make you wait until Christmas, each contest runs from midnight to midnight, the first twelve business days of December, with the winner being announced the...
Must-Try Hikes for August
[caption id="attachment_43322" align="aligncenter" width="500"] (Dripping Cave/Courtesy of OC Parks)[/caption] Get some fresh air and exercise with the family this summer at these local scenic hikes. Planning for school is always nerve-wracking, for sure. And by now, many parents feel as though they have pulled out all the stops on finding creative activities in the home and backyard. Maybe there were some trips to a beach with physical distancing. What next? During this frenetic time of planning both for the school year and for continued safety measures around the coronavirus, it’s a lifesaver for the family nerves to go...
Chocolate Chip Cookies
(Photo & Recipe by Madison Amirehteshami) There’s something magical about the way chocolate chip cookies can turn a regular day into a sweet memory. For me, it's time spent with my mom, measuring flour, sneaking a taste of dough and watching the cookies bake in the oven. These cookies have always been a family favorite — golden brown edges, a chewy center, and of course, a few extra chocolate chips for good measure. Whether you’re baking alongside loved ones or just indulging in a quiet moment, these cookies never fail to deliver that warm, comforting feeling. Ready to share a...
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...
What You Can/Cannot Eat While Breastfeeding
Q: [Maternity/Infant] I have read the studies, talked to other new moms (and a fair number of veterans in the baby game) and have decided to nurse. I guess this puts the kaibosh on my plans to dive into all those spicy tuna rolls and glasses of vino I have been longing for the past year of trying/growing this baby? A: You have such great timing for your question, as August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month! Funded by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, this campaign empowers women to commit to breastfeeding. Even with all of its benefits,...
Teen Blues or Something More
Q: [Tween/Teen] “My daughter goes from rainbows and unicorns to a dark place where everything is a disaster, sometimes in the same day. How can I tell if this is just being a hormonal teen or something more serious? Are there warning signs?” A: Unfortunately, there is not a clear way for you to determine exactly what is going on with your daughter. But it’s not unusual for both teens and parents to experience adolescence as a challenging time. Teens go through a range of emotions, which may be the result of developmental changes or environmental influences. Biological changes, such...
Adelaide’s Perfectly Polished Party
Adelaide, 9, Irvine Theme: Hearts Location: Polished Perfect Los Olivos. Irvine Photography by: Polished Perfect Invites by: eVites Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Target Decor by: Party City Entertainment or Party Planner: Kate Hare, Mom The Goods on the Goody Bag: They wore their party souvenir out, their pick of polish or nail art! “We had our daughter’s ninth birthday party at the Los Olivos Salon. The salon and staff went beyond our expectations! Awesome experience— the girls had a wonderful and amazing time.” — Kate Hare, Irvine
Naaaaaailed it!
Love the last and look of gel, but not the process? These two new formulas will wow without the ow. Twila True Beauty’s Lasting Shine Lacquer This OC-born 60 strong nail polish collection not only gets you runway-ready, it’s made with a five-free formula: no Toluene, DBP, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin or Camphor. Add the Fortifying Base Coat and Volumizing Top Coat and an extended wear time kept us looking our best for a good five days. We loved the pop of: That’s My Man-tra!, Sunnies + Sunscreen, Wonder Seeker, Goal Digger and Maybe, Baby. $12, twilatruebeauty.com OPI Infinite Shine ProStay...
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is now offering music and dance classes for children with disabilities. The six-week session, which begins February 6, allow children with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and Down’s syndrome to explore music, movement and creativity in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Organizers say the program can help students improve balance, coordination and confidence. Classes at the Costa Mesa arts hub are aimed at students aged four to 12. Parents of children outside that age range, who believe their kids could benefit from such a program, are encouraged to contact the center. The series...
Bump Up Your New Year’s Game!
Love your bump, but bummed about a diminished New Year’s? Here are our hacks to keep your party on, Mama! A Smooth Pregnancy Being pregnant certainly doesn’t end the grown up fun, and just might be seriously amp up the action. No matter how maintained you are in non-bump life, at a certain point shaving becomes a feat reserved for yogi and can even be downright…dangerous. The pros at OC Waxing have you covered. Or uncovered. Many are moms, and all have been trained in positioning for pregnancy waxes. (Keep this in mind pre-delivery, vastly superior to seeing that nurse...
Dealing with Allergies at Potlucks
Q: [School-Aged] My daughter is so excited about her pot luck holiday party at school, her first big celebration in Kindergarten. The problem is parents are encouraged to bring in family favorites to celebrate their ancestral culture, and my daughter has food allergies. We haven’t had any serious reactions (anaphylaxis), but she definitely has sensitivities. How can I handle this? A: As a father of five, I think the party sounds like a fantastic time. However, as an Allergist, with all of these different recipes it could also be a recipe for disaster for a child with food allergies. Without...
See Jane Go
Founder William Jordan’s daughter, Savannah of Laguna (pictured), expressed interest in driving for an existing ride-hail service. William was adamantly opposed, due to concern for his daughter’s safety. With that, the idea for See Jane Go, the first women-driving-women ride-hail app, was born. Today, See Jane Go meets the specific needs of female drivers and passengers in Orange County. It is steered by an all-female executive management team and committed to providing women the opportunity to earn an income on their terms and providing a trusted ride-hail alternative for female passengers. www.seejanego.co | Photo by Sandra Sellani Kind Karma Lake...
Vegas Luxe
Opulence is standard in Sin City Having just returned from a weekend in Las Vegas, it’s easy to see why the time-starved OC moms and dads chose Sin City as a favorite in our Reader’s Choice Awards. It’s not for the same reasons that bachelorette party revelers, spring breakers and middle-aged conventioneers like to come here. No, the young parents who voted for Vegas as their favorite child-free weekend getaway are after luxury theme hotels, palatial pools and sensuous spas. This affordable escape to extravagance is just a four-hour drive from OC, up the I-15. Says Reader’s Choice voter Robin...
2E Kids and Non-Traditional Schooling
Twice Exceptional (2e) students are the kids that are intellectually gifted, but have a learning disability or other challenge that affects their ability to progress effectively in a mainstream school environment. Most 2e students are too gifted for traditional special education classes, or excluded from them because their learning disability is not as apparent. In the typical “teach to the top” American schoolroom the general population is taught to suppress their individuality for the sake of the whole in order to be a good student. Kids are expected to engage in academia by being well-behaved boys and girls; by listening,...
Summertime and SPF
We hardly need summer to come around to start getting serious about sun protection in OC, but there is never a bad time to freshen up your SPF game. In the soaring temps of July and August, even high-end makeup skin options can get runny or separate when accidentally left out uncovered or in the car, making it difficult to reapply as often as we should. We love these melt-proof options that not only keep you covered when it comes to skin safety, but nicely take sweat to the, ahem, matte on those sizzling summer days. Clinique Almost Powder Makeup...
Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita
Celebrate your independence from the daily grind with a May getaway in the picturesque Riviera Nayarit and Iberostar Playa Mita. Just a hop, skip and an ole south of bustling Puerto Vallarta is a lovely stretch of coastline packed with enough fun activities to satisfy everyone in the family, and a top class resort you’ll be happy to call your casa away from casa. The Digs Five star Iberostar Playa Mita offers an upscale, but family friendly oasis from the hectic Puerto Vallarta hotel zone. A picturesque hour south, passing through the grand gate doors sets the tone (even before...
Mission Hospital: Why You Can’t Stop Playing Candy Crush
Candy Crush, Cookie Jam and other “match three” smartphone games seem so innocuous and fun. With simple rules—string three or more of the same objects together to work your way up through levels of play—and an aesthetic heavy on bright colors and jingly sound effects. But it’s also very easy to become obsessed with this type of gaming app. Innocent Habit or Addiction? The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder states that it’s worth the research to determine if Internet Gaming Disorder warrants formal inclusion in the manual. That’s because findings so far indicate that...
Parent/Student Nominated Teachers 2016
We asked the students and parents of Orange County to share tales of their favorite teachers, and they did not disappoint. Over 200 essays were sent in, honoring the educators who go above and beyond. Here are a few we had to share. Read the full versions of the parent/student nominations as well as all of the other amazing teachers who were nominated! Top Nominated Family Favorite Kamee Nuzman, Irvine High School Reading through the 27 (!) essays written about Kamee Nuzman of Irvine High School, I was both awed by the inspiration and love “Nuz” obviously made her students...
DIY Valentines
Hallmark is great, drugstore cheapies have a certain allure, but there’s no beating the heart of a hand-crafted Valentine. Here are a few fun ideas to try with the kids, young and old. Free-Form Striped Heart Making this heart-shaped image is self-explanatory, but kids will love adding personal flair to their heart design…and they just LOVE tape. You will need 5 strips decorative tape in different patterns but within the same color family, each 3½” 1 white folded note card, 4¼” x 5½” 1 piece wax paper at least 4¼” x 5½” bone folder scissors rubber stamp of heart (optional)...
Pollen Pointers
With spring in full bloom, here’s what families should know about this year’s OC allergy season…
Waterpark Nostalgia
(Photo Courtesy of Wild Rivers) Wild Rivers is back in Irvine to create new lasting memories for families. It’s been 11 years since Orange County waterpark Wild Rivers made a splash in Irvine. This summer, locals and visitors can make their way back for a new wave of memories as the iconic park returns to Irvine “bigger and better” than ever. “Wild Rivers President Mike Reidel has been tirelessly working for 12 years to bring an all-new Wild Rivers to Orange County by securing the funding and the ideal location in the heart of Orange County at the Great Park,...
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...
Integrating STEM Education into Local Private Schools
The concept of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) has opened up the floodgates of practical and creative classroom learning.
Cooking Camp for Kids
[caption id="attachment_34808" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Cute Kid Winner Aliya Wallace at Lil Chef School in Irvine. Photo by Ralph Palumbo[/caption] Lil’ Chef School in Irvine celebrates 10 years of teaching local children a passion for cooking. Tracey Doty started cooking with her mom and grandma at a young age. When she was still in elementary school and around the holidays, they would spend the whole day cooking during a given holiday. As she got older, she started doing more cooking and even made dishes ahead of time, so the family could devote more time on their other holiday tradition: a family...
Tips for Trips with Pets
Some pets make great travel companions. Here are some things to know about traveling with pets. Most pet parents are quite familiar with that sad, puppy-dog look whenever they leave home and wave to their four-legged child as they head off to work. We love our pets and want to bring them with us to places as much as they’d like to go—especially vacations. But is bringing our dogs and cats with us during travel a good idea? Orange County Certified Professional Dog Trainer Kate Connell says it really depends on your pet’s temperament, physical health and the form of...
Catching the Acting Bug
(Photo Courtesy of Ralph Palumbo) Acting Academy for Kids and Teens’ programs and summer camps teach OC kids a passion for performing arts along with lifelong skills. Stephen Zygo’s love of acting goes back to early childhood. He and his older brother, Mike, were lucky to have a robust arts program in their elementary and middle schools. Their favorite teacher, Mr. Richard Milks, led a show choir performing group and directed full-scale musicals. “After I was cast as Smee and my brother as Peter in ‘Peter Pan,’ we both caught ‘the bug’ and were hooked,” he said. Sadly, when he...
Holiday Kid Guide
Still don’t know what to get the kids? We got you covered with this toy and game gift guide sure to light up your kids’ holidays. Create & Play Magnetic Monsters A monstrously good time awaits as kids create one-of-a-kind monsters by mixing & matching magnetic heads, arms, torsos and more. All 20 parts turn a full 360 degrees to bring these monsters to life. $29.99, ages 3-8, lakeshorelearning.com Superspace A life-sized modular magnetic play space set that connects like magic. Kids can create almost any structure they dream up and then play in their innovations. Packs away into a...
Camp Invention
Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity with our all-new Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate with friends to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From building a mini skate park to launching a pop-up shop to transforming a robot into a stuffie, each experience adds up to an imagination-stretching, confidence-boosting summer. Visit invent.org/local to secure your spot! Use promo code SUM25 by 3/30 to save $25. invent.org/local
Top Teacher & Employee Awards
Finalists are announced! Thank you to those who submitted an essay nominating the top teachers, employees, and leaders who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty.
Moms with Unique Passions
Meet these fascinating local moms with driving passions ranging from Bollywood dance to scare acting. Apra Bhandari Family: Daughter, Saanvi,…
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 18, 2026: GET READY FOR SUMMER In April 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…
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