Going Gourmet with Goofy
The Food & Wine Festival at Disney California Adventure might sound like it’s for adults, but Disney makes sure there’s plenty of things to do for children too. One of those offerings for kids is a chance to learn how to bake the right way at an event called “Jr. Chef.” But this is no simple live cooking show; after all, this is a Disney theme park – so the children chefs have a special teacher. “It’s Goofy’s show,” said Gary Maggetti, general manager of Disney California Adventure. “He does make a mess.” The baking takes place on the Hollywood...
Kids in a Pod: Parents Seeking Educational Alternatives
In a COVID-19 world parents are now forming ‘pandemic pods’ for their kids. When her 7-year-old twins’ Los Alamitos school shut down in March — along with the rest of the state — Eunice Shin started thinking about alternatives. “I've been talking to two other families that are from my kids' classes about possibly doing a group learning,” said Shin. “All of the families have moms working full time from home and it has been challenging juggling both work and school for kids.” Following the school shutdowns and resulting move for education onto virtual platforms, parents were thrust into new,...
Tech Camp Stars
Your future programmer, filmmaker, video game-maker, or scientist will benefit from a summer full of fun and learning. Planet Bravo Whether it’s learning to code, film production, Minecraft, or even building robots, this camp allows kids to use create something awesome with technology in a fun one-week session. The 8 to 1 ratio of students to mentor allows kids to have the attention they need to develop as a programmer, while having fun with their peers who have their similar interests. 4947 Alton Pkwy, Irvine | planetbravo.com iD Tech Kids and teens of all skill levels will learn and interact...
Southern California Railway Museum
All Aboard for a full day of Family Fun with Thomas the Tank Engine & Percy! Day Out With Thomas is returning to the Southern California Railway Museum November 2021. Take a train ride behind Thomas & Percy, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy a day of family fun! Additional activities include: Character Photo Ops Live Music Costume Contest Balloon Twister Petting Zoo Hay Maze Bubble Zone & more! Tickets Available Online https://socalrailway.org/scrm-events/thomas/
A True Warrior
Local mom Vanessa Warrior helps children with developmental delays improve their gross motor skills while offering hope to families…
Top Teacher of Orange County 2023
(Photo by Ralph Palumbo) Rebeca Martinez Los Amigos High School in Fountain Valley One visit to Rebeca Martinez’s economics class is enough to see just how much her students enjoy it. Whether it’s the student she’s picked out as “class greeter” offering enthusiastic support as students walk into the room, or one of her exercises, like drawing your feelings — it’s clear Martinez engages her students in innovative and inspired ways that make a deep impact on their lives. “My students inspire me every day,” says Martinez. “They inspire me with the obstacles that they overcome, their hard work, their...
St. Paul’s Lutheran School
St. Paul’s Lutheran School exists to educate children, nurture their faith, and equip them to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are fully accredited by WASC, and NLSA, School of Distinction and National Blue Ribbon School! When you enroll at St. Paul’s, you become part of our family. Our loving and caring teachers and staff prepare our students to be future leaders, to think critically, show empathy, and to share Jesus’ love with others. 901 E. Heim Ave., Orange 714.921.3188 | www.splsorange.org
Toon-Up
The redone Mickey’s Toontown awaits families with a freshly designed experience. Your kids might have been missing Mickey’s Toontown for a few years now…
Best Museums in OC
Explore, Learn, Discover! Find the best kid friendly museums that Orange County has to offer. 1. Discovery Cube Orange County (Photo Courtesy of Discovery Cube) Discovery Cube Orange County claims the top-ranking spot on our list for the sixth time. The interactive activities at the kids’ museum make science education fun for young visitors. Jump into a hurricane, take a simulated helicopter ride, survive the bed of nails, explore the solar system or go on a dinosaur quest, the immersive attractions can easily offer hours of entertainment. discoverycube.org | Santa Ana 2. Pretend City Children’s Museum (Photo Courtesy of Pretend...
Business in Detail
An Orange County nonprofit teaches children how to become entrepreneurial leaders through the work of auto detailing. You might look at a dirty car and see a mess that needs to be taken care of. Kevin Jones sees a blank canvas. An opportunity to bring back its shine through auto detailing. “When people come out, and you see a smile on their face, it puts a smile on my face as well,” he says. He looks at today’s youth similarly: as a blank canvas he can fill with practical knowledge to help them advance in life and avoid falling into...
When You Inspire a Passion for Learning … the Extraordinary Happens
When You Inspire a Passion for Learning… the Extraordinary Happens. At Stratford School outstanding outcomes only occur through intentional balance.
Special Products for Special Kids
Myths for Little Yogis Megan Henderson wrote the book “Myths for Little Yogis — Shiva's Dance” to share what the wonders of yoga practice can do for everyone. Henderson’s passion for yoga accessibility stems from her work promoting the healing power of yoga to children with special needs. Yoga helped her own daughter, who has Down syndrome, develop enough strength and balance to begin crawling. The book is an introduction to an ancient Indian myth and source of the dancer’s pose in yoga. Your kids will be enthralled with the story of Shiva restoring balance to the universe all while...
OC Moms: Kate Casey, Briana Vartanian, Kenna Florie and Audrina Patridge
These moms may be in the public light, but they’re moms doing the real work of raising kids. [caption id="attachment_31921" align="aligncenter" width="330"] Photo by Ralph Palumbo[/caption] Kate Casey Comedian/Host/Author | www.loveandknuckles.com Married to: Dan Kids: Mia, 9, Jack, 7, Hayes, 5, Sutton, 3, and Caroline, 9 months Lives in: Newport Beach Podcast: “Reality Life with Kate Casey” (since 2016) In a nutshell: “Philadelphia suburbs born and raised, college in Washington, D.C. Worked in government and then ran my own public relations firm media consulting for global law firms. After the birth of my first child I began writing television recaps,...
Halloween Health Safety
(Photo Courtesy of Jeremy McKnight/Unsplash) What are some ways to help keep my kids safe this Halloween? All ages As a cancer physician caring for immunocompromised patients and a mom of young children, I’m grappling with this question myself. Last year, big Halloween festivals, parades and parties were a no-go in most areas, which means so many kids are excited this year to don those costumes and go on the hunt for their favorite treats. But with schools back to in-person learning and the COVID-19 Delta variant being so easily transmissible, hospitalizations among kids are rising nationwide and in Orange...
Virtual Dental Help
Q: My child is having dental issues, but I don't feel comfortable taking them to a dental office. What is telehealth and how can my family use this while we are all trying to social distance? All ages Dental decay does not stop progressing because of a pandemic. More than ever, it is essential to care for your family’s oral and overall health. In the wake of COVID-19, Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County (Healthy Smiles) offers a virtual service called telehealth to ensure families have access to oral health care while reducing the risk of coronavirus transmission. Q:...
Coping with Uncertainty
Q: [All Ages] I’m super stressed out with everything that’s going on right now. How do I overcome this anxiety? A: To say these are unprecedented times is an understatement. Our parents did not talk to us about that time in their lives when the entire world was brought to its knees by a tiny RNA strand. Although we may have heard from grandparents and history books about the 1918 flu pandemic, the notion of a similar occurrence overwhelming modern technology was remote for most of us. But nature has shown us once again that its power overcomes human desires,...
What Parents Should Know About COVID-19
It all starts with clean hands and cool heads. Wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. Cough into a tissue that you immediately discard. Stay home. By now, we’ve all heard the advice from government and health officials regarding COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, but when it comes to safeguarding yourself and your children, proper hygiene — and a sense of calm — go a long way. This is a fast-moving and ever-changing challenge, so I have been telling parents to check in with cdc.gov for updated information. In addition, there are some pieces of universal advice that I...
Where’s Santa?
Los Cerritos Center’s Santa HQ Friday December 1-Saturday December 24 At this interactive experience, kids not only can meet, and get a photo with, Santa, but they can check out the Elf-Ray Vision and the Naughty-or-Nice ‘O Meter. Santa HQ guests are invited to bring new unwrapped toys or sports equipment on December 1 that will be donated to underprivileged families through the Spark of Love’s Stuff-A-Bus drive. On December 5, it is dogs and cats’ turns can pose with Santa for a photo (6-8 pm), with $3 of every pet photo package purchased will go to spcaLA. Los Cerritos...
The Montessori Difference
LiMai Montessori Academy directors weigh in on why to choose a Montessori education. Why should I choose a Montessori preschool for my 3-year-old child?
Breaking Barriers
Fairmont Preparatory Academy’s Role in Advancing Young Women in STEM. Network of organizations committed to informing and encouraging girls to pursue careers
Pistachio Loaf Cake
For this month’s Cooking with Kids recipe we’re fusing two cultural holidays, sneaking in a healthy ingredient, and perhaps introducing a new flavor to the kids
Being a Mindful Mom
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being REAL. In a world that often glorifies the idea of the perfect mom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and inadequate.
New Year’s Resolutions Vision Board
Scrap the usual New Year’s resolutions and make a vision board instead. New Year’s resolutions can give us fresh hope and perspective, starting us on new habits. Or, possibly more often, they become a millstone of our own making around our necks, dragging us down as we fail over time to live up to the lofty goals we’ve set for ourselves. That list of good intentions—lose weight, stop smoking, act more generously, save a certain amount of money, get better grades, read at least a book a week—fades in our memories as we tackle the ups and downs of life...
Sports Dads
Get to know some local dads, and their passion for athletics and coaching. Athlete dads are happy to share their passion for sports with children.
Theme Park Fun
New adventures await at local theme parks this summer. Bright summer sunshine is the best medicine after a long El Niño winter. Southern California adventures
Classes
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County classes for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
2024 Top Teacher & Employee Award Winners
Winners were featured in our 2024 March Issue! Samuel PerlaFranklin Elementary School Elizabeth EllisonRobert C. Fisler School Tania MoralesBeyond Blindness Top Leader Finalists Top Teachers Finalists Top Employee Finalists ALL FINALISTS [ninja_tables id="64185"] [ninja_tables id="64187"] [ninja_tables id="64189"]
Editor’s Picks: September 2019
PICK OF THE MONTH Parenting OC’s Learn & Grow Expo Saturday, October 5 This health, education and special needs expo gives families the opportunity to connect with more than 60 exhibitors that focus on healthy living. These are experts in the community that can offer parents valuable tools, experience and wisdom to help them raise kids that are healthy in body and mind. The event includes free health screenings, nutrition and fitness demos and family activities, including face painting, balloon art and strolling entertainment. Also, for kids who can climb, dash, hop, roll and slide faster than any other kid,...
Editor’s Picks: January 2018
PICK OF THE MONTH Polar Bear Plunge January 20th Sometimes to rally the whole family together to have a little fun, you need to amp up the cool meter. The Polar Bear Plunge certainly does that, no pun intended. This family-friendly event is perfect for kids, teens and fun-loving adults who long for a bit of winter without the long and stressful drive on snowy or icy roads to the mountains. At this annual Mission Viejo event, you’ll get a taste of winter and summer. Folks can have fun getting into snowball fights with 180 gallons of artificial snow as...
Have a Balanced Holiday
Find joy in all feelings and keep holiday stress at bay with these mindful tips. As the holiday season approaches, it is essential to embrace festivities…
Managing ‘Chatter’
Learn how to empower your children to develop healthier internal dialogues. In today’s fast-paced world, parents are no strangers to the constant stream of…
Spring Journeys
Cultivating mindful parenting on the road. As spring unfolds, it brings a spirit of renewal and adventure, inspiring many families to embark on memorable…
Anaheim White House Restaurant
The Anaheim White House Restaurant, run by renowned philanthropist Sir Bruno Serato, received a multimillion-dollar makeover after an electrical fire in February 2017. Serato is well known for feeding local children in need. While the restaurant was being rebuilt, Serato volunteered to cook for the children at the Diocese of Orange’s Christ Cathedral kitchen in Garden Grove. The steakhouse restaurant is now open to the public, resembling the original 1909 Colonial-Style mansion. The main dining area has 11 rooms; eight of which are available for private gatherings. 887 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim | 714-772-1381 or anaheimwhitehouse.com Joon Shabu Shabu The...
City of Tustin Parks & Recreation
The Tustin Parks and Recreation Department offers a large variety of summer activities and camps for kids ages 3-16. Day and teen camps for 1st through 8th grade and half-day camp for pre-k kids. Other summer camps include basketball, Lego, manners, science, engineering, lacrosse, dance, baseball, football, tennis, and more. Check us out at tustintodaymagazine.com or call 714-573-3326 today!
Brain Games with Art
Stimulate your brain while getting creative with these art projects. Art activities can stimulate our intellect and mind. Brain games with art can encourage…
Back to School with a Plan
Superintendent Stefan Bean reflects on his first year in leadership and what to expect this coming school year.
DIY Halloween
Goodwill OC offers tips and tricks for the ultimate Halloween costumes you can create as a family as well as a spooky craft with Victoria Tran…
10 easy mindfulness hacks for working moms
Most working mums I know could out-manage half the boardrooms in the city (except their team at home rarely follows instructions and always needs…
Looking for Moms Who Give
As part of our May Moms Issue, we are in search of moms who give back. Do you know an Orange County mom who spends countless hours volunteering for a local nonprofit as she juggles caring for her own family? Or one who started her own charity to help others? Or one who is always looking for a way to give in some form? Then, we want to hear from you. Please email Editor-in-Chief Jessica Peralta at jessica@parentingoc.com by March 15 with the mom’s name, contact information and a short description of how she gives back.
Editor’s Picks: August 2017
PICK OF THE MONTH HUCK FINN FISHING DERBY | August 12th Sometimes the best way to make family memories is to take the hooplah down a notch. This low tech, old school morning of outdoor fun to share with kids combines one of the most beautiful stretches of OC beach with a little nod to literature for good measure. The best part is, organizers make it easy for first timers - bait will be provided, and a limited number of loaner rods will be available too. Youngsters (ages 4-15) can have a "reel" fun time while casting for good luck...
Momma Chef’s S’mores Brownies
This article originally appeared on MommaChef.com. It has been reprinted here with permission. Looking for simple and tasty recipes for you and your family? Momma Chef features dozens of delicious dishes featuring no more than six ingredients and requiring no more than six minutes of prep time. What could be better than combining brownies with chocolate chips and marshmallows? This was a creation developed by my boys and has become a family favorite. While baking, the marshmallows and chocolate chip melt into the brownies making it a gooey, delicious dessert! Best served hot with ice cream. Enjoy! Momma Chef’s S’mores...
Aidan’s “Where the Wild Things Are” Birthday Party
Aiden, 1 year old, Placentia Theme: Where the Wild Things Are Location: Pretend City, Irvine Photography by: Erica Villanueva Invites by: VistaPrint Cake (or Cupcakes) by: Cake by Torrance Bakery, Cookies by Custom Cookies by Katie Decor by: Sundee Rivers Entertainment or Party Planner: The crew at Pretend City The Goods on the Goody Bag: Chips, cookies, play dough, character hand sanitizer, ball, bubbles “The success of our party was in large part due to the hard work of the staff at Pretend City. Everyone was helpful and always available to assist during the planning process and the day of...
Blame It On the Rain?
Allergies or Sinus Infections, Explained. With this marking the wettest year in California’s history, blooms cover the once arid landscape and suddenly the hills are alive with the sound of…sneezing. But when heads gets stuffed up and those sniffles start; is it allergies, a simple change-of-season cold or sinus infection? One way to tell is the timing. If the discomfort and symptoms predates the blooms and pollen in the air, you probably can’t blame it on the rain. If you or your child has ever had a sinus infection, you know how miserable it can make you both feel. Your...
Sand in Their Hair?
Q: [School-Aged] My kids spent their whole vacay in the hotel kids’ club, much of it mashed in with new friends taking group selfies. Now I am looking at the pics with a shudder after catching both of them itching their scalps…yep, lice. How could this happen? A: As school vacation approaches, families look forward to a break from the demands of the daily routine. You want to come home relaxed and renewed after travels. You certainly do not want your children to return from hotel kids’ clubs or a cruise with an unexpected souvenir like head lice, turning a...
Back at The Ranch (at Laguna Beach)
The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a special sort of place, tucked in a box canyon, it feels swept away from the traffic and hustle of Orange County. This is the sort of place where kids take in the otherworldy air of serenity and breathe a little easier. Parents worried about the junk food populating many kids’ menus these days can breathe easier, too. Part of that is thanks to Harvest’s Executive Chef Charles Imbelli, an exuberant father whose love and pride toward his daughter, Frankie, is as obvious as that he shows in his food. Charles Imbelli’s love affair...
Picking the Perfect Pediatric Dentist for Your Child
She carries a wand, she wears a crown, and she loves healthy smiles! We all know and love the tooth fairy—even though she may force you to make regular trips to the ATM, but the tooth fairy could not do her job if there wasn’t a healthy mouth to work with. Long before the tooth fairy takes flight, children as young as age one should be making trips to the dentist at least twice a year to prevent cavities and gum disease. In fact, this preventative work is so important that tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease in...
New Year, New Family Dynamic
Families going through separation and divorce often struggle with how to talk with each other about all the transitions their family may be experiencing. Often, changes in the family situation take place after holidays, with both parties wanting to wait until after the festivities to make big changes that could cause upset. Here are a few tips during this time of transition: Be consistent with rules/boundaries: Kids need your guidance, and that includes firm rules or boundaries. Try to keep the children’s rules/boundaries the same as they were before the separation or divorce, if you can, and consistent between homes,...
Baby-to-Boardroom Bags
Moms don’t have to give up style to be prepared for every toddler trauma or baby blowout, and these carryalls pull double duty at the office or at home. Work it, Mama! Robert Matthew Jordan Tote We are so thankful for the perfectly harvest-inspired look of this Animal-Friendly pu Leather, we don’t even mind that it might not technically be a diaper bag. It’s big enough to handle a full sized laptop for work, while offering enough room for the odds and ends your little one would be lost without. The attached mini-wallet can carry the necessities for those time...
Halloween, Baby!
What’s cuter than a dressed up baby, right? But costumes from Halloween shops tend to be anything but comfy and often have accessories or decorations which are unsafe. We tracked down items for four unique looks that are cozy, while festive, and can be enjoyed by baby (and everyone around baby) long after the last Jack o’Lantern candles flickers out. Doodlepants Monsters Slide on these sweaterknit leggings and give new meaning to “creepy crawlies”. While we love Frank’, the more general monsters have staying power to last past the 31st. www.doodlepants.com World Traveler We love that no only will your...
First Impressions
Q: [School-Aged] My son has been diagnosed as ADHD. We are about to start a new school, how should I present this to the teacher to best get an advocate for him when I’m not around and make sure he isn’t misunderstood as a ‘bad kid’? A: In my experience, the best way to approach this issue to be honest and upfront with the school and teachers. Hopefully, your son has an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or a 504 Accommodations Plan, to get any extra help or services he may need. Federal Law requires schools to provide an environment where...
Practicing in the Heat
Q: [School-Aged] You hear these tragic stories of kids who suddenly drop in the middle of a game or match, passing away from heart issues. Is this genetic? Is it from the heat or overworking during practice? I know the odds of anything like that happening are remote, but is there anything the parents can do? A: Thank you for the question. Definitely excess heat, overworking and exhaustion can impose health risks. However, it sounds like what you are thinking of is sudden cardiac death (SCD) from unknown pre-existing cardiac disease. The chances of these SCD events are rare and...
Spelling Bee 2016
F-U-N, Parenting OC’s Annual Spelling Bee Recap On May 7, Parenting OC’s Annual Spelling Bee kicked off at Fairmont Private Schools’ Anaheim Hills Campus in an interactive chat with award-winning author, Debra Garfinkle, who served as Spelling Bee judge. Garfinkle spoke about her journey as an author, and how she was told “no” several times before she was able to publish her books, encouraging the spellers to never give up. The fierce competition involved 58 elementary students from throughout Orange County. After 12 rounds, six spellers remained. The word list had been exhausted. Much to the surprise of the entrants,...
Eco-Friendly Laundry Products
Want to get your clothes clean while staying green? Try these eco-friendly products to save energy (and time!). deFUNKit This odor neutralizing kit might take several steps to treat (for the lifetime of the clothes), but keeping workout and athletic clothes fresh for a week at a time thanks to the permanent odor control, saves huge when it comes to needless rewashing. $10, www.deFUNKit.com Method Laundry Products Many of us have discovered the irresistible scents in this line of hand soaps and spray cleaners, but new-to-store shelves are the concentrated liquid laundry soaps (each small bottle does 66 loads) and...
RIDEMAKERZ Birthday Party
Trevor, 12 years old, Mission Viejo Theme: Car Mania Location: RIDEMAKERZ shop, Downtown Disney Invites by: Mom, via Evite Food: Haagen-Dazs, next door, for kids’ sundaes Decor: Vehicle design studio offered perfect backdrop! Entertainment: Ridemakerz Pit Crew The Goods on the Goody Bag: No need! Each guest went home with a car! “Best Party EVER! The best part was the pit challenge – racing against the clock, and my friends, to build our RIDEZ. Can’t wait to come back!” — Trevor, Birthday Boy, pictured above
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market’s first North Orange County location is scheduled to open Wednesday, February 17 in the Village at La Floresta in Brea. The 38,000 square-foot store will have a restaurant and bar as well as a community room for special events. Whole Foods Market Brea will host a, “Eat. Drink. Play. Give. — Brea Block Party,” Saturday, February 6, from 12 to 4 p.m. with a suggested donation of $5 adults, $3 children benefitting the Brea Education Foundation. On February 25, five percent of the day’s net sales will benefit the MaxLove Project, a local organization that supports children...
Teaching Gratitude
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) Learn some research-backed tips for fostering a thankful child. Wanting to raise a thankful child has its challenges. The entitlement cultural narrative can be a significant challenge in your quest. Has your child been given a birthday gift or invited to a friend's party? You know they really liked the gift or party, and when it was time to leave, you say what all good parents do, "What do you say?" Your child looks at you and mumbles a "Thank you" to the host or gift giver. As you smile and laugh it off, you wonder...
CSI for STEM
Local schools find an innovative way to teach STEM through crime scene investigation and forensics programs…
Orange County Influential Mothers
These social media mavens and moms have some serious marketing clout as influencers—and have tons of fun doing it. In this age of tech and gadgetry, a new type of marketing opportunity has sprouted from the seeds of social media. The result? Social media influencers. These influencers are powerful experts and personalities who have amassed a significant social media following. In fact, the fans—which number in the thousands and millions—are so large that companies and brands pay these influencers for a mention. These influencers can include anyone with a niche market—from travel to beauty and fashion—including moms. Orange County is...
The “Big Island” of Hawaii
Touching down in Kona, you might be confused as you exit the plane. But yes, that is the whole airport and yes, you would be correct in observing that most of it is outdoors. This is just the start of the charming quirks of the largest of the Hawaiian islands, the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Fortunately for families visiting the Hilton Waikoloa Village (www.HiltonWaikoloaVillage), the fun in store is equally abundant. An Ohana Aloha From the purple orchid lei greeting as you step off a shuttle (don’t bother with a car, you’ll want to scoot right to the waterfalls at...
At-Home Learning for the Working Parent
Don’t miss these valuable expert tips for adapting to the new home environment for both learning and working. Orange County families have probably heard “education starts at home.” Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, however, this adage takes on new meaning. Some parents are working from home while also taking the lead on their child’s education. Managing your workload while ensuring your child doesn’t fall behind can be stressful. Fortunately, there are many experts in Orange County with sound advice. “Start from a place of empathy,” says Sarah Shawesh, CEO and founder of Orange County-based Building Resilience in Communities and Kids Consulting Group. “[Children]...
Picking the Right Summer Camp
There are several considerations to keep in mind when finding a summer camp for your kids. It’s no exaggeration to say that the one event kids really look forward to all year is the summer camp. But how do you choose the right one? Based on my experiences as the parent of a 15-year-old boy, as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve figured out the top six things to consider. Cost It goes without saying that cost is an important factor, especially if you have more than one kid. Summer camps can range widely in price, depending on whether...
Mental Health In Focus
(Photo Courtesy of iStock) What are some warning signs of a mental health crisis in kids and what should I do if I see these signs? All ages In the last few years, I have responded to mental health crises in children as young as 5 years old. I recently encountered a young student who was struggling with suicidal thoughts. In a letter, the student wrote a chillingly specific suicide plan. Then, at the bottom of the page, they jotted down their hopes and dreams for the future. This is what mental health crises look like in children and adolescents:...
Rescue Therapy
(Photo courtesy of FarmHouse Rescue) Danielle Judd during storytime at the chicken coop on the farm. Children can tune in to live cameras through the farm's Smile Club program. A local mom founds a nonprofit that saves animals and brings healing to others after her own near-death experience. Danielle Judd is the first to tell you: She. Is. Exhausted. Not that you’d ever guess hearing about her days of juggling three kids ages 6, 7 and 18, 10s of volunteers and 60-plus farm animals in her front and backyard while still finding time for her husband and side projects. But,...
Teaching Kids Good Money Habits
(Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock) How should I teach my kids about managing money? All ages It’s never too early to start teaching children about wise financial habits. By educating them about how to manage their money, you are setting them up for a successful future and helping them avoid the common financial mistakes many adults make. With this in mind, I want to offer some advice for parents who are looking to help their children develop good money habits. Set an Example The first and most important step in teaching your children about smart money management is to lead by...
Reader’s Choice Awards 2022: Health, Lifestyle, & Beauty Winners
Best Cosmetic Surgeon Terry Dubrow, MD You might recognize Dr. Terry Dubrow from his multiple TV shows, including “Real Housewives of Orange County,” “Botched” and “Botched by Nature,” or his books — but long before Hollywood fame, he was already known for his cosmetic and reconstructive surgery skills. As passionate as he is about plastic surgery, Dubrow advocates for minimal treatments producing natural-looking results. His practice is the destination for facelifts, rhinoplasty, tummy tucks and other specialty procedures. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. drdubrow.com |...
Summer Family Movie Guide
A sneak peek of the best of the big screen for families this summer. Disney, Marvel and toys will set the tone for summer movies in 2023…
Circus Vargas Ticket Giveaway
See Circus Vargas’ amazing 2023 production at Laguna Hills Mall May 5-May 22! A must-see, show-stopping spectacular certain to spark the imagination.
Summer Family Art
Learn about the benefits of practicing art as a family and some creative activities for parents and kids for fun, summer self-care. The art process allows the family to strengthen their bond through creativity and to appreciate each other’s different perspectives. It also empowers the family’s creative thinking and stimulates the family’s identity as a team. This, in turn, improves mental health and well-being for the family. Creative expression through the therapeutic art process allows the family to gain new insights about themselves and each other. It fosters creative thinking and is a healthy, creative outlet for the family. It...
Have a Disney Playdate this Weekend
Get ready for a three-day magical extravaganza with “Disney Junior & Friends Playdate,” celebrating the entertaining and music-filled stories of Disney Junior’s popular series for preschoolers and their families at Disney California Adventure Park on Friday, Aug. 18 and Downtown Disney District on Saturday, Aug. 19 and Sunday, Aug. 20. The festivities kick off Friday at California Adventure with a Playdate Party Parade featuring Disney Junior characters — including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, Elena of Avalor, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Vampirina, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Goofy, Pluto and Mira, Royal Detective. Special “Disney Junior Live!...
The OC Holiday Gift Guide 2019
Your guide to holiday shopping at Orange County-based businesses. FOR KIDS Learn to Surf Let the pros teach your little ones how to surf the best waves with surf lessons at Newport Beach-based Learn to Surf. All surf instructors are either lifeguards or pro surfers ready to teach all ages and ability levels. Each session consists of a 30-minute sand demo followed by 1 1/2 hours in the water. Use of wetsuit and surfboard are included. Starting at $150 for a two-hour lesson for one surfer; learntosurfhb.com Tillys With an enormous list of name brands — from Adidas and Vans...
Moms at Work
(Photo Courtesy of Marcella De Anda) These busy OC moms share their insights on running their businesses while balancing family life. Marcella De Anda Family: Matteo, 14, Sebastian, 13 City: Yorba Linda Business: Taqueria De Anda headquartered in Fullerton How does Taqueria De Anda stand out? “Taqueria De Anda was founded by my mother and father 40 years ago. Taqueria De Anda is different and special because of its authenticity — our dishes are truly those you’d find from the best cooks in Mexico, whether they are street vendors or chefs specializing in the region’s traditional foods. We use only...
Discussing Active Shooters
(Photo Courtesy of Note Thanun/Unsplash) How do I talk to my young child about active shooters? Elementary age The world is seemingly becoming a more dangerous and violent place post-pandemic. We can’t seem to turn on the news without a story of an active shooter or violent event somewhere in the country. As parents, it can be difficult to cope with the images and stories of the victims, but for a child, it can be even more devastating. While many try to shield their children from these types of news stories, or even the topic in general, kids today are...
Mindfulness for Childhood Anxiety
(Photo Courtesy of Kampus Productions/Pexels) How mindfulness can become a useful part of your child’s mental-health toolkit. Parents shouldn't be intimidated by conversations about how to manage childhood anxiety. It's very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that anxiety is a problem that needs to be fixed. In reality, anxiety is a very expected, everyday part of the human experience that can be managed. All of us will experience anxiety at some point. While we never want to downplay or dismiss the debilitating impact that anxiety can have when it's left unchecked, we also want to avoid the...
Shedding Light on Emotional Special Needs
Mental health challenges in kids can sometimes hide in plain sight. Special needs are often associated with physical disabilities. While not as visible, special needs also includes learning, emotional and behavioral challenges. Common mental health challenges are anxiety, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and (obsessive-compulsive disorder) OCD. There are different levels of emotional challenges ranging from mild and moderate to more severe. Mental health challenges in children often go under-diagnosed for different reasons. Parents might unintentionally ignore their child’s needs as they think their child is just acting out and may not realize that there is an...
Apps to Help with Anxiety, Sleep and Relaxation
Apps can be a priceless tool. Imagine your child having a coping skill in their pocket that can bring harmony and presence at home or in the classroom. Meditation apps are fostering great results, they can help young ones calm down and help improve focus and concentration. Many environments can be overstimulating. Mindfulness apps can help reduce the effects by calming the mind. If your child is dealing with social anxiety and their health-related symptoms or disorders such as ADHD, apps can be very beneficial to aid in the reduction of symptoms. In many cases, all that is needed is...
Mental Vacations
Break away to a world of peace and tranquility – and still be back on time to pick the kiddies up from school. These day spas throughout OC offer everything from skin care to deep tissue massages, for the stress relief and relaxation every parent deserves. MassageLuXe Escape from carpool schedules, kids’ extracurricular activities, picking up the dry-cleaning, etc. etc. etc. that clouds your daily routine, and take two hours for yourself for a deep tissue or Swedish massage. Feel the ease from stress and tension, and improve your overall health, without having to book a getaway vacation. Expectant mothers...
Room with a Disney View
Inspired by the famous work of Walt Disney Animation Studios, the new 344 rooms immerse visitors in Disney stories while they relax near the gates of the parks.
Summer Camps for All
There are many local summer camp options for kids with disabilities. Here are some to get you started.Every quintessential summer includes summer camp. It’s
Spring Happenings
From north to south Orange County, here all the egg-citing activities for the Easter season.
Berry Best Mom’s Day Scones
Celebrate Mother’s Day than with a sweet treat! These blueberry scones perfectly crumble with even the softest bite and are absolutely scrumptious.
Dealing with Spring Allergies
Do you find yourself constantly wiping your child’s runny nose, soothing their persistent cough, or noticing red, itchy skin? It common for parents to worry
Summer OC Movie & Music Guide
Keep your summer schedule packed with these concert and film series in and around Orange County.
Mindful Communication
Take these tips for mindful communication to help ensure a successful school year. As the new school year approaches, it is essential to highlight mindfulness.
Camps
We bring you the best of the best in Orange County camps for kids plus plenty more you won’t want to miss. Congratulations to all our winners!
Halloween for All Ages
SoCal has Halloween covered, packed with special and reworked attractions, Halloween-themed food and live shows. Family-Friendly chills all spooky season long!
Editor’s Picks: August 2019
PICK OF THE MONTHVans U.S. Open of SurfingJuly 27 - August 5 For the past 60 years the US Open has stood as one of the world’s top surfing events. Over the years, however, it has evolved to include world-class BMX and skateboard competitions as well.Some new additions this year are the Vans Showdown, Vans Rebel Jam, Vans Vert Demos, Duct Tape Festival and Vans Street Market. The Vans Showdown is an invite-only street jam skate competition, featuring trick contests and cash prizes. The Vans Rebel Jam is an invite-only BMX street contest. The Vans Vert Demos showcase high-flying action...
Editor’s Picks: November 2017
PICK OF THE MONTH The Mom-Made Market November 18 - November 19 To truly get in the spirit of our annual Moms at Work/Mompreneur issue, we thought we would highlight a one stop shop for holiday goodies and gifts for the whole family, all carrying mom's approval! This shopping experience returns to the OC Fairgrounds for the second year. The unique market provides a platform for mom-trepreneurs to sell their goods and services, network with one another, create new friendships, come meet their supporters in person, and to have a fun day enjoying the spirit of the season. Besides the...
Open House Guide
Attending a school open house is a valuable opportunity to gather insights and determine if the school aligns with your family’s values and your child’s needs.
Valentine’s Day Art
Show you and your family some love with these arts and crafts projects. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and why not show yourself some love in the…
Magical Mint Pudding Cups
These yummy, minty and chocolatey pudding cups are a fun and festive treat for St. Patrick’s Day! With creamy avocado and rich cacao, you’ll make a smooth and…
Family-Friendly Hikes in Orange County
Check out some of these family-friendly docent-led hikes in time for the Orange County hiking season. In most areas of the country, this is the dead of winter. In Orange County, it’s prime hiking season. Depending on when and how much rain arrives, this is often the time when the first wildflowers show up, water flows in previously dry creek beds and the weather is cool enough for everyone to be comfortable building up a little body heat on an uphill climb. If you know the signs along the trail, there are all kinds of extraordinary sights and stories. Fossils...
Small Zoo, Big Cats
https://youtu.be/kDPMq3XzFc8 The OC Zoo in Orange has expanded its ‘pawprint’ to house a new Large Mammal Exhibit and five large felines for families to enjoy year round. A waterfall flows through the rocky scenery of Santiago’s new digs. He’s still exploring the space, but the sound seems soothing. That, and the meaty treat he gets from a zookeeper who has stopped by to give him a quick health check. It’s barely been 48 hours, but the OC Zoo’s new big cat exhibit appears to be a hit. Especially with its oldest cat. Santiago, an 11-year-old mountain lion found orphaned in...
A Letter to Stoic Fathers
Learn how writing a letter can foster emotional intelligence, gratitude and mindfulness in your family from Anthony Cupo of Stepping Forward Counseling Center.
Strawberry Lemonade
Ready to sip on something sweet and tart? Try this sweet strawberry lemonade drink that brings sunshine to any moment.
Overcoming Fears
Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding journeys, but it’s not without its challenges. Alongside the joy and laughter many parents experience fear and anxiety
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