Kidsguide Summer Issue 2023
January 25, 2024
Kidsguide is doing what we do best: giving you information on hundreds of activities to make this summer memorable plus, combining it with the weird, wacky, and gross stuff we know your kids will love!
Latest Posts
Simple Ways Kids Can Help Make the Earth Happy
April 18, 2023
Make every day Earth Day! Here’s 16 simple ways kids can help make the Earth happy.
Things To Do With Kids During a Long Weekend
January 25, 2024
If you’re looking for somewhere to go for the long weekend, Kidsguide’s got you covered! Here’s a list of ideas to get you started. Long weekend, here we come!
Old-Fashioned Sweet Shops to Visit in Southern California
January 25, 2024
Feeling a bit nostalgic? Have a taste of yesteryear with a sweet treat from one of these old-fashioned confectionary shoppes in Southern California.
6 Genius Strategies to Help Kids Focus on Homework
January 26, 2023
Is your child having a hard time focusing on schoolwork at home? Try one of these strategies! Hint: It includes video games (kinda).
Unique SoCal Holiday Experiences Your Family Will Love
January 25, 2024
Unique holiday fun in Southern California! See Mr. Rex in his Santa suit, a special holiday rendition of Wizard of Oz, movie screenings with tours of Victorian homes, and lots more!
Holiday Shows & Performances 2022
January 25, 2024
Nothing beats being part of a live audience in a live show! This holiday season, enjoy classics like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker or try something different like Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas or The Wonderful Winter of Oz!
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 2022-23
January 25, 2024
We’ve dug deep into learning about your favorite kid-friendly attractions, scoured the corners of the web, and chatted with parents who’ve been there, done that – to bring you an issue full of insider tips!
Non-Halloween Events Happening in October
January 25, 2024
Looking for non-Halloween family fun? No worries, Kidsguide has you covered! There’s lots of events happening this month including new exhibits, live shows based off your favorite children’s books, fairs, festivals, and even free aircraft flights for kids!
The Last Few Outdoor Movies & Concerts Before Summer Ends
January 25, 2024
End of Summer Movies Anaheim Pearson Park Amphitheatre Symphony & Cinema, seating starts at 6pm Thursday, September 1: A Star is Born (1954) Fountain Valley Fountain Valley Sports… View Article
Top Mini Golf Courses in LA & Orange County
January 25, 2024
The best mini golf courses in LA and Orange County. Looking for a little competitive family fun? Try mini golf! Great for kids of all ages (yes, even teens), and it’s a great way for entertain everybody for the day.
Pirates Dinner Adventure Giveaway!
January 25, 2024
Win a family 4-pack of tickets to one of the most entertaining, swashbuckling dinner shows around!
Editor’s Picks: Top Events for Families This Month – August 2022
August 2, 2022
Enjoy concerts in the garden, celebrate cultural festivals, launch a rocket, go on a family night hike, chow down on some BBQ, and lots more!
Don’t Miss Out: These Summer Events End Soon
January 25, 2024
Check out all the fun things to do before summer ends! There’s only a few weeks left for these limited-time exhibits and events.
Space Destinations in Southern California
July 19, 2022
Does your family love learning about our universe? Visit these awesome space centers, planetariums, and observatories for an out-of-this-world learning experience.
Pirate Fun in Southern California
January 25, 2024
Ahoy, Kidsguiders! You’ve found it, an entire treasure trove of pirate adventures in Southern California. Everything from spectacular events to piratey places that aarrgh sure to be a great time!
8 Things to Do at the OC Fair
January 25, 2024
There’s lots of fun things planned for every day with activities ranging from getting up close and personal with animals to checking out exhibits, shopping, and enjoying live performances.
Where Kids Eat Free in Long Beach & Orange County
July 1, 2022
With everything going up in price this summer, going out to dinner with the whole family might just blow that budget right out the water! We rounded up a list of local Southern California restaurants offering free meals and deals for kids!
For Lauren Davis
June 22, 2022
This is a tough one, bear with me. Working closely with families and children over the years, I’ve come to learn a few things. I’ve met some amazing moms and… View Article
The Coolest New Exhibits at SoCal Children’s Museums
June 22, 2022
Check out the coolest new exhibits coming to your favorite SoCal children’s museums. Dig for dinosaur fossils, explore emotions, get immersed in our Solar System, and become a Rainforest Ranger!
Don’t Miss the California Poppy Festival!
June 22, 2022
The California Poppy Festival is the City of Lancaster’s annual celebration of California’s state flower. This 3-day event honors the beauty of the poppy with live entertainment, amusement park rides, displays, festival food, live animal exhibits, and countless activities for all ages.
10 Things You Need to Know About the New Wildlife Explorers Basecamp at San Diego Zoo
June 22, 2022
The new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is divided into four innovative nature play areas, each designed around unique habitats. Kids (and grown-ups!) get to feel what it’s like to be wild!
Upcoming Live Shows Your Family Will Love!
June 22, 2022
Check out these fun performances coming up around LA & Orange County for families and kids. From basketball trick shots and princesses to high-flying bugs and circus science — there’s something out there for every family!
Free Admission Days to Southern California’s Best Gardens
June 22, 2022
Free admission days at Descanso Gardens, The Huntington, South Coast Botanic Garden, and more. Plus, a list of gardens and nature centers that are always free!
Family-Friendly February Events We’re Excited About!
June 22, 2022
February is jam-packed full of fun! Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day — there’s lots of events for kids happening!
All About Sesame Place, SoCal’s Newest Theme Park
June 22, 2022
Here’s everything you need to know about Sesame Place San Diego including the rides, water attractions, ticket pricing, and other fun things to do. It’s opening in March 26th and we can’t wait!
Super Bowl Experience, NFL’s Interactive Football Theme Park Comes to LA
June 22, 2022
Calling football fans of all ages! Experience the glory of the NFL through interactive games, autograph sessions, and awesome attractions.
Where to Grow Your Village: Find Parent Support Groups & Local Mom Clubs in Southern California
January 27, 2025
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but it does come with a community. If you’re looking to grow your village, we’ve rounded up a list of mom clubs, new parent classes and workshops, LGBTQ+ groups, illness and bereavement support, and more.
Clever Tricks to Teach Kids Handwashing & Hygiene
January 4, 2022
Teaching healthy habits and proper hygiene is always super important – so let’s make it fun! Teach the kiddos how to cough like a vampire, blow things away, and avoid the T-Zone!
Awesome Family-Friendly Tours to Book Right Now!
February 15, 2023
Take the family on a unique outing by learning what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favorite places in Southern California!
Where to Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree in Southern California
December 6, 2021
These Christmas tree farms have been working hard all year long to grow the best trees. Gather the family for the timeless tradition of cutting down your own Christmas tree and enjoy a fun, outdoor, Christmas outing.
Must-See Family Holiday Performances
June 22, 2022
There’s something about being in the audience of a live performance that makes the holiday season extra special. Here’s a round up of holiday shows, musicals, and plays showing all around Southern California. We’re also including all-time favorites, A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker.
Christmas Boat Parades in LA & Orange County
June 22, 2022
Southern California loves to celebrate the holidays with one the best ways we know how — on the water! See hundreds of festively decorated boats and ships and they light up the harbors of LA & Orange County.
15 Questions to Encourage Gratitude in Kids
November 9, 2021
Sometimes, kids (and grown ups) forget all the amazing things and people we have in our lives. Here’s a list of conversation starters to get little minds thinking about all they have to be thankful for.
23 Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Start This Year!
November 10, 2021
Turkey and feasting are go-to Thanksgiving traditions, but why not try something new or even non-traditional this year? Go on a Turkey Egg Hunt, play a family game, or watch old family videos. Here’s some ideas to get you started!
5 Ways to Prepare Kids for Daylight Saving Time
June 22, 2022
Fall back, spring forward, get an hour, lose an hour — no matter what time of the year it is, a Daylight Saving Time Sunday is bound to feel “off.” Here’s some tips to help ease the transition and avoid sleep-deprived meltdowns (from kids or parents), long school days, and routine changes.
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 2021
June 22, 2022
This issue contains the top goodies we’ve found that make parenting easier, kids (and parents) happier, life better. Plus, we’re backing it up with 161 fun outing ideas to have in your pocket, along with a list of people and organizations that can help when you need it.
Why Every Parent Should Visit a Teacher Supply Store
January 12, 2022
If you’ve never been in a teacher supply store… you’re in for a real shopping treat!
Things To Do With Kids This Labor Day Weekend 2021
June 22, 2022
What’s there to do this Labor Day weekend? Besides firing up the grill, you could join the circus, taste food from around the world, go sunflower picking, or watch a super cool plane take to the skies!
Free Admission to Southern California Museums on Smithsonian Museum Day
August 27, 2021
Free admission to participating museums across the nation on Smithsonian Museum Day. Find out which Southern California museums are free.
35 After School Activities
August 10, 2023
Looking for ways to keep your kids engaged after school? We’ve got you covered! And we’re not just talkin sports—here’s a whole list of ideas you can do at home or within your neighborhood.
8 High-Flying Places to Jet Off to for National Aviation Day!
June 22, 2022
To celebrate National Aviation Day, we’ve rounded up a list of Southern California aviation-themed places you could take off to with your kids!
Things to Do with Kids in LA & OC Before Summer Ends
June 22, 2022
Check out all the fun things to do before summer ends and school starts!
15 Reasons to Enroll Your Kid or Teen in a Theatre Class
June 22, 2022
Looking for a great after school activity? Start with theatre arts!
Top 10 Reasons for Kids to Join a Chorus
June 22, 2022
Does your child love to sing? Have them try singing in a choir or chorus! Stan DeWitt, Executive Director of the Long Beach Youth Chorus, talks to us about the positive impact choral singing has on kids and teens. He also answers your most frequently asked questions.
Family-Friendly Events Happening in August You Can’t Miss
June 22, 2022
Art, music, and nature highlight this month’s most exciting events for kids and families in LA & Orange County.
Where Kids Can Try a Summer Olympic Sport
June 22, 2022
If your kids are inspired to try out a new Olympic sport, we’ve got you covered! Here’s how to find a team/league in your area, plus a few of our favorite local organizations.
Build-Your-Own Toddler Summer Camp at Home!
June 22, 2022
Summer is here and school is out! Camps are booked for the older kids, but wait…what am I going to do with my little ones that are not old enough to attend summer camp? Good news is, there are plenty of easy and fun things you can do to give your toddlers and preschoolers a summer camp-like experience at home. Here are 3 of our top summer activities that will encourage your child to play, learn, and get messy!
Live Theatrical Shows for Kids & Families Playing This Summer
June 22, 2022
CLUE! Live – A Walking Experience Westfield Century City in Los Angeles Now – August 8 www.cluewalkingexperience.com In this all-new immersive experience, guests become detectives to solve the mystery of… View Article
10 Events Were Excited About Happening the Rest Summer
July 7, 2021
Now that 4th of July festivities are done, here’s a list of events we’re excited about happening the rest of the summer! Live theatre performances, county and state fairs, festivals and more—summer fun is in full swing!
A “Cardboard City” Art Center is Popping Up in LA This Summer
July 14, 2021
Cardboard City is a 10,000 square foot pop-up art center with free exhibitions of cardboard sculptures and architectural models, free family crafting activities, a schedule of classes, and a shop selling tools and materials so families can make cardboard art at home. Free and open to all visitors!
2021 4th of July Events in Long Beach, Orange County, & LA County
July 3, 2021
Enjoy firework displays, parades, festivals, and more! Fourth of July is sure to be a blast this year!
Summer Reading Programs for Kids to Get Free Stuff
July 3, 2021
Reading is one of the most important things kids can do during the summer. We rounded up some of the coolest summer reading programs from Barnes & Noble, LA Dodgers, Chuck E. Cheese, and your public library! They’re giving away awesome things to motivate your kids to read—did we mention free pizza?
The Coolest New Things at SoCal Theme Parks
July 3, 2021
Avengers Campus at Disneyland California Adventure Team up with the Avengers and explore a campus created for the next generation of super heroes! Help wrangle Spider-Bots in the new ride… View Article
Unique Animal Encounters Your Family Should Experience At Least Once
July 3, 2021
Does your family love being around animals? Here’s four unique experiences your family’s gotta try at least once!
Immersive Butterfly Exhibit You Have to Experience!
May 7, 2021
South Coast Botanic Garden soars to new heights with an all-new immersive butterfly experience.
Family-Friendly Events We’re Excited About This Month
May 7, 2021
May 2021 TASTE: Strawberry at The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS, NOW – MAY 23: This is designed for families to enjoy an immersive experience of… View Article
Unique Summer Camps You Should Know About!
May 8, 2021
Looking for a unique summer camp? We’ve got you covered! From rockstar camp to rock climbing camp to STEM camp aboard a real battleship—there’s something awesome out there for every kid.
23rd Annual Reaching for the Cure Virtual Half-Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run
May 7, 2021
Join Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation virtually for the 23rd Annual Reaching for the Cure event! Voted #1 in Orange County, this “must-do” event will feature new ways to engage outside the limits of an in-person experience through a mobile application, movement challenges, and more.
101 Family Activity Ideas
February 15, 2023
Looking for something to do with the family? Here’s 101 ideas to get you started! Most ideas are even free.
Where to Rent Surrey Bikes & the Iconic Swan Boats in Southern California
May 7, 2021
Don’t just walk around like everybody else—ride around in style on a surrey bike or pedal along the waterfront in an iconic swan boat. Here’s a list of 22 locations that offer rentals.
6 Places to Pet Farm Animals Near LA & Orange County
August 5, 2021
See (and often times pet and feed) farm animals, such as pigs, goats, ponies, mini-cows, sheep, bunnies and lots more.
7 Reasons Why Every SoCal Kid & Teen Should Be a Junior Lifeguard
June 22, 2022
The Junior Lifeguard program is a treasured summer tradition for many who live near the coast. Year after year, this popular program teaches valuable life lessons and skills to thousands of Southern California kids and teens.
St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans Your Family Will Love!
March 15, 2022
Leprechauns, shamrocks, rainbows, and a pot of gold–what’s not to love about St. Patrick’s Day? Here’s a gold mine of sneaky leprechaun mischief that’ll have your whole family chasing rainbows!
Top 10 Tips Before Going to a Drive-In Movie
March 4, 2021
Drive-in theaters may be a thing of the past, but they’re the modern-day solution to help us maintain social distancing while still enjoying a night out to the movies! Here’s out top 10 tips you need to know before visiting a drive-in.
Hopes & Dreams by Swasti Dhagat – Poetry & Art Winner
March 2, 2021
Original artwork and poem written by 12-year-old Swasti Dhagat, a student from Sounds of Color Studio in Orange County.
The Flower Fields in Carlsbad Are Ready to “Bloom On” with 2021 Season
March 2, 2021
North San Diego’s world-renowned spring experience for the past 40 years is blooming once again! From March 1 – May 9, immerse within 50 acres of giant, colorful ranunculus flowers.
Save This List of Southern California Nature Centers & Botanical Gardens
March 2, 2021
Looking to get outside in this beautiful SoCal weather? Here’s a list of local botanical gardens that are blooming this spring! Most of these places are open with advance reservations and safety guidelines. Be sure to check each location’s website or social media for updated information.
5 Ways to Make Family Movie Night Extra Special
January 5, 2023
The movie theaters may still be closed, but that doesn’t mean your family still can’t have an amazing movie night! Keep reading for seating ideas, popcorn recipes, and a movie ticket printable!
Easy Valentine’s Day STEM Activities for Kids
March 2, 2021
We love STEM activities! Learn how to make a heart out of PVC pipes, make a coding project with the binary alphabet, grow interlocking heart crystals and more!
12 Hilarious Instagram Accounts for Parents Who Need a Laugh
March 2, 2021
Need a laugh today? These parents don’t hold back when it comes to parenting—and we’re here for it!
Why Poetry Matters & Resources That’ll Inspire Kids to Write Their Own Poems
March 2, 2021
Why do children need poetry? Lots of reasons! We’ll tell you about great resources to find children’s poetry, activities, and podcasts that’ll inspire your kids to love and even write their own poetry—all for free!
You’re Invited to Take a Virtual Tour of The White House
March 2, 2021
You’re invited to The White House! Explore the ornate rooms and decor of The State Floor, The Ground Floor, and the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
6 Reasons Why Kids Should Try Horseback Riding
March 2, 2021
Has your child asked about riding horses? Horseback riding offers many benefits to help your child develop valuable life skills.
10 Indoor Snow Day Activities for Kids
March 2, 2021
Tis’ the season to be freezin’ and during this time of the year… there’s snow place like home. Bring the snow and icy fun indoors with these brrr-illiant activities!
Child Care Resources & Services from Children’s Home Society of California
March 2, 2021
The mission of Children’s Home Society of California (CHS) is to reach out to children and families at risk with a range of services to ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop within a safe, healthy, and secure environment.
Sweet Ways to Donate or Repurpose Halloween Candy
March 2, 2021
Candy buybacks, recipes, and even math and science activities with candy!
20 Things to Do Besides Trick-or-Treating on Halloween
March 2, 2021
Like many other things, trick-or-treating won’t be the same this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t carve out a fun Halloween! Here’s a list of so many things you can do besides trick-or-treating!
Fire Safety Activities for Kids
March 2, 2021
These fire-themed activities are great for teaching fire safety, pretend play, and learning how firefighters help our community.
All-Time Favorite Children’s Books Recommended by Kidsguiders!
March 2, 2021
We asked Kidsguide readers about their all-time favorite children’s books and here’s what they love! Plus, many of these books are part of a series, so your kids will love picking up the next book.
13 Things Kids Can Read Besides Books
March 2, 2021
Try these creative ways to use all kinds of print materials to incorporate reading at any time of the day. Great for reluctant readers!
23 Genius Ways to Make Reading Fun for Kids!
March 2, 2021
Looking for ways to motivate your kids to read more? You could try using the traditional flashlight under the covers, but take it up a notch and use finger lights or a head lamp! Start a family book club, or have the kids record their own audiobook. Lots of ideas here!
50 Encouraging Words Every Child Needs to Hear
March 2, 2021
Encouraging words can really help young kids and teens thrive in school and life! Positive words ignite inspiration and motivation… and we could all use a little more of that!
The Best Beaches for Bonfires in LA & OC
March 2, 2021
A beach bonfire is a ritual California families have enjoyed for years. Check out this list of beaches in LA and Orange County that allow bonfires.
Jawsome Activities for Kids Who Love Sharks
March 2, 2021
Celebrate one of the coolest ocean predators with shark-themed activities, crafts, and snacks! Sink your teeth into Shark Week with these fun activities for the kids!
Arcades & Family Fun Centers That Are Open Now
March 2, 2021
Go for a round of mini golf, take a spin on the go-kart, travel back in time at a retro arcade, or duck and dive at a paintball park! These fun centers are open for your family to (safely) enjoy!
Horseback Trail Rides That Are Open Now
March 2, 2021
Looking to get outside? A trail ride on horseback is a great, outdoor outing for families. Of course, there’s plenty of social distancing happening (the horses will take care of that for you)!
Whale Watching with Kids in Southern California: Why You Should Go & What You Need to Know
March 2, 2021
Whale watching is one of those things every Southern California family should do at least once. Here’s our reasons why we think every kid should go and what parents need to know before going!
20 Free Library Ideas to Bring a Little Happiness to Your Neighborhood
March 2, 2021
Is your home overflowing with books your kids have outgrown? Start a free children’s library to share with neighbors! Make a library from a newspaper stand, bunny hutch, wash tub, dollhouse, old TVs and lots more. Check out these ideas to get you started.
Animal Encounters & Zoos That Are Open Now
March 2, 2021
Foxes, camels, ostriches, cheetahs, oh my! Check out this list of animal sanctuaries, ranches, and zoos that are outdoors and open. Many offer private tours for an extra special way to connect with animals you don’t get to see everyday.
14 Genius Ways to Entertain Your Kids with Tape
March 2, 2021
With just a little bit of time and a roll of tape, your kids could be entertained for hours! We’ve all got some tape lying around the house, so grab what you’ve got and let’s play!
SoCal Botanical Gardens & Nature Centers That Are Open Now
March 2, 2021
Visiting a botanical garden while social distancing is a great way to get outside. Many gardens have reopened and are following all necessary precautions.
The Ultimate Guide to Southern California Drive-In Movie Theaters
March 3, 2021
Drive-in theaters may be a thing of the past, but they’re the modern-day solution to help us maintain social distancing. Here’s a list of SoCal drive-in theaters and 10 tips for an awesome moviegoing experience!
Ice Cream Themed Activities for Kids
March 2, 2021
Seems like the summer heat is here to stay, so let’s cool off with ice cream themed activities! Make ice cream in a bag, edible ice cream playdough, bake yummy ice cream cone cupcakes and more!
Where to Find Pick-Your-Own Fruit & Veggie Farms This Summer
March 2, 2021
Fresh air, fresh produce, and tractor-drawn wagons… it’s the perfect summer outing!
Summer Reading Programs at LA & OC Libraries
March 2, 2021
Local libraries are launching their Summer Reading Programs to help motivate kids and teens to read during the summer! See if your local library is participating.
Kindness & Compassion Conversation Starters for Kids
January 19, 2023
Promote meaningful conversations with your kids about showing kindness and compassion towards others. Use these printable cards as a starting point to teach and explain why our world needs kindness, especially right now.
15 Bubble Activities Kids (and Adults!) Will Love
March 2, 2021
Bubbles are simple, inexpensive, and they never fail to entertain. Here’s 15 ways to have a blast with bubbles!
The Ultimate Guide to Cooking with Kids
August 19, 2021
Helpful tips, ways to incorporate reading, math, and science into cooking, and some easy recipes for kids. Let’s get cookin!
SoCal Stops for Kids Who Love Trains!
January 26, 2024
All aboard the Kidsguide Express! We’re taking your train-lovin’ family on an adventure across SoCal, chugging along to must-see train stops. Let’s go!
