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.
Latest Posts
CSArts Academy Now Enrolling for Summer In-Person and Virtual Arts Classes
April 9, 2021
CSArts Academy is back in-person and online this summer! Aspiring artists are invited to enroll in exciting, enriching CSArts Academy classes hosted by Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA). CSArts Academy allows students to explore their creativity and learn fundamental skills in visual arts, music, voice, dance, culinary arts, film and television, and much more!
YMCA of Orange County Igniting Passion, Purpose and Potential All Summer!
April 5, 2021
This summer, the Y is igniting the best in every camper. Through exciting educational and recreational activities, field trips, challenges, art, and more, campers will learn some of life’s most necessary skills, like resiliency, positivity, adaptability, relationship-building, and caring for others.
Let’s Build Better Brains at Pretend City!
April 5, 2021
Let’s build better brains at Pretend City, a place where imagination and education come to play. Your child is invited to explore a city made just for them!
Orange Tier: What’s Open or Opening Soon for Kids in Southern California?
April 6, 2021
Now that LA and Orange Counties are officially in Red Tier, many of your favorite family-friendly places have been given the green light (or, red light?) to reopen at limited capacities. But, just because these places can open, doesn’t mean they will right away. Here’s the latest reopening updates from your favorite SoCal family destinations.
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!
10 Kid-Friendly Events We’re Excited About in March
March 9, 2021
Food festivals, sheep shearing, leprechaun hunt, and real-life unicorns?! There’s lots of magical things happening this month!
5 Tips Before Going to ‘Taste of Boysenberry Festival’ at Knott’s Berry Farm
June 22, 2022
Knott’s Taste of Boysenberry Festival is here! Here’s 5 tips you need to know before going and a review of the food and overall experience.
Butterflies Return for Outdoor Visitor Experiences at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
March 9, 2021
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles will open the Butterfly Pavilion and parts of their 3.5 acre Nature Gardens to the public from March 18 – September 6, 2021.
Fairmont Students THRIVE in the Midst of COVID!
March 4, 2021
If you are part of the 89% of California parents who are concerned that your child has fallen behind during the pandemic, perhaps it’s time to consider Fairmont Schools. Join Fairmont Schools for their preschool – 8th grade virtual Open House events to learn about their academic program, and the social and emotional support their nurturing community provides.
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.
Where to Watch “Raya and the Last Dragon” at a Drive-in Theater
March 4, 2021
Excited to see Disney’s new movie, Raya and the Last Dragon? These drive-in movie theaters are making it possible for your family to go out for a movie premiere night! All enjoyed safely from your car, of course.
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.
‘A Touch of Disney’ Experience Coming to Disney California Adventure March 18
March 2, 2021
A Touch of Disney, a new ticketed experience within select outdoor areas of Disney California Adventure Park, will be making its debut beginning March 18 and continues through April 5, 2021 on select dates.
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.
MOVIE NIGHTS RETURN TO SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS WITH SOCIALLY-DISTANT POD SEATING
March 2, 2021
Iconic feature films are coming back to the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Guests can enjoy the moviegoing experience with socially-distant pod seating.
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!
10 Kid-Friendly Events We’re Excited About This Month
March 2, 2021
Dinosaurs, ponies, trains, even an outdoor broadway musical! We’re excited about the fun things happening this month.
What’s Open for Kids & Families in Southern California?
March 11, 2021
Here’s the latest reopening updates from some of your favorite kid-friendly places in SoCal. Be sure to read and follow all safety guidelines.
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.
5 Virtual Read-Aloud Books to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
March 2, 2021
Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. by reading along to the following picture books that help children understand this great leader who fought for civil rights.
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.
Drive-Thru Events Ending Soon & New Ones Coming Up
March 2, 2021
Looking to (safely) get out of the house for a bit? Enjoy lights, music, interactive sets, life-size dinosaurs, and even play carnival games from the comfort of your own car. But hurry—some are ending soon!
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!
Get Your Picture Taken with Santa at Mt. High
March 2, 2021
Tis the season for winter cheer and there is no better place to find it than the Yeti’s Snow Play at Mountain High. Have your picture taken with Santa and the Yeti FREE from 12pm-2pm with the purchase of any tubing or snow play activity. Now open WEEKENDS from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
6 Unique Holiday Experiences Your Family Can Still Enjoy In-Person
March 2, 2021
Don’t miss these unique holiday experiences in SoCal!
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.
City of Long Beach Offers Winter Camps at Local Parks
March 2, 2021
The City of Long Beach will offer programs to safely engage youth during the upcoming winter break. The programs will adhere to lower staff-to-camper ratios and other enhanced safety protocols. Programs include Winter Camps (ages 5-12), Teen Programs, and Winter Break Workshops at El Dorado Nature Center (ages 5-8).
GIVEAWAY: Hot Wheels Ultimate Drive-Thru – Toyota Arena in Ontario
March 2, 2021
Win a weekday pass to Hot Wheels Ultimate Drive-Thru! Journey into a one-of-a-kind, contactless experience where the world of Hot Wheels comes to life right outside your windows!
Win a Ticket to Hikari: A Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms
March 2, 2021
Win a ticket to Hikari: A Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms! Literally translated, Hikari means shine in Japanese, and this holiday season Tanaka Farms shines with over a mile of twinkling lights! Drive through the 30-acre farm and be dazzled by farm-themed lighting.
Giveaway: Win a Family 4-Pack for the North Pole Express
March 2, 2021
Enter to win a family 4-pack of tickets for the North Pole Express departing from Santa’s Christmas Farm in Santa Paula. See and wave at Santa and his elves and enjoy fun storytelling.
[CLOSED]Giveaway: Win a Santa Photo Session with f/8 Studios in Long Beach!
March 2, 2021
[GIVEAWAY CLOSED] Win a memorable, magical Santa Claus photo experience with f/8 Studios and bring a sense of holiday normalcy to your family, all within an outdoor, COVID-safe 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!
Pretend City Children’s Museum Now Open!
March 2, 2021
Where imagination and education come to play! Kids can create in the art studio, rescue citizens in emergency services, shop in the grocery store, and so much more. It’s the city where little pretenders have the biggest dreams.
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!
These Cool Places Offer Supervised Distance Learning
March 2, 2021
With some school campuses remaining closed, these family-friendly places are offering supervised distance learning support to help students focus and keep up with their classwork/homework while offering an awesome place to play too.
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!
Homework Station Setups to Start the School Year Off Right
August 25, 2022
If your kids will be learning from home this school year, they’ll need a space they can call their own. We found inspirations that will work for small spaces or big spaces—perfect for any home. Let’s get learning!
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!
South Coast Repertory Announces Summer Acting Workshops Online
March 2, 2021
SCR’s two-week summer acting camp for kids and teens helps build confidence and self-esteem!
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!
The Perfect Family Game to Play for Father’s Day!
June 29, 2021
Step aside newlyweds, this game is all about dads! Celebrate Father’s Day this year with a fun game the whole family can play. If you’re familiar with The Newlywed Game, then you’re ready to go.
Reopening Dates for Family-Friendly Places in SoCal
March 2, 2021
Keep track of reopening dates for fun, family-friendly places. This list will be continually updated as information becomes available. Stay safe!
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.
The Help Group Offers Virtual Summer Camps for Neurodiverse Kids
March 2, 2021
In this upside down world, The Help Group’s summer camps will be virtual! Camps begin June 15th and siblings are welcome. 2020 Virtual Summer Camps Camp Sunshine | June… View Article
Participate in Creative Classes While Raising Funds for Pediatric Cancer Research!
March 2, 2021
Help support oncology families and Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation by participating in a series of summer experiences that will not only spark creativity, but also raise funds for research with the best hope for a cure for childhood cancer.
Five Days of Broadway—Acclaimed Musical Theater Summer Camp—Goes Virtual!
March 2, 2021
Five Days of Broadway at Segerstrom Center for the Arts is going virtual! Enroll now in this acclaimed musical theater summer camp for students ages 11-19. Learn directly from broadway actors and leading industry professionals.
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!
May 12, 2022
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!
Fun Games to Play With Kids on Zoom
March 2, 2021
Ring ring! Calling all long-distance family and friends! Fire up the smartphone, tablet, computer and call up the kids for a funtastic time!
7 Thoughtful Ways to Thank a Teacher Virtually
March 2, 2021
Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4-8! And while it looks and feels a little different this year, teachers definitely deserve our appreciation. Here’s some ways to celebrate and thank your teacher!
How to Make a Post-Quarantine Idea Jar
March 2, 2021
Are the kids feelin’ a lil antsy? Thinking about what to do when the quarantine is over might help them a bit. Make this Post-Quarantine Idea Jar, plus lots of ideas to get your family started!
10 Creative Nature Activities for Kids!
March 2, 2021
Celebrate all things nature! Make playdough dyed with dandelions, try grass weaving, lay with trains on tree tracks and lots more!
Newport Beach Extends Early-Bird Discount for Camps!
March 2, 2021
The early bird gets the discount! City of Newport Beach Summer Camps extends their early-bird discount. Save 10% when you register Tuesday, May 26.
Musical Theatre Orange County Offers Live Online Classes!
March 2, 2021
Take classes like Musical Theatre Jazz, Inside the Mind of a Casting Director, Make-Up for the Stage and lots more!
Encouraging Words Every Parent Needs to Hear Right Now
March 2, 2021
If at the end of the day, everyone feels loved, I have done enough.
14 Easter Traditions Your Family Will Want To Do Year After Year
March 20, 2021
Easter’s around the corner and we rounded up some unique Easter traditions that your family will want to do year after year! Get out there and spread a little Easter cheer!
22 April Fool’s Day Pranks Your Kids Will Totally Fall For
April 1, 2022
THIS. IS. IT… the day you’ve been waiting for… the day when you get to pay your kids back for their misadventures with a little mischief of your own.
Old-School Recess Games to Play at Home During Quarantine
March 2, 2021
The school playground may be closed, but that doesn’t mean we don’t get to have recess! We rounded up some old school (no contact!) recess games that kids AND parents will love!
How to Throw the Ultimate Art Party!
March 2, 2021
Throw your mini Picasso the ultimate art party! There’s lots of local art studios that’ll do all the work for you or you can take on the creative challenge of throwing a party at home. Whatever the case, Kidsguide’s got you covered!
YMCA of Orange County Summer Camps Now Open for Registration!
March 2, 2021
Camp is where kids become a community as they learn both how to be more independent and how to contribute to a group, engaging in physical, social and educational activities. YMCA of Orange County has a camp for every kid this summer!
8 Stores that Offer Free Classes & Workshops for Kids
January 30, 2023
Your family can enjoy classes and workshops right at your local retailers! Many of these events are free, some might require a small fee to cover material costs.
5 Reasons Kids Should Try a Pottery or Ceramics Class
July 16, 2021
Pottery and ceramics has many positive benefits for children. Learn why kids should try their hand at pottery and where to take a class!
5 Easy Ways to Incorporate STEM at Home
January 24, 2022
National STEM Day is on November 8! The day inspires kids to explore their interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. And guess what parents, STEM education can happen right at home! Check out these 5 easy ways to include STEM learning on a daily basis.
Visit This Unique Nature Retreat for Kids and Families
March 2, 2021
This 20-acre, ranch-style retreat gives children the unique opportunity to interact with animals and nature. With guided and special tours and a party space, the Children’s Nature Retreat is perfect for families.
Orange County Laser Tag, Arrow Tag, and NERF Blaster Battle Arenas
March 2, 2021
Need an outing idea for a big group of kids? Try laser tag! It’s a great way to get your kids and their friends to avoid screens as entertainment… View Article
Free Printable: Emergency Resources for LA & OC
March 2, 2021
Do you know who to call in an emergency? Keep these printable sheets handy to help prepare for disasters and emergencies.
Have a Blast at These SoCal Family Fun Centers!
March 2, 2021
Looking for a fun, family outing? Strike up a little friendly competition between parents vs. kids with a round of mini golf or a few laps of go karts! Check out these family fun centers that’ll make for an awesome family day.
Celebrate National Bowling Day at these Local Bowling Spots!
March 2, 2021
National Bowling Day is this Saturday, August 10th! Looking for places to celebrate this fun, family pastime? Kidsguide’s got you covered! Check out these local bowling spots… some offer special deals for National Bowling Day and some let kids bowl for free!
Historical Sites to See in Southern California
March 2, 2021
Get a jump-start on learning before school starts! These historical sites are not only fun and beautiful to visit, but they’re educational too!
How to Have a Jawsome Kid-Friendly Shark Week!
March 2, 2021
Shark Week is coming up on the Discovery channel and who doesn’t love learning about these super cool predators? Sink your teeth into Shark Week with these fun activities for the kids!
9 Great Places for Kids Who’d Rather Be Under the Sea!
March 2, 2021
Kids will love sea-ing, meeting, and touching awesome underwater creatures at these SoCal aquariums and marine life centers. Check it out!
Hop, Skip, and Jump to These Bouncy Places for World Jump Day!
March 2, 2021
World Jump Day is July 20 and that means it’s time for the kids to bounce off the walls (if they aren’t already)! But instead of jumpin’ around the… View Article
A Treasure Trove of Pirate-y Things to Do in SoCal!
March 2, 2021
Ahoy, Kidsguiders! You’ve found it, an entire treasure trove of pirate adventures in SoCal. Everything from spectacular special events to pirate-y places that “aarrgh” sure to be a great time!
5 Must-Do Activities for Kids Who Love Dogs
January 28, 2021
Take your kids to see the all-new “Dogs! A Science Tail” exhibition, earn a pet care patch, read to therapy dogs, and visit a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to kids and dogs.
The Ultimate Blogosaurus of Dino-mite Activities!
January 28, 2021
Rawr! Is your kiddo a fan of all things dinosaurs? Here at Kidsguide, we know dino-love NEVER goes extinct. That’s why we’ve put together this blogosaurus filled with ten… View Article
SoCal Ship Attractions Every Little Sailor Needs to Visit!
April 22, 2021
Have a kiddo that loves boats and ships? Lucky us, we live right near the ocean with some of the coolest boats and ships around. Set sail for these awesome outings, we bet your family will be having yachts of fun!
Places with Kids & Parents Night Out Events!
June 9, 2020
In need of a date night? Check out our list of Kids/Parents/Date Night events where you can drop off the kids for an evening of crafts, games, food, activities, movies, and more!
Where Kids & Teens Can Star in a Show!
June 9, 2020
If you’ve got singin’, dancin’, actin’ kiddo (or teen), you’re in luck! Our area is full of musical theater opportunities. Check out 22 of the best theater arts programs for kids!