6 Genius Strategies to Help Kids Focus on Homework
January 11, 2022
Is your child having a hard time focusing on schoolwork at home? Try one of these strategies! Hint: It includes video games (kinda).
Categories for Blog
The School Tour: Things to Look For & Questions to Ask
January 10, 2022
Planning to go on a school tour? Here’s tips on what to do before you go, things to look for, and questions to ask.
National Parks Offer Free Admission for 5 Days in 2022
January 10, 2022
On five days in 2022, all National Park Service sites (that normally charge an entrance fee) will offer free admission to everyone. Plus, here’s a list of participating California national parks.
Best Mountains for Snow Play Near LA & OC
January 6, 2022
UPDATED FOR WINTER 2022What’s one of the best things about living in Southern California? We can go from the beach to the mountains in just a couple of hours! If you’re looking to for a snowy winter in sunny SoCal, look no further. We’ve rounded up the best mountains for snow play near Los Angeles… View Article
Clever Tricks to Teach Kids Handwashing & Hygiene
January 3, 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!
What’s Open on Christmas Day? 30+ Fun Things To Do With the Whole Family!
December 17, 2021
What fun things do you have planned on Christmas Day? If you’re looking for a fun family outing, we’ve got you covered! Go skate around an ice rink, watch a new movie in theaters, or how about bowling?! Here’s a list of places that are open ON Christmas Day!
Awesome Family-Friendly Tours to Book Right Now!
December 9, 2021
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 5, 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
December 3, 2021
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
November 30, 2021
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.
8 Cool Places To Go Ice Skating in LA & OC
November 22, 2021
Public Skating at The RinksLocations: Anaheim Ice, Great Park Ice, Lakewood Ice, Poway Ice, Westminster Ice, and Yorba Linda IceEnjoy ice skating on NHL and Olympic-sized rinks. They have over 1,000 pairs of professionally maintained hockey and figure skates for rental, plus skate mates for new skaters. Must register online. Visit their website for public… View Article
2021 HolidayGuide: 115+ Winter Events for Kids in SoCal
November 19, 2021
The ultimate guide to holiday events and attractions for kids and families in Southern California!
15 Questions to Encourage Gratitude in Kids
November 8, 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 8, 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
November 4, 2021
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.
10 Things Parents Forget to Bring When Trick-or-Treating
October 28, 2021
Got everything you need for a cool night of candy and chaos? Here’s a checklist to make sure you’re prepared for whatever the night brings! Plus: a few tips and tricks on what to do before and after.
Where to Go Trick-or-Treating on Halloween Weekend
October 26, 2021
Besides strolling through your own neighborhood this year, how about trick-or-treating in a neighborhood of haunted Victorian mansions or a spooky ghost town?
Halloween Neighborhood Home Haunts in LA & Orange County
October 18, 2021
Looking for something fun and free to do for Halloween? Check out a local Halloween home haunt put on by neighbors who absolutely LOVE Halloween! Celebrate the house that goes completely over the top to make this holiday special.
132+ Halloween Events in Southern California
October 14, 2021
A spooktacular Halloween is creeping up, and we’ve got the ultimate list of Halloween happenings in SoCal! From pumpkin patches to haunted mazes to trick-or-treating, this year’s Halloween is better than ever! Friendly Reminder: We’re working really hard to make sure all event information is accurate, but please confirm all details with the event organizer… View Article
Win Tickets to Day Out With Thomas
October 14, 2021
Win a family 4-pack of tickets to Day Out With Thomas: Trains, Games, & Miles of Smiles.
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 2021
October 11, 2021
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.
Southern California Pumpkin Patch Guide 2021
October 8, 2021
It’s not officially Fall until you’ve walked around a pumpkin patch! Get lost in a corn maze, feed the farm animals, play games, go on rides, and hunt down the perfect pumpkin. Here’s a list of nearby pumpkin patches and pumpkin displays.
Aquariums & Marine Centers Kids Can Visit for $5 or Less in Southern California
September 23, 2021
Looking for a practically free family outing? Check out these aquariums and marine centers where kids can visit for a donation of $5 or less!
How 4th Graders & Their Families Get Free Access to National Lands for an Entire School Year
September 9, 2021
Did you know your 4th graders can get you free access to hundreds of national parks, lands, and waters for an entire school year? Find out how!
Why Every Parent Should Visit a Teacher Supply Store
September 6, 2021
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
August 31, 2021
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 25, 2021
Free admission to participating museums across the nation on Smithsonian Museum Day. Find out which Southern California museums are free.
72 Clever Questions to Get Kids Talking About Their School Day
August 24, 2021
Kids tend to be more descriptive about their day when asked specific, engaging questions. Here’s a list of unique questions to get the conversation started!
35 After School Activities
August 19, 2021
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!
August 17, 2021
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
August 12, 2021
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
August 10, 2021
Looking for a great after school activity? Start with theatre arts!
Top 10 Reasons for Kids to Join a Chorus
August 4, 2021
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
August 3, 2021
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
July 27, 2021
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.
8 Tips for Attending an Outdoor Movie with Kids
July 22, 2021
Outdoor movies are always a fun summertime tradition. Here’s a few tips to make sure you have a fun night out with the kids!
Build-Your-Own Toddler Summer Camp at Home!
July 20, 2021
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!
6 Kid-tastic Children’s Museums in Los Angeles & Orange County
July 19, 2021
Let’s go to a magical place where kids can learn through play and explorations in environments designed just for them. We’ve got six children’s museums in So Cal you are not going to want to miss!
Live Theatrical Shows for Kids & Families Playing This Summer
July 15, 2021
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 who murdered the elusive Mr. Boddy. The newly minted detectives will be led by Mr. or Ms. Butler through the game board come to life…. View Article
Where to Watch Family Movies for a Few Bucks This Summer
July 8, 2021
Summer heat gettin to ya? Grab the family to spend a couple of hours at the movies! Watch your family’s favorite film for just a few bucks, enjoy the air conditioning, and discounted popcorn too!
Giveaway: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
July 6, 2021
South Coast Repertory is excited to partner with Mission San Juan Capistrano to present a family-friendly, world-class theatre production under the stars. Win a Family 4-Pack of premium tickets to see You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown on Saturday, July 24 at 7:30pm.
10 Events Were Excited About Happening the Rest Summer
July 6, 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 1, 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
June 29, 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
June 17, 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?
Monster Jam Roars Back into Los Angeles This Summer!
June 15, 2021
The most action-packed motorsports experience for families roars back into Los Angeles for a high-octane weekend at STAPLES Center from July 23-25, 2021!
The Coolest New Things at SoCal Theme Parks
June 10, 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 WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, explore the ruins of the Ancient Sanctum, watch Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in Avengers Headquarters, eat size-defying foods at Pym Test… View Article
2021 Southern California Water Park Season Details
May 27, 2021
Jump into summer this Memorial Day weekend! After not being able to operate during the entire 2020 season, local water parks are finally opening their gates and bringing on the waves!
Rediscover Discovery Cube! Reopening Friday, May 28
May 13, 2021
Reopening May 28! Come see all-new science exhibits and activities including the new Science of Hockey experience.
Unique Animal Encounters Your Family Should Experience At Least Once
May 11, 2021
Does your family love being around animals? Here’s four unique experiences your family’s gotta try at least once!
Let the Summer Ed-venture Begin at Fairmont!
May 10, 2021
Looking to keep your kids curious, challenged, and connected this summer? Then look no further than Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs, which offer a full line-up of educational programming for every age group—all within a safe environment which follows rigorous COVID protocols.
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.
What’s New at our Local Aquariums & Marine Centers?
May 6, 2021
Check out the new exhibits, programs, and activities happening at our local aquariums and marine centers!
The District at Tustin Legacy is Going Gold!
April 30, 2021
Throughout the month of May, The District at Tustin Legacy is “Going Gold for Pediatric Cancer Research!” Stop by The Warrior Wall in The Promenade, then follow the yellow ribbons to the Fountain of Hope, lit up gold at night to spread awareness. Don’t forget to stop by Nothing Bundt Cakes for Sparkle Hats & Poms Bundtinis—20% of sales goes directly to pediatric cancer research.
Family-Friendly Events We’re Excited About This Month
April 29, 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 art, music, flavor, and fun. Follow the strawberry’s journey as you learn, play and taste your way through three multi-sensory stations. After visiting each station,… View Article
The Education They Deserve Without the Price Tag
April 28, 2021
At Downey Unified, students are thriving and highly motivated to reach their goals thanks to 21st-century learning principles, high-tech programs, and a positive but challenging learning environment. Discover all the educational opportunities Downey Unifiedhas to offer. Now accepting applications for children who live outside the Downey Unified boundaries.
Unique Summer Camps You Should Know About!
April 27, 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
April 23, 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.
Simple Ways Kids Can Help Make the Earth Happy
April 22, 2021
Make every day Earth Day! Here’s 16 simple ways kids can help make the Earth happy.
Every Major SoCal Attraction That’s Open Now
April 20, 2021
Movie theaters, theme parks, zoos, museums—more and more places are opening up and we’re here to keep you updated! Every place on this list is open in some capacity unless otherwise stated.
101 Family Activity Ideas
April 15, 2021
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
April 13, 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.
Alpert JCC Now Booking Private Swim Lessons!
April 9, 2021
Alpert JCC teaches each student to swim with confidence using a 9-step swim program created by the American Red Cross that will keep them safe in and around the water. All instructors are Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructors. Mention KIDSGUIDE for free registration!
6 Places to Pet Farm Animals Near LA & Orange County
April 8, 2021
See (and often times pet and feed) farm animals, such as pigs, goats, ponies, mini-cows, sheep, bunnies and lots more.
CSArts Academy Now Enrolling for Summer In-Person and Virtual Arts Classes
April 7, 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!
March 31, 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!
March 30, 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!
City of Long Beach Offers Low-Cost, Afterschool Program
March 18, 2021
City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine’s Afterschool Program is dedicated to providing youth ages 5-12 a safe, fun, healthy and positive atmosphere. Participants will enjoy recreational activities and homework help while practicing social distancing and other guidelines set forth by the CDC.
Orange Tier: What’s Open or Opening Soon for Kids in Southern California?
March 16, 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
March 11, 2021
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.
12 Sneaky Shenanigans for St. Patrick’s Day
March 10, 2021
St. Patrick’s Day is coming up! Make the day memorable with these sneaky shenanigans!
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
March 9, 2021
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 5, 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 3, 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
February 25, 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
February 24, 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
February 24, 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
February 19, 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
February 18, 2021
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!
2021 Valentine’s Day Events for Kids in SoCal
February 11, 2021
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with dinosaurs, piggies, ponies, princesses and more! Roar and snore at an overnight safari, cruise in a classic car, or join Alice for a tea party. Lots of sweet things happening this Valentine’s Day!
Simple Ways to Speak Your Child’s Love Language
February 9, 2021
What’s your child’s love language—words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, gifts, or physical touch? We’ve got the sweetest list of simple ideas to show your love in a way your child understands.
Easy Valentine’s Day STEM Activities for Kids
February 3, 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
February 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?
January 28, 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
January 26, 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
January 21, 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
January 19, 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
January 11, 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
January 11, 2021
Has your child asked about riding horses? Horseback riding offers many benefits to help your child develop valuable life skills.
Where to Play in the Snow Near Southern California
January 7, 2021
Enjoy tubing, snow play, warm up by the fire pit, and more!
Drive-Thru Events Ending Soon & New Ones Coming Up
January 6, 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
January 5, 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
December 11, 2020
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
December 10, 2020
Don’t miss these unique holiday experiences in SoCal!
Child Care Resources & Services from Children’s Home Society of California
December 9, 2020
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
December 2, 2020
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).
