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.
Categories for Blog
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
National Farm Animals Day is April 10th! Discover how farmers care for their animals and learn where our food comes from. Springtime is one of the best times to visit a farm and find out about the animals that live there—you might even get to see baby farm animals!
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!
Let the Summer Ed-venture Begin at Fairmont!
April 5, 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.
2021 Summer CampGuide: 50+ Fun-Filled Camps
April 1, 2021
Looking for summer camps? We’ve got ’em! Camps for preschoolers to high schoolers—full-days, half-days, art, sports, theater, music, dance, STEM, cooking, boating, surfing, horseback riding, rock climbing—you name it.
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.
Where to Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree in Southern California
December 7, 2020
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, socially-distant Christmas outing.
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).
GIVEAWAY: Hot Wheels Ultimate Drive-Thru – Toyota Arena in Ontario
November 30, 2020
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!
2020 HolidayGuide: 100+ Events for Kids & Families in LA & OC
November 25, 2020
In this guide, you’ll find everything we could find to help your family enjoy the holidays in the most normal and safest way possible.
Win a Ticket to Hikari: A Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms
November 24, 2020
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
November 23, 2020
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!
November 17, 2020
[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
October 28, 2020
Candy buybacks, recipes, and even math and science activities with candy!
20 Things to Do Besides Trick-or-Treating on Halloween
October 22, 2020
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!
October 19, 2020
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.
10 Wickedly Amazing Halloween Yard Displays in LA & Orange County
October 13, 2020
Celebrate the house that goes completely over the top to make Halloween extra special.
90+ Southern California Halloween Events 2020
October 1, 2020
Halloween is happening! Check out all of the fun and creative events including Halloween-themed classes, public displays, walkthrough and drive-thru events, pumpkin patches, trunk-or-treats, and lots more.
Tips & Tricks You Need to Know Before Carving a Pumpkin!
September 22, 2020
Follow these helpful tips on how to pick a pumpkin, carving hacks, tracing tricks, and preservation methods to keep your pumpkin lasting longer!
How 4th Graders & Their Families Get Free Access to National Parks All Year Long
September 21, 2020
Did you know your 4th graders can get you free access to hundreds of national parks, lands, and waters for an entire year? Find out how!
Fire Safety Activities for Kids
September 15, 2020
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!
September 10, 2020
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
September 3, 2020
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!
September 1, 2020
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
August 26, 2020
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
August 24, 2020
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!
Why Every Parent Should Visit a Teacher Supply Store
August 19, 2020
If you’ve never been in a teacher supply store… you’re in for a real shopping treat!
The Best Beaches for Bonfires in LA & OC
August 18, 2020
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
August 13, 2020
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
August 10, 2020
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
August 6, 2020
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
August 4, 2020
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!
Distance Learning Setups to Start the School Year Off Right
July 30, 2020
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
July 28, 2020
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
July 22, 2020
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
July 20, 2020
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
July 13, 2020
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
July 9, 2020
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
July 7, 2020
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
July 1, 2020
SCR’s two-week summer acting camp for kids and teens helps build confidence and self-esteem!
4th of July Scavenger Hunt
June 29, 2020
Take a stroll around the neighborhood and see how many patriotic things your kids can find! Going out of town? Take this scavenger hunt on the road to keep kids busy during the car ride.
Where to Find Pick-Your-Own Fruit & Veggie Farms This Summer
June 24, 2020
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 16, 2020
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
June 12, 2020
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
June 11, 2020
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
June 10, 2020
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 15 – July 2, August 3-21 Focus on life skills building while having fun. This creative and fun camp program is designed to help young… View Article
Participate in Creative Classes While Raising Funds for Pediatric Cancer Research!
June 10, 2020
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!
June 8, 2020
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
June 3, 2020
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
May 28, 2020
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
May 21, 2020
Helpful tips, ways to incorporate reading, math, and science into cooking, and some easy recipes for kids. Let’s get cookin!
Fun Games to Play With Kids on Zoom
May 14, 2020
Ring ring! Calling all long-distance family and friends! Fire up the smartphone, tablet, computer and call up the kids for a funtastic time!
The Mom & Me Know-It-All Game: How Well Do You Know Mom?
May 7, 2020
Step aside newlyweds, this game is all about moms! Celebrate Mother’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.
7 Thoughtful Ways to Thank a Teacher Virtually
April 30, 2020
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
April 28, 2020
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!
April 22, 2020
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!
April 22, 2020
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!
April 17, 2020
Take classes like Musical Theatre Jazz, Inside the Mind of a Casting Director, Make-Up for the Stage and lots more!
6 Genius Strategies to Help Kids Focus on Schoolwork
April 16, 2020
Is your child having a hard time focusing on schoolwork at home? Try one of these strategies! Hint: It includes video games (kinda).
Encouraging Words Every Parent Needs to Hear Right Now
April 7, 2020
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
April 2, 2020
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
March 31, 2020
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 26, 2020
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!
5 Hygiene Tips & Tricks for Kids!
March 10, 2020
Teaching healthy habits and proper hygiene is always super important – so let’s make it fun! We’ll teach the kiddos how to cough like a vampire, blow things away, and avoid the T-Zone!
Destinations Your Mini Space Cadet Will Love!
February 24, 2020
Does your family love learning about our universe? Visit these awesome space centers, planetariums, and observatories for an out-of-this-world learning experience.