Whether you’re welcoming your first baby or adding another little one to the family, one question often catches parents by surprise: When should my child first see the dentist? The answer is probably sooner than you think.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. While many parents assume dental visits can wait until preschool, those first years are an ideal time to establish healthy habits and identify potential concerns early.

As both a board-certified pediatric dentist and a mom of two, I know how overwhelming those early parenting decisions can feel. Between feeding schedules, sleep routines, and developmental milestones, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing everything “right.” That’s exactly why an early dental visit can be so reassuring.

Building healthy habits from the very beginning

A baby’s first tooth often appears around six months of age, right around the time many families begin introducing solid foods. That’s also when oral hygiene should begin. 

Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play an important role in a child’s development. They help children chew, speak clearly, and hold space for their permanent teeth. Caring for them early helps establish healthy habits that support oral health as children grow. Tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood, yet it is also largely preventable. Early dental visits provide parents with education, guidance, and the opportunity to address questions before problems arise.

What happens during the first dental visit?

Parents are often relieved to learn that the first visit is usually simple, gentle, and focused on education (not treatment). During the appointment, your pediatric dentist will examine your child’s mouth and discuss topics such as:

• Proper brushing techniques

• Healthy feeding and nutrition habits

• Fluoride recommendations

• Teething expectations

• Oral development

• Pacifier and thumb sucking habits

• Injury prevention

• What to expect as new teeth erupt

It’s also an opportunity for parents to ask questions (no matter how big or small). Establishing a dental home early allows families to build a relationship with their pediatric dentist and may help identify concerns before they become more complex. Prevention is one of the most valuable tools we have for supporting children’s oral health.

Creating positive dental experiences matters

One of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is the opportunity to develop a positive relationship with dental care. Children begin forming impressions at an early age. When their first dental visits are calm, playful, and pressure free, they may be more likely to view dental care as a normal part of staying healthy rather than something to fear.

Many pediatric dental offices are designed specifically with children in mind, using age-appropriate language, playful environments, and gentle approaches that help children feel safe and comfortable. Even if your child cries or doesn’t cooperate perfectly during their first visit, that’s completely normal. The goal isn’t a perfect appointment: it’s gradually building trust, familiarity, and confidence over time.

Positive early experiences can encourage children to feel more comfortable with dental visits as they grow and may help establish healthy habits that last into adulthood.

Nighttime routines make a big difference

One of the most common conversations I have with parents involves bedtime routines. While breast milk and formula are wonderful sources of nutrition for babies, once teeth have erupted, frequent nighttime exposure to milk without cleaning the teeth afterward may increase the risk of early childhood cavities. Establishing a simple bedtime routine that includes brushing

before sleep is one way parents can help protect their child’s growing smile.

Pacifiers and thumb sucking: When should parents be concerned?

Pacifiers and thumb sucking are completely normal ways for babies and young children to self-soothe. In fact, many children naturally stop these habits on their own. The concern comes with prolonged use. As children grow, continued thumb sucking or pacifier use can affect jaw development and tooth alignment, which may increase the likelihood of

orthodontic treatment later in childhood.

Fortunately, there are many gentle, positive strategies that can help children transition away from these habits when the time is right. Every child develops differently, so discussing your child’s specific needs with your pediatric dentist can help determine the most appropriate approach.

Prevention starts with partnership

The first dental visit isn’t just about checking teeth, it’s about beginning a partnership between families and their pediatric dentist.

By starting early, asking questions, and creating positive experiences, parents can help support a lifetime of healthy oral habits.

Jenny Garcia, D.D.S., is a board-certified pediatric dentist, mom of two and founder of Oui Smile Pediatric Dentistry in Los Angeles. She is passionate about helping children build healthy smiles through prevention, education, and positive dental experiences while empowering parents to make informed decisions about their child’s oral health.

The post When Should Your Child First See the Dentist? A Pediatric Dentist Explains appeared first on L.A. Parent.

When I headed to Yosemite National Park for work last summer, I knew I’d come face-to-face with towering sequoias, the steep, granite walls and cascading waterfalls. What surprised me was how often I reached for my phone — not to document the trip, but to FaceTime my children. 

As a frequent solo traveler and new empty nester (or free bird, as I call it), I’m familiar with the feeling of being in awesome places that make you wish the people you love were standing beside you. That feeling stayed with me during my time in Yosemite. 

For Los Angeles families who are traveling together or meeting up for a reunion, Yosemite is one of those bucket-list destinations that is closer than many realize. After navigating traffic, busy schedules, school calendars and the hectic pace of city life, the transformation is palpable. Within a few hours of leaving L.A., the scenery changes completely. Palm trees, smog and freeways give way to winding mountain roads, varieties of pines, fresh air and primordial-rock landscapes. 

Yes: the perfect escape.

A comfortable basecamp outside Yosemite

Part of what made this trip especially enticing was a preview stay in the deluxe private cabins that officially launch this month as Waybound Yosemite, a boutique collection of reimagined premium cabins immersed in nature and located in Fish Camp just outside Yosemite’s south entrance. Situated alongside its sister property, the longtime family favorite Tenaya at Yosemite, the 50 spacious, two-bedroom Waybound cabins, called The Havens, sleep up to six, providing multigenerational families (and their pets) with a comfortable vacation home. 

The Havens also include all the amenities at Tenaya’s full-service resort. Together, the two hotels, operated by Delaware North Parks & Resorts, make an ideal basecamp for exploring Yosemite. Each stand-alone Haven features a front porch, back patio and expansive picture windows opening to abundant nature, a living room with a fireplace and plush, leather couches and a full kitchen (including a full-size fridge), plus curated touches, including cocktail chests for craft mixology and spa boxes with locally inspired wellness products. 

Speaking of wellness, restorative treatments are available at Tenaya’s expansive spa. In August, a resort pool and hot tub will make a welcome debut. For now, guests at The Havens have access to three pools, four hot tubs and lounge areas at Tenaya.

The Commons serves a central hub with tables and chairs, ample couches and plush lounging chairs, a large fireplace and big screen TV, plus a long wooden patio for outdoor dining and socializing. Dining options onsite include The Coffee Counter, with breakfast bites and barista service; Plates + Pours, a social spot with afternoon and evening bartenders and á la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner and The General Store, with curated provisions, merchandise and grab-and-go meals. 

Full dining and restaurants are available for Havens guests at nearby Tenaya. At The Havens, evenings come alive with multiple fire pits circled by Adirondack chairs and complimentary s’mores, a fun way for families to gather under the star-studded night sky.

When I excitedly opened my door to my Haven, I first noticed how it fit into the surrounding landscape. I was delighted to discover the native flowers, birdsong and a babbling brook, shaded by fragrant pines that surrounded my cabin and back porch. I breathed in the cool, fresh mountain air and felt refreshed. Throughout my stay, I indulged in reflective moments on the back porch, sipping my morning tea while lounging in my hotel robe in a red rocking Adirondack chair and watching squirrels dance in the trees. Late at night, after spending my days and evenings exploring, dining and stargazing, I relaxed in front of my own fireplace. 

Getting to Yosemite from Los Angeles

For many Angelenos, planning a family vacation often comes down to one question: How far do we need to travel to feel like we’ve escaped? While popular spots in Hawaii, Mexico or Europe may top wish lists, daunting airfare prices, flight delays and security concerns are keeping many families closer to home this season. Luckily, for L.A. families, some of the most unforgettable adventures are fairly close to home.

For road-trippers, the drive to Yosemite takes about five to six hours, making the park an ideal destination for a long weekend, school holidays and summer vacation. Families who would rather fly have convenient options. Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the closest commercial airport, just about a 90-minute drive from Waybound Yosemite and Tenaya at Yosemite. 

Several flights connect L.A. with Fresno each day, allowing families to be surrounded by mountain scenery before lunchtime. I took an easy, quick flight on Southwest. Once in the area, rental cars are readily available, and the resort can assist with arranging airport transportation, as well. 

Exploring Yosemite National Park

Planning a trip to Yosemite is simpler this year, as the national park is not requiring advance vehicle reservations for most visits in 2026. Guests of Waybound Yosemite and Tenaya at Yosemite receive complimentary park entrance passes, making it even easier to begin each day’s adventure. 

Visitors who prefer not to drive through the park can explore Yosemite on guided excursions and transportation, so parents and kids can relax and enjoy the scenery, while learning about the abundant natural flora, fauna and jaw-dropping landmarks. Through Tenaya’s Yosemite 360° Tours, families can book private guided sightseeing tours and customized excursions within the national park.

A highlight was exploring Yosemite with my guide, Janet, who was personable, kind and knowledgeable. She told my group stories about the black bears we saw on our drive to the park and kept us laughing — and safe. She also made sure we stopped at Tunnel View, one of the most remarkable vistas in the U.S., where El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome are visible in a panorama; walked a trail beneath the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove (some more than 2,000 years old) and strolled to Lower Yosemite Fall for a refreshing break. Though tourists made their way to these same spots, it didn’t feel overcrowded. 

One of the most memorable moments of our Yosemite adventure day was sharing an idyllic picnic prepared by Tenaya, complete with a basket and red-and-white checkered tablecloth. Sitting beside the Merced River, I watched families floating along. When a current picked up quickly, my group spotted a young man in danger and called out to some sturdy swimmers for help.

Later, Janet took us to an ancient natural spring gushing beside the road, and we gleefully filled our bottles with pure, ice-cold water, sipping it on the drive back.

Relax and recharge after a day outdoors

Whether after a day on the trails or just to recover from L.A. stressors, Ascent Spa at Tenaya gives guests a chance to recharge. Its services include customized massages, hydrating facials, body treatments and wellness experiences inspired by the Sierra Nevada. 

Family activities beyond the trails

It’s also an ideal retreat for parents while the kids enjoy the pools or other supervised activities. My work group and I bonded as we waited for our treatments in the relaxation room in our matching robes, sampling teas, fruits and snacks and chatting about our park adventures. My Swedish massage was gentle and restorative.

The activities at Waybound and Tenaya are designed to bring families closer together, whether they are embarking on a guided nature walk, cooling off in resort pools or relaxing on their Haven’s private porch after a rewarding day in the park. 

And in addition to playing or swimming in the pools or lounging poolside, fun activities to do with kids include lawn games, pickleball, bocce ball, rock wall climbing, archery lessons and a fascinating, interactive “noctotourism” stargazing experience, led by astronomer Andy Skimmer. The Sierra Nevada’s limited light pollution makes it one of California’s best areas for seeing stars. On clear nights, constellations, planets and the Milky Way creating a glittering, magical skyscape.

Where to eat near Yosemite

In addition to the casual food options at The Havens, guests at both properties have lots of choices at six diverse dining choices, in addition to room service. Some recommendations: Jackalope’s Bar & Grill serves hearty breakfasts before families head into the park, along with favorites like the Jackalope Burger, Nashville hot chicken sandwich, grilled salmon and blackened chicken tacos later in the day. 

Desserts such as warm sticky toffee pudding and huge chocolate-chip cookies topped with vanilla ice cream are big-time faves. For a more refined dinner, Embers features seasonal California cuisine, premium steaks, seafood, handmade pasta and thoughtfully curated wines in an upscale setting.

Travel to Yosemite with your dog

For many Angelenos, the best vacations include family pets. Waybound and Tenaya offer pet-friendly accommodations, as well as dog-friendly areas and kennel services for days when families want to explore parts of Yosemite where pets aren’t permitted. 

Nature sounds on

The final morning of my stay, I took a meditative solo walk from my Haven to the brook below. I recorded a video of the path that lay before me, capturing a sun star and its side rays shaped like iridescent butterfly wings shining through pine trees, the soft crunching my sneakers made over dirt, leaves and sticks, the sound of birds singing and the brook gurgling hello. 

I felt a sense of calm and, of course, I couldn’t wait to return and share it all with my children. While technology kept us connected, there’s nothing like the real thing. 

Michele Raphael is an L.A.-based culture, health, lifestyle and travel writer and editor. She can be found on Instagram at @michelebraphael.

The post Why Yosemite Is One of California’s Best Family Getaways appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Nicole Noar has spent years with new moms as a nurse in maternal and infant care. As a SoCal mom herself, she’s well-versed in the overwhelming number of things new moms worry about. She wanted to ease some of that worry, especially when traveling. As the founder of Snuggle Shield, a patented infant cover with built-in air-filtering system, she’s committed to providing a sense of wellness and peace to parents.

I met Nicole at the All Baby & Child ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas this year and had the pleasure to chat with her recently about motherhood and starting a business. 

Tell us a little about your career before launching Snuggle Shield.

I spent more than 16 years as a registered nurse, including 13 years in Labor & Delivery at UC San Diego Health. During that time, I became a Certified Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (RNC-OB) and an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), caring for thousands of mothers and babies during some of the most important moments of their lives. Today, I work as a fertility nurse in Reproductive Endocrinology at UC San Diego, helping individuals and families navigate their journey to parenthood. My nursing career gave me a firsthand understanding of the concerns new parents face, and becoming a mom inspired me to create the product I wished I had for my own family. My clinical background continues to guide every decision we make at Snuggle Shield.

What was the inspiration for Snuggle Shield?

My inspiration came from my first son, Deklan. When he was just six weeks old, I took him with me to a nail salon. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the strong chemical fumes and noticed everyone around us was wearing masks. I immediately felt mom guilt because I realized the cover over his infant car seat wasn’t actually protecting him—it was giving me a false sense of security. When I got home, I searched everywhere for a product that could help filter the air around babies in public places, but nothing like it existed. As a nurse, my first thought was to use medical mask material because we know it works and we know it breathes well. That simple idea became the foundation for Snuggle Shield.

How would you describe the mission of your company?

Our mission is to give parents the confidence to safely explore the world with their babies from day one. We want families to feel comfortable getting out of the house, traveling and making memories together instead of feeling anxious about every outing. Our products provide added peace of mind while also serving multiple everyday purposes—from breastfeeding to infant car seat, stroller, shopping cart and highchair coverage. We believe parents deserve products that make everyday life easier while helping them enjoy these precious years with their little ones.

You are also a mom. Tell us how you balance family life with work and launching a business.

Balancing family life, nursing and building a business has definitely been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. I still work three days a week as a fertility nurse at UC San Diego Health, so I build Snuggle Shield around my family’s schedule—before work, after bedtime, and whenever I can find extra time. When I first started the company, my boys were babies, so I often worked during nap time. Now that they’re older, I try to be intentional about being present with them. They are the reason I started Snuggle Shield, and while balance isn’t always perfect, family will always come first.

What does a typical day look like for you?

There really isn’t a typical day—every day is a little bit crazy! Most mornings start with my husband, our two boys, our four chickens and our two rescue dogs before everyone heads off to school and work. On clinic days, I work from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After work it’s dinner, homework, bedtime stories and family time. Once the kids are asleep, I usually switch over to Snuggle Shield for a few more hours of emails, meetings, product development or retailer projects. On my days off, I try to balance growing the business with making memories with my family, giving my husband some attention, and, if I’m lucky, squeezing in a Pilates class.

Do you have a mentor?

I don’t have one specific mentor, but I really admire Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx. I love her authenticity, her sense of humor and the fact that she built her company from the ground up while staying true to herself. As a nurse, mom and entrepreneur, her journey reminds me that believing in your idea and persevering through setbacks can truly make a difference.

What’s the best life advice you’ve ever received?

‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’ has always stayed with me. I lost my dad when I was nine years old and my mom when I was twenty. Those experiences were incredibly difficult, but they taught me resilience, perseverance and determination. I’ve never wanted my circumstances to define me or become an excuse. Instead, they’ve helped shape me into the strong, independent woman I am today and inspire me to help others through both nursing and Snuggle Shield.

What’s the best parenting advice you’ve ever received?

‘The days are long, but the years are short.’ As a mom of two boys, now five and seven, that saying resonates with me more every year. Some days can feel never-ending, but then you look back and realize just how quickly childhood goes by. It reminds me to slow down, be present, give myself grace, and cherish every stage because these years pass so much faster than we ever expect.

When you’re not working, where can we find you?

In a perfect world, you’ll find me traveling with my family—especially in Hawaii, where my husband and I got married. At home, we love beach days, bike rides, lounging by the pool while the boys swim and play, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. We also make it a priority to sneak away for date nights and little getaways whenever we can because those moments together are just as important.

What are some of your favorite places in San Diego and Los Angeles?

Our family loves making memories together. In San Diego, you’ll usually find us at LEGOLAND, Ponto Beach, or relaxing by the pool while the boys swim. When we head to Los Angeles, Crossroads Kitchen is my favorite restaurant for brunch or dinner since I’m vegetarian. My husband is a chef, so we never miss a stop at Gjelina in Venice. We also love taking our boys to Disneyland and Universal Studios. Whether we’re traveling, trying a new restaurant, or simply spending the day together, those are the moments I treasure most.

The post Meet Nicole Noar, RN, IBCLC, Founder and CEO of Snuggle Shield appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Kitten season doesn’t usually make people think of a grown man sitting cross-legged on a bathroom floor at 2 a.m., coaxing a kitten the size of a deck of cards to take a bottle. But that’s exactly what’s happening in homes across L.A. and Orange counties right now. And if you ask those men whether it counts as fatherhood, most of them say yes, it does.

We’re in the thick of kitten season. From spring through late summer, the pace at public shelters becomes relentless. Neonatal litters arrive without mothers. Young male cats, barely past kittenhood themselves, come in as strays. The need for people willing to open their homes and truly show up is greater right now than at any other point in the year.

With more than 16 years of leading CatPAWS, a nonprofit cat rescue and advocacy organization, I’ve watched all kinds of people answer that call. And some of the ones who surprised me most were the men.

Why Men Make Great Cat Foster Caregivers

There’s a quiet assumption that animal rescue skews a certain way — that it belongs to a particular kind of person. That assumption is wrong, and kitten season proves it every year.

The men who foster are some of the most grounded, capable caregivers I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. They learn quickly, stay calm when things get hard and figure out how to warm a kitten safely, how to read the signs that something is off and how to celebrate a small weight gain like it’s the best news they’ve heard all week.

There’s something genuinely moving about watching someone who came into this thinking it would be a minor commitment discovering that it changed something in them. That happens a lot with cat dads. 

What Kitten Season Really Looks Like

I’ll be straightforward, because I think that serves people better than painting an easy picture.

The youngest kittens — those in their first weeks of life without a mother —require a level of round-the-clock attention that is real and demanding: frequent feedings, careful monitoring, the kind of presence that doesn’t clock out. It’s not for everyone, and that’s completely fine to acknowledge.

But fostering isn’t one single thing. We also have young adult male cats who come in as strays, a little bit skittish, shut down, sometimes never having had a gentle hand near them. A big part of what we do is rehabilitating them: rebuilding their trust slowly, in a quiet foster home, until they’re ready for a permanent one. Those cats ask for very little from a foster. Mostly just consistency, and someone willing to sit with them while they figure out that the world can be safe.

Right now, we need both. And both matter enormously.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

Kitten season doesn’t just mean litters showing up without mothers. It also means young male cats arriving at shelters having already, unknowingly, started families of their own.

Getting those cats neutered before they’re adopted is one of the most practical, high-impact things we do. It’s quiet work; it doesn’t make for dramatic headlines. But it’s how you interrupt a cycle that otherwise keeps feeding itself: fewer unplanned litters next spring, fewer kittens in crisis, fewer families separated before they’ve had a chance to begin.

Our low-cost spay and neuter program serves cats across Los Angeles and Orange counties. We’ve always believed that pulling cats from shelters and preventing the next wave of overcrowding aren’t two separate missions — they’re the same one, running on a different timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kitten season and why does it matter? Kitten season runs roughly from spring through late summer, when warmer temperatures lead to a surge in cat births. Public shelters across Los Angeles and Orange counties see their intake numbers spike dramatically during this period, and neonatal kittens without mothers are among the hardest cases for under-resourced facilities to manage. That’s where foster caregivers become essential.

Do I need experience to foster a cat or kitten in Long Beach? No prior experience is required to foster most cats and kittens. Helen Sanders CatPAWS provides foster caregivers with supplies, food and full medical coverage, including veterinary visits and medications. Experienced fosters within the network are also available to guide newcomers through the process, from the first feeding to the final adoption handoff.

The exception is for the youngest bottle baby kittens, who require around-the-clock feedings and specialized care. Because of their unique needs, Helen Sanders CatPAWS requires prior bottle baby fostering experience for caregivers taking in these neonatal kittens.

What does Helen Sanders CatPAWS provide to foster caregivers? Fosters receive everything they need: food, supplies and all medical care for the animal in their home. You provide the space, transportation and the time. The organization handles the rest, including veterinary appointments and any specialist care a cat may need.

Can men foster cats? Is fostering only for certain types of people? Absolutely, and this is worth saying clearly. Foster caregivers come from every background. Some are retired, some are working parents and some are people who never considered themselves cat people until the right moment. The only thing that matters is the willingness to show up consistently for an animal that needs you.

What if I can’t foster — are there other ways to help during kitten season? Yes. Following and sharing the organization’s content during kitten season helps connect cats with adopters and recruits new fosters when the need is highest. And if you’ve been thinking about adoption, right now is a meaningful time to act. Every cat that finds a permanent home opens a spot for the next one coming in. Donations go directly to the animals and the programs. You can give at helensanderscatpaws.com.

How You Can Help During Kitten Season

Visit helensanderscatpaws.com to see what fits your life right now. If you have a spare room and a little time, fostering is where the need is greatest. Go to “Join Our Team” and click “Foster.” If you’re not quite ready for that, but you have a cat parent heart, adopting a cat who’s already waiting is its own kind of experience, and every adoption creates space for the next rescue.

And if neither of those is an option right now, passing this along to someone who might be ready costs nothing and could make a real difference. Kitten season moves fast — and so does a share. Follow along on Instagram at @helensanderscatpaws to find the cats and adoption news as it happens.

Deborah Felin Magaldi is the Director of Helen Sanders CatPAWS, a nonprofit cat rescue and advocacy organization she has led for 16 years. She began fostering more than 20 years ago and never stopped. Learn more at helensanderscatpaws.com. 

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While it’s not an outright ban, Los Angeles Unified School District students will soon have less access to technology during the school day. The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education has approved a new policy establishing age-appropriate limits on classroom screen time beginning this fall. 

Building on cellphone restrictions that LAUSD adopted last year, the new guidelines are intended to ensure technology supports learning without replacing teacher-led instruction and face-to-face interaction. 

District leaders say the goal isn’t to eliminate technology from classrooms but to encourage thoughtful, developmentally appropriate use.

“As we continue to navigate the evolving role of technology in education, our priority remains ensuring it is used in ways that support high-quality instruction, student engagement, and overall well-being,” Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “Technology is an important tool that can expand access and enhance learning, but it is most effective when used purposefully and guided by educators.”

What will change?

The policy establishes maximum instructional screen-time limits that vary by grade level.

Beginning in August, students in early education through first grade will generally not use individual devices during classroom instruction. Schools will still be able to use shared device carts when needed for assessments, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other approved exceptions. Students in the district’s Virtual Academy are exempt from the policy.

Starting later in the school year, older students will have daily or weekly limits on instructional screen time, including homework:

• Early education, kindergarten and Grade 1: 0 minutes per day
• Grades 2-3: Up to 20 minutes per day (100 minutes per week)
• Grades 4-5: Up to 30 minutes per day (150 minutes per week)
• Grades 6-8: Up to 60 minutes per subject each week
• Grades 9-12: Up to 90 minutes per subject each week

The district also plans to restrict student-led use of YouTube and other video-streaming platforms during instruction and review existing classroom technology contracts.

When will the changes take effect?

Implementation will happen in phases:

• August 2026: Early education through Grade 1
• November 2026: Grades 2-5
• January 2027: Grades 6-12

District officials say schools will receive professional development, while families will receive back-to-school resources and guidance before each phase begins.

Why is LAUSD making this change?

According to district officials, the policy reflects growing research on children’s screen use and feedback from nearly 19,000 participants through the LAUSD’s ThoughtExchange community engagement process.

The new guidelines are designed to:

• Preserve teacher-led instruction
• Prioritize educational use of technology
• Reduce unnecessary screen exposure
• Encourage developmentally appropriate learning experiences
• Balance technology with whole-child development

“Our charge now is to recalibrate, evaluate the role of educational technology in the classroom and balance access to that technology with the kinds of instruction and interaction we know help students thrive,” Board Member Nick Melvoin, who introduced the resolution, said following the board’s vote.

Will parents have a voice?

Yes. An amendment approved with the policy requires the district to conduct annual public reviews and gather feedback from educators, students and parents on how the guidelines are working. The first review may include school experience survey questions asking families whether students spend too much, too little or an appropriate amount of time using devices at school.

District officials say the policy will continue to evolve as new research emerges and schools gain experience implementing the guidelines.

At a Glance: LAUSD Screen-Time Limits by Grade Level

The post LAUSD Screen-Time Limits: What Parents Need to Know appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Until recently, I never understood the appeal of escaping to the desert for a summer vacation. Why swap a mild L.A. summer for a dry and brown furnace intent on sucking every drop of moisture out of your hair, skin and throat?

In the middle of L.A.’s “June gloom,” I left behind our 70-degree weather for a scorching high of 109 in Palm Desert, which averages about 300 days of sunshine per year.

On the drive, I consoled myself with imaginings of sparkling lagoons and spa tubs, crystal bowls and chimes and the feel of cool hotel-room air on my skin. This was, after all, a solo retreat to one of Palm Desert’s oases: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. 

I wanted to see how Spa Desert Springs incorporates treatments, wellness tech and practices inspired by those who live in the world’s blue zones — five regions across the globe where researchers have found people live exceptionally long, active lives.

Who doesn’t want to live to 100, especially if they can do so in reasonably good health? I hope to still be dancing, writing up a storm, making new friends of all ages and seeing new-to-me parts of the world well into my 10^th decade. 

A girl can dream. Especially when she’s on a solo retreat.

Best Desert Advice: Hydrate, Eat Light, Embrace the Night

I didn’t need to run the A/C for the first part of my drive, but I switched it on as my car floated into an invisible cave of heat that had me reaching for my water bottle. It was already warm. Luckily, I had stopped in Rowland Heights for two throat soothers: a jelly-lychee drink and coconut-pineapple juice, so I sipped on those until I pulled into the resort’s self-parking garage. 

I decided to leave my bags in the car and relax in my room with no agenda until the sun said its final goodbye. On the way to the checkout desk, I saw a table holding two large containers of ice water — one with orange slices and one with cucumbers. I drank a glass of each. 

The lobby was buzzing with activity. Folks were seated around the bar at Aquifer65 (which serves California cuisine, bar bites and sushi), watching the FIFA World Cup. A few families with children were waiting in line to board boats for the sunset cruise around the resort’s lakes. The boat rides are $5-$10, depending on the day and time. 

Set on 450 acres of desert gardens, lakes and mountain views, the hotel is Palm Desert’s largest resort, with 884 guest rooms.

From my 7^th-floor room balcony, the sun was casting a pink light across the jagged edges of the San Jacinto Mountains. I could see couples and families dining on Rockwood Grill’s patio to my left, lit-up boats sailing across the wide lake in front of me and people soaking in the cool waters of the three Oasis pools tucked in the center of the lake. 

The sound of water runs throughout the resort, a soundtrack that seems to cool things off. A little.

Once the sun was nowhere to be found, I slipped out of my room and descended to the walking path surrounding the lake, familiarizing myself with the location of the restaurants and my main reason for being here: the spa. Before I left, I stashed my water bottle and the hotel’s courtesy waters in my room’s fridge — treats to look forward to after my daring venture into the hot, hot night. 

I took at peek inside Mikado Japanese Steakhouse, which offers a classic teppanyaki experience where the entertainment is as much a part of the main course as the food. Guests sat around a sizzling grill while chefs put on a lively, family-friendly show. The menu features steak, chicken and seafood cooked right in front of you, along with sushi options if you want something lighter. I backed out, deciding to save this bit of theater for a return visit with family. 

After locating the spa, I circled back to the hotel to check out a popular family venue: JW Entertainment Zone, a 12,000-square-foot space that just so happens to be California’s largest resort arcade. You’ll find Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and many more machines lighting up the space. There’s also a movie lounge with beanbags to stretch out on. The film of the night was “A Goofy Movie.” I smiled at a little girl tugging on her father’s hand. “Let’s watch the movie,” she said, and he followed her lead without protest. 

Like most of us parents when we get to treat ourselves to some me-time, I thought of my own son. Even at 19, he’d love it here, heading straight for what he considered “vintage” games.  

By the time I retrieved my bags and returned to my room, the temperature had tiptoed to 86 degrees. I ran my bubble bath in the deep oval tub flanked by shutters exposing it to the room. Under this additional sound of water, I sipped my refrigerated H20 and nibbled on a yellowtail roll I picked up from Aquifer65. 

It was a perfect bath and dinner. In fact, Japanese cuisine, seafood and salad turned out to my only nutritional sources during my entire stay. Light, tasty, satisfying and, most importantly, cool.

It’s Spa Time

Like many people around the world, I was mesmerized by Netflix’s “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.” In the early 2000s, National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner set out to decode the secrets of longevity. His expeditions unveiled the world’s five “blue zones” — Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica and Loma Linda, Calif. — areas with the highest rates of living centenarians.

Buettner dubbed the habits and characteristics these regions share as the “Power 9” — from natural movement to having a strong purpose to being part of the “right tribe” for you.

After bingeing the docuseries, I was determined to increase my practice of these habits. First, I scoured grocery stores looking for the “magic” purple Japanese yam featured in the series. And while I’m a bonafide gym rat, I push myself to walk in nature, including a weekly walk with a big, all-ages neighborhood group. We stop to point at flowers, coo over a gaggle of front-yard roosters, eat mulberries from Dan’s wild “sidewalk farm” in our dense urban neighborhood.

Still, I’m always on the hunt to find additional ways to effectively reduce my stress levels, and lying face-down for a treatment at Spa Desert Springs is an activity I would gladly do daily. Each experience blends local tradition, natural elements and longevity-focused practices inspired by the blue zones, Spa Director Dawn Ferraro told me during our tour.

Palm Desert’s largest spa, it spans 38,000 square feet and includes a shop and Spa Bistro, which serves light and refreshing meals representing the culinary culture of each blue zone.

 “Live to 100” highlighted how Okinawa has long been nicknamed “Land of the Immortals.” Feeling inspired, I signed up for the Okinawa treatment, a nourishing body wrap that blends hand-harvested rice, clay, seaweed and botanicals to hydrate, brighten and smooth skin while reducing dullness and signs of aging. 

My appointment was set for late afternoon. Early that morning, I ate a salad for breakfast on Rockwood Grill’s patio, watching the black swans glide across the lake. My son FaceTimed me, and I was not annoyed in the least to share my time with him. I pointed the phone toward the lake. “That’s beautiful, Mom,” he said. “I’m so happy for you.”

At lunchtime, I sauntered over to Spa Bistro, choosing the Okinawa Bowl (sweet potato glass noodles, shaved carrots, cilantro, miso-honey vinaigrette and chili crunch topped with a hot-smoked salmon fillet) and a blackberry cocktail, remembering not to overeat. My taste buds were tingly and satiated, a foreshadowing of my treatment.

In the candlelit, calm music-filled Couple’s Spa Suite featuring two plush massage tables and a massive tub, Miranda worked miracles on my sore body, gently wrapping it in the rice mixture that included uplifting scents of peppermint, lime and eucalyptus. “Any problem areas I should know about?” she asked, and I told her I’d recently been to the doctor for foot pain. My podiatrist, in fact, was suggesting the impossible: That I take at least a monthlong break from my beloved Zumba classes. 

As Miranda massaged away the hurt, the prospect of cutting back my seven-day-a-week workout schedule seemed a little less anxiety producing. Why have I so doggedly worked out past these chronic pains? I thought. And why don’t I reward my muscles, joints and bones more with recovery? 

The 90-minute treatment included a cooling rice bath and, to my delight, a rubber ducky! Who knew a childhood toy could be a meditative device? As I pushed the ducky towards my feet and watched it float back toward me, I was entranced. Deep in a zone that maybe, just maybe, was blue.

The spa also has gender-separate and co-ed relaxation lounges, a spa wardrobe, an aromatic hammam, Finnish sauna and a Turkish steam room. After my treatment, I had about an hour until closing time. I chose to spend it in the spa’s first interactive co-ed wellness lounge, which integrates wellness with technology and features 15 state-of-the-art lounge chairs designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

While I’ll never submit to a robot giving me a body treatment, I sank happily into the MindSync Chair, reclined and donned headphones. Ferraro chose the “emotional reset” option on the screen. The music, designed to synchronize brainwaves, made me feel as though I was simultaneously flying and grounded. After the first session stopped, I hit “soul soak” and had no idea I’d fallen asleep until an employee woke me. 

The spa was closing. It was time to go.

“Oh my goodness! So sorry,” I yelped.

 “Don’t be embarrassed,” Ferraro said. “It just means you needed the rest, and Miranda did a great job.” 

I asked her what I should check out in town, and she launched into how beautiful the Shops at El Paseo are at night. Mid-sentence, though, she changed her recommendation. “You know, the best thing might be for you to go to your room, order room service and rest for the rest of the night.”

She was right. I don’t even remember how I got into bed. 

Rising with the Desert Sun

I rose just before dawn the next day and went to sit out on the balcony. It was only 83 degrees, and the breeze did not yet feel like invisible fire. I sat down on the chair, then gasped when I looked across the table to discover that I was not alone. 

A mourning dove was perched on the chair opposite me, her head bowed, her chest inflated like a balloon. She side-eyed me. I left her alone. We watched the sun begin to wake up the mountains.

As the light grew stronger, the dove began to move. Fluffing her feathers to wake them up, to get herself ready for the day. Your tai chi, I thought. 

When she finally flew away, I stood and did a few stretches of my own, then went down to visit the Chilean flamingos, a delightful draw for early risers like me and the families with children who would make their way down later, perhaps after a breakfast of pancakes and sausage.

While my purpose in the desert was to find respite through the resort’s innovative wellness offerings, I appreciated that the property also creates meaningful ways for people of all ages to connect.

The promise of blue zones, Buettner says in “Live to 100,” is “to get every good year we can get out of this body of ours.” And that includes purposeful time alone and with our right tribes.

 Family Fun on the Resort 

• Families can enjoy 5 pools at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. 
• Play golf on 2 Ted Robinson-designed championship golf courses.
• The Desert Springs Tennis Club has 8 pickleball courts. 
• Guests have complimentary access to the 18-hole mini championship putting course, with clubs available for all ages.
• Take electric boat rides across the resort’s lakes and waterways. These set sail from the lobby. The resort’s lakes are home to swans, flamingos and other aquatic wildlife cared for by the on-site conservation team. 
• The 12,000-square-foot JW Entertainment Zone is California’s largest resort arcade, featuring Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and more. 
• The JW Family Passport program offers activities for all ages, including nature walks, family yoga, flamingo feedings, scavenger hunts, trivia nights and ice cream socials, with prizes for participation.
• The resort’s Hot Shoppe serves nostalgic treats including root beer floats and ice cream.
• The hotel’s “Paws & Pamper” program for VIPs (Very Important Pets) offers dog-friendly in-room amenities and pet spa items such as lavender blankets and CBD treats for four-legged guests.
• Access to bike rentals, fish feeding and group fitness (18 and up).
• To view and book resort activities, visit JW Marriott Desert Springs activities calendar.

Cassandra Lane is a mom, author and editor-in-chief of L.A. Parent. 

The post Why JW Marriott Desert Springs Is the Perfect Palm Desert Getaway appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Parents work on setting boundaries for children, helping them understand why they shouldn’t grab another kid’s toy at daycare or hit their sister when they’re angry. But how do you respond as an adult child when your parent is the one who has poor boundaries, constantly interfering with your parenting or belittling you or your children? Some people are choosing estrangement to cope with unresolved issues like these. 

It’s hard enough to deal with difficult parents on your own. Add grandchildren to the mix, and it’s terribly painful. When should you consider partial or no contact? Is there anything you can do before taking this drastic step? 

Karl Pillemer, Ph.D., of Cornell University led the largest U.S. survey on estrangement to date. In his book “Fault Lines,” he details the six most common reasons for estrangement: 

• abuse, neglect or favoritism in childhood
• divorce
• problematic in-laws
• money and inheritance
• unmet expectations in times of crisis or celebration
• value and lifestyle differences. 

Pillemer’s study omits the cause I hear about the most: mental illness or addiction issues. If your parents aren’t safe for you or your children to be around, it’s your job to protect them. If they’re merely annoying or have a different take on parenting than you do, that’s a different situation. Here are some questions to help you weigh going partial or no contact:

• Am I or my children in danger in their presence or their home environment?
• Are they likely to say things that might cause harm to my children, us or our friends?
• Are my parents people I would spend time with if we were not related?
• Are my parents kind and a good influence for my children?

My book, “Bitter, Sweet: How to Heal Yourself When Your Family Is Broken,” takes a look inside the 16-year family estrangement caused by my childhood sexual abuse, how I was able to heal and what forgiveness and reconciliation looked like for me. Many estrangements are caused by what Pillemer names a “volcanic event” — that is, the last straw. It can be a seemingly innocuous moment, especially to the other person, but to you, it’s the one-millionth time your parent says or does the thing you have expressly told them you hated. For an example of what that might look like, here’s an excerpt from “Bitter, Sweet.”

Chapter 1:  A Western Omelet That Became the Last Straw

Colorado — 1990 — age 28

“Don’t tell your mother about this,” he said, winking at the waitress as he handed over the oversized laminated breakfast menu. He was on a strict egg-white-only diet, but I had no more control over what he ate than anything else my father did, as he’d never listened to a word I said.

I’d been visiting my parents in Colorado for a few days, re-adjusting to Mountain time after being in Southeast Asia for two months. I’d arrived with a backpack, spilling over with stories, feeling brand-new after my solo travels. My freshness began to slip as soon as I arrived, my family relationships frozen in time like a beetle in amber.

My family didn’t want to hear about my adventures, like how they’d served us roasted chickens in Hong Kong, cleavered crosswise into slices with a thwack. Or how, despite speaking no Cantonese, I’d figured out how to barter using only a calculator. Or that I’d ridden a rented bicycle alone from Chiang Mai out into the Thai countryside for the sole purpose of buying fabric.

My photos were wending their way home to my Chicago apartment in pre-paid international mailers, so I couldn’t show them the hotel where I’d swum in the Indian Ocean, the volcanic crater we’d climbed that emitted sulphureous fumes from deep inside the earth or the farm where I’d held a koala outside of Sydney. 

At 28, I’d managed a two-month trip overseas on my own, yet in their house it was as if I’d never moved out and we all still lived in Connecticut.

All I wanted to do was get on the plane and go home. 

Instead, foggy from jetlag, I found myself alone with my father in a diner, facing off over speckled Formica, as the waitress clattered our plates onto the table: Western omelet vs. fruit salad.

“We need to have a talk.”

A mouth of disappointing cantaloupe covered my answer.

“How’s your job search going?”

“Dad, I’ve only been back in the States for a few days. No one would talk to me when they heard I’d be traveling for two months.”

“You should’ve let me redo your resume. I could have been working on this while you were away.”

I took another bite.

“I’m very concerned with your welfare.”

“Mmm hmm.”

“Very concerned.”

“I’ll sign up with my old temp agency. I’ll probably be working next week.”

“You have a master’s degree. You’re overqualified to be a secretary.”

I sighed. It was a waste of time to argue with him.

His voice shifted to the oddly formal tone he used when he was trying to get me to do something. Concern knitted his dark brows together. At 66, his long dark sideburns had just a touch of gray.

“I have a proposal for you.”

I did my best not to roll my eyes. He had “a proposal” for me every time we’d talked on the phone, ever since I’d left home for college 10 years prior. What now? Write a book together? Fly back again for Mom and Peter’s birthday in May? I grunted, trying not to encourage him.

“I know you’ve said you don’t want to move back here.”

I’d never lived in Colorado. “Moving back” was his fiction.

“But what do you think about this? We can build a wing on the house so you can have your own apartment. If you wanted to pay rent, we’d keep it low. Wouldn’t that be great?”

I sat quietly, screaming inside. What was his problem? I’d been living on my own in Chicago for a decade. I’d expressed zero interest in moving to Colorado, despite many chances to visit. My older brother Brian had lived there since the ‘70s. My older sister Jen was raising her young family nearby. When my parents had chosen to retire there a year ago, my younger brother Peter tagged along for the ride. Dad had become Colorado’s newest and most fervent ambassador, trading his polyester dress shirts for plaid flannel and a bolo tie. But I never saw him in jeans or cowboy boots, only the tan Sansabelt slacks and tennis shoes he’d worn forever. 

“Are you joking?”

“No, we have plenty of room on the property. The view would be so great. You could come and go as you wanted.” He looked at me, expectant, pleased with himself.

“No thank you.” I fought to keep my voice level.

“Will you please think about it?”

“The answer will still be no.”

“Just think about it.”

“We should be getting on the road.”

I stared out the window on the long drive to Stapleton International Airport, ignoring the stream of factoids rolling off his tongue. Colorado was superior to Chicago in every way. Low taxes. Economy improving. No crime. Wonderful people. Your sister and brothers live here. He always conveniently forgot that my oldest sister Cassie lived on the other side of the country, even farther away than me.

When he kissed me goodbye at the airport curb, I didn’t know it was the end, the last time things would be normal between us. I didn’t know it would be years before I hugged either of my parents, or that all future hugs would be stiff and unyielding.

I would be estranged from my parents for 16 years. During that time, I changed jobs, moved across the country and got married. I returned to Colorado for my older brother Brian’s mountain wedding, maneuvered by the photographer into posing stiffly across from my parents while never speaking to them. I was vague with friends and colleagues about my relatives, ashamed of what I saw as my failure to have a functional family. I didn’t know that family estrangement would become increasingly common — that by the 2020s, one in four Americans would be estranged from their families, and that it usually stemmed from the adult child breaking contact. I couldn’t know then the high psychological price estrangement would exact on all of us. Or that it was my only path toward healing.

I didn’t know these things because in the ‘80s and ‘90s, I didn’t hear anyone talking about childhood sexual abuse, gaslighting or generational trauma. I can only see it now with the gifts of time, therapy and interrogating my story. And I’ve written this book for you because —had I read a story like mine when I was 25 — I might have gotten to a place of healing decades sooner than I did. 

On the flight home, my thoughts whirled around the same question: Why didn’t Dad ever listen when I said no?

I felt something break open inside me. A dam. A wall. A bunker. Underneath was more anger than I knew what to do with. Underneath anger was rage. Underneath rage, something more. When I got home to Chicago, I called my therapist before checking in with the temp agency.

Buckle up. There will be turbulence ahead. But the plane will land safely.

Excerpt from “Bitter, Sweet: How to Heal Yourself When Your Family Is Broken” (Woodhall Press, 2026)

Stephanie Weaver, MPH, is a TEDx speaker coach and chronic illness advocate who distills complex human experiences into accessible, compelling narratives. Her fifth book, “Bitter, Sweet: How to Heal Yourself When Your Family Is Broken,” is a heartfelt exploration of healing from childhood sexual abuse.

The post How to Set Boundaries With Difficult Parents appeared first on L.A. Parent.

The other day, I sat with a new mom while she fed her baby and cried at the same time. She wasn’t crying because something terrible had happened — she was just exhausted. Overstimulated. Trying so hard to do everything “right.”

At one point she looked at me and said, “I don’t even know what I’m supposed to listen to anymore.”

And honestly, I understood exactly what she meant.

As a birth worker serving families throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties, I see this all the time. Parents today have access to more information than ever before, but many feel more anxious, isolated and unsure of themselves than ever.

Everywhere you look, someone is offering advice. One video says your baby should be sleeping independently by a certain age. Another says the opposite. One expert says to follow a strict routine. Another says routines are stressful for children.

Even during pregnancy and postpartum, moms are constantly being told what they should be eating, buying, tracking or preparing for.

It’s a lot.

Too much information; not enough support

I think social media has created this feeling that there’s a “correct” way to parent and that if you just research enough, buy the right products or follow the right routines, you can somehow avoid mistakes.

But parenting doesn’t really work like that.

Babies are different. Families are different. Parents are different. And sometimes, all the information online just leaves people feeling more disconnected from themselves.

I’ve worked with mothers who spend hours reading parenting advice at 2 a.m. while questioning every decision they make. I’ve also seen parents feel guilty for not enjoying every second of early motherhood because online it can seem like everyone else is handling things perfectly.

Meanwhile, many new parents are deeply overwhelmed and barely getting enough sleep.

Parenting was never meant to be this lonely

One thing I hear from families over and over again is how alone they feel.

A lot of parents are raising babies far away from family or without the kind of community support people used to have naturally. Many are trying to balance work, household responsibilities, recovery and childcare all at once. And even though we’re more digitally connected than ever, many parents still feel like they have nobody to really lean on.

Sometimes what helps most isn’t another parenting podcast or a new routine chart. Sometimes, it’s simply having someone sit with you and remind you that you’re doing OK.

That support matters more than people realize.

Learning to trust yourself again

One of the most important things I try to remind parents is that they do not need to perform parenthood perfectly. Children don’t need parents who have all the answers every moment of the day. They need parents who are present, loving and supported themselves.

Some of the moments children remember most are usually the simple ones anyway. Eating popsicles outside. Being rocked to sleep. Listening to stories before bed. Sitting together after a hard day. Those moments don’t usually make it onto social media, but they matter.

I think many parents are craving permission to slow down a little and stop feeling like every decision carries enormous weight. At the end of the day, parenting is not about perfection. It’s about connection.

And most parents are doing far better than they think.

Rachael Jerahian is the founder of Nature & Nourish Birthing Co., where she supports women through pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood with holistic care from bump through baby. Find her on social media @natureandnourishbirthingco and at natureandnourishbirthingco.com.

The post Parental Burnout: Why Parents Feel Overwhelmed and What Helps appeared first on L.A. Parent.

More than 80 young people took to the field recently  for “Goals for Good,” a community youth soccer event hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) in partnership with Herbalife at the organization’s Challengers Club in South Los Angeles. 

The afternoon brought together local youth ages 7 to 14 for soccer drills, skill-building activities and mentorship, capping the club’s spring soccer programming as it heads into a new summer season. 

During the event, the Herbalife Family Foundation presented BGCMLA with a $45,000 grant to support youth nutrition and wellness programming and expand access to safe, structured summer activities for young people and families across the community. 

The grant reflects the broader mission of the Herbalife Family Foundation, which works to improve the lives of children and families through better nutrition and wellness. Each year, the Foundation reaches approximately 200,000 children across 62 countries. 

Participants ran drills and games led by USC student athletes and community volunteers. LA Galaxy midfielder Troy Elgersma made a special appearance alongside team mascot Cozmo and members of the LA Galaxy Star Squad, joining the youth for activities and photos. 

“At Herbalife and the Herbalife Family Foundation, we believe that helping young people build healthy habits today can create stronger communities tomorrow,” said Ibi Montesino, managing director of Herbalife’s North America region. “We’re proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles and invest in programs that help young people thrive.”

The event was part of Herbalife’s Fuel Like Ronaldo campaign, which is rooted in the company’s longtime partnership with soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo and encourages young people and families to build everyday habits around nutrition, hydration and movement, inspired by the routines of elite athletes. 

The post Youth Soccer Event Supports Kids in South Los Angeles appeared first on L.A. Parent.

This summer is transforming Los Angeles into something much grander than a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026. That’s because the events aren’t just happening inside stadiums like SoFi — they’re spilling into parks, beaches, museums, shopping centers, transit hubs and waterfront destinations across the region.

What FIFA calls “The Beautiful Game” will host eight matches, including the U.S. Men’s National Team opening match. Global soccer fans will be able to enjoy 39 days of World Cup-related activities across Los Angeles when the tournament takes place June 11–July 19.

Many families (like mine) aren’t even big sports fans, but it is exciting to find ways to become a part of this global moment, where excellence and diversity are celebrated on the world stage. From giant watch parties and interactive soccer clinics for all ages to cultural festivals and international food experiences, this summer is chock full of free, family-friendly ways to enjoy the World Cup

Grab the whole family and bask in hearing different languages, trying new foods, watching multiple country flags flown and meeting soccer fans from around the world. 

Best win: You don’t need a soccer match ticket to be part of it.

Below is your guide to the most family-friendly ways to experience the World Cup this June and July.

Bronze Final and Final World Cup Watch Parties

Two free events at Chase Burton Park

Gather at Burton Chace Park for a full day of waterfront fun featuring live World Cup soccer broadcast, kids art activities, food trucks, beer garden (21+ only) and a live performance by the legendary Los Lobos —all with FREE admission.

BONUS: Tap Truck Beach Cities will serve craft beer and wine from a beautifully restored vintage tap truck throughout the day and evening (21+ with valid ID), making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the festivities.

12 p.m.–6 p.m.: Kids Art Corner 

12 p.m.–8:30 p.m.: Gourmet Food Trucks 

12 p.m.–8:30 p.m.: Tap Truck Beach Cities | 21+ only (valid ID required)

2 p.m.–4 p.m.: World Cup Match: Bronze Final – Live!

Hammer Museum watches

July 18 – 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m.: Los Lobos Concert. Watch all of the remaining Men’s World Cup games at the Hammer—on big screens, with friends and fellow fanatics, in an indoor/outdoor setting where art and sport come together. All  games will be presented on a giant screen in our courtyard, the Billy Wilder Theater, as well as Bay-Nimoy Studio.

Doors will open one hour before the first match of the day.

Schedule: 

Saturday, July 18: Bronze Final
2 p.m. France vs. England

Sunday, July 19: Final
12 p.m. Spain vs. Argentina

L.A. World Cup Watch Parties: Expert Tips for Families

Age-appropriate events

• Ages 0–5: Stick to the LA County Library “Summer of Soccer” events or Pasadena Civic Plaza for plenty of open grass and low-stakes fun.
• Ages 6–12: Head straight to Kick It In the Park for the free PlayLA skills clinics where they can burn off energy.
• Ages 13+: Soak up the massive stadium energy at the LA Memorial Coliseum Fan Festival or the outdoor screens at Ovation Hollywood.

The Diaper Bag Exception: Even venues with strict clear bag policies (like stadium lots and major fan festivals) almost always make exceptions for diaper bags and medical supplies.

Pack the “Freeze” Trick: Some official fan festivals prohibit outside food, but neighborhood park watch parties are completely BYO-friendly. For park events, freeze juice boxes and water bottles the night before. They act as ice packs in your bag, then melt into perfectly slushy drinks by halftime!

Stroller vs. Carrier: For massive outdoor turf events (like Hansen Dam or Venice Beach), push strollers can get tough to navigate through grass, sand and crowds. If you have a toddler or baby, a wearable baby carrier will give you much more freedom to move.

Locate the “Shade Anchor” First: The moment you walk into any outdoor watch party, locate the nearest permanent shade structure, cooling tent or large tree. Make this your designated family base camp to escape the midday heat.

Official Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zones

Los Angeles World Cup 26 Fan Zone at Hansen Dam Lake

July 2–5 | San Fernando Valley

One of the largest and most family-focused fan destinations in the region, Hansen Dam Lake transforms into a four-day outdoor festival with massive screens, open-air viewing and interactive soccer programming.

Highlights include:

• Round of 32 and quarter-final matches
• Four large match screens
• Kids’ soccer clinics, face painting, balloon artists, stilt walkers 
• Freestyle soccer performances and clinics
• DJs, giveaways, and live entertainment
• Global food trucks and festival-style dining

Designed for all-day family visits, this San Fernando Valley destination is built for space, comfort, and community viewing. General admission is $25. Learn more at fanzonehdl.com/e/hansen-dam-lak-fan-zone.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park Fan Zone

July 4–5 | Willowbrook/South L.A.

A major Independence Day weekend destination, this South L.A. Fan Zone brings free World Cup programming into one of the city’s most important community parks: L.A. County’s Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park. 

Expect:

• Round of 16 matches
• Live match broadcasts
• Cultural performances
• Family activities and interactive zones
• Food vendors and community programming

Visit discoverlosangeles.com for more. 

Venice Beach Fan Zone

July 10–11 | 1 Winward Ave., Venice

The World Cup comes to the Pacific Ocean for these activations on one of the most iconic beaches in the world. 

Highlights include:

• Knockout stage matches
• Free public block party
• Family watch party
• 18+ After party
• Quarterfinal match screenings
• International food vendors
• Live DJs and performances
• Family-friendly beach programming

Learn more at discoverlosangeles.com.

West Harbor Fan Zone (San Pedro Waterfront)

July 14–15 & July 18–19

This developing 42-acre destination along the waterfront is welcoming visitors for a first look into the evolving destination during the fan zone, featuring live match broadcasts on large screens, sponsor activations, entertainment, interactive fan experiences along the waterfront and food and beverage activations from forthcoming West Harbor tenants.

Other highlights:

• Will feature semi-final and final matches
• New vendors selling pizza, empanadas, ice cream and aguas frescas
• Walkable open-air design

Learn more at tickets.westharborla.com.

Fairplex Fan Zone

July 14–15 & July 18–19 | Pomona

A standout destination for families and kids, Fairplex blends soccer with education and play.

Features include:

• Semi-finals, bronze and final matches
• Soccer skill challenges and games
• “Science of Soccer” exhibits
• Mascots and family entertainment
• Large-scale outdoor viewing areas

Learn more at discoverlosangeles.com.

Los Angeles Union Station Fan Zone

June 25–28 | Downtown L.A.

An historic and iconic Los Angeles landmark, Los Angeles Union Station will host a free fan experiences, and reservations are now open on eventbrite.com. 

Highlights:

• Featuring the marquee international matchups, including USA vs. Turkey
• Massive LED match viewing screens
• DJ sets and live entertainment
• Soccer skill challenges (“Train Like a Pro”)
• Food vendors and cultural programming
• Metro-themed art installations and transit experiences
• Metro will activate with a 40-foot World Cup-wrapped bus, providing guests with a fun photo moment
• The Metro TAP & Info Dome, located in the station’s waiting room, will offer transit guidance and commemorative TAP card sales, connecting fans to World Cup venues and cultural hubs across Los Angeles

Nearby El Pueblo de Los Angeles and LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes will add cultural programming and community events. Learn more at unionstationla.com.

Regional Watch Parties and Kid Activities

Kick It In the Park

June–July (Multiple Dates)

Kick It In the Park is making sure the World Cup reaches every corner of the city — from the San Fernando Valley to the Harbor, from Westside parks to East L.A. recreation centers.

These free, BYO-friendly events transform City of L.A. Parks sites into vibrant gathering spaces where you and the kids can watch the matches on large LED screens surrounded by youth soccer clinics, neighborhood programming and community resources. No ticket, no cost, no barriers.

Learn more at kickit.lacity.gov.

GAME ON! at California Science Center

Ongoing | Los Angeles

How cool would it be if your soccer-loving child could get kicking advice from Angel City FC’s sister duo Alyssa and Gisele Thompson? At GAME ON!, young athletes can learn the science behind all manner of sports — and play as well. The 17,000-square-feet exhibition is included with free admission to the California Science Center.

Learn more at californiasciencecenter.org.

Santa Monica World Cup Celebrations

June–July (Multiple Dates)

Santa Monica hosts a series of free public activations across the city, including Third Street Promenade and beach-adjacent programming. 

Includes:

• USA vs. Paraguay match viewing
• Golden Hour on June 12, a free World Cup event, on Third Street Promenade
• Free, all-day USA Kickoff Celebration at Santa Monica Place on June 12
• COAST open-streets festival featuring art installations, cultural programming and more  on July 19
• Outdoor screenings, food vendors and family activities
• Cultural programming across Downtown Santa Monica and beach areas

Learn more at santamonica.gov.

Ovation Hollywood Watch Parties

Beginning June 11 | Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood becomes a fan hub with free outdoor screenings and interactive programming at Ovation Hollywood. 

Includes:

• Big-screen match viewing
• Soccer-themed activations
• Food and beverage vendors
• Family-friendly entertainment and giveaways

Learn more at ovationhollywood.com.

Shops at Montebello “Kick Into Summer” Watch Party

June 19 | Montebello

A community-centered watch party featuring:

• Live USA vs. Australia match screening
• DJ and entertainment
• Face painting and foosball
• Family-friendly fan activities

Learn more at shopsatmontebello.com. 

World Play Zone (Metro E Line Adjacent)

June 11–28 | Santa Monica

A ticketed family activation designed for kids and young fans. Located at the Downtown Santa Monica Metro Station (E Line) Kiss and Ride lot.

Includes:

• Soccer skill stations
• Interactive play zones
• Sports challenges and activities

Learn more at santamonicacup.com..

LEGOLAND California FIFA World Cup Experience

June 11–July 19 | Carlsbad

LEGOLAND California Resort is bringing the action to families with a limited-time, interactive LEGO World Cup experience, which will a LEGO version of SoFi Stadium, one of the official tournament venues, in MINILAND USA.

The experience is included with regular admission. Other highlights:

• LEGO penalty shootouts
• Build-your-own jersey stations
• LEGO soccer legends (Messi, Mbappé, Ronaldo)
• Trophy photo opportunities

July 11 | Venice

Lifeway Foods is hosting a World Cup watch party from 1 p.m.–4:30 p.m. at 1041 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public, packed with good vibes and gut-loving probiotics. Enjoy the World Cup quarterfinal match plus plenty of activities for all ages — soccer games for the kids, a prize wheel loaded with swag, Guess Who, cornhole, a photo booth, live music and sampling delicious smoothies and appetizers featuring Lifeway products! 

RSVP (required) here. The first 50 guests will also receive a VIP goody bag full of fun swag!

Food, Lifestyle & Brand Experiences

Beverly Hills World Cup Dining & Cultural Program

June 12–July 10

Across hotels and restaurants, Beverly Hills offers World Cup-inspired menus, cocktails and limited-time experiences.

Highlights include:

• Global-inspired tasting menus
• World Cup-themed cocktails
• Luxury hotel dining activations
• Limited-edition merchandise drops

Learn more at lovebeverlyhills.com.

Participating properties include Avalon Beverly Hills, The Beverly Hills Hotel, L’Ermitage, Marea, SIXTY Beverly Hills, and The Maybourne.

Magnolia Bakery World Cup Specials

May 12–July 19

A World Cup-themed dessert lineup includes:

• Soccer cupcakes
• DIY banana pudding kits
• Soccer cakes and party assortments
• Limited-time game-day treats

Learn more at magnoliabakery.com.

Prince St. Pizza “Slice to Win” Sweepstakes

May 4–June 8 | Downtown L.A.

Fans can enter to win World Cup tickets through loyalty purchases and participation. Learn more at princestreetpizza.com. 

Soccer Legends Suite at The Anthem Hotel

Available throughout the tournament | Inglewood

Want to make the World Cup part of your family getaway? The Anthem Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (located just steps from SoFi Stadium) has unveiled a new Soccer Legends Suite celebrating the legacy of the 2002 U.S. Men’s National Team. The immersive suite features memorabilia from former players including Tony Sanneh, Clint Mathis and Jeff Agoos, along with other iconic pieces of U.S. soccer history. The hotel is also offering World Cup-themed stay packages and special events throughout the tournament. A portion of proceeds from suite bookings will benefit The Sanneh Foundation, which supports youth through sports and education.

Soccer Story Time

If you’re looking to get the littles engaged in all the soccer excitement, check out “¡GOOOOL!: A Bilingual Book of Soccer,” a vibrant bilingual board book designed for kids ages 0 to 6 that introduces Spanish and English soccer vocabulary through the excitement of game day.

The author is Mike Alfaro, the viral creator behind the bestselling cultural phenomenon Millennial Lotería, which critics credit for reinventing the classic Mexican game Lotería into a modern, witty and wildly successful brand.

Told in side-by-side English and Spanish with easy pronunciation guides, Alfaro’s latest book follows a young player chasing the winning goal, weaving language learning ito the drama of a final match, from pre-game cheers to a tense penalty kick and the climactic goal.

The book is part of Alfaro’s Sí Sabo Kids, a bilingual children’s line created to support early language development while celebrating Latino culture through play.

BONUS: Why stop with the World Cup? To get your kids excited about more global sports, check out our article on “Backyard Olympics.”

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