Book lovers have a new way to explore Los Angeles this summer. The inaugural Los Angeles Indie Book Crawl will take place July 24–26 at independent bookstores across the region for a weekend celebrating local booksellers, neighborhood discovery and literary community.

From Manhattan Beach to Montrose, 13 independent bookstores are joining forces to create this unforgettable weekend for L.A. bibliophiles. Events will take place during each bookstore’s regular store hours (check website for information). This special event, modeled after popular book crawls in San Diego and Seattle, is an invitation for readers to explore the diversity of L.A.’s indie bookstores, shop local and have fun while discovering a new favorite read and a new favorite spot to get properly lost in. The event is free and open to everyone.

How the Los Angeles Indie Book Crawl works

Find a new favorite book, make some friends and become a Los Angeles expert as you traverse our local literary landscape. To participate, visit any one of the bookstores anytime between July 24–26 — and make your first purchase of at least $10. From there, you will receive your Book Crawl Passport and first passport stamp.

Then, visit the next bookstore (in no particular order) and make a purchase of $10 or more at each stop. Many prizes and exclusive merchandise are available at every store. Hit as many as you can: The more you visit, the more prizes you accrue. and the more of L.A.’s diverse and welcoming literary scene you get to explore.

Each store has listed its most iconic Los Angeles landmarks as well as neighborhood gems you can add to your L.A. book crawl itinerary.

Grand prize for visiting every store

People who get their passports stamped at all 13 stores will receive a goodie bag full of fun bookish treats including the grand prize: $25 gift cards at each store, totaling $325 in value.

Why independent bookstores matter

“Independent bookstores are having a resurgence,” says Jennifer Caspar, founder and owner of Village Well Books & Coffee, an independent bookstore and café located in downtown Culver City and opened in 2020. “They are the third places people need more than ever in this era of digital optimization, which can be very alienating and lead to loneliness. 

“People still like to browse, touch and see physical books and hang out in stores that are third places, where community and culture — and sometimes coffee! — meet,” she said. “We are modeling our event after the highly popular San Diego Book Crawl and are thrilled that so many great stores are joining together to explore L.A.’s literary scene.”

Supporting independent bookstores in Los Angeles sustains the city’s diverse culture, keeps money in the local economy and provides vital spaces to read, work and be in community with others. Indie shops, the backbone of L.A.’s literary and culture ecosystem, offer human-curated recommendations and serve as essential hubs for local authors, book clubs and grassroots civic engagement.

Visit 13 Independent Bookstores Across Los Angeles

Annabelle’s Book Club LA (Studio City)

The Book Jewel (in the heart of Westchester)

Book Soup, bookseller to the great and famous (West Hollywood)

Chevalier’s Books (Larchmont Village)

Children’s Book World & CBW Teens & Adults (West Los Angeles)

diesel, A Book Store (Santa Monica)

Malik Books (Culver City)

Once Upon A Time, America’s Oldest Children’s Bookstore (Montrose)

pages: a bookstore (Manhattan Beach)

The Ripped Bodice, A Romantic Bookstore (Culver City)

Skylight Books (Hollywood/Los Feliz)

Village Well Books & Coffee (Culver City)

Vroman’s Bookstore (Pasadena)

Plan your book crawl

For hours, location, a description of each store and their event schedules for the weekend, visit laindiebookcrawl.com/about-5.

For more information on the crawl, visit laindiebookcrawl.com and follow on Instagram (@laindiebookcrawl) for updates.

Participants are encouraged to use public transit whenever possible to visit any or all of the bookstores. Check this custom transit map for information on Los Angeles Metro and bus accessibility.

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Nowadays, connected devices have become so integral to family routines in Los Angeles that it is as if almost every waking moment revolves around them. Parents rely on their laptops to go on working, kids do their homework with the help of the internet, family pictures are synced to the cloud storage service and other activities like banking, shopping and watching the latest movies, shows or sports events all take place over shared home networks. Of course, such advances in technology have made life easier and more comfortable, but at the same time have resulted in some very legitimate worries related to privacy and online security.

Luckily, managing and safeguarding your family’s online and digital activities is not beyond the average homeowner. If you adopt just a few easy-to-learn and simple habits, you can by a lot decrease the usual risks of the digital world and at the same time, build up usage and confidence in every family member when using connected devices.

Understanding the Daily Risks

Many parents mistakenly believe that only companies and IT professionals are the targets of cyber threats. Though households are equally and very often targeted. The phishing scam emails pretending to be school updates, fake delivery notifications and fraudulent banking alerts that lure are becoming increasingly convincing. Touching a link in a suspicious email may not only expose your sensitive information but also could bring the installation of harmful software.

The shared home Wi-Fi networks can be another security concern if not adequately protected. Passwords that are not strong or router settings that are outdated may create a vulnerability for all connected devices.

Children who are virtually soaked with the technology of their times may also end up anonymously downloading malicious apps or engaging in freelance personal information through clickbait on websites. That is one of many reasons why you and all family members should digitally secure your home as much as possible.

Steps That Would Greatly Increase Your Security

Don’t worry if you are not very good with technology; you can always improve the online security of your family.

Make your first contact with strong, different passwords for every major account and if managing these passwords becomes difficult, then a password manager may be an answer. Always activate two-factor authentication when offered — most of all for email, bank and online stores.

Keeping your gadgets up to date is just as necessary. Most software updates are essentially security patches that help shield your system against newly discovered vulnerabilities. On top of that, setting your system to install updates automatically is not just handy but a straightforward and very powerful way of maintaining security.

Once parental controls have been set up, it is best to carry out a check of the privacy settings of browsers, apps and social networks regularly to limit the sharing of unnecessary personal information. Educating your kids to identify phishing emails, pop-ups and messages will most often lessen the probability of them being tricked by online frauds.

Extra Protection for Families Using Macs

Many homes in Los Angeles have Apple computers where the whole family works, does school assignments, gets creative and keeps the family organized. Although Macs have very strong security features built-in, it’s a smart idea to get a step ahead in protecting online activity on family-shared devices.

Encrypting your family’s internet connection is a good way to keep it private but the family won’t even notice they’re changing their computer usage. For parents who just want a simple and easy-to-use product, the Mac version of Private Internet Access is available here. Plus regular software updates, strong passwords and safe browser habits, this product can be a reliable way of securing your family’s online exposure.

Discuss Digital Security as a Family Topic

The use of technology in families works best when all members are taught responsible use. For instance, parents and guardians can explain to their children the dangers of sharing personal data with strangers, how to identify scam or fake websites, and topics about when one should seek help. Setting light rules like giving limits on the time of watching TV, games and allowing them to download and use apps can reduce the number of dangers the children may face.

Besides, grown-ups are expected to demonstrate simple, good digital habits like using strong, secret passwords, staying away from potentially dangerous websites and not forgetting to log out of shared user accounts. Family cybersecurity, if it becomes an everyday part of family life, will change securing one’s personal data from being viewed as a difficult and laborious task to a normal thing that everyone wants to do.

Small Actions That Bring Great Peace of Mind

Your security around devices is not about removing all of the possible risks; it’s about making smart, manageable decisions that protect your family’s information over time. Strong passwords, securing your home Wi-Fi, keeping devices updated and, if necessary, adding privacy tools are the four main things parents can do to create safer digital habits without any feeling of being overwhelmed.

Technology is going to continue to be a major part of family life, but with a few commonsense measures in place, Los Angeles parents can not only benefit of it, but also be more sure and safe that their family’s personal data is well protected.

A lifestyle author who writes about parenting, wellness and the evolving rhythms of family life, through relatable stories and honest reflections, Jatin aims to inspire families to slow down, connect deeply and find joy in the small, meaningful moments of everyday living.

The post Why More LA Parents Are Taking Their Family’s Device Security Seriously appeared first on L.A. Parent.

This summer feels especially meaningful for my family. My toddler will start preschool in August, and we’re preparing to welcome our second son this fall. Like so many parents, I’ve found myself thinking about routines, transitions and the kind of childhood I hope to create for my boys.

Everywhere I look, I see advice about avoiding the “summer slide.” Keep the learning going.

As a parent, I understand why. School success matters. I want my children to love learning and walk into school feeling confident and prepared.

But over the past several years, I’ve also had the privilege of leading Friends of the Children–Los Angeles, where every child we serve is paired with a paid, professional mentor — whom we call a Friend — who commits to walking alongside them from kindergarten through high school graduation. That experience has reinforced something I now believe deeply, both as a leader and as a mom.

I’ve come to believe that children don’t experience life in silos, so we shouldn’t support them in silos either.

At Friends of the Children–Los Angeles, we care deeply about school success. We want every child to love learning, graduate from high school and discover what’s possible for their future. But we’ve learned that those outcomes are built on so much more than academics. They’re built on social and emotional development, physical health, meaningful relationships and overall well-being.

Because children are whole people, not test scores.

As parents, I think we know this instinctively. A child who’s hungry, anxious, lonely, exhausted or overwhelmed isn’t in the best position to learn.

That’s why I believe the conversation should be about summer slide and relationships. Summer reading matters. Math matters. School readiness matters. But children are also building confidence, curiosity, emotional security and resilience. Those are the qualities that help them walk back into the classroom ready to learn.

One of the biggest surprises of becoming a parent has been realizing that parenting isn’t just about raising children. It’s also about managing ourselves.

Our children borrow more than our advice. They borrow our calm, our stress and our confidence. Which means one of the greatest gifts we can give them is making sure we have enough support to keep showing up as the parents we want to be.

I’ve also noticed something else as a new parent: It’s incredibly easy to become focused on what’s next. Are they talking enough? Should they know more letters? Is it time for potty training? Do they need another activity?

I recognize that instinct in myself because, at its core, it comes from love. We want our children to thrive. But my work has taught me to ask a different question. Before asking, “What’s next?” I try to ask, “What’s already beautiful about this child?”

Maybe they’re deeply curious. Maybe they’re kind. Maybe they notice every butterfly on a walk or are finally brave enough to try something new. Those strengths deserve our attention, too.

When we talk about the summer slide, we’re often talking about what children might lose. But I find myself wondering what they might gain. If we’re only measuring what they haven’t mastered yet, we risk overlooking the strengths they’re developing every single day.

One of the reasons I care so deeply about this work is because I’ve experienced childhood from two very different perspectives. I grew up with very few resources. We shopped the clearance rack. I qualified for free school lunch. Summer camps and enrichment programs simply weren’t part of my childhood.

Today, I’m raising my sons with opportunities I never had. That’s not something I take for granted. But becoming a parent has reminded me that, regardless of our income, neighborhood or circumstances, most parents are asking the very same questions: Am I doing enough? Is my child okay? Will they grow into a kind, confident person?

What changes isn’t how much we love our children. What changes is the amount of support we have around us.

I’ve yet to meet a parent who didn’t want the very best for their child. I’ve simply met parents with different levels of support, opportunity and resources available to help them get there. That’s one of the reasons I’d love to see us change the way we talk about families navigating adversity.

Too often, we begin with what’s missing. At Friends of the Children–Los Angeles, we try to begin with what’s already there. A family experiencing housing instability isn’t defined only by instability. They may also be remarkably resourceful, resilient and deeply committed to creating a sense of home under incredibly difficult circumstances.

Recognizing those strengths doesn’t diminish the challenges they face. It reminds us that people are always more than the hardest thing they’re going through.

The same is true for children. Children are not their trauma. They’re curious. Creative. Funny. Kind. Resilient.

When we begin with strengths instead of assumptions, everything changes.

Last summer, one of our professional mentors — whom we call a “Friend” — spent every Wednesday with her mentee. Sometimes they went to the library. Other times they explored a park or grabbed lunch together. The activities almost didn’t matter. What mattered was that every Wednesday, that child knew someone was coming.

That’s what makes our model different. Our Friends aren’t volunteers who come and go. They’re trained, paid professionals who make a long-term commitment to a child — from kindergarten through high school graduation. We believe consistency isn’t simply nice to have; it’s one of the most powerful ingredients in healthy child development.

Most parents aren’t looking for someone to replace them. They’re looking for trusted adults who reinforce what they’re already building at home.

Children thrive when they’re surrounded by caring adults who know them, believe in them and keep showing up over time.

One of the things I love most about raising a family in Los Angeles is that children grow up surrounded by people who shape them in big and small ways — a teacher, a coach, a neighbor, another parent or a mentor. We all become part of one another’s village.

As parents, we spend a lot of time asking, What should my child be doing this summer? Maybe another question is just as important:Who are the adults helping my child become who they’re meant to be?

This summer, I hope we worry a little less about checking every developmental box and spend a little more time noticing the child right in front of us.

The one who asks a hundred questions.

The one who notices every butterfly.

The one who’s finally brave enough to try something new.

Those moments are building something, too.

So yes, read together. Visit the library. Go to the beach. Explore a museum. Cook dinner together. Get bored enough to imagine something new. But don’t underestimate the ordinary moments: the conversations in the car, the trusted adult who keeps showing up and the confidence that’s quietly growing.

Maybe the real measure of summer isn’t just what our children learned. It’s who they became — and who helped them get there.

Jorie Das is executive director of Friends of the Children–Los Angeles. 

The post Beyond the Summer Slide: What Kids Really Need to Thrive appeared first on L.A. Parent.

For 100 years, LAPL has helped Angelenos discover new worlds through books, research school projects and family histories, learn new skills and connect with the larger community. And the library possesses an uncanny ability to reinvent itself: rebuilding Central Library after a devastating fire in 1986, finding new ways to provide services to people in need, fighting against book banning, creating a makerspace lab named in honor of the great sci-fi novelist Octavia E. Butler and running one of the wittiest and most culturally engaging Instagram accounts in the social media universe. 

As the iconic Art Deco landmark celebrates “Central 100” this year — with special exhibits, multiple programs and events (including the Centennial Festival on July 11), online podcasts and blogs and an old-fashioned melodrama to close out the year —families have plenty of reasons to join the party and the memory-making journey. And don’t forget to pick up your free copy of L.A. Parent magazine at nearly 70 branches!

LAPL Timeline

Central 100 Summer Bucket List

□ Attend the July 11 Centennial Festival
□ Explore a centennial exhibit
□ Pick up a special Central 100 library card
□ Complete a reading challenge
□ Collect and stamp catalog cards
□ Take a docent-led architecture tour
□ Visit a neighborhood branch
□ Share a family memory with the Oral History Project

Library Events for All

Centennial Festival – July 11: The biggest celebration of the year is a free, family-friendly festival held both inside and outside Central Library. Expect hands-on crafts, musical and dance performances, author talks, artist presentations, book signings and activities for all ages.

Central Library Stories – Dec. 5–6 and 12-13: A lively, family-friendly melodrama will chart the ups and downs — and twists and turns — that led to the building we have today and will take place at the end of the year with free performances.

Find dozens more events at branches across the city can be found on lapl.org. And check out six special centennial exhibits exploring the library’s history and impact. Includes two recently opened time capsules.

More Ways to Celebrate

Go on a library adventure. Visit Central Library or any LAPL branch to pick up special centennial color-by-number sheets featuring scenes from the library. Families can also participate in a reading challenge while exploring different library locations. And don’t forget to order your limited-edition Central 100 library card!

Collect history. One of the most creative centennial activities invites visitors to collect historic catalog cards and stamp them at library branches throughout the city. Turn them into keepsakes, collages or family art projects.

Share your story. Families can contribute memories through the Community Oral History Project, helping preserve personal stories connected to one of Los Angeles’ most beloved institutions.

“L is for Librarian.” The first children’s book published by Angel City Press introduces kids to the ABCs of Los Angeles Central Library.

Explore the Octavia Lab. Named in honor of the legendary science-fiction author Octavia E. Butler, the library’s makerspace offers opportunities to create, invent and learn, using modern technology and hands-on tools.

For littles, tweens and teens. Central Library continues to host storytimes, performances, workshops, teen programs, films and special events throughout the year.

Free architecture tours. Central Library is one of L.A.’s most beautiful buildings. Guided tours reveal hidden details, artwork and stories behind the landmark’s famous “Light of Learning” theme.

The post Happy 100th Birthday, L.A. Central Library: Family Guide to Central 100 Events appeared first on L.A. Parent.

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.

The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education has appointed longtime educator Andrés E. Chait as superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, making permanent the leadership role he has held on an interim basis since February. The former superintendent, Alberto Carvalho, resigned June 21 amid federal investigations.

The new appointment comes as the district works to maintain academic progress, address financial challenges and provide stability for nearly 400,000 students.

Chait, who began his career with LAUSD as a kindergarten teacher nearly three decades ago, was unanimously selected by the school board after serving as acting superintendent through labor negotiations, budget planning and the completion of the 2025-26 school year. Board members cited his institutional knowledge, collaborative leadership style and commitment to students as key reasons for the appointment.

“At this moment, our students, families, employees and communities deserve stability, focus and confidence in the future of Los Angeles Unified,” Board President Scott Schmerelson said.

Throughout his career with LAUSD, Chait has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Local District superintendent, superintendent of Local District Northeast, chief of school operations and acting superintendent, giving him experience in both classroom instruction and districtwide leadership.

“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as superintendent of Los Angeles Unified,” Chait said. “This district has shaped my life and career.”

He said his priorities include strengthening academic outcomes, supporting educators and staff, maintaining safe school environments and ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education.

Board members said appointing Chait provides continuity at a critical time as the district advances key academic, financial and operational priorities.

The post Andrés E. Chait Named LAUSD Superintendent appeared first on L.A. Parent.

By Duncan Macnally, GoSkate

The countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles is already creating excitement across Southern California. For many families, the upcoming Games are more than just a global sporting event — they are an opportunity to inspire children to become more active, develop new skills and perhaps even dream about competing on the world stage one day.

With Los Angeles preparing to host athletes from around the globe, interest in Olympic sports among young people is growing rapidly. Parents are searching for activities that go beyond traditional recreational programs, looking for sports that build confidence, discipline and lifelong healthy habits.

The good news is that Los Angeles offers a wide variety of Olympic sports programs designed specifically for children. Whether a child is interested in swimming, tennis, archery, gymnastics or track and field, there are opportunities throughout the city to get started.

Why Olympic Sports Are Great for Kids
Sports provide much more than physical exercise. They help children develop important life skills that can benefit them both on and off the field of play. Participation in organized sports encourages:

• Goal setting and perseverance
• Teamwork and communication
• Self-confidence and resilience
• Physical fitness and coordination
• Time management and responsibility

Children also gain exposure to positive coaching environments where effort, sportsmanship and personal improvement are emphasized. These experiences often become valuable lessons that stay with them throughout life.

With LA28 approaching, many young athletes are becoming fascinated by the sports they see featured in Olympic coverage. Trying an Olympic sport early can help children discover a passion that lasts for years.

Swimming: The Foundation of Athletic Success
Swimming has long been one of the most popular Olympic sports — and for good reason. It develops cardiovascular fitness, full-body strength, flexibility and coordination while teaching a skill that can enhance safety around water.

Many families in Los Angeles choose to enroll children in structured swim lessons to help them build confidence in the water while learning proper techniques. Young swimmers can begin with basic water-safety skills before progressing to competitive strokes and race training.

Swimming is particularly appealing because children can start at a young age and continue developing their abilities through adolescence and beyond. Whether a child dreams of competing or simply wants to stay active, swimming provides a strong athletic foundation.

The visibility of Olympic swimming stars often motivates kids to work hard in the pool and imagine what might be possible with dedication and consistent practice.

Tennis: A Sport for Every Age
Tennis has produced some of the most memorable Olympic moments and remains one of the most accessible sports for children in Los Angeles.

One of the advantages of tennis is that kids can begin learning at nearly any age. Modified equipment and smaller courts allow younger players to experience success early while developing proper technique.

Programs such as TennisProNow lessons make it easier for families to introduce children to the sport through structured coaching and age-appropriate instruction. As skills improve, young athletes can participate in local competitions and continue progressing toward higher levels of play.

Beyond the physical benefits, tennis teaches patience, strategic thinking and emotional control. Players learn how to handle pressure, adapt to challenges and take responsibility for their performance.

With tennis scheduled to be a major attraction during LA28, many young Angelenos are already picking up a racket and discovering why the sport remains popular worldwide.

Archery: Precision, Focus, and Confidence
Archery may not always receive the same attention as swimming or basketball, but it continues to attract young athletes looking for a unique challenge.

Olympic archery combines concentration, discipline and technical skill. Success depends on consistency and focus, rather than physical size or strength, making it an excellent option for children with different athletic backgrounds. Young archers learn:

• Hand-eye coordination
• Mental focus
• Patience and self-discipline
• Goal setting
• Performance under pressure

Los Angeles offers several youth-friendly archery programs where beginners can safely learn proper shooting techniques under qualified instruction. Many children are surprised by how rewarding the sport becomes once they start seeing their accuracy improve.

As archery gains exposure through Olympic coverage, more families are discovering it as an exciting alternative to traditional sports.

Gymnastics: Building Athletic Foundations
Gymnastics has been inspiring young athletes for generations. The sport develops strength, flexibility, balance and body awareness while encouraging confidence and creativity.

Many athletic skills learned through gymnastics transfer to other sports. Children who participate often develop excellent coordination and movement patterns that benefit them later in activities such as diving, soccer, basketball and track and field.

Youth gymnastics programs throughout Los Angeles offer classes ranging from beginner recreational sessions to advanced competitive training. These programs provide structured environments where children can progress at their own pace while celebrating individual achievements.

The excitement surrounding Olympic gymnastics frequently motivates young participants to challenge themselves and pursue new skills.

Track and Field: The Heart of the Olympics
When many people think about the Olympics, they immediately picture track-and-field events. Running, jumping and throwing competitions represent some of the purest forms of athletic achievement.

Track and field offers tremendous variety, allowing children to explore different disciplines and discover their strengths. Some may excel in sprinting, while others prefer distance running, hurdles, long jump or throwing events. The benefits include:

• Improved endurance
• Enhanced speed and agility
• Stronger muscles and bones
• Better overall fitness
• Increased confidence

Youth track clubs throughout Los Angeles welcome participants of all ability levels and provide opportunities to compete in local meets.

Because many events require minimal equipment, track and field remains one of the most accessible Olympic sports available to young athletes.

Volleyball: A Growing Favorite
Volleyball continues to gain popularity among children and teenagers across Southern California. Both indoor and beach volleyball are Olympic sports, making Los Angeles an ideal place to learn. The sport develops:

• Teamwork
• Coordination
• Agility
• Communication skills
• Quick decision-making

Beach volleyball is especially appealing in Los Angeles thanks to the region’s famous coastline and year-round outdoor weather.

Many youth programs focus on skill development while creating fun, supportive environments where players can build friendships and confidence.

Fencing: A Unique Olympic Experience
Fencing often captures children’s attention because it looks unlike any other sport they have encountered. This fast-paced Olympic event combines athletic movement with strategic thinking. Participants must react quickly while planning their next move and adapting to their opponent’s tactics. Fencing teaches:

• Discipline
• Focus
• Agility
• Strategic decision-making
• Respect for opponents

Several fencing clubs throughout Los Angeles offer beginner programs designed specifically for children, making it easier than ever to explore this distinctive Olympic sport.

Finding the Right Sport for Your Child
Not every child will immediately fall in love with the first sport they try, and that is perfectly normal. Parents should encourage exploration and allow children to experience different activities before making long-term commitments. The goal is not necessarily to create future Olympians but to help young people find something they genuinely enjoy.

When choosing a sport, consider:

• Your child’s interests
• Personality and learning style
• Physical abilities
• Scheduling flexibility
• Long-term enjoyment

Children who feel supported and encouraged are more likely to stay engaged and continue developing their skills.

The LA28 Effect
Hosting the Olympics creates a unique opportunity for local communities. Young athletes can watch world-class competitors perform in their own city and see firsthand what dedication and hard work can achieve.

The excitement surrounding LA28 is already inspiring families to become more involved in youth sports. Participation in Olympic-style activities can help children stay active, build confidence and create positive memories that last a lifetime.

While only a small number of young athletes will eventually compete in the Olympics, the lessons learned through sports are valuable for everyone. Whether a child chooses swimming, tennis, archery, gymnastics or another Olympic discipline, the journey itself often becomes the greatest reward.

As Los Angeles prepares to welcome the world in 2028, now may be the perfect time for local kids to discover their own Olympic dreams. The next generation of athletes is already taking shape, one lesson, practice and competition at a time.

Dunan Macnally is a Growth Marketing Expert at GoSkate, a passionate skateboarding brand dedicated to making skating accessible, fun and inclusive for enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. With a focus on quality gear, community events and inspiring the next generation of skaters, GoSkate helps riders express themselves and push their limits on and off the board. Learn more at goskate.com.

The post Where Kids in Los Angeles Can Try Olympic Sports Before LA28 appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Happy 100th birthday, Central Library! Los Angeles Public Library’s architectural icon marks its centennial in 2026. The year-long festivities for Central 100 include special exhibits, multiple programs and events, a family-friendly festival on July 11, online podcasts and blogs, two new books about Central Library and even an old-fashioned melodrama to close out the year.

An Art Deco masterpiece in downtown L.A., Central Library is not only a showcase for stunning art and architecture, but also a thriving community hub that welcomes thousands of visitors every week to read, research, tour its wonders and attend programs for all ages. The institution has evolved since the building, themed to the Light of Learning, first opened in 1926. The passing decades saw the Library survive calls for its demolition, recover from a disastrous fire and double its footprint and capacity during renovations that added a spectacular eight-story atrium with the Tom Bradley Wing. Central Library stands today ready to meet the needs of the city for the next 100 years.

A centerpiece of Central 100 celebrations are six new exhibits displayed throughout the building that explore the Library’s storied past — including two recently opened time capsules — as well as the services and resources on which Angelenos have relied for a century.

Visitors to Central Library or any of Los Angeles Public Library’s 72 branches can pick up one of three color-by-number sheets (each depicting a Central Library view) to participate in a reading challenge. Another hands-on activity is to collect a set of historic catalog cards that can be individually stamped at each library location or used to create a personal art project, such as a collage or paper sculpture. Feel free to request additional cards as the Library has plenty of them! 

You can also record your personal stories about Central Library with the Community Oral History project. Angel City Press, Los Angeles Public Library’s own publishing house, is releasing two new books that may be purchased at Central Library’s Library Store or through other booksellers.

Los Angeles Central Library POPS: Celebrating a Century of the Light of Learning is a unique, collectible pop-up book for adult readers. 
L is for Librarian: The ABCs of Los Angeles Central Librarian, a picture book, is the first book for children published by Angel City Press.

The Central Library Centennial Festival on July 11 will welcome visitors of all ages to a free day-long extravaganza held both inside and outside the Library. Activities will include musical and dance performances, hands-on crafts for children, author talks, presentations by artists affiliated with the Library’s art installations, book signings and more. It’s a party held only once every 100 years!

It took 50 years from the founding of Los Angeles Public Library to create a dedicated headquarters building, Central Library. A lively melodrama that charts the ups and downs, and twists and turns, that led to the building we have today will open at the end of the year for free performances on Dec. 5-6 and 12-13. Save the date so you and your family can boo the villain and cheer the heroes!

While many special activities are being held during this anniversary year, Central Library welcomes visitors year-round with story times for multiple age groups, performing arts programs, workshops, teen activities, films and a dedicated makerspace (the Octavia Lab). Plus, highly trained docents offer free tours of the building’s amazing architecture with insights into the Library’s themes and history.

Visit lapl.org to learn more and to access library resources 24/7 with a library card — perhaps even a special edition Central 100 Library Card, available while supplies last. Join the celebration and wish Central Library a very happy birthday with many amazing years to come.

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Altadena students recently got a hands-on introduction to soccer when U.S. Soccer (through the Soccer Forward Foundation) and Bank of America launched their new Soccer at Schools initiative with a kickoff at Odyssey Charter School in Altadena. The program is designed to expand access to the sport in schools across the country by 2030.

Students at Odyssey Charter got to participate in a soccer clinic with soccer superstar David Beckham and received soccer equipment and Angel City FC forward Sydney Leroux, placing a national youth-sports campaign in a community still rebuilding after last year’s wildfires.

“Soccer has been the foundation of my life, which started with incredible support at school and in my local community through well-trained coaches, volunteers and access to facilities and equipment,” said Beckham, Bank of America Global Sports Ambassador and Principal for a Day. “Soccer at Schools is built on that very same approach — that all children should have the support and access they need to succeed. I look forward to seeing the impact that will be made for young people in their communities with this long-term programming announced today.”

Bank of America said the initiative fits within its wider Sports with Us platform, which focuses on using sports to strengthen communities. And Soccer at Schools represents one of the most significant youth access investments connected to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and is a key pillar of U.S. Soccer’s efforts to make soccer the #1 sport played in every community, officials say. Through equipping and supporting people, places and programs across the country, Soccer Forward is increasing participation, enabling stronger community connections and improving youth health and expanded access to safe places to play.

The initiative will continue with additional events in other cities, including Atlanta, Charlotte and Chicago. A public platform for schools and community organizations to access support is expected to launch this summer.

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Downey families recently got hands-on support for navigating the digital world at Ed. C. Lewis Elementary, where a PTA Connected event offered them online safety guidance, screen-readiness resources and 200 refurbished laptops for preselected attendees.

According to Pew Research, 4 in 10 parents feel they could do better at managing their kids screen time.

“We believe in empowering parents and caregivers with the tools, knowledge and confidence to support healthy screen readiness and digital well-being at home,” said Yesica Vasquez, vice president of the Ed. C. Lewis Elementary PTA. “We are bringing families together to learn, grow and navigate technology safely so every child can thrive both online and offline.”

The event opened with a discussion for parents and caregivers exploring the question, “Is my family screen ready?” Families also participated in activities focused on online safety and building healthy digital habits, using resources from AT&T ScreenReady®. 

Children attending the event engaged in activities inside AT&T’s Mobile Connectivity Center, an 18-wheeler-based hub that provides internet access, devices and digital resources.

“Technology plays an important role in how families learn, connect and navigate daily life, and we know many parents and caregivers are looking for support as they make decisions about their children’s digital experiences,” said Mylayna Albright, vice president of Corporate Responsibility at AT&T. “Through our collaboration with National PTA and programs like Ready, Tech, Go!, AT&T is helping equip families with practical tools, trusted resources and meaningful conversations to build safe, healthy and confident digital habits at home.”

Said Gabe Middleton, CEO of Human-I-T: “Early access to technology isn’t about the technology. It’s about whether a kid grows up feeling like the world is built for them. At Lewis Elementary, AT&T is bringing the connectivity, National PTA is bringing the trust families have in their school and Human-I-T is bringing the devices and the support to keep them working. After 13 years of doing this work, I can tell you the kids who get there early carry that confidence the rest of their lives,”

Ed. C. Lewis Elementary PTA was selected by National PTA to receive $1,500 of support from AT&T to help conduct the program. The school’s PTA is one of 230 elementary school PTAs nationwide selected to receive a grant for the 2025-2026 school year.

“Ed. C. Lewis Elementary PTA and PTAs across the country at all levels work hard every day to make a difference for students, families and schools and make every child’s potential a reality,” said Yvonne Johnson, president of the National PTA.

“We are pleased to equip Ed. C. Lewis Elementary PTA with resources to engage families in a critical dialogue around screen readiness and digital safety and empower them with information and resources to make the best decisions for their families.” 

The program is part of a collaboration between National PTA and AT&T to help address the digital divide. Since 2021, AT&T has committed $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030. 

This includes distributing more than 31,000 computers to students and their families across California since 2021. Additionally, National PTA’s PTA Connected initiative seeks to improve digital access, equity and well-being for all children through tailored programs, resources and more. 

Learn more at  PTA.org/Connected and ATT.com. 

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