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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What You Can Learn from a School Designed for Gifted Students

Qualia: The School for Deeper Learning offers an academic program that is tailored for gifted and highly curious students. As career educators and parents of gifted children, our founders were very familiar with the challenges of educating gifted individuals. These students are highly intelligent but can become frustrated with the standardized pace and conventional approach of a typical classroom. Qualia’s program offers a flexible, high-interest alternative.

The Right Classroom Approach Makes a Meaningful Difference 

Qualia brings the Oxford seminar tradition to life in small, discussion-driven classes. With an average of only 7 students per class, every student has the opportunity to deepen the conversation by asking questions and offering unique perspectives. Longer class periods allow students to deep dive into subjects, share ideas, collaborate with others and propose topics for further exploration and discovery.

When highly curious kids aren’t challenged, the joy and excitement that came home with them during preschool and early elementary school have suddenly come to a halt. Our kids don’t like to solve redundant, unnecessary problems or be told that they ask too many questions. They’re blown away when they come to Qualia and discover they can actually learn without limits.” – Maggie Storm, Admissions Director and Alumni Parent. 

The Qualia approach works for any student who is passionate about learning and enjoys deep thinking. No two Qualia students are the same, and everyone has unique interests. The school honors these interests by customizing assignments, prioritizing passion-driven projects and listening to student voices.

“Along with students who are highly or profoundly gifted we kids who are just excited to embrace their passions.   While our school was developed with gifted students in mind, any student who enjoys exploring topics from multiple perspectives, debating a worthy topic, and exploring the “why” behind a topic will thrive with our approach”. – Jim Hahn, Founder and Head of School

Providing Access to Advanced Coursework is Critical 

Students at Qualia are provided access to unlimited advanced coursework in any area in which they excel. The school believes that passionate students should be able to go as far and as fast as they want to go. If they have mastered everything that the curriculum has offered at a specific grade level and are hungry for more, the school works with them to create higher-level opportunities, including advanced independent study projects and mentorships. Qualia allows middle-school students to take high-school coursework, and any student can take college coursework from one of the unique higher education partnerships that the school offers. 

The Right Leadership and Mentorship is Everything

Qualia’s faculty are subject-matter experts who lead dynamic, democratic classrooms where students weigh in on which aspects of a subject to explore more deeply. The polymathic faculty help learners to connect ideas across multiple disciplines, and are driven by their own curiosity as well as the joy of helping passionate students go deeper. This passion does not stop at the classroom level. The school’s two founders, who have a combined 60 years of experience in other private schools, also work closely with students, teaching advanced classes and providing specialized one-on-one college counseling. 

Deep Dives Into Areas of Passion Lead to Excellent Outcomes

Because the Qualia students have tackled advanced coursework across multiple subjects, they look for college programs that specialize in their area of interest while offering the same opportunities for mentorship and individualized study they’ve enjoyed in middle and high school. 95% of graduating students get into their choice school. Students are well prepared to dive into their studies at top universities such as Brown, NYU, MIT, Vassar, Rhode Island School of Art and Design, UC Berkeley, UCLA and more. 

“We had a senior who developed a passion for mycology communication. By the time she graduated from us with a robust senior thesis on the topic, she was accepted into Rice University, who cleared out a section of their science lab JUST for her to continue pursuing her love of mycology communication — a scientist from the start, not a lab assistant. We were able not only to help further her passion, but also direct her to a college that gave her a jump start in her area of passion. She is doing amazing things, and I don’t know if she would have discovered this passion without our senior thesis program.” – Jon Cassie, Cofounder 

Academic Fit is a Key Factor in Student Success 

Finding a school that has an academic approach that complements the way your child thinks and learns is key to student success. While traditional schools are best for some, and progressive education better for others, matching the school’s modality and pace with your child’s desire to learn is important. This becomes even more crucial if your child is very curious and highly intelligent. In this case, the standard classroom experience could feel slow and can even be unmotivating. Consider connecting with a gifted consultant, or reaching out to individual schools serving this population. Click to learn more about Qualia’s unique offerings for gifted and highly curious students: https://qualiaschool.org/admissions.

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Nestled in the heart of Topanga Canyon, Manzanita School offers a college preparatory K–12 education starting at age 4 that blends rigorous academics with a deep connection to the natural world. Our students learn not just in classrooms — but among oak groves, meadows and the beauty of our 21-acre campus. 

The Forest Kindergarten: A One-of-a-Kind Experience in LA. Manzanita’s Forest Kindergarten is the only program of its kind in Los Angeles. From the very first day, children step into an environment where nature is the classroom. Under the guidance of trained educators, young learners explore forests, streams and open meadows, engaging with the natural world through sensory experiences, imaginative play and hands-on learning.

In this outdoor classroom, children develop far more than just academic skills. They cultivate resilience, interpersonal competence, curiosity and social-emotional intelligence. Whether identifying plants, tracking wildlife or building shelters with sticks and leaves, students learn to take thoughtful risks, solve problems creatively and collaborate with peers. These foundational skills not only foster confidence in young learners, but also set the stage for lifelong learning.

Forest Kindergarten at Manzanita is not a novelty; it is an intentional, research-based approach to early education that recognizes the importance of play, exploration and connection to the environment. It is a program that invites children to be fully present, to follow their curiosity and to develop a profound sense of wonder about the world around them.

A Seamless K–12 Continuum. While Forest Kindergarten lays a strong foundation, Manzanita School’s commitment to education extends through grade 12th, creating a cohesive and continuous learning journey. Students transition from the forest classroom to lower, middle and high school with ease, building on the habits of curiosity, independence and collaboration they developed early on.

A relationship to nature is a critical nutrient for living a full and meaningful life. In the elementary and middle school grades, students spend 40% of their learning time in nature. Science and art come alive through experiments and explorations; reading, writing and mathematics are taught with both rigor and creativity. Teachers tailor instruction to individual students, ensuring that each child is challenged and supported.

By high school, Manzanita students are prepared to excel academically and socially, with opportunities for leadership, community engagement and advanced coursework. Graduates leave ready not only for college but also for life, equipped with the skills to think critically, communicate effectively and navigate challenges with resilience and integrity.

A Community That Values Connection and Growth. Manzanita School is more than an academic institution; it is a vibrant community where students, families and teachers form meaningful connections. The school emphasizes social-emotional learning and encourages students to develop empathy, self-awareness, and a sense of responsibility for their communities.

Students participate in collaborative projects, service-learning opportunities and outdoor adventures that reinforce the values of respect, stewardship and civic engagement. Families are invited to be active partners in their children’s education, contributing to a culture of collaboration and shared purpose.

A Unique Opportunity for Los Angeles Families. 
Manzanita School’s combination of Forest Kindergarten and a full 1–12th program is unmatched in Los Angeles. For families who value curiosity, creativity and connection to the natural world, the school offers an unparalleled educational experience. Students not only achieve academically — they thrive socially, emotionally and physically, gaining the confidence and skills to succeed in school and in life.

Parents often remark on the transformative impact of Manzanita’s approach. Children enter the Forest Kindergarten eager, joyful and curious, and continue to grow into thoughtful, independent and compassionate young adults. The school’s commitment to individualized learning, experiential education and community engagement ensures that each student has the opportunity to discover their passions, develop their talents and make a positive impact on the world.

Visit Manzanita School. Families interested in learning more about this unique educational experience combined with an expeditionary learning program are invited to visit Manzanita School in Topanga Canyon. Explore the campus, meet teachers, learn about our farm-to-table food program and discover how the Forest Kindergarten and 1–12th grade programs work together to nurture lifelong learners and engaged citizens.

Located in Topanga Canyon.
 Forest Kindergarten and 1–12th Education (starting at 4 years of age)
www.manzanitaschool.org or call us at 310-455-9700.

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As Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles proudly celebrates its 60th anniversary, the school continues to build on its legacy of bilingual, bicultural education by expanding opportunities for the youngest learners. This milestone year is marked by the launch of a new Junior Preschool (Toute Petite Section) for 2 year olds, reaffirming the school’s commitment to offering students a strong foundation in both French and American educational traditions from the very beginning.

Founded by Raymond and Esther Kabbaz, Le Lycée transformed California’s educational landscape when, on Aug. 19, 1965, its initiative and efforts led to a change in the state’s Code of Education, allowing core curriculum to be taught in languages other than English. For six decades, the school has embraced bilingualism, multiculturalism, rigorous academics and enriching extracurriculars, while nurturing generations of students from 72 nationalities with more than 33 languages spoken.

The Junior Preschool program, now open at Campus 55 on Overland Avenue, honors the legacy of the school’s former Palisades campus — once home to a beloved Toute Petite Section — and marks a new chapter in Le Lycée’s growth. Licensed by the State of California, the program requires no prior knowledge of French or English and is designed for children of all language backgrounds. “My mother used to tell prospective families, ‘Give me your child to educate and I will give you back two children: one French and one American,’” reflects Clara-Lisa Kabbaz (Le Lycée Class of 1979), Head of Le Lycée. “I am thrilled we can now begin this transformative journey even earlier, as we celebrate our 60th year.”

While the school looks to the future with this expansion, it also takes pride in its alumni whose accomplishments reflect the power of a Lycée education. Among them is Asher Cohen, class of 2021, a true “Lycée Lifer” who entered our school as a preschooler. At only 20 years old, Asher was recently named UC Berkeley’s University Medalist, the top student in the school’s graduation class, a remarkable recognition of his intellectual talent, dedication and humility. A Regent’s Award winner upon entering Berkeley — an honor reserved for the top 1–2% of applicants — Asher excelled across disciplines, from advanced sciences and mathematics to humanities, languages, philosophy and literature. He is now headed to the prestigious Yale University Medical School, where his brilliance will be matched by his compassion and kindness, qualities that have always defined him, the qualities emblematic of Lycée students.

“Asher embodies what makes our students extraordinary,” says Kabbaz. “They become not only leaders in their fields but also gracious, thoughtful, and caring individuals who inspire those around them. The world needs more Asher Cohens.”

From its founding vision to today’s expansion and the ongoing successes of its alumni, Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles remains “your school for life.”

For more information and to apply, visit www.lyceela.org.

Join us at an Open House: Oct. 7, Nov 13, 2025, or Jan. 13, 2026.

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The From Scratch author returns with an intimate audiobook exploring parenthood, reinvention, and the bittersweet journey of letting go.

My girls are only 2 and 6 years old, but I’m already worried about the day I will have to send them off to college. Will they be okay? Will I be okay? Many parents are preparing for this emotional transition as summer ends and freshman orientations begin.

Author of the bestselling memoir “From Scratch” (which was adapted into the Netflix limited series), actor, producer, screenwriter, podcaster and mother Tembi Locke understands this bittersweet moment well, as she recently sent her own daughter off to college.

In her new memoir “Someday, Now,” out September 23, Tembi talks about this tender time of “re-nesting,” when we are presented with the opportunity to re-imagine our lives and begin again. We had the opportunity to ask Tembi about her audiobook, how to stay connected to our dreams during all the phases of parenthood and what advice she’d give to parents who are getting ready to say goodbye to their children this fall.   

Congratulations on your new book, “Someday, Now,” coming out September 23. Tell us a little bit about the book and what inspired you to write it.

“Someday, Now” is an audio original memoir and a deeply personal follow-up to my first memoir and Reese’s Book Club pick “From Scratch.” This immersive listening experience set largely in Sicily is a meditation on what it means to begin again — as a mother, as a woman, and as a self — after the roles we’ve held for so long start to shift.

The story is rooted in a season of profound transition: my daughter preparing to leave for college, my return to Sicily, and the quiet reckoning that came with realizing that “empty nesting” is anything but empty. The audiobook is filled with the sounds, memories, and questions of a woman navigating change not with certainty, but with curiosity, quiet grief, and hope. I wanted to write about the tender and too-often invisible process of becoming — again. And I wanted to create an immersive listening experience that both transports and inspires. “Someday, Now” emerged from my own need to listen in two directions, outward and inward, trusting my intuition, heart and midlife wisdom.

Audiobooks are a beautiful form of storytelling and, when paired with memoir, they can feel like you are listening to a good friend share hard-won wisdom. I hope this one can remind us of the power of listening (to nature and to our own histories), and that it might start beautiful conversations for mothers, families, or anyone standing at a threshold and wondering what comes next.

Did you have a mentor growing up? And what role did that person play in your life and your career?

My greatest mentor growing up was my maternal grandmother, Odell Christine. She was an elementary school educator, a family caregiver, a community leader, a hobbyist gardener, and self-published author. I spent summers in her care, and I watched her be the primary caretaker for her husband and her mother while also pouring into her community and making time to write a book. She lived in a small East Texas town and self-published before the internet existed. Which means she wrote her story without an editor and then found a printing press in another state, then hired an illustrator, shipped her pages off, and contacted the Library of Congress of an ISBN number to register her work. Wow! She did this while making fried pies, clipping coupons, and making sure my sister and I did fun academic work over the summer. From her, I learned how to care deeply about others, how to work hard, and how to vision a future beyond what you can see today. She left an exceptional imprint on my life.

Having sent your own daughter off to college, what would you tell the many parents who are getting ready for this big transition this fall? What do you wish you had known in preparing for this moment?

Now that my daughter is in college, I tell parents that this new phase of parenting will have ups and downs, not unlike the early years of parenthood. You are trying to learn your new role as parent to an adult-ish child, you are trying to interpret their communication clues, and you are trying to stay connected with them as their world expands in directions you can’t always see. My friend calls it the “catch and release” phase of parenting. We are on standby when needed, to catch them if they fall or just when they come home on break from school and want a full fridge and a car with gas in the tank. Then, they disappear again into their emerging adult life. I wish I had known the first year my daughter was off in school that missing her would come on so intensely, particularly the memories of the part of her childhood that were gone forever. But that it would also pass, and joy would fill the space. I wish I had known that I would need rituals and self-care to honor the parts of me that had parented the best I knew how and raised a kind human. And I wish I had known that every tearful phone call home wasn’t a four-alarm fire. I now ask, “Is this an emergency or would you just like me to listen?” Often, listening is what is needed.

For those of us still in the trenches of early parenthood it can be hard to remember our own dreams and inspirations—who we were before children. As someone who has followed their passions, which led to a successful acting career, creating your wonderful podcast “Lifted,” writing a bestseller “From Scratch,” and more, what advice would you give? How can parents hold on to, or rediscover their sense of self?

Staying connected to aspects of my creative dreams and my personal interests before motherhood was like oxygen for me while I was in the trenches of parenting. Tending to my own dreams made me feel that I had a fresh perspective, renewed energy and personal joy that I could bring to my interactions with her. She got more of me, if I had more of me. I wasn’t glamorous and didn’t always feel consistent or organized. Sometimes I felt guilty. But I did it anyway. I journaled and took walks, and I treated myself to lunch dates and creative outings. When she was young, we often did a version of “parallel play.” She would draw or write or build blocks or paint seated right next me while I worked on something that gave me joy. It kept her busy, she felt connected, and I got to do some activity that felt nice to me. I hoped I was modeling for her that her interests, dreams and creativity matter. But so do mine. When she got older, especially in high school, I could not only see the writing on the wall that she would be leaving. But I felt it, deeply. It felt like grief mixed in with joy. That was when I got more intentional about how I poured into a future me that would not be doing carpool pick up or organizing a school calendar. A me that had more time. I knew that tending to my wholeness, creatively and professionally, would matter when she was growing into her new life. So I got curious about the “what if” questions deep in my heart. And I made a commitment to try one “what if.” That exercise in trust and dreaming became “Lifted,” the podcast where I have in-depth and inspiring conversations with women who are changing culture, community and commerce.

But once our kids are out of the house, parents face this identity question again. You like to reframe this “empty nesting” phase as a “re-nesting.” What does “re-nesting” mean to you?

“Re-nesting” is my own reimagining of the outdated and, frankly, pejorative concept of “empty nesting.” “Empty” connotes a kind of physical and emotional void that I could not relate to when my daughter was leaving home. No part of me or my home felt empty. What I felt was change, loss, joy and curiosity. Most of my friends felt the same. In this season of life, the entire nest changes, the child changes, but so do the parents/guardians. Re-nesting refers to a period of time when the parent is re-imagining their lives and the home they created. As a mother, I knew I had to reimagine home, our shared interests, our relationships with each other. I like to say that re-nesting is a season of transformation for everyone. It comes with new questions, dynamics, and expansion. And there is a beautiful dynamism that can happen when you approach with intentionality. Life is far from “empty.”

When not working, where will we find you?

When I’m not working, I am generally in one of three places: in my garden, on my couch reading or listening to music, or in Sicily enjoying a sunset.

What are some of your favorite spots and activities in and around L.A.?

After spending nearly my entire adult life here, I love L.A. with the passion of a new convert. My favorite spots are the Descanso Gardens, Watts Towers, Grand Central Market, The Broad, Leimert Park and TreePeople off Mulholland. And now that my husband and I are “re-nesting,” we love to chase sunsets in Santa Monica and do monthly salsa dancing in the public square in Silver Lake.

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A personal reflection on milestones, challenges, and the bittersweet journey of parenting through transition and growth.

Summer often brings moments of celebration and for many families, milestones that mark profound change. This year, my family faced its own rites of passage alongside unexpected challenges, from my son’s prom and graduation to my surgery and recovery. As we embrace these transitions, I’m reminded that parenting is as much about growth for us as it is for our children. Through joy, chaos, and quiet strength, we find new ways to connect, adapt, and move forward together.

By the time you read this, I’ll have undergone surgery and will be (I hope) recovering well at home. While none of us ever wants to go under the knife, the timing was perfect. Since learning last year that I needed surgery, my main refrain was: “Just please let it be after my son’s prom, graduation and college admissions stuff.” In other words, like many moms, I had no time to take care of me. Thankfully, one by one, each of Sol’s senior-year milestones was reached:

He received his college acceptances, then made his final choice.

He attended prom — and on a yacht in Marina del Rey. But on the afternoon of prom, I got my first call ever from a school nurse: Our son had cut his finger on a robotics project and needed stitches! Luckily, my husband got him in and out of a packed urgent care by playing the prom card, and I found the perfect last-minute brooch for his tux by texting him photos from the shop and awaiting his yay or nay responses.

He turned 18!

He graduated — and we parents screamed our heads off as our robe-clad progeny pretended not to hear us.

We threw a backyard garden party to celebrate the graduate’s rite of passage with our extended community.

He got the nose piercing he’s been begging for. “At 18, you don’t need your parents for most stuff,” he told me. Yet, tuition still has to be paid and he still expects my hearty breakfast “sammiches” every morning.

As we cleaned up the party leftovers, I could sense a shift in my parenting journey: In a way, my husband and I were graduates, too.

In June, our digital editor, Nina Harada, attended her eldest’s kindergarten promotion. She emailed the L.A. Parent team after the ceremony: “I barely held it together. I am going to be a MESS for all graduations to follow. Cassandra, how did you survive Sol’s?!”

So far, I’ve held it together, but I have a feeling that come August (campus move-in time), I’ll have had a few breakdowns. And yet, these good cries are like a soft drizzle compared to the storms so many of our fellow families are facing (ICE raids, still trying to find their way after the L.A. fires and more).

I hope you and your family have a safe summer — and that you find ways to play, explore and unplug — even in the midst of chaos. This edition is a beautiful guide to help you do just that.

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C-SPAN and Spectrum representatives recognized the winning students and their teacher, Jeff Montooth, who served as their StudentCam adviser, at an assembly of classmates, teachers, family members and elected officials.

For this year’s competition, C-SPAN, in cooperation with its cable and satellite television partners, asked middle and high school students to address a theme — “Your Message to the President: What issue is most important to you or your community?” In response, nearly 3,500 students from 42 states and Washington, D.C. sent more than 1,700 entries to C-SPAN.

Award-winning documentaries

Several freshmen from Poly High received top honors and cash prizes for their documentaries:

Second-Place Prize ($1,500):

Nolan Sheets, Rene Ortega and Roman Leonor, freshmen, won second prize and $1,500 for the video “Crime: Perception vs. Reality.”

Third-Place Prize ($750):

Sara Kong, a freshman, for the video “Ocean Acidification: Small Changes, Big Problems.”

Honorable Mentions ($250)

Isabella Sim and Owen Gurga, freshmen, for the video “Editing the Future: Bridging Science, Society, and Policy in Gene Editing.”

Juliet Haesly and Megan Lee, freshmen, for the video “No Means No.”

Eliza Floto and Brianna Goldstein, freshmen, for the video “The Divided States of America: Is the United States Really United?”

Natalie Hebdon, a freshman, for the video “A Safer Tomorrow: America’s Need for Enhanced Disaster Protection.”

“Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented young students who won awards in this year’s competition,” C-SPAN’s Director of Education Relations Craig McAndrew said. “Through in-depth research and interviews with an array of topical and technical experts, [they] have crafted impactful short stories that capture issues of wide public interest and importance. [Their] documentaries set a very high bar for future StudentCam filmmakers.”

C-SPAN is funded by America’s cable and satellite television companies as a commercial-free public service. In Long Beach, C-SPAN is available through Spectrum, the local partner in StudentCam. 

“As a long-time supporter of StudentCam, we are continually inspired by the curiosity and creativity students bring to C-SPAN’s annual competition,” Senior Vice President of State Government Affairs for Spectrum Adam Falk said. “The program provides a unique opportunity for young people to showcase the critical thinking, problem solving and civic engagement skills essential for informed and active communities. We celebrate this year’s winners and look forward to watching them continue to follow their passion for storytelling through this medium.”

Popular Topics Explored

Now in its 21st year, this project-based learning experience asked students to explore and analyze matters of personal, local or national importance.The most popular topics addressed were: 

• Climate, environment and land use (11%)
• K-12 education policies and the cost of college (10%)
• Health care and mental health (10%)
• Gun violence, school safety and firearm policies (9%)
• Inflation, taxes, government spending and the economy (9%)

In addition to the grand prize and first-prize winners, C-SPAN awarded 16 second prizes, 32 third prizes and 97 honorable mention prizes. The StudentCam competition has awarded more than $1.6 million in prizes since 2004. You can watch all 150 winning videos from this year’s competition at StudentCam.org.

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We’re almost halfway through the year, and what a century 2025 has already been. As summer approaches, my wish is that you find a way to slow down and savor even the smallest sweet moments before they melt into memories.

In my own home, we are preparing to celebrate an exciting milestone: Our son, Sol, is graduating from high school this June. You’re tired of hearing this, but the years really do fly. So even if you’ve had a rough day with a colicky baby or a sulking tween, take heart. Nothing marks time like watching a child grow from a warm, squirmy bundle to a crawling-then-toddling tiny human to a teen who has suddenly taken over your steering wheel and is driving you to dinner.

Which is what Sol (who just got his driver’s license yesterday) will be doing tonight. To celebrate my birthday, he’s driving the family to one of L.A.’s hottest new restaurants, Sampa Los Angeles, where chef Josh Espinosa and his team have created a Filipino-American fusion that is surprising, delicious and fun. Both elastic and full of depth, the culinary creations are inspired by Espinosa’s family memories and his knowledge of global cuisine. As my son closes one chapter and prepares to begin another — college in the fall — I hope he, likewise, will discover a passion that pulls from his roots while also reaching for new terrain.

No matter how grim the world sometimes feels — or how hard the days can grind watching our children reach for their individual milestones (with extra emphasis on “individual”) — raising children gives us a daily dose of vitamin H, aka hope. 

Nevertheless, this work of caregiving, teaching and loving is draining, so we focused this issue on travel and wellness. In “Grappling with Parental Guilt,” Melissa Monroe takes our breath away with a devastating personal story, then resuscitates us by narrating how she learned to let go of guilt and embrace healing — and how we can, too.

In poet Shonda Buchanan’s essay, “Mothers: Parent Yourself,” heed her advice now, before the kids grow up.

This Teacher Appreciation Month, consider former classroom teacher Jamie Mayes’ words as she makes a strong case for how teacher wellness is our collective responsibility.

Live vicariously through Digital Editor Nina Harada and Creative Director Elena Epstein as they guide us through parts of New England and Canada. And if you’ve never traveled with more than your clan but think multifamily getaways sound like a fun idea, check out Amelia Lopez’s tips on how to pull them off successfully.

Like life, not all of those trips will be wholly successful, but when you look back years from now, you’ll remember the fleeting moments that were sweet or hilarious. And you’ll be glad you have the photos that captured them.

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In an exciting development for Los Angeles families, The Reading Foundation (TRF), a renowned leader in literacy education, has opened its new U.S. headquarters in Westwood. Now booking assessments, TRF brings its proven, one-to-one, evidence-based reading programs to learners of all ages.

Addressing Literacy Challenges in Los Angeles
In the 2023-24 school year, only 43.1% of Los Angeles Unified School District students met state proficiency targets in reading, according to LA School Report. Contributing factors such as increased screen time, lack of reading enjoyment and lingering post-COVID learning gaps continue to hinder students’ literacy skills.

The Reading Foundation’s personalized programs offer a solution. Whether a student has dyslexia, ADD, ADHD or simply needs more effective reading instruction, TRF provides individualized, one-to-one support designed to meet each learner’s unique challenges and goals.

Founded by Dr. Steve Truch, a distinguished learning specialist with extensive experience as a schoolteacher and psychologist, TRF employs research-backed, results-driven programs to systematically develop reading, comprehension and language skills.

The Reading Foundation’s signature program, Discover Reading, has been recognized for its exceptional outcomes in Dr. David Kilpatrick’s book, Essentials of Assessing, Preventing, and Overcoming Reading Difficulties.

Programs Offered at the Los Angeles Clinic
The Reading Foundation offers a suite of programs tailored to strengthen key literacy and learning skills:

• Discover Reading©: Systematically teaches reading and spelling with tailored levels for beginners (Kindergarten), basic learners (1st–6th grade) and advanced students (7th grade through adults).
• Discover Meaning©: Enhances reading and listening comprehension using a dual-coding approach, integrating verbal and nonverbal processing.
• Discover Language©: Develops oral language skills, including vocabulary, grammar and figurative language.
• Discover Math©: Builds a strong foundation in math through hands-on learning and visualization techniques.
• Discover Writing©: Guides students in crafting clear and structured sentences, paragraphs and essays using dual-coding strategies.

The Importance of Reading Assessments
Early and accurate reading assessments are vital for identifying literacy levels and tailoring effective support. These assessments help:

• Identify students who need additional support.
• Inform personalized instructional planning.
• Monitor individual progress.

To help your child reach their full learning potential, schedule an assessment with The Reading Foundation’sLos Angeles clinic. With both in-person and virtual options available, TRF offers flexibility to accommodate your family’s needs.

Contact Information:

•  Address: 10940 Wilshire Blvd, 23rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024
•  Phone: 1-800-605-9272
•  Email: la@readingfoundation.com
•  Website: www.ReadingFoundation.com

Transforming Lives: Testimonials from FamiliesThe impact of TRF’s programs is evident in the stories of satisfied families:

Dr. Sarah Hall & Dr. Chris Hall (Parents and Physicians):
“As parents and physicians, we highly recommend The Reading Foundation for any child needing extra support in school. TRF helped our child meet classroom expectations and built a solid foundation in literacy and comprehension that has been invaluable!”

Silvi & Kirby Dechant (Parents of Rocco):
“After completing TRF programs — primarily Discover Reading — Rocco made incredible progress. He now reads fluently, with improved spelling and math skills. His confidence has soared, and he achieved the equivalent of four years’ progress in reading in just two!”

These testimonials highlight the transformative impact of TRF’s personalized programs on students’ academic performance and self-confidence.

Invest in Your Child’s Future. By addressing Los Angeles’ literacy challenges, The Reading Foundation is empowering students and fostering a community of confident, capable readers.Book your assessment today! Visit: www.ReadingFoundation.com or call 1-800-605-9272.

The post Struggling with Reading? The Reading Foundation Offers Personalized Support in LA appeared first on L.A. Parent.

As parents, nurturing a child’s passion and preparing them for future success are top priorities. For those with creatively inclined teenagers, the Summer of Art pre-college program at Otis College of Art and Design offers an unparalleled opportunity to cultivate their budding talent, gain critical college experience and earn transferable credits — all within a supportive and inspiring environment.

An Immersive Pre-College Experience

Summer of Art is a four-week intensive program designed for high school students and young creatives aged 14.5 to 19. This year’s program, which runs from July 7 to August 1, offers an immersive experience that provides participants with a taste of college-level art and design coursework while helping them build compelling portfolios for college applications. Whether your teen is an experienced artist aiming to refine their skills or a budding creative exploring new mediums, Otis College’s Summer of Art program offers tailored instruction to meet their needs.

Diverse Course Offerings

The Summer of Art program features a wide array of courses that are categorized into Specializations and Drawing Studios. Specializations delve deep into specific art and design fields and meet five days a week for either morning or afternoon sessions. Options include Animation, Character Development and Design, Concept Art, Fashion Design, Game Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Painting, Photography and Film, Toy Design, Sculpture and Ceramics, Storytelling and Animatics, among others. 

Complementing these are Drawing Studios, which focus on foundational skills that are essential across all art and design disciplines. Courses such as Beginning Drawing, Intermediate Drawing, Life Drawing and Drawing from the Costumed Model are available and also meet five days a week. For a comprehensive experience, students are encouraged to enroll in both a Specialization and a Drawing Studio, creating a full-day schedule that mirrors the rigor of a college level art and design program.

Earn College Credit

A significant advantage of the Summer of Art program is the opportunity for students to earn up to three transferable college credits. Upon successful completion, participants receive two credits for their Specialization course and one credit for their Drawing Studio course. These credits can be applied at Otis College or other institutions that accept college credits, providing students with an important head start as they pursue higher education. 

Learn from Industry Professionals

Summer of Art courses are taught by award-winning, practicing artists and designers who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Many also teach for Otis College’s undergraduate degree programs. This mentorship allows students to gain insights into the professional art and design world, understand current industry practices and receive guidance on their creative journeys. 

Experience Campus Life

For students seeking a fully immersive pre-college experience, on-campus housing is available in the Otis College Residence Hall. Living on campus helps students foster a creative community, offering opportunities for collaboration and camaraderie among their peers. Residential students participate in supervised activities, have access to campus facilities and experience a taste of independent college life within a structured environment. 

Culminating Exhibition

The Summer of Art program concludes with a final exhibition, providing students the experience of being part of a gallery show. This event allows participants to showcase their work to family, friends and the Otis community and celebrates their achievements and artistic growth over the four-week program. 

Preparing for College Admissions

Summer of Art at Otis College is the ultimate pre-college program. Beyond skill development, students strengthen their future art and design college applications and gain insight into what admissions counselors are seeking through critiques and portfolio development sessions. The experience also builds confidence and familiarity with the demands of college-level coursework. 

Important Dates and Registration

• April 21, 2025: Scholarship application deadline.
  
• April 25, 2025: Early enrollment discount deadline; tuition deposit due.
  
• May 14, 2025: International student registration deadline.
  
• May 23, 2025: Full tuition balance due.
  
• June 23, 2025: Final registration deadline.

To register, visit otis.edu/soa and select the desired courses. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, take advantage of discounts and secure housing. 

Join an Information Session

Otis College will offer an in-person information session in April for prospective students and parents to learn more about the Summer of Art pre-college program. The session will provide insights into course offerings, campus life and opportunities to ask questions. 

April Session:
Saturday, April 19, 11:00 a.m.–noon PDT (On-campus at Otis College)
Register Now

Invest in Your Teen’s Creative Future

Enrolling your teenager in Summer of Art at Otis College is more than a summer activity — it’s an investment in their creative and academic future. The program offers a unique blend of intensive instruction, college preparation, and personal growth opportunities that can set the foundation for a successful career in the arts. By participating, students not only enhance their portfolios and skills but also gain invaluable experience that will serve them well in any future endeavor.For more information and to begin the registration process, visit otis.edu/soa today. Empower your teen to explore their artistic potential and take the next step toward their creative aspirations.

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