Although the school year has ended for many students, summer allows the time and freedom for young readers to explore topics that they are interested in. This month we have a roundup of books that will teach young readers about specific subjects and different perspectives they may not have previously considered.

Some of Us

By Rajani LaRocca and illustrated by Huy Vuon Lee

“Some of Us” explores all of the different pathways that push one to immigration in a picture book that celebrates how immigrants make up the United States.
Recommended for ages ages 5-9.

Jaxon’s Magic Eyes

By Jaxon Corey and illustrated by Heidi Rodis

Eleven-year-old author, and L.A. local, Jaxon Corey draws on his own experiences with color blindness to tell an inspiring story about acceptance in his picture book “Jaxon’s Magic Eyes“. Recommended for ages 3-8.

I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide Keeping Private Parts Private

By Zack and Kimberly King and illustrated by Susan Szecsi

Already a child safety bestseller, the updated version of “I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide Keeping Private Parts Private” focuses on helping kids distinguish between green and red flags in the real world. This picture book can help parents introduce the difficult topic of keeping private parts private to young readers. Recommended for ages 4-9.

Racing the Clouds

By Sydney Dunlap

Sydney Dunlap explores addiction in a tween-appropriate way in “Racing the Clouds.” This chapter book follows 13-year-old Sage as she goes to visit her grandparents and grapples with guilt, healing and relationships. Recommended for ages 10-15

Hop Around

By Shvona Chung and illustrated by Courtney Huddleston

Through a vibrant picture book, Shvona Chung’s picture book “Hop Around” teaches young readers the beauty of immersing themselves in different cultures. Recommended for ages 5-9.

A GIFT OF DUST: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet

By Martha Brockenbrough and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal

“A Gift of Dust: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet” is a beautifully illustrated picture book that teachers young readers about fossils, dust and the Sahara. Recommended for ages 5-9.

For more book recommendations, check out our May Book Corner.

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In the bustling rhythm of Los Angeles life, parents often juggle multiple responsibilities, striving to provide the best for their children. Amidst this hustle, understanding the foundational role of attachment in a child’s development becomes paramount.

Attachment refers to the deep emotional bond that develops between a child and their caregiver. This connection lays the groundwork for a child’s sense of security and influences their social, emotional and cognitive development. Secure attachments foster confidence, resilience and the ability to form healthy relationships throughout life. Children with secure attachments often exhibit:

• Emotional Regulation: They can manage their emotions effectively, leading to fewer behavioral issues.
• Social Competence: Securely attached children tend to have better social skills, enabling them to build strong peer relationships.
• Cognitive Development: A secure base allows children to explore their environment, promoting learning and intellectual growth.

Conversely, insecure attachment styles — which may result from inconsistent, unresponsive or unpredictable caregiving — can have lasting effects. These children may struggle with:

• Anxiety and low self-esteem.
• Difficulty trusting others or forming close relationships.
• Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity.
• Academic challenges and reduced motivation.

Without early intervention or supportive relationships later in life, these patterns can persist into adulthood, influencing everything from romantic relationships to parenting styles and mental health.

Fostering Secure Attachments

Parents and caregivers can nurture secure attachments by:

• Being Responsive: Attending to a child’s needs promptly and consistently builds trust.
• Engaging in Quality Time: Shared activities and attentive interactions strengthen the parent-child bond.
• Providing a Safe Environment: A stable and predictable environment helps children feel secure and supported.

Recognizing the importance of community in parenting, we’ve established a supportive group for families seeking guidance on fostering secure attachments. This community offers resources, expert insights and a platform for shared experiences.

For parents interested in deepening their understanding and application of attachment principles, consider joining our supportive community group: www.skool.com/attachment-matters-family

Heather Thompson is the founder of Attachment Matters, LLC, dedicated to supporting families in nurturing secure attachments and promoting healthy child development.

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Families In Schools (FIS) has launched “Read LA! Storytime: Bringing Comfort Through Stories,” a literacy initiative designed to support young children affected by the recent wildfires across Los Angeles County.

Scholastic, the global children’s publishing education and media company, donated more than 10,000 books and Paperpie donated 3,000 books. The program will focus on young children in preschool through third grade in the communities of Altadena, Pasadena and Pacific Palisades, aiming to provide comfort and joy to children and families during this challenging time.

Through the power of storytelling, “Read LA! Storytime” is recruiting and deploying a corps of trained literacy volunteers to read to impacted children to provide emotional support, comfort and a sense of normalcy. With parental or caregiver consent, each child will receive a backpack containing four diverse books, ensuring access to reading materials despite displacement and hardship.

Book donations aim to restore hope and literacy

“This initiative is about more than just books; it’s about providing children with stability and emotional relief through books and storytelling,” said Yolie Flores president and CEO of Families in Schools. “In addition to elevating the importance of early literacy, reading aloud fosters connection, resilience and healing, and we are committed to bringing this aid to children affected by the fires.”

The initiative — part of Families In School’s “Read LA!” campaign — consists of two phases. Phase I, launching immediately, focuses on recruiting and training literacy volunteers to read to children at designated community sites at least twice a week, collaborating with local organizations, schools and government agencies to identify families most in need, and providing trauma-informed training to volunteers to ensure sensitive and effective engagement with children and families.

“Scholastic is proud to collaborate with Families In Schools to bring quality books to children affected by the wildfires. Research from the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report shows that storytelling and reading are powerful tools for enhancing student mental health and positive self-esteem,”  said Billy DiMichelle, senior vice president of Scholastic’s Brand Marketing & Corporate Social Responsibility. “These books not only play a vital role in helping young learners regain a sense of stability and comfort during this challenging time, but also foster continued learning and resilience through access to stories.”

Melissa Roche, a brand ambassador and educational services representative for PaperPie, said: “It was an honor to help contribute books and comfort for families in need. Over 50 brand partners rallied together to raise funds, and with PaperPie’s generous 50% match of donations, we were able to donate nearly 3,500 books for kids who were impacted by the fires. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring comfort, hope, and the joy of reading to families during these difficult times.”

Phase II of the program, launching in the rebuilding phase of fire recovery (2026 and beyond), aims to make a lasting impact by providing at least 20 diverse books per child to help rebuild home libraries, restoring children’s books in local libraries and early childhood centers affected by the fires nd partnering with national and local organizations, such as book publishers and philanthropic groups, to ensure the long-term recovery of children’s literacy resources.

Volunteers Needed: Join the Read LA! Effort

Families In Schools invites community members and organizations to join the “Read LA! Storytime” initiative. Volunteers and partners can help bring the healing power of storytelling to children in need.  To volunteer, visit bit.ly/readlastorytime. Visit here for the Spanish form: bit.ly/leamoslahoradecuento.

The post Families In Schools Launches ‘Read LA! Storytime’ for Kids Impacted by L.A. Wildfires appeared first on L.A. Parent.

When my 2-year-old daughter died in her sleep of unknown causes (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood—SUDC), I was crippled by grief and guilt. Although no cause of death could be determined after a thorough autopsy, genetic testing and death investigation, I was certain I must have unwittingly done — or not done — something that contributed to Alice’s death.

No matter how many professionals assured me there was nothing I could have done to prevent my daughter’s death, my internal judge insisted otherwise.

I was hanging by a thread.

The Southern California Counseling Center (SCCC) and its sliding-scale trauma therapy saved my life. SCCC is one of few sliding-scale centers in California that offer trauma-based therapy modalities. Through my work in healthcare, I knew about these modalities, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). This knowledge enabled me to seek treatment as soon as trauma symptoms began to manifest six to 10 weeks after Alice died.

But even once the guilt surrounding Alice’s death began to subside, I realized I’d been living in a constant state of baseline guilt since the minute my eldest was born. I felt guilty about being away from the kids when I was at work and guilty about not working enough when I was home. I felt guilty when my kids didn’t share their toys, eat their vegetables and when they fell and skinned their knees. Yet I was completely unaware of this constant background chorus of guilt until I was eventually able to release the guilt over Alice’s inexplicable death.

While the source and depth of parental guilt is influenced by individual circumstances, Eliza Steel, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), relational trauma therapist and supervisor at SCCC, suggests all forms of it share a common thread. “Parental guilt is a reaction to a self-perceived expectation we didn’t meet,” Steel says.

Five years ago, The Washington Post called parental guilt a silent epidemic, and with today’s parents having navigated a global pandemic and all of its repercussions, fresh guilts sprouted and spread in parents all over the world.

Like a scientist studying a virus, I became curious about the source of parental guilt — and how to treat it.

Generational shifts in parenting styles

Although it was somewhat validating to learn I was far from alone in my self-imposed prison, I wondered what led to its precipitous rise in our society. Steel suggests it may come down to when a parent was born. “The current generations of parents weren’t born with internet or social media,” she says. “We were plastic enough to get on board, but it is not our second nature like Gen Z. Therefore, we didn’t develop tools to protect ourselves against other people’s opinion and judgment.”

Gen X and Millennials seem more prone to guilt — including the waves of inadequacy we might feel from watching a social media influencer seemingly run their households and parent their littles with style and finesse — than our Boomer or Silent Generation parents. And there’s a reason for this, according to Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and author of “Mom Brain: Proven Strategies to Fight the Anxiety, Guilt, and Overwhelming Emotions of Motherhood — And Relax into Your New Self.”

“Our generation feels like we need to keep tabs on our kids 24-7 and are responsible for entertaining them,” DiMarco says. “Also, we have access to phones which allow us track our child’s every movement and reach them wherever they are. And because we have this technology, we feel like we need to use it.”

My parents are Boomers. I could have been running a drug cartel during summer break in elementary school, and they would have had no idea.

According to Morgan Cutlip, Ph.D., a psychologist and author of “Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself,” the baseline guilt many parents feel today (especially felt by mothers) was less prevalent in previous generations. The Silent Generation (born 1928-1945) emphasized self-reliance, discipline and respect for authority in their children, and Boomers (1946-1964) took most of that parenting approach to heart with their children.

“Gen X and Millennials placed a far greater emphasis on gentleparenting, emotional validation and psychological well-being, leading to heightened awareness of their children’s needs, but also a greater likelihood of guilt when they feel they aren’t meeting every expectation,” Cutlip says.

And one significant contributor is the increasing prevalence of intensive mothering, she adds. “This ideology suggests that mothers should dedicate an extraordinary amount of time, energy and financial resources to their children’s development. Intensive mothering is rooted in several core beliefs, including, ‘good mothering should feel difficult. If it’s not hard, you’re not doing it right.’ This standard creates an unsustainable level of pressure, making guilt an almost inevitable consequence.”

Gender differences in experiencing guilt

While exploring my relationship with parental guilt, I noticed that most of the literature was geared toward moms. In an interview with Notre Dame News about her 2020 parenting study with Lindsay Heldreth, Abigail Ocobock, assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and the Gender Studies Program at the University of Notre Dame, said there may be a reason why. “Put simply, moms felt guilty whatever they were doing; dads did not. In the rare cases when dads took on most of the parenting and schooling labor, moms felt very guilty and indebted to them.

“More often, though, moms felt guilty even though they were already doing most of the parenting and schooling labor; it was never enough. By contrast, not a single dad mentioned feeling guilty about having to work or not spending enough time with their kids during the pandemic. Dads seemed to have a much easier time hiding away somewhere in the house and focusing on their own work or needs.”

I asked DiMarco why that might be. “For generations, women have been socialized to believe that it’s their job to be the primary caretakers of their children. Full-time single dads and two-dad families are not subjected to this socialization, so they’re freer to figure out their roles as parents.”

Cutlip agrees. “I once asked my husband if he ever felt guilty about leaving the kids while traveling for work, and his response was, ‘Maybe for a minute, but it’s my job.’ It was so cut and dry — and completely unrelatable,” she says.

How parental guilt affects kids

As I attempted to untangle myself from the web of guilt I’d spun around myself, I wondered what effect it had upon my kids. For that, DiMarco offers a word of caution: “If a parent overindulges their children out of a sense of guilt, they risk raising children who are entitled and spoiled. If a parent’s guilt leaves them depleted of energy and distracted, they won’t be able to engage with their children in the way they wish to.”

This kind of parenting is stressful, Cutlip says. “When parents, especially mothers, parent from a place of guilt, it often leads to a hypervigilant parenting style where the pressure to ‘get everything right’ becomes overwhelming,” she says. “This can cause moms to neglect their own well-being, leading to burnout and resentment toward the very people they’re working so hard to care for. When a mother is running on empty, self-regulation becomes harder (understandably so!). This can mean shorter tempers, emotional exhaustion and feeling disconnected from both herself and her children.”

Addressing our guilt with self-compassion

Releasing some of our guilt doesn’t mean we should neglect self-reflection and accountability in our parenting decisions. We will never get it all right — and that’s OK.

“We don’t need our kids to see us as perfect in order for us to raise good people,” Steel says. “Being perfectly imperfect is a wonderful goal. Repairing after a ‘mess’ is what is most important. In an age-appropriate language, acknowledge that you messed up.”

DiMarco offers three key steps to help reduce our entanglement with guilt:

• Limit social media use. Unfollow all accounts that leave you feeling guilty after you access them.
• Remind yourself of everything you’re doing for your kids. Keep a journal of parenting victories every day.
• Do a values exercise and write down what you value. Stick to those values, even when they don’t indulge what your children want.

Cutlip also offers three steps:

• Identify your impossible standards. What expectations are you holding yourself to? Are they truly realistic? Write them down and challenge whether they’re necessary or coming from societal pressure. For example: Is it necessary to cook full-course meals every day of the week?
• Adjust and reframe. Once you recognize these unsustainable expectations, work on redefining them in a way that aligns with your values without guilt. Perfection isn’t the goal — balance and connection with your kids are the goal.
• Use practical tools like the ones in Cutlip’s free guilt guide, which includes tips such as identifying unrealistic self-expectations, then adjusting and reframing.  

Parental guilt thrives in isolation. But when we share our struggles openly with other parents and mental health professionals, we are reminded that we’re not alone in this journey. Together, we can challenge societal pressures (including an influencer-obsessed culture) and support one another in redefining what it means to be a “good parent.”

During my second-to-last EMDR session, I was able to identify my own unrealistic expectation — that I could have saved Alice from something no team of scientists has yet to discover. I did not have to wait long for the joy to bubble forth after verbalizing this realization to my therapist. Immediately, I felt like someone removed a boulder from my chest.

Suddenly, I truly felt Alice’s presence and, for the first time, feeling her presence brought a smile to my face rather than tears to my eyes. Happy memories swarmed my mind — the crazy way she blotted her eyeball with her beloved blankie, the way she showed every passerby her light-up shoes, the way she’d gently pat my back when I sang her lullabies. As I laughed and remembered these happy times, I had the overwhelming sensation that Alice happily snuggled up to my chest and whispered, “I wuv you, Mama.”

With these sweet memories, I sometimes cry, but they are tears of relief, joy and a beautiful connection that will never sever and never again be marred by guilt.

Melissa M. Monroe, Ph.D., garnered Honorable Mention in Writer’s Digest 2023 Self-Published Book Awards for her book, “Mom’s Search for Meaning: Grief and Growth After Child Loss.” She is a mom, writer and licensed acupuncturist in L.A. Her recent work has appeared in LA Review of Books, New York Times, Slate, Well + Good, Backpacker and Insider.

The post Grappling with Parental Guilt appeared first on L.A. Parent.

From stylish gear for parents on the go to hands-on learning toys for kids, this roundup features the latest must-haves for family life. Whether you’re packing lunches, exploring the outdoors, or keeping toddlers engaged, these products combine function, fun, and a dash of genius.

GillyGro Pro

A unique 5-in-1 backpack perfect for on-the-go. Includes a built-in booster, a waterproof mat, laptop pocket and a universal organizer insert with a sleek and stylish design. $159.99, gillygro.com

Joolz Hub2 Compact Stroller

Ideal for all parents who never realized just how small their favorite coffee shop is. Easy to maneuver one-handed — whether it’s being pushed on a busy pavement or around tight corners in the grocery store. $759, ages birth-4 years, joolz.com

National Geographic Build Your Own Bird Feeder

Everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind design to welcome new friends. Assembly is easy using the included screws, pre-drilled holes and step-by-step illustrated instructions. $14.99, ages 6+, amazon.com

OmieBox UP

This upgraded bento box keeps hot and cold foods separate, with an insulated thermos for warm meals and a built-in ice pack to keep snacks chilled. Leak-proof compartments prevent spills. $49.95, ages 8+, omielife.com

Explore the Outdoors! Travel Camper

Simply open the roof to explore the exciting spaces inside — from a built-in dinette and kitchen to a comfy overhead bunk and restroom. Then flip down the awning, “fire up” the foldout grill and arrange the chairs around the firepit. $59.99, ages 3+, lakeshorelearning.com

Shape and Color Garden

With five unique shape fittings and a colorful mix of flowers and succulents, this bright and playful garden is great for hands-on learning and for building color and counting skills. $19.99, ages 18 months+, amazon.com

Slidewise

Slide, spell, solve. With more than 1,000 possible word combinations, this brainteaser provides hours of entertainment. $12.99, ages 8+, amazon.com

The post We Love It: Outdoor Toys, Gear & More appeared first on L.A. Parent.

For many kids, camp is an exciting place full of adventure, laughter and new friendships. But along with the excitement comes the challenge of entering a completely new social environment—and that can be tough, especially in the first few days. From cliques to conflict resolution, campers are learning on the fly how to communicate, collaborate and connect.

Why Social Challenges Are Common at Camp

Camp is a new world, and everything from the schedule to the social dynamics can feel unfamiliar. One of the most common struggles is inclusion. Campers are figuring out how to join groups, navigate friendships that may have already formed and how to share space, take turns and resolve disagreements—often with kids they’ve just met. Different communication styles (or vibes, as the kids say) come into play, especially early on. It’s totally normal, and part of the learning process.

How to Prep Kids for These Social Situations 

One of the best things parents can do is prep their kids for common social scenarios ahead of time. Use open-ended “what-if” questions to walk through possible situations. Try questions like:

• “What would you do if someone didn’t want to share?”
• “How would you feel if a new friend didn’t include you right away?”
• “What can you do if someone says something that bothers you?”

Reassure your child that feeling nervous or unsure is completely normal—and that many other kids feel the same way, even if they don’t show it.

Practice Social Skills at Home

Little moments at home can build big skills for camp. Playing board games, taking turns and using respectful language during conflict are great ways to model the behaviors that make group settings easier. Skills like using “I feel” statements, asking for help when needed and being a gracious winner or loser are all directly transferable to camp life. These are learned skills, and the more kids get to practice them at home, the more natural they’ll feel when camp starts.

Teach Kids to Advocate for Themselves

Kids don’t always know what to say when something feels off, which is why it helps to give them simple, clear phrases ahead of time:

• “I don’t like that.”
• “Can I play, too?”
• “May I speak with my counselor?”

These small but powerful tools can help kids speak up confidently, set boundaries or seek help when they need it. It’s not tattling—it’s helping themselves build better friendships. Sometimes doing the hard thing in the moment leads to a much better day.

Support Without Solving

When your child comes home with a story of a tough day, start with empathy. Try:

• “Wow, that sounds hard. What did you try?”
• “How did that make you feel?”

Unless there’s a safety concern, resist the urge to jump in and fix it. Instead, ask if they want ideas or would like to talk to their counselor. If needed, send a quick email to the camp director—they want to help but rely on your insights to know when extra support might be needed.

When Kids Come Home Upset

Sometimes kids just need to vent. Active listening goes a long way. But if your child is consistently upset or something feels off, reach out to camp staff. Often, these situations can be resolved very quickly with just a little guidance.

Partner with Camp for a Stronger Experience

Don’t be shy about checking in with your child’s camp team. If you notice changes at home or have any concerns, a quick email or chat at pick-up can go a long way. The more they know about your child’s needs, the more they can tailor their experience to help them thrive.

Camp is more than just fun in the sun—it’s a crash course in community building, empathy and independence. While the social bumps along the way are real, they’re also part of the growth. With a little preparation and a strong partnership between home and camp, every child can find their footing—and maybe even a new friend—on their own terms.

For more information on the summer camp program at the Bay Club, click HERE. 

The post How Parents Can Help Kids Navigate Social Challenges at Summer Camp appeared first on L.A. Parent.

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.

Discover six key trends shaping the future of education via SXSW EDU 2025, including AI integration, belonging in classrooms, early childhood education, financial literacy, workforce readiness and the evolving role of government and philanthropy.

1. Artificial intelligence and tech integration

AI is not just about to impact education — it’s already here and here to stay (especially for students who are ahead of their teachers). From chatbots helping students with homework to learning platforms tailoring lessons to individualized needs, AI is transforming how students learn (particularly students with learning disabilities). With the rise of rapid technology comes ethical issues/concerns. How can we ensure AI benefits all students equally and equitably? How do we protect the privacy and safety of minors? 

Educators are dealing with these questions while acknowledging AI’s potential to democratize knowledge (to enhance accessibility by removing barriers to marginalized communities and groups) and provide personalized learning experiences. The challenge is not whether to adopt AI in education, but how to do so responsibly.

Challenge: AI moves and innovates rapidly while policymakers are about two years behind on creating policy. How do we address this lag while avoiding tech/AI’s potential harm to minors?

2. Shifting from DEI to “belonging”

Until recently, the conversation around diversity in education centered on equity and inclusion, ensuring that underrepresented students had access to similar opportunities as their classmates. There seems to be fear and hesitation towards the term DEI now, so the focus seems to be shifting towards creating a sense of “belonging” for all in the classroom. 

Studies show that students who feel seen and represented in the classroom perform better, but systemic racism and disparities persist across education. Black and Brown educators remain underrepresented in leadership roles (while overrepresented in low-paying roles in education), teacher advancement is difficult and STEM fields continue to struggle with gender and racial diversity imbalance. Initiatives aimed at changing the storytellers in the media and in classrooms are gaining traction, but the challenge is that more needs to be done to make sure education is inclusive — not just in policy, but also in the classroom.

3. Early childhood education

Research shows that the first five years of a child’s life are critical for cognitive and social development, but early childhood education (ECE) in the U.S. has largely been an afterthought. That seems to be changing for the better. Advocates argue that quality early learning is not just good for society. Investing in early education can break cycles of poverty, reduce incarceration rates and improve long-term health outcomes. But funding remains a major challenge. As philanthropic organizations and public-private partnerships step in, the hope is to elevate early childhood education from a niche issue to a national priority.

Challenge: How do we prove that investment into ECE works and what are the immediate returns on investment (ROI)? For high school and higher ed, ROI is easier to prove, so funders are more willing to invest in these stages.

Highlights:

• There is ongoing dialogue on early childhood education as a national priority, emphasizing brain development, family and community supports and teacher recognition.
• Integrating healthcare (and mental health) with education can address holistic child development and improve long-term outcomes.
• Investment in early learning is key to addressing poverty and long-term economic disparities.

4. Financial literacy and economic mobility

In the past, financial education and literacy in schools hasn’t had the attention it needs, but that’s changing (especially with AI). As student debt increases and economic inequality widens, teaching financial literacy is important. The way we talk about money matters, too. Research shows that financial stress is deeply tied to overall well-being and physical and mental health, but discussions about money often carry shame. AI-driven financial tools are emerging as game-changers, providing judgment-free guidance and counseling and access to financial education (including investing in the stock market) that was once reserved for the wealthy. If schools embed financial literacy into their curriculum, the next generation will be better equipped.

Highlights:

• Financial education must be embedded into curriculum, moving beyond math/accounting to include emotional and behavioral aspects of money management.
• AI can help remove barriers by providing personalized, judgment-free guidance.
• Financial stress significantly impacts well-being, making financial literacy a core component of educational success

Challenge: Learning what age/grade to introduce financial concepts. 

5. The importance of higher ed and workforce readiness

As tuition and student loans rise, while AI and other technologies reshape the job market, there’s growing recognition that schools must prepare students for an unpredictable future — and maybe the four-year college degreee isn’t the answer for all students,

Specialized skills may be more important and practical than a university degree. Trade schools and apprenticeships are becoming more mainstream and challenges the idea that higher ed is necessary for all. 

Highlights:

• Traditional education models, including the four-year degree, are being questioned as new career pathways arise.
• Schools need to prepare students for an unpredictable job market, emphasizing specialization, practical skills, etc. 
• Partnerships across industries (from tech, healthcare and nonprofits/community-based organizations) are crucial to modernizing education and addressing funding challenges.

6. The role of government and philanthropy in education

Public education relies on local, state and federal government funding, but with funding cuts and budget constraints, schools and nonprofits must innovate. Philanthropy and private sector partnerships are stepping in to fill the gaps, but some questions that were asked at the SXSW EDU conference include: Who should control the direction of education? Should schools operate more like businesses? How can they ensure that financial pressures don’t lead to mission drift? What are new streams of revenue to explore? 

Nonprofits and educators are reassessing business models to remain sustainable, but they should not compromise on their missions and values.

Highlights:

• The shifting political and funding landscape requires innovation (and new revenue streams that don’t just rely on government support).
• Storytelling and branding are becoming essential for securing funding and demonstrating impact.

NOTE: Reading Hyesun Ahn’s column on her insights from the SXSW EDU conference.

Hyesun Ahn is a former Fulbright Scholar to Austria and works as the Marketing & Communications Manager at Children’s Institute.

The post SXSW EDU 2025: 6 Key Trends Shaping Future of Education appeared first on L.A. Parent.

As a speaker and as an attendee, I recently had the opportunity to experience SXSW EDU, an annual learning festival that explores the future of teaching and learninge. Immersing myself in numerous sessions and roundtable discussions, I found myself inspired and, quite frankly, in awe.

The caliber of speakers and the depth of discussions at SXSW EDU conference in March affirmed how critical education is in shaping the future. Artificial intelligence (AI) dominated the conversation across almost every category (nearly half the sessions offered were about AI and/or edtech). One thing that stood out was the fresh perspective on early childhood education, a topic that also found itself intertwined with discussions of AI.

A standout moment came during a roundtable discussion led by Michelle Kang, CEO of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The session sparked passionate discourse on the current and future state of early childhood education. Drawing from those conversations, here are my top 10 takeaways from SXSW EDU, specifically as they relate to the early childhood years (birth to five years):

1. Early childhood education is gaining traction

For years, early childhood education has taken a backseat at SXSW EDU, but the most recent conference marked a shift. Early education’s growing presence at the conference reflects a broader recognition of the field’s significance, perhaps an acknowledgment that the first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development.

2. “It takes a village”

The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child” remains as relevant as ever. Education extends beyond the classroom. Every interaction a child has, whether with a doctor, a family member, a religious leader or a community member, plays a role in their development and growth. This perspective reinforces the idea that learning doesn’t stop when school ends. It’s an ongoing process shaped by many different people and experiences.

3. Early education is a national issue, not a partisan one

Kang emphasized that early childhood education must be seen as an integral part of the entire education system, not a separate entity. A national movement needs to challenge antiquated ideas to ensure that early learning is prioritized (in education policy, reporting, funding, etc.) and that there’s no room to politicize the issue.

4. Early educators deserve better pay and respect

Educators working with children aged 0-5 are often undervalued and frequently mistaken for babysitters rather than trained professionals. This perception contributes to low wages and workforce shortages. Addressing this issue isn’t just about equity; it’s about improving outcomes for the students.

5. Early education as an anti-poverty strategy

Investing in early childhood education is one of the most effective long-term anti-poverty strategies. Research shows that a strong foundation in the early years can significantly reduce the likelihood of unemployment, incarceration and poor health outcomes later in life (just to name a few).

6. Funding dilemma: STEM in early education

Investing in STEM education at the high school level yields immediate returns on investment, making it attractive to funders. However, research suggests that introducing basic STEM concepts early on in a child’s life (even during preschool years), plays a crucial role in future academic success. Despite this data point, early STEM education remains significantly underfunded.

7. The power of storytelling in advocacy

One of the most effective ways to push for change in early education is by amplifying and sharing success stories. Every community issue can, in some way, be traced back to early childhood education so it’s a relevant issue for all. Communicating these connections is essential in garnering public support and investment.

8. Mental health should be a priority

While awareness of the importance of mental health in early childhood education is growing, resources remain scarce, especially in rural areas. Additionally, some mental health professionals hesitate to work in early education settings due to liability concerns, so addressing these gaps (while destigmatizing mental health/social emotional learning) is important to support the emotional well-being of our youngest learners. At Children’s Institute, we understand this, so we invest in mental health supports for all our early childhood programs — in the classroom and for the family.

9. Bridging the gap between policymakers and educators

A recurring frustration among attendees was the disconnect between classroom educators and policymakers and administrators. Teachers on the ground often feel unheard when policies are developed without considering the realities of their daily experiences. Ensuring that educators have a seat at the table is key to creating meaningful dialogue. Here in California, Head Start Advocacy Day took place in Sacramento on March 18, where all sides had the opportunity to share from their perspectives.  

10. AI in early childhood education?

The idea of integrating AI into early childhood education is met with both enthusiasm and skepticism. While AI has the potential to personalize learning experiences, especially for neurodivergent students and language learners, its implementation should be guided by ethics. Establishing a framework for responsible AI use in early education is imperative as the technology continues to evolve.

SXSW EDU made one thing clear: early childhood education is critical in offering the best start for future success. With more awareness of its impact, the field seems to be gaining momentum, but significant challenges remain. Addressing issues of funding, compensation, mental health and policy alignment will require continued advocacy, investment and innovation. If this year’s conference is any indication, the conversation is one we can’t ignore. For more information on our approach to early childhood education, please visit childrensinstitute.org/early-childhood.

NOTE: For six key trends shaping the future of education, visit laparent.com/trends-shaping-education-sxsw-edu.

Hyesun Ahn is a former Fulbright Scholar to Austria and works as the Marketing & Communications Manager at Children’s Institute.

The post Insights on Early Childhood Education from SXSW EDU appeared first on L.A. Parent.

It may be widely known for being a place that houses books for anyone interested in reading, but visitors and members of the L.A. County Library and Los Angeles Public Library systems know that L.A.’s libraries are about far more than books.

From job readiness to story time with pups, library activities encapsulate fun, community, mental health, family assistance and, of course, library services. And you can access these opportunities in person and online. A great place to learn more about the L.A. County Library is through its YouTube channel. We love keeping tabs on the L.A. Public Library through its exciting and quirky Instagram account.

For more information about what’s happening within the county system, visit the events section of its website. Below are some of the programs offered at the L.A. County libraries below. Check the L.A. Public Library’s events page and services and programs section for services, events and programs that are just as robust.

Work Ready is a series of workshops for those looking either to enter into the workforce, are looking to make a change in their careers or simply want to remain current on changing workforce needs. There are different courses, including a chance to update your resume, be exposed to new ways of working or learn what employers are looking for when hiring. The length of the sessions range between 75 to 90 minutes. Most of these classes are virtual and happen weekly.

Meditation – Few would argue that we are living in stressful times. Accordingly, there is an area within the library system dedicated to meditation. Here, you can learn various techniques that can help you to reduce your stress levels. These meditation sessions are an hour long and are broken and into two sections. The meetings, led by instructor Doug Frankel, are not recorded.

Get to Know Libby  – If you know that you’d like to spend more time using the library, knowing how to use it is crucial. That’s why this program operates virtually monthly. Get schooled on how to check out an audiobook or ebook.

Smarty Pants Storytime  – Want to help your young ones love to learn and get ready for school? Well, check your local branch to sign up for Smarty Pants Storytime, where kids ages 2-5 can start building strong learning habits. Young kids become familiar with routine and are exposed to books, singing songs, movement and rhyme, readying them for school. It is all done only with the help of a parent, guardian or caregiver. Classes are held in person on Friday mornings. The time may vary depending on the branch, but sessions run for 30 minutes. Register online.

Baby-Toddler Storytime – Similar to the above-mentioned program, this one operates with a similar agenda of helping the little ones acclimate to a bigger world. The library designed the program for babies to toddlers ages 0-2 to help them build up their cognitive and motor skills through pre-literacy programs and singing songs, rhymes and movement. And just like Smarty Pants Storytime, these babies and toddlers can only participate if they’re accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver. The time is also a 30-minute course held on Friday mornings. Please check your branch for the exact time as they may vary from branch to branch. Register online.

New Parents Engagement –  If you’re new to the system and want to learn more about it, you can have your questions answered through this program, including how to do research on a particular topic for a class assignment for the young scholar in your life, how to get a library card or how to use the various services the library provides. These sessions last 30 minutes and are held virtually.

Heart and Hand – This is a lecture series that covers various topics. Some are focused on children; others may be something fun, such as discussing a book or author geared toward adults only. Topic themes are often associated with the national month themes, such as Women’s History Month. The talks run for an hour and happen virtually once a month.

Author Talk –  If you love reading and want to hear from your favorite author, this series may be the right one for you. Held on Tuesdays for one hour, the time varies just like the author in conversation. These virtual conversations are available after registration. Check ahead of time to find out who the next author is and when the talk will take place.

Trailblazers in Conversation – If you need honest advice or want to learn from someone you admire, check out this series of people who have broken down the roads you’ve only begun to travel. The conversations happen once every few months and last an hour. The next one is in March.

There are several other programs for kids, including a book club, reading with the dogs for children and art classes… just to name a few. These events are in person, with an estimated run of an hour for most events. Please check the site and the event calendar for more information and don’t forget to register beforehand.

For anyone who may need assistance pursuing education on any level, the library also offers help in that area. Find out more here.  

On the library’s YouTube, you can find videos that cover everything from events to other essential information that only the library can provide.

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