Submitted by the team at Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children

As summer winds down and kids gear up for the fall sports season, excitement is in the air — and so is the risk of injury. Each year, millions of young athletes experience sports-related injuries, many of which are preventable with proper preparation. Whether your child participates in football, soccer, volleyball or cross-country, preparing strategically during the preseason can significantly reduce the risk of injuries that sideline kids and disrupt seasons.

Here are three evidence-based tips every parent should consider to help their athlete start the season strong and finish injury-free.

1. Ease Into Training: Gradual Progression Prevents Overload

One of the most common causes of preseason and early season injuries is doing too much too soon. After a summer of relatively light activity levels, young athletes may jump into intense practices, conditioning or scrimmages — putting their bodies at risk for “acute overload” injuries like tendinitis, stress fractures and muscle strains.

Research shows that a rapid increase in training load is a key risk factor for injury in youth sports. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine recommends increasing training volume by no more than 10% per week to allow the body time to adapt (Gabbett, 2016). This applies to both endurance-based sports like cross-country and speed-based sports like football and soccer.

Parent Tip: Encourage your child to start a structured training and conditioning program at least 4-6 weeks before the season begins, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of workouts. Activities should include aerobic fitness, speed and agility, sport-specific drills and mobility training.

2. Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition: Recovery Starts Off the Field

Recovery is just as important as training, and two of the most overlooked aspects of recovery are sleep and nutrition. Sleep plays a vital role in muscle repair, hormone regulation and reaction time. A landmark study in adolescent athletes found that those who slept less than eight hours per night were 1.7 times more likely to suffer an injury compared to their well-rested peers (Milewski et al., 2014).

Similarly, nutrition fuels performance and supports tissue recovery and repair. Inadequate overall calorie consumption, as well as protein intake, can increase the risk of bone and soft-tissue injuries, particularly in growing athletes.

Parent Tip: Help your child get 8-10 hours of sleep per night, especially during high training periods. Support balanced meals with lean protein, complex carbs, fruits and vegetables. And don’t forget hydration. Even mild dehydration can impair performance and increase injury risk.

3. Build a Foundation: Strength, Balance and Mobility Matter

Injury prevention isn’t just about avoiding collisions or rolling an ankle, it’s about preparing the body to handle the demands of sport. Studies show that incorporating a dynamic neuromuscular training program into preseason prep can significantly reduce the risk of ACL tears, ankle sprains and other injuries common in youth athletes.

A 2018 meta-analysis in Sports Medicine found that injury-prevention programs focused on strength, balance, agility and movement control reduced overall injury rates by up to 46% in adolescent athletes (Emery et al., 2015).

Parent Tip: Seek out programs or athletic-performance coaches that incorporate dynamic warm-ups, single-leg balance work, core strengthening and jump-landing mechanics. These can often be integrated into regular practices or completed at home in 15-20 minutes a few times per week.

Final Thoughts

Sports offer tremendous physical, emotional and social benefits for our children, but injuries can derail progress and discourage participation. By gradually increasing training, supporting recovery with sleep and nutrition, and integrating injury-prevention exercises, parents can play a vital role in keeping young athletes healthy and confident this fall season.

A proactive approach in the preseason can set the stage for a safer, more successful season on the field.

If you have a child who active in sports and you have questions about their training, or if they sustain an injury, the team at Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children in Los Angeles in standing by to help. From urgent care to sports medicine to a variety of specialists, we are here to help your family.

References:

• Gabbett, T. J. (2016). The training—injury prevention paradox: should athletes be training smarter and harder? British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(5), 273–280. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2015-095788
  
• Milewski, M. D., et al. (2014). Chronic lack of sleep is associated with increased sports injuries in adolescent athletes. Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, 34(2), 129–133. https://doi.org/10.1097/BPO.0000000000000151
  
• Emery, C. A., Roy, T. O., Whittaker, J. L., Nettel-Aguirre, A., & van Mechelen, W. (2015). Neuromuscular training injury prevention strategies in youth sport: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(13), 865–870. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2015-094639

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This July, the rhythmic pulse of drums and paddles will echo across Brandenburg, Germany as more than 4,000 elite athletes from more than 30 countries compete in the 17th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships — the most prestigious event in the sport’s international calendar.

Among them? 14-year-old Ysabella Cajanding from Bellflower — making waves on the Junior U.S. National Team.

“These kids have made sacrifices for two years preparing for Germany, and I couldn’t be more proud,” said Nathan Salazar, Team USA coach.

Dragon boat racing, a sport with roots dating back over 2,000 years in China, is now one of the fastest-growing water sports worldwide. It combines fierce physical endurance, flawless timing, and team unity — teams of 20 paddlers race in sync to the beat of a drum aboard 40-foot-long boats adorned with traditional dragon heads and tails. It’s a spectacle of culture, community and competition.

“I want to bond with my team, make memories, and hopefully win gold,” Ysabella said about the upcoming trip to Germany. ”I like the community it creates with my teammates. We’re working together, paddling together and winning together.”

For Ysabella, this journey started when she was just seven years old, paddling alongside her dad Rex who has competed for over two decades. By age 12, she was making history, competing internationally in Thailand, where she brought home three gold medals and two silvers, becoming the youngest competitor at the 16th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Competition.

“I started because I saw my dad doing this sport. He’s been a part of it since before I was born, and he saw my interest growing and put me in the boat with him. Now, I’ve been paddling for half my life,” Ysabella said.

Now, Ysabella and Rex are not just father and daughter, but also teammates representing Team USA on the global stage. Their shared passion for dragon boat racing has built more than strength, it’s deepened their bond and created a legacy of teamwork and resilience.

When she’s not on the water, she prioritizes her wellness and conditioning for the sport. According to a nationwide survey conducted by Planet Fitness, teens believe physical activity helps deal with emotional ups and downs of being a teenager, and 93 percent agree that regular exercise is beneficial when handling challenges. 

“Watching my daughter grow through sports and at the gym, I’ve seen how it strengthens more than just her body—it gives her confidence, clears her mind, and helps her face the daily challenges teens deal with today. She also has our full support. Her mother, Liz, provides her with good nutrition and mental stability, always reminding her that she’s a student before an athlete,” said Ysabella’s father, Rex. 

Ysabella is a regular at her neighborhood Planet Fitness, where she utilizes Team USA coach-approved machines that target the back, shoulders and core muscle groups she needs to excel as an athlete. She works out at Planet Fitness three times a week, noting that the gym has lots of space for her to complete her fitness routine. 

“I have an athlete mentality, and I’m thankful that my local Planet Fitness has the space for what I need to accomplish. It’s hard to find a good gym that’s not overcrowded,” said Ysabella. 

She especially enjoys the resistance bands for assisted pull-ups, something that not every nearby gym provides. Both Ysabella and Rex use the massage chairs and hydromassage beds at Planet Fitness to cool down and recover their sore muscles. What’s more uplifting, 90 percent of teens say exercise helps them feel happy, with 88 percent noting improved mood after exercise noted by the survey.

Whether they are training for a sport or just want to get in some healthy exercise, Planet Fitness is dedicated to investing in teen wellness. The franchise is offering free memberships to high school students and athletes nationwide ages 14-19 from now until Aug. 31 as part of Planet Fitness’s annual High School Summer Pass Program. For more information on how to sign up, head to planetfitness.com/summerpass. 

The post L.A. County Teen Makes Waves at World Dragon Boat Championships appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Since before our son could toddle, he’s been traveling alongside my husband and me. We’ve bundled him, backpacked him, and “Bijorned” him on boats, planes and automobiles. 

We’ve trekked together across many continents, and explored cities and deserts nearer home, instilling in all of us, a love of exploration and renewal.

Our family odyssey has taught us invaluable lessons — some profound, some hilarious, and some that smelled suspiciously like goat. Here are seven big takeaways from our travels that extend far beyond the school gates.

Curiosity creates lifelong learners

Young people sometimes show a premature weariness with life — it’s all algorithms and eye rolls. But the world outside WiFi is endlessly fascinating.

Our son’s curiosity exploded in the best way possible once he saw how kids lived around the world. We’ve watched pre-teens hunting for food with their parents in Africa, seen children clean their classrooms in Japan, and youngsters fish at dawn, in the Amazon.

In Fiji, we looked on in awe as children made music with found objects, showing a deep resourcefulness and creativity we rarely see at home. My son learned an invaluable lesson that day; when there’s no toy shop, you must make the toys. 

All our minds have been opened many times — and honestly, if my son ever loses interest in TikTok, I’ll credit the children of the Andes.

Confidence comes from climbing, not clicking

True confidence stems from real achievements and a sense of being capable. While American society often promotes confidence, it sometimes leans into a “fake it till you make it” mentality. The idea of posing in front of someone else’s Maserati doesn’t build genuine self-esteem.

True, hands-on experiences create a deeper sense of accomplishment and identity, and travel is a short-cut to that. It’s important your kids, partner, and family see you trying new things, solving problems, and having fun — whether it’s figuring out where to buy sunscreen, replacing lost contact lenses, or picking the perfect picnic spot.

Our family has learned this first hand during our travels. We’ve all faced moments of uncertainty and confusion — wondering where to catch a bus, deciphering signs to find waterfalls, or trying to figure out opening hours in another language. Tackling these challenges together has given us a “we’ve got this” attitude. 

Empathy needs no translation

In this digital world, connecting both to nature and to people has never been more important. I’ve watched our son connect to a Masai tribe in Tanzania and to a woman carrying a small goat in Peru. I’ve looked on as a beautiful lady served our son soda in Japan and admired our son’s gratitude in receiving it. 

I’ll never forget the time, high up in the Andes, a group of women grabbed him as he ran up the stairs to greet them at 12,000 feet altitude, and then nearly fainted in their arms as the lack of oxygen hit. They wrapped him in blankets and made him a cup of cocoa. 

It was extraordinary to see him give himself over to this tribe of mothers without a word of English being spoken. It takes a village, sure — but sometimes it also takes an Andean auntie with a flask and a good sense of humor.

Think outside the goldfish bowl

Fixed perspectives can suffocate potential and understanding but shopping at a busy weekly market, doing laundry at a local laundromat, or trying a food that might be considered a pet (side order of guinea pig anyone?), creates not just curiosity but also empathy. 

We’ve been to a cat park in Lima, Peru, and there was a shared sense of joy, peace and play with every human and creature in the area, and, in Madrid, a history-filled whole roast suckling pig dining, remains a family highlight.

In transit, we’ve had to visit a local eye doctor (Austria and Spain), a tailor for to fix a camera bag (Zimbabwe), and a local electronics shop to fix an iPad (Japan), which were all adventures of their own. 

And it’s not just kids who can learn. Camping is not my first choice of a vacation but when my son wanted to go, I rented an RV and it turns out, that for a few days, I can enjoy life in a mobile home. And yes, I brought half my house for a three-day camping trip. And yes, I used all of it. Don’t judge.

When the plan becomes cereal in bed

Life doesn’t always play out as it should and neither will your vacation. Things screw up, everyone makes mistakes, and sometimes things are less than the photo presented. We learned as a family how to research, leap, pivot and that sometimes it’s okay to go back to your room to sleep and wait to get out to the next place. 

On a walking trip through Japan, after a day that saw us hike at a high elevation for 7.5 miles, from Matsuzaki to Hiroshima, the three of us ended the day snuggled in our room, enjoying bowls of cereal in bed, instead of a group dinner. 

While exploring the Dolomites, a magical hiking day turned into a mad dash down the mountain when torrential rain clouds arrived with lightening. It felt like an episode of The Amazing Race to return to the tram to hitch a ride down before it closed for the day. Travel is chaos with a sense of direction, and learning to pivot is part of the package.

Adventures lead to smarter choices

Many people often have an unrealistic understanding of what’s safe and what’s risky but travel can teach us valuable lessons about making sound decisions and clearly navigating through life.

In Africa, when our son asked if he could stand and put his head out of the roof of our Jeep, our guide responded: “There are few rules out here in the Bush, so do what you want. I’ll tell you this however, the nearest doctor is six hours away and he is a shaman. The nearest doctor the way you are used to it is a plane ride away, so choose your actions carefully.” He sat down.

On a Japanese commuter train, we watched everyone clean up before they departed, and now we’re just as committed to always leaving our public areas just as tidy when leaving.

You can tell your kid to watch their phone until you’re blue in the face, but it may take being in a group when an adult is pickpocketed, such as happened to us in Spain, for them to take notice. 

Coming home with new eyes — and heated toilet seats

There’s a huge amount of joy in budgeting for a trip and anticipating the adventures that lay ahead – but mistakes happen. 

I once had to return a bunch of scarves to a Japanese museum gift shop because I’d wrongly calculated the exchange rate. And that’s fine because we also found joy in unexpected places; for example, we learned that the Japanese use heated toilet seats, and so my husband purchased one as a souvenir!

Returning home after traveling makes us fully appreciate the comfort and security of our everyday lives. These moments of gratitude, mixed with the excitement of our adventures, inspire us to value what we have and think about how we can protect and share these experiences for future generations.

From the peaks of Patagonia to the canyons of California, our journey continues. But the real treasures? Curiosity, resilience, empathy and an unshakable belief that cereal in bed sometimes beats fine dining.

Pack light. Laugh often. The world is waiting — with snacks.

Margot Black is a Los Angeles-based travel writer, mom and founder of Black Ink PR.

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My family and I have not stepped inside a zoo for many years, but when we had a collective slice of time last Saturday morning, we headed to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to take a safari excursion and get a peek at the park’s new features.

In L.A., we charged up our car and let our newly licensed 17-year-old son, Sol, take the wheel for the 2 1/2-hour drive. On the navigation screen, he punched in the address — 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido — but before he pulled off, I handed him a foldable, laminated Rand McNally map of Southern California so that he could visually grasp where he was going. We live so much on the inside of our screens that our sense of spatial awareness continues to slip away.

Sol opened up the flaps of the map. “Wow, how much did this thing cost?” he asked, incredulous.

“It’s not an ancient relic,” I said. “It was $9.99 and I got it from Staples.”

“Wow,” he said again, his eyes wildly scanning the spread-out map, not knowing where to land.

“Find Los Angeles first,” I said. “Then, go south to find San Diego and Escondido, but take a look at all the towns we’ll pass through first before we get there. It’s like a preview of the drive, and it helps you get your bearings, I think.”

This quick exploration of our route was a prelude to our day of learning through excursion.

Jurassic Park vibes

We had not visited the San Diego Zoo Safari Park since Sol was in elementary school, but driving into the the park, with its jungle-like canopies of trees, elicited a refreshing familiarity. “It makes me want to watch “Jurassic Park” when we get back home,” my husband, Marcus, said.

“Well, Steven Spielberg was influenced by the Safari Park,” our guide, Delaney, told us. The entrance to the fictional Jurassic Park in the movie echoes the entrance to Safari Park, which was opened in 1972 and serves as the sister location to the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. The Escondido-based park, which mostly houses animals from arid environments, spans more than 1,800 acres that dip and rise like the savannas in Africa and Southeast Asia. It is home to more than 3,100 animals representing over 340 species.

Safari Excursions

While visitors have always been able to enjoy watching the animals by boarding a tram, Safari Excursions is the newest structure at Safari Park. Arriving a little early for our “cart safari” tour, my family and I lounged in the open-air, immersive gathering spot designed with a nod to a Kenyan safari camp, with exposed wood beams, lush greenery, wooden stools, rich textiles and bright wall paintings and textiles.

We listened to the sounds of birds and insects float in and out of the cool, airy space, allowed the photographer to take a family photo of us and discussed which animals we each were excited to see. While we were just a party of three, the lounge area can easily fit large groups of people at one time.

The safari excursions are an additional cost after the paying for park entrance. Options include:

Cart Safari – guided 1-hour cart tour of park highlights for $82 per person

Wildlife Safari – guided 1-hour tour in the back of an open-air truck that rides inside a savanna wildlife habitat for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Deluxe Wildlife Safari – For 90 minutes, guests get to venture into habitats representing Africa and/or Asia for up-close views of wildlife for $143 per person (ages 6 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes Safari – This guided 90-minute tour takes you to areas not available to the public, with opportunities to get up close to wildlife for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes: Elite Adventure Safari – Here, guests can explore the park on a 3.5-hour tour to learn about how staff cares for wildlife, then hop onto a safari truck and tour the savanna. Some walking required. Cost: $80 per person (ages 3 and up).

We opted for the cart safari, hopping on the cart with a chatty and extremely knowledgeable Delaney as she drove us first around the “Asia” savanna before looping around the outskirts of “Africa.” We marveled at the massiveness of the rhinos and elephants, envied the lions lounging across fields of grass, waved at Frank the gorilla as he rested his foot on a tree stump and watched us watching him.

I asked Delaney how animal activists in recent years have responded to the safari park. While some activists believe that all animals should only live in the wild, in their original habitats, others — after taking a more intimate safari tour — develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the park’s role in conserving endangered species and extending the life of vulnerable animals through extensive healthcare even while aiming to replicate the animals’ natural environments.

One such success story is Msituni,a four-year old giraffe born at the park who was unable to walk. After months of critical care that included giraffe-sized orthotic leg braces, she gained the strength to walk around 11 months old. We watched Msituni and her older and taller fellow giraffes munch on twigs while Delaney explained that their enviably long eyelashes help keep flies and gnats out of their eyes.

Another source of great pride is that park is home to the rarest breed of horse in the world: the Przewalski’s horse — a critically endangered species of wild horse that was categorized as extinct in the wild until 1996. In recent years, scientists have used tools such as San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Biodiversity Bank to expand the strength of the species’ population. 

Roar & Snore: Glamping with Wildlife

Speaking of eyes, if you love the parks so much you’d like to close your own eyes and spend the night our in the wild, consider checking out the new “Roar & Snore” glamping option. The premium tents feature a queen-sized bed and two portable cots to comfortably sleep four.

The tents overlook the savanna habitat where rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife roam freely. The adults-only option allows guests to explore the park after dark, enjoy classic camp activities and hear stories about San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation work around the globe. Cost: $245/person

Unique Safaris

If you like wine or beer with your safari, you’ll want to check out these features:

Sips on the Savanna: Wine Wildlife Safari, Mimosa Wildlife Safari and Craft Beer Wildlife Safari. Enjoy sipping a delicious beverage among the wildlife of the African savanna. Begin with a meet and greet mingle and your first drink in a souvenir aluminum glass. Next, board a covered, open-air safari truck and venture into an expansive habitat for up-close views of giraffe, antelope and more. Then it’s off to a breathtaking viewpoint for more drinks and savory snacks while taking in the sights and sounds of African wildlife.

Note that Wine Wildlife Safari is offered in the winter, Mimosa Wildlife Safari is offered in the summer and Craft Beer Wildlife Saffari is offered in the fall.  

Another unique option is the Behind the Scenes: Wild Cat Adventure. Guests can spend the morning visiting the wild cats of the Safari Park. See the park’s wild cats, peek into some of the wildlife care areas to learn what it takes to look after these diverse cats and hear stories about the park’s current conservation projects while traveling in a tour cart with a personal guide. 

Cassandra Lane is Editor in Chief of L.A. Parent.

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Teachers are regarded as some of the most influential people in a child’s life, and every May, during Teacher Appreciation Month, we shower them with coffee gift cards and mugs and our notes of thanks. 

Adele shook the internet in 2021 when she was publicly reunited with her former English teacher, Ms. McDonald, whom she credited with developing her love for literature, significantly impacting her journey to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated singers and writers. As a former teacher, I can admit that acknowledgement feels wonderful, and yet the increasing day-to-day challenges of being a teacher continues to threaten the future of the profession. Year after year, the same truth holds: Being an educator comes with high expectations, long hours and pay that seldom matches the workload.

A 2023 RAND survey indicated that 58% of educators felt overly stressed. Despite a significant decrease from data collected during the pandemic, the fact that more than half of educators indicated high stress levels is still concerning. A glance at a couple of other key findings from the American Teacher Survey:

• 23% of teachers said they were likely to leave their job at their school by the end of the 2022-23 school year.
• 26% of teachers reported that they sometimes or often feared for their physical safety at school. 

The landscape of educator wellness needs a profound shift to secure the future of education. While classroom management, teaching strategies and content mastery are critical, physical and mental health are equally significant. Encouraging educators to seek therapy and providing self-regulating strategies are steps in the right direction. However, the real transformation lies in embedding wellness into the regular educational culture. 

This is not just a school’s responsibility; it’s a fundamental practice that community stakeholders and parents should also uphold. By reshaping perspectives about the role of an educator, we can prioritize teacher wellness and pave the way for a brighter future for education.

Understanding teacher burnout

In 2022, EdWeek released a study that indicated that educators work nearly 60 hours per week, with less than half of those hours dedicated to actual instruction. Instead, most of the time is spent grading papers during evenings and weekends or contacting parents to address student needs and concerns. 

“I have a family. I have children. I have a husband. I have friends. And sometimes, I seem frustrated with them, but I’m really just tired from grading papers, making lesson plans, calling parents and worrying about students,” says Alicia Bester, a fifth-year teacher who is also a mother and wife.

The pressure on educators to hyper-perform to meet the expectations of parents and the deadlines set by school leaders frequently leads to long work hours, which results in personal negligence, poor work-life balance and the threat of teacher burnout.

Reconsidering communication strategies, showing patience and grace and respecting teachers’ boundaries outside work hours are essential ways to create space for rest and rejuvenation.

Mental health, wellness training as professional development

Studying testing strategies and classroom management techniques can help teachers improve their students’ academic performance. But there is often no place to turn for educators who find themselves on the cusp of burnout or suffering through personal matters. 

The fear of negative impacts on future opportunities make many educators hesitant to seek help. There is a gap between instruction-based professional development and educator wellness-centered professional development. In 2022, an EdWeek research survey collected data on mental and wellness support from 900 educators. Only one-third indicated that their schools or districts had provided any type of training or resources since the pandemic. 

Such staggering data suggests that educator mental health and wellness are still not considered a priority. However, leaders who create space for wellness conversations and provide support can change schools and the nature of education, leading to increased retention and improved student performance. 

Moving beyond Teacher Appreciation Month

Complimentary lunches and gift certificates are great for Teacher Appreciation Month, but these well-meaning gifts lack effectiveness in establishing an ongoing wellness practice.

Cultivating a school climate where educator wellness is a priority means that the work is visible and ongoing. Creating a safe space for educators to learn about health and wellness practices and address feelings of burnout, anxiety and stress can potentially reduce turnover and improve the quality of teaching and learning.

Integrating wellness days, collaborating across districts to make policy changes and strengthening positive relationships between parents and teachers to improve overall school climate support the best interests of both students and teachers. 

When teachers are physically and emotionally well, they are empowered to provide rigorous instruction and a more supportive and robust learning environment.

Being a teacher requires self-sacrifice and, quite often, such sacrifices are overlooked or viewed as “what a good teacher should do.” Thus, many teachers suffer in silence when they feel burned out, overwhelmed, undervalued and unsupported. However, we can no longer use luncheons and “Best Teacher Ever” mugs to demonstrate the value of an educator.

How we can improve teacher retention and wellness

Federal policy changes in 2025 are poised to fundamentally reshape American education and may force schools nationwide to adapt to a new era of decentralized control and uncertain resources. At the same time, new executive orders are targeting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and other programs, and all the changes (and talks of changes) add more weight to teachers’ already heavy shoulders.

Therapist and former school social worker Alexis Young says, “The demands of school and the climate have changed too much for us to continue the same practices. Education leaders must seriously reconsider how they prioritize educators’ mental and physical health. Stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease and other health issues are just too prevalent. But we can change that and show teachers we care about them, too.” 

To show the value of an educator, leaders must ensure teachers are equipped with the resourcesneeded to sustain and thrive in schools and classrooms. And parents can press school and district leaders to support teachers in these meaningful ways.

Each year, school social worker Carolyn Carter leads training on student mental health and tries to emphasize the importance of educator mental wellness. “My job is to work with students and parents, but often teachers also need a safe space to talk with someone they can trust,” she says. “As educators, we are required to do more and more to nurture students, but who is nurturing educators?” 

School districts must embed wellness into the daily fabric of the profession. Creating space for flexible planning time, access to mental health services, protected breaks and school policies that guard against burnout can reshape education for students and teachers alike.

Healthy teachers build healthier communities. When educators thrive, so do students — and so does the prospect of a brighter future.  

Jamie Mayes is an author, former classroom teacher and founder of Jamie Mayes Educational Consulting & Literacy Services.

The post Supporting Educators Beyond Teacher Appreciation Month appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Summer is nearly here — have you planned your family’s getaway? Experience Oxnard, the perfect beach town where OX Marks the Spot for your budget-friendly escape with beautiful beaches and immaculate SoCal vibes.

Best Oxnard Beaches

Nestled a beat past Los Angeles up Highway 101 lies Oxnard, equal parts vibrant and laid back. The city offers seven miles of uncrowded beaches, waterfront dining, and tons of budget-friendly fun for everyone.

Silver Strand Beach is a local favorite for good reason. This mile-long stretch is tucked between the Port Hueneme Naval Base and the Channel Islands Harbor, making it a prime spot for surfing, sunbathing, kayaking or fishing! 

Did you know Oxnard is home to Hollywood Beach? Well, it is! Legends like Clark Gable and Rudolph Valentino were known to hang out in the area and add to this beach’s historic charm. Now open to the public, it’s perfect for days of sun and surf.

‘Rocks’nard – For the Music Lovers

Yep, you heard that right! Oxnard strikes the right chord with its music scene. While you’re hear, kick back and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Start with the Heritage Square Summer Concert Series in historic downtown Oxnard. Bring a blanket, a picnic and catch live R&B, Latin jazz and classic rock under the stars. Then catch the summer Concerts by the Sea on Saturdays and The Collection at Riverpark on Thursday nights for live sets by the shore. 

Throughout the year, Oxnard keeps the party going with the Jazz Festival, California Strawberry Festival and Salsa Festival.

Free and Affordable Oxnard Activities

Drums Tour: DW Drums’ world headquarters opens its doors to give visitors a peek into crafting their renowned drums. The tour even includes a quick tuning lesson. Call (805) 485-6999, ext. 450, to secure a spot before your visit.

Channel Island Kayak Wildlife Tour: Explore the Channel Islands Harbor by kayak, meet “Chippy” the life-sized pygmy mammoth and keep an eye out for sea lions, starfish and pirate treasure!

Channel Islands Maritime Museum: Collections of maritime paintings, ship models and artifacts, including one of the largest ship models made of bones, await museum visitors. Admission is free for kids under 18.

Classic Car Shows: Cruise into nostalgia with Downtown Oxnard’s Summer Car Show and Cruise Nights on second Fridays from May through July.

Best Eats in Oxnard

 The Strandwich: The perfect spot to grab a bite by the beach, surrounded by “Nardcore” punk memorabilia.

Cafe Dolce Vita: If you need coffee before you can have thoughts, try this cafe in Downtown Oxnard. Get your coffee fix and a sandwich or a macaroon! Who says a SoCal beach vacation can’t have international vibes??

Fisherman’s Catch: Fisherman’s Catch is the best place to get coconut shrimp, calamari, lobster and more — all caught daily and at prices that make the food taste that much better.

The Annex Food Hall: The ultimate “something-for-everyone” dining destination, with 13 food vendors and shops nearby!

Honeycup Coffeehouse & Creamery: Coffee, smoothies and ice cream, oh my! At Honeycup, you can have it all, including ice cream handmade by a master chef!

Where to Stay

Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach weekend or a luxury escape with the whole crew, Oxnard has just the place to rest your sandy feet.

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach was named the No. 1 Best New Hotel in the U.S. by USA Today’s 2024 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards. This all-suite beachfront resort rivals spots like Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. If you want luxury with kid-friendly amenities, more room to breathe and less of the price tag, Zachari Dunes delivers. It’s where oceanfront elegance meets relaxed family fun.

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor brings the waterfront vibes. It sits on the scenic boardwalk, between the beloved Toppers Pizza and Peninsula Park (home of the Concerts by the Sea series). With two easily accessible public docks just steps away, it’s a breeze to launch a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a fun, family-friendly day out on the water.

For the sporty family, Staybridge Suites features Dallas Cowboys Training Camp memorabilia in the lobby and gives fans of America’s Team something to brag about. River Ridge Golf Club is conveniently next door.

Prefer something with homier comfort? Homewood Suites is perfect for longer stays with apartment-style living, basketball courts, BBQ grills and freeway convenience.

Book Your Stay in Oxnard Today!

Angelenos looking to escape the heat and crowded beaches will find cool ocean breezes and laid-back vibes right up the coast. Why shell out more elsewhere when you can soak up the sun for less in Oxnard? Plan your stay at https://visitoxnard.com. Then pack your sunscreen, grab the kids and get ready to discover where OX Marks the Spoton a memorable family vacation.

The post Escape to Oxnard This Summer to Explore These Activities, Best Eats and Places to Stay appeared first on L.A. Parent.

If you’re anything like my family, “Last Minute” could be your family’s surname. I don’t say that to shame us. No — we are an overworked, overscheduled bunch who should be handed trophies for keeping as many balls as we do juggling in air. But if you’ve let signing your kids up for summer camp slip from your orbit this year, don’t fret.  

Here is a roundup of some flexible summer camps in and around L.A. County. These camps provide flexible scheduling options and diverse activities to suit families looking for freedom in how — and when — you use the camp services.

1. Got Game Camp

Website: gotgamecamp.com

Locations: Multiple sites across Mid-City L.A., West L.A. and San Fernando Valley.

Dates: June 12-Aug. 22 (varies by location); 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., with extended care from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Flexible options: Weekly registration available. Campers can customize daily schedules based on interests.

Activities: Sports, art/science projects, water play, games and field trips for ages 6 and up.

2. Aventuras Forest School

Website: aventurasforestschool.org/summer-camp

Location: Griffith Park area.

Dates: Weekly options from June 16-Aug. 15; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Flexible options: Enrollment occurs on a rolling basis until full.

Activities: Spanish immersion through nature-based play and exploration in Fern Dell’s forest environment.

3. UCLA Recreation Summer Camps

Website: recreation.ucla.edu/summercamps

Location: UCLA Campus and Marina Aquatic Center in Marina del Rey.

Dates: June 16-Aug. 22. Most camps run between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (varies by program). Extended care is available.

Flexible options: Registration closes Wednesdays at noon before the following session begins. Example: If camp starts July 10th, registration closes Wednesday, July 5 at 12 p.m. 

Activities: Specialized programs by interest (e.g., arts, nature, counselors in training or water sports at Marina Aquatic Center). 

4. Fitness by the Sea Beach Camp

Website: fitnessbythesea.com

Location: Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades

Dates: June 11-Aug. 22; 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with extended care options

Flexible options: Options to sign up by the week. Parents can change their child’s schedule as needed throughout the summer

Activities: Campers are free to choose their own activities, which includes more than 50 different water sports, team and individual sports and creative activities.

5. Pali Adventures

Website: paliadventures.com

Location: Running Springs.

Dates: One-week sessions run from June 8-Aug. 16.

Flexible options: For this overnight camp, campers choose a morning specialty and design their own activities for the rest of the day to create a personalized camp experience.

Activities: Includes traditional camp activities alongside specialties such as filmmaking, a rock music program, motor sports, culinary arts and flying trapeze.

6. Aloha Beach Camp

Website: alohabeachcamp.com

Location: Zuma Beach, Paradise Cove, Channel Islands Harbor and other beach sites.

Dates: June 16-Aug. 22.

Flexible options: Day-by-day enrollment is available. There is also a “name your own price” option for families.

Activities: Surfing, sandcastles, bug hunts, beach hikes and more.

7. Tech Revolution STEM Summer Camps at UCLA

Website: lavnercampsandprograms.com

Location: UCLA, Cal Poly Pomona, Crossroads School.

Dates: June 16-Aug. 22; 9 a.m.-3p.m., with extended care options from 8 a.m.-5:45 p.m.

Flexible options: Weekly enrollment with the ability to switch weeks or cancel if needed, with an option to receive a credit for a later camp. Campers can build a customized schedule by selecting different STEM courses each week.

Activities: Robotics, game design, coding, engineering and more.

8. Steve & Kate’s Camp

Website: steveandkatescamp.com

Location: Five locations across L.A. County

Dates: June-August (camp dates vary); 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Flexible options: These camps provide flexible options for families who prefer day-by-day enrollment without requiring long-term commitments. Families can purchase day passes to use whenever and wherever convenient. No advance commitment is required. Campers can even leave and come back the same day.

Activities: Self-directed learning experiences including arts, sports and creative projects.

9. Anderson Adventure Camp H20

Website: rosebowlquatics.org/camp

Location: Rose Bowl Aquatics Center in Pasadena.

Dates: June 9-Aug. 8; 8 a.m.-3 p.m., with extended care options from 3-6 p.m.

Flexible options: Weekly registrations. Some weeks are still open.

Activities: Swimming lessons, arcade games, arts and crafts, parachute play, flag football and more.

The post Flexible Los Angeles Summer Camps for Busy Families  appeared first on L.A. Parent.

In a remarkable display of collaboration and resilience, Saint Mark’s School and EF Academy Pasadena have unveiled Saint Mark’s Village, a state-of-the-art temporary learning space in Altadena for students displaced by the Eaton fire. This milestone ensures uninterrupted education while rebuilding efforts continue.

Collaborative milestone in fire recovery

Saint Mark’s, an independent Episcopal school, and EF Academy, a private day and boarding high school, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially unveil Saint Mark’s Village for Saint Mark’s developmental kindergarten (DK) through 6th grade on the EF Academy campus.

The partnership, which was initially announced three weeks after the fires, went from vision to reality in less than two months, making it the fastest local school rebuilding effort to date.

“This ribbon-cutting represents more than just a temporary solution — it’s a testament to our community’s resilience and the collective effort to keep education at the forefront,” said Jennifer Tolbert, Head of School at Saint Mark’s. “Thanks to the generosity of EF Academy, the dedication of countless supporters and the critical state measures that expedited rebuilding efforts, our students can continue their education without disruption. We are confident that when we return to our permanent campus, it will be even stronger and better for the future.”

Partnering for a comprehensive learning space

The new Saint Mark’s Village spans more than 12,000 square feet, featuring 22 classrooms, administrative offices and dedicated outdoor space to foster a sense of continuity and community for Saint Mark’s students. Built on 32,000 square feet of previously unused land area at EF Academy, PjHM Architects and WillScot designed the space to provide a high-quality learning environment while seamlessly integrating with EF Academy’s existing facilities.

“This partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when a community works together, supported by proactive leadership at every level,” said Dr. Sally Mingarelli, Head of School at EF Academy Pasadena. 

U.S. Rep. Judy Chu added, “As someone who visited EF Academy during its earliest days, I’ve seen firsthand the school’s deep commitment to education and community. The swift creation of Saint Mark’s Village is a remarkable testament to that spirit.”

Community and leadership drive rapid rebuilding success

EF Academy Pasadena is providing Saint Mark’s Village with the land at no cost, underscoring its commitment to educational collaboration and community support. Beyond the dedicated learning space, Saint Mark’s students will also have access to EF Academy’s state-of-the-art STEM labs, arts spaces, gym and other campus resources.

L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger commended the partnership. “The creation of Saint Mark’s Village in such a short time is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together,” Barger said. “Pasadena has shown incredible leadership in ensuring students have a place to learn and grow. This collaboration between Saint Mark’s and EF Academy Pasadena demonstrates the power of education to unite and uplift.”

Pasadena City Councilmember Rick Cole said: “The rapid development of Saint Mark’s Village represents Pasadena’s commitment to step up and do all we can to ensure fire victims are rehoused, kids are back in school, businesses can reopen and we can rebuild the fabric of our shared Altadena/Pasadena community.”

 Gov. Gavin Newsom’s executive order, N-6-25, cleared the way for rapid rebuilding efforts. Pasadena was able to move quickly to issue permits and allocate resources to allow EF Academy to host Saint Mark’s on its high school campus. At the same time, the village would not have been possible without Pasadena’s “whole-of-government” approach, accelerating permits and assisting with essential infrastructure, enabling dozens of local architects, engineers and contractors — many of whom donated their time — to help Saint Mark’s Village go from groundbreaking to ribbon cutting in approximately six weeks. 

Saint Mark’s School is raising funds to provide tuition assistance for displaced families, replace essential classroom materials and technology, support trauma-informed mental health services and support teachers. Funds will also help cover the costs of operating the school’s temporary campus. Find more information on the school’s website.

The post Saint Mark’s Village: Fastest school rebuilding effort since Eaton Fire appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Compton Unified School District (CUSD) and The Juilliard School are revolutionizing arts education through a multi-year partnership, offering mentorship for students and professional development for educators.

The partnership deepens Compton Unified School District’s work in strengthening student pathways for artistic exploration and subject-specific professional development for teachers. Together, the organizations have built a new model that brings collaborative professional learning resources to CUSD’s performing arts educators as well as student mentorship opportunities with industry professionals and members of the Juilliard community and alumni network.

“We are absolutely ecstatic to be partnering with an arts organization of such unparalleled caliber as Juilliard. They indeed are the gold standard in arts education, synonymous with excellence, creativity, and achievement at the highest level,” says Micah Ali, president of the Compton Unified Board of Trustees. “For Compton Unified to partner with such a prestigious institution is emblematic of our commitment to providing world-class arts education. We are setting the stage for our scholars to thrive artistically, academically and beyond.”

“In Compton, we recognize that the arts are not just an enrichment — they are essential to a student’s growth, building confidence, discipline and creativity,” says CUSD Superintendent Darin Brawley, Ed.D. “Our partnership with Juilliard is more than an opportunity; it is a game-changer, elevating our scholars to the same level of excellence and world-class instruction as the most elite programs in the world.”

This partnership expands Juilliard’s longstanding commitment to working with partners to build new pathways into the performing arts. This two-way learning relationship for both education institutions also showcases CUSD’s dance, drama and music educators. The four-year program is broken into two areas:

• Collaborative Professional Learning for Performing Arts Educators
• Student Mentorship and Professional Engagement

Together, they will create enriched learning environments that engage local expertise from the Los Angeles area while broadening artistic opportunities for students and educators alike.

“We see this partnership with Compton Unified not just as a program, but as a shared commitment to making artistic excellence accessible to all students,” says Richard Mannoia, Juilliard’s senior director of Education and Strategy, K–12 Programs and Initiatives. “Together, we’re building a sustainable model that nurtures creativity and helps activate every child’s intrinsic artistic potential.”

The program will launch in 24 Compton Unified schools, with plans to eventually expand districtwide. The initiative kicks off in mid-April and runs through June 2028, serving Compton Unified students from kindergarten through grade 12.

The post Compton Unified Partners with Juilliard to Transform Arts Education 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.