When school is out and it’s too hot to go outside, screen time tends to reach an all-time high and creativity an all-time low. Music teachers from Red Pelican teach us how to flip the script with these easy, yet engaging, DIY musical instruments that are not only fun but also mean the kids are playing with math, creativity and even physics.

When thinking of making our own instruments at home, parents might let out a huge sigh and think that it’s more of a messy mission, but here are six nearly foolproof projects to create with items found in most homes. 

All of these DIY musical crafts are best suited for children ages 5 and up, with adult supervision as needed.

1. Water Glass Xylophone

Fill glasses with colored water to make a beautiful and functional water xylophone. If you want an octave, collect eight glasses. You can use most household glasses, but they should be relatively the same size, if possible.

Fill each one with water to different levels and play with what different amounts of water sound like. The lower the level of water, the higher the pitch is. Tuning the “xylophone” to a scale can be tricky, but have patience, it is so fun when you can sing with your instrument.

To take it up a professional notch: tune your xylophone to a “C Major” scale. If you’re looking at a piano, that’s the major scale you can play without using any black keys.

Need extra help tuning? Look on your smart phone for a wide array of free “Tuner” apps that are sure to help you get the perfect intonation from your “Xylophone!”

Once you’ve got your “Xylophone” perfectly tuned, add a drop of food coloring to each glass. Mix and match colors, add more or less dye, and you’ll get a beautiful array of colors!

You will tap your glasses with an object (such as a barbecue skewer with a rubber ball on the end or plastic/acrylic handle of cutlery). You don’t need to hit it hard, so please stand by your child as they explore! Feel free to play music in the background and have your child play along. 

2. Homemade Rain Stick

Using a small to medium-sized mail tube (found at the post office, an office supply store or online), carefully hammer two dozen nails (wooden dowels work well, too) into the tube. Next, fill up the tube with about two cups of dried beans, rocks, lentils or rice before hot gluing the bottom of the mail tube on. The different materials inside of your rainstick will affect the overall sound. It can be fun to build multiple rain sticks with unique blends of materials in each, and explore those different sounds with your kids!

After the adult portion of the craft, let your child decorate the rain stick with paint, yarn or glitter, if you’re feeling brave.

Now that they’re ready and decorated, ask your child what they notice about the different sounds. What happens when you flip the rain stick slowly? Quickly? What if we shake it? Can we tap it? There’s so many ways to play with a rain stick – it just takes a little imagination!

3. Popsicle Stick Harmonica

Channel your kids’ inner Stevie Wonder or Bob Dylan with these popsicle stick harmonicas. After the ice-cream truck is long gone and you’ve cleaned off the sugary residue from the popsicle stick, gather your supplies: two jumbo craft sticks or popsicle sticks, a wide rubber band, two smaller rubber bands, a straw and scissors. 

Cut the straw into two pieces that are 1–1.5 inches long. Stretch the thick rubber band length-wise around one of the craft sticks. Place one straw on each side under the rubber band. Place the other stick on top like a sandwich and attach them together on each end with a small rubber band. It will need to be wrapped around the end a few times.

Now you’re ready to play! Blow into the middle of the “harmonica.” Adjust the pitch by sliding the straws closer together or further apart. When the straws are closer together, the section of the vibrating rubber band is shorter, making a higher sound. Slide the straws all the way to the edges to get the lowest possible sound, though it’s still relatively high-pitched.

4. At-Home Pan Flute

If your family has ever seen “Peter Pan” and the pan flute has struck a chord (pun intended), then a homemade pan flute might be a less breakable, more affordable alternative to the real wooden deal.

This is one of the easiest instruments to make. You’ll need nine straws, a ruler, scissors and clear tape. Line up the nine straws and starting with the second one to the left, cut off two centimeters. Cut each remaining straw by two additional centimeters to create descending heights of straws. Gently tape the straws as they are in the row at the top and the bottom of the straws. Then, start blowing into the straws on the side where they line up and be transported to Never Never Land.

5. Homemade Maracas

Disney’s “Encanto” has got kids dancing and moving to so many amazing rhythms! How about maracas?

You can create simple hand-held maracas with any empty, recycled vessel. For example, plastic Easter eggs, Pringles jar or old pill bottles are easy options. Other supplies you will need: saran wrap, rubber band and weighted fillers, like dried rice, beans, pasta, beads or anything that fits and makes a sound. Extra supplies like yarn, paper, tissue paper, markers and crayons can be fun to use for decorating. This works with any age, but the little ones will especially love this activity.

Choose your vessel and fill it with fillers for your desired sound. Keep shaking, using different amounts to see what sounds you like. Once you’ve found your ideal weight, voilà, you have an instant “maraca”!

Use yarn, markers, tissue papers, etc. to personalize your maracas. Once decorated, shake away!

6. Paper Plate Tambourine

If your kids want to lean into the tambourine stylings of Stevie Nicks, the paper plate tambourine could be a good place to start.

Using two heavy-duty paper plates held face to face, punch holes every two inches around the circumferences of the plates. Double knot a piece of yarn, weave the yarn around the plates, then tie another knot to secure the plates together. With a second string of yarn, string a jingle bell through your yarn and continue weaving your plate. Alternate your jingle bells every other hole or more, depending on how loud you want it to be. When you get back to the hole in which you started, tie off your yarn again.

Like with the maracas and rain stick, allow your children to unleash their creativity and decorate their new prized possession.

Extra Credit

After making these instruments and learning about the sounds of each, get friends, family and neighbors involved to compose a concert with your DIY instruments.
 
Making music at home is just the beginning of your child’s musical journey. These DIY instruments offer a wonderful introduction to rhythm, pitch and creativity, but there’s something magical that happens when children receive proper musical instruction. Just like these crafts, age five and up also happens to be a wonderful time to begin private music lessons. Children at this stage are often ready to focus, follow instructions, and start developing foundational skills that will support a lifetime of musical growth.
 
Red Pelican brings high-quality music lessons right to your home, building on that natural curiosity and excitement your kids have already discovered through building these homemade instruments with you. Whether they’ve fallen in love with the melodic sounds of their water glass xylophone or can’t stop shaking their homemade maracas, Red Pelican’s experienced instructors can help nurture that passion into real musical skills. Music education doesn’t just teach children how to play instruments—it develops discipline, boosts confidence and gives children a valuable skill that lasts a lifetime.
 
 
 
 

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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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Young L.A. County filmmakers are on an award-winning streak. C-SPAN visited Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach on May 19 to celebrate and honor students for their prize-winning documentary filmy entries in C-SPAN’s annual student video documentary competition, StudentCam.

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

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

Award-winning documentaries

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

Second-Place Prize ($1,500):

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

Third-Place Prize ($750):

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

Honorable Mentions ($250)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Topics Explored

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

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

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

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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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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.

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.

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

An Immersive Pre-College Experience

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

Diverse Course Offerings

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

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

Earn College Credit

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

Learn from Industry Professionals

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

Experience Campus Life

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

Culminating Exhibition

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

Preparing for College Admissions

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

Important Dates and Registration

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

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

Join an Information Session

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

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

Invest in Your Teen’s Creative Future

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

The post Unlock Your Teen’s Creative Potential at Otis College’s Summer of Art Program appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Nothing says summer like the minivan packed to the gills, heading towards the open road before reaching its final vacation destination. Whether you’re taking a trip across the California coast or sludging through L.A. traffic, the radio only goes so far for a family. After only a few exits, you’ll likely be tired of repeated songs, an onslaught of car commercials and adult-focused talk radio.

Teachers from Santa Monica’s Green Brooms Music Academy compiled their favorite music-focused podcasts and audiobooks for kids. While you’re on the road driving to your destination, introduce the kids to an indie college-inspired radio hour, learn as a family about classic works of art, get schooled about musicians’ early childhood and more.

“Noodle Loaf” (podcast)

Noodle Loaf music education podcast was previously a number one podcast in the music category for kids – and for good reason. Noodle Loaf is an interactive podcast born from the brain of a music education specialist father and his goofball kids. For about 10 minutes at a time, host Dan Saks invites the family to join together for some creative fun. “Noodle Loaf” musically empowers children through play, laughter and lots of singing. Though the podcast wrapped up in 2023, there are years of archives to comb through.

“Can You Hear It” (CD and accompanying book)

Similar to publisher Abrams’s best-selling series, “Can You Find It,” made in conjunction with The Metropolitan Museum of Art, in this book, young readers are introduced to great music and great works of art. Children will hear “The Flight of the Bumblebee,” “The Four Seasons,” “Night on Bald Mountain” and more as the accompanying CD urges young readers to listen for certain instruments: Can you hear the car horns honking, played by clarinets? Can you hear the horses’ hooves, played by castanets? Included is a CD featuring 12 short works and an introduction to the orchestra and the instruments. 

“Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child” (weekly radio show)

This one-hour indie music hour is as if your indie college radio station had a kids’ hour. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, “Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child” has been providing the soundtrack to thousands of childhoods around the country. The show plays “indie music for indie kids,” including the best of music aimed at kids right alongside kid-friendly tracks from the likes of The Ramones, Mike Doughty, Ella Fitzgerald, Brian Eno, Pizzicato Five, Andrew Bird, Fishbone and more. Throw in exclusive in-studios from dozens of artists, and you’ve got an idea of what the show is about. “We’re radio nerds, and we want to raise another generation of radio nerds,” says the founder. On-demand streams can be found at sparetherock.com. 

“Kids Musicians: True Tales of Childhood from Entertainers, Songwriters and Stars” (audiobook)

Inspiring, relatable, and totally true biographies tell the childhood stories of a diverse group of musicians, including Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Mariah Carey, Yo-Yo Ma, Paul McCartney, and other influential performers in this audiobook. Every great musician started out as a kid and many discovered their love of music early on. Whether they became world-famous pop stars, groundbreaking jazz artists, or award-winning songwriters, these musicians pushed boundaries and left their mark. In Kid Musicians, tune in to the childhood stories of musical legends such as Beyoncé, Dolly Parton and Louis Armstrong.

Though tablets can be a saving grace at times on road trips, audiobooks and podcasts can engage the whole family while providing engrossing and educational content. Additionally, it is truly never too early to foster a lifelong love of music, and we think you’ll find these recommendations teach and delight kids of all ages.  

The post Turn it Up: Best Podcasts and Audiobooks for Musically Inclined Families appeared first on L.A. Parent.