Elena Epstein, Author at L.A. Parent

Sightseeing Close to Home

Published March 3, 2021

Coastal Wildlife in Marina del Rey

By Elena Epstein

PHOTO COURTESY OF Marine del Rey Convention and Visitors Bureau

If you’re looking for a way to connect with nature, but not ready to venture too far out, take a drive to the Marina. The kids will love watching the sea lions lounging on the docks at Fisherman’s Village. As you stroll the walkway, you’ll also spot pelicans and gulls.

Take a walk along the 10-acre Burton Chace Park and not only will you have wonderful views of the harbor but also more views of the sea lions sunbathing.

According to the L.A. County Department of Beaches and Harbors COVID-19 safety protocols prohibit group gatherings of any size and visitors must practice safe physical distancing by staying at least 6 feet apart.

Green Mac & Cheese

Published March 1, 2021

By Elena Epstein

Our favorite comfort food turned green for St. Patrick’s Day — with no dye! Recipe from wellness entrepreneur and cookbook author Catherine McCord, co-founder of meal delivery service One Potato and the founder of the popular Weelicious brand.

(serves 8)

Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni (you can also use campanelle, cavatappi, or shells)
3 cups whole milk
1 cups packed fresh spinach
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons flour
4 cups grated white cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups chopped broccoli florets
1 cup peas

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. Cook pasta in salted water for about 3 minutes less than package directions call for, until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water and strain.
3. While the pasta is cooking. Place the milk and spinach in a blender and blend on high speed until smooth.
4. In a large pot melt the butter and then add the flour, whisking continuously over low-medium heat for 2-3 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk mixture and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, whisking occasionally, 3 to 4 minutes, or until sauce is gently bubbling and starting to thicken.
6. Add reserved pasta water and cheese and whisk until melted. Stir in the pasta, salt, broccoli and peas.
7. Transfer to a greased 13″ x 9″ baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and the pasta is set.

How about a bright green smoothie not just St. Patrick’s Day? Check out the recipe HERE!

LA Opera Celebrates Women’s History Month

Published March 1, 2021

L.A. Opera is celebrating this month with programming focused on women composers, artists and scholars. From conversations with contemporary composers and famous opera lovers (like the late, great Ruth Bader Ginsberg) to musical performances by several of talented artists, join the L.A. Opera on an exploration of women’s contributions to music throughout history. And for Arts Education Month, they will be digging-in and sharing ways teachers can incorporate the arts into their classrooms.

Tuesday, March 2nd:
11am PT, Music to Remember: Sing-Along Recital with Nani Sinha (most Tuesdays)
Podcast: “Behind the Curtain LIVE: Celebrating Women Composers” (new podcast every Tuesday)
Wednesday, March 3rd:
6:30pm PT, The Zarzuela Project: Free Community Singing Class (every Wednesday)
Tuesday, March 9th:
Podcast: “From the Vaults: A Conversation with Ruth Bader Ginsberg”
Wednesday, March 17th:
Interactive Lesson Plan: “Female Composers You Should Know”
Saturday, March 20th:
9am PT, Opera for Educators: Opera in the Classroom
Tuesday, March 30th:
4pm PT, LA Opera On Now: Opera Happy Hour with Jeremy Frank
Saturday, March 27th:
10am PT, Saturday Mornings at the Opera: The Prospector

For more information visit laopera.org

Diversity and Inclusion – The Benefits in Raising Your Children to be Accepting

Published March 1, 2021

By Jeanne Huybrechts, Chief Academic Officer, Stratford School

“Diversity is the mix. Inclusion is making the mix work.” – Andres Tapic

We live in an increasingly diverse world where our children encounter people of varying races, cultures and abilities. As parents, teaching our children about diversity and inclusion is paramount as we focus on raising tolerant, accepting, and empathetic children.

How do you guide your child to grow to be a diverse, inclusive, and compassionate individual? Here are three ways where you, as a parent, can teach your child to have a positive attitude and approach.

1. Be a Role Model. Parents have so much influence on their children’s view of the world and ways of thinking, especially in matters related to how they treat other people and how they make decisions. Parents should message to children at an early age that diversity is not just a nice-to-have, feel-good goal but is a smart goal. Multiple studies of group dynamics in schools and in business have demonstrated the business value of assembling teams composed of people who have different perspectives, different ways of looking at problems and different life experiences to contribute to the collective intelligence of the group. Groups that are more diverse make smarter decisions than homogenous groups. There are deep and long-lasting benefits that inclusion policies and practices can bring to team dynamics, to organizations and to interactions among children in the classroom and on the playground.

2. Explain Differences, Don’t Ignore Them. When developing curriculum and programming related to diversity and inclusion, my three go-to resources are Facing History and Ourselves, the Teaching Tolerance organization, and Common Sense Media. Facing History uses lessons of history to challenge teachers and their students to stand up to bigotry and hate, and they do this by creating rich and rigorous histories of past injustices, of discrimination based on sex, religion, national origin and race – injustices fueled by unaddressed nationalism, racism and prejudice. Included in every lesson package are prompts and exercises that lead to reflection on the sustained damage produced by the injustices. Facing History has many resources for parents seeking to reinforce the values of acceptance and inclusion within diverse communities – the value of getting to know people different from ourselves.

Along these lines, my favorite resource for parents (and teachers) is Beyond the Golden Rule, published by Teaching Tolerance. The 50-page book is free and downloadable. It features advice and resources for parents of toddlers, teenagers and all ages in between. From the Teaching Tolerance website: “Whether you are the parent of a 3-year-old who is curious about why a friend’s skin is brown, the parent of a 9-year-old who has been called a slur because of his religion, or the parent of a 15-year-old who snubs those outside of her social clique at school, this book is designed to help you teach your children to honor the differences in themselves and in others — and to reject prejudice and intolerance.”

3. Use Children’s Books to Explore Differences. Finally, Common Sense Media maintains a wonderful list of books that promote diversity and inclusion for children of all ages – again, toddlers to teens. Among my favorites are A Snowy Day and Last Stop on Market Street, both read aloud books; New Kid, a marvelous graphic novel; Maniac Magee; Stella by Starlight; Wishtree; and American Born Chinese. What these books have in common is that they promote values of diversity and inclusion in memorable stories about interesting characters — stories that show rather than tell, thus grounding abstract concepts like inclusion in examples of real people having authentic experiences and processing genuine feelings.

It’s tempting to try to be completely politically correct when talking about diversity and inclusion, as children are naturally curious about the world around them. When we help children understand these differences, they’ll be one step closer to respecting and celebrating the differences in all people, cultures and experiences and how those differences ultimately can bring the joy of living into our world.

Stratford School has three locations in Los Angeles County with a focus on infusing a strong liberal arts curriculum with STEAM inspired learning. For more information visit stratfordschools.com

Celebrate International Women’s Day with PBS

Published February 28, 2021

Parents, teachers and caregivers have the ability to help girls and boys learn how to lift each other up and champion women’s empowerment and equality. We’re happy to share some fun and informative tools available from PBS to open conversations and families move towards a more gender-equal future.

With PBS LearningMedia’s virtual art collection, Unladylike 2020, kids can learn about key female figures in the civil rights movement, along with groundbreaking women in STEM and the arts.
In PBS KIDS for Parents’ “How to Raise a Self Confident Girl,” Katie Hurley arms caregivers with easy reminders of questions and beliefs to share with their daughters.
Learning new skills and volunteering with the community are awesome ways for girls to lead with courage. Parents can find additional ideas in PBS KIDS for Parents’ “How to Raise a Leader.”
This book list, perfect for ages 3 to 9, is filled with stories featuring girls from different cultures and backgrounds, exploring how dreams can lead to lifelong learnings

Digital Community Editor

Published February 15, 2021

Job title: Digital Community Editor for L.A. Parent
Hours: 20 hours/per week
Reports to: Editor-in-chief

L.A. Parent is looking for a part-time Digital Community Editor with the goal to expand our digital reach and connect with more families in Los Angeles and neighboring counties. We’re looking for someone who loves storytelling, has a passion for the unique dynamic of raising kids in Los Angeles, enjoys and understands social media and loves being out and about in the community and engaging directly with families.

Job Duties:

Main focus will be website articles, calendar of events and social media.

Oversee L.A. Parent’s calendar of events
Write and post content in WordPress
Engage with the parenting community via social media platforms, through content creation, videos, instagram takeovers and other audience-engagement strategies
Help with assigning columns and freelance articles

The Community Digital Editor should be:

Ethical and responsible
A strong writer with a fun and friendly style who is able to efficiently produce engaging headlines and content for digital platforms including social media
A team player who is a self-starter and able to multi-task different projects with varying deadlines
Always looking beyond press releases for something new to share with readers
Aware of trends in the parenting community and fun things to do and places to go for families in Los Angeles
Savvy with social media and able to engage through various platforms and understands how to grow an audience through storytelling
Engaged in the community and passionate about going to events and meeting our audience (when in person events resume)

Must be proficient in:

WordPress — posting articles, photos and videos
SEO, audience and social analytics tools
Video editing
Simple design programs
All social media platforms
Office 365

Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Journalism or Communication
Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
Deep knowledge of current or emerging social media platforms and engagement strategies

How to Apply:

Send resume and cover letter to Elena Epstein, elena.epstein@laparent.com

Kindness for Valentine’s Day — and Beyond

Published February 11, 2021

While every day is a great day to show your love and appreciation for your kids, Valentine’s Day gives all of us a wonderful opportunity to express our feelings — and nothing says love more than kindness. With the help of our friends at NAPPA Awards, we are celebrating kindness and positivity all year long by showcasing books, music and other great products that will bring joy and connection to your family and remind us that we need to be kind to ourselves, to each other, to our community and to our world.

Best for Mom

Let’s start with all the moms who always put everyone else first. We know this past year has not been easy, parenting through a pandemic, that’s why we love KindNotes. These beautiful jars of 31 handcrafted messages, enclosed in mini decorative envelopes, combine the charm of handwritten notes with positive affirmations perfect for a little pick-me up. Comes in a variety of designs and themes and can be customized. Starting at $34.95, kindnotes.com

And we think every mom deserves some quiet time to reflect and recharge. MamaZen Mindful Parenting App provides the perfect space to relieve stress, fatigue and anxiety using a combination of meditation, hypnotherapy and mindfulness . The 150 brief audio sessions (5-15 min) cover common topics among moms. 30-day free trial, then $14.99/month, mamazen.com

Share Kindness Through Music

We know you’re going to love these recent NAPPA Award winners as much as we do. Music is such a wonderful source of well-being and the messages of kindness in these songs are universal and great for all ages.

Make it Happen!

Cheery, charming and energetic songs celebrate the simple joys of life, while also delivering positive messages of empowerment, courage and strength. Packed with lyrical wisdom centering on creating meaningful relationships and experiences. $9.99, staceypeasley.com

Thank You, Mister Rogers – Music & Memories

A heartfelt tribute album featuring classic songs performed by award winning artists. Highlights include the spirited Latin rhythms on Jaci Velasquez’s playful take of “You Can Never Go Down The Drain,” Jon Secada’s Spanish interpretation of “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” and actress/singer Rita Wilson, whose husband Tom Hanks wonderfully portrayed Fred Rogers in the movie, provides a tender rendition of “Sometimes People Are Good.” $10.95, thankyoumisterrogers.com

A Mind of Your Own

Featuring Nashville-based songwriter/multi-instrumentalist, a Brooklyn-based, fiddle-playing child psychiatrist and an array of acclaimed Americana performers in a captivating and upbeat debut album filled with songs and skits touching on a variety of topics—making new friends, coping with failure, learning a new language, dealing with emotions and bullying. Invites listeners to think deeply on feelings and emotions that come with growing up, while focusing on resilience. $14.98, folkways.si.edu

Words to Inspire

Find a cozy nook and start reading together. Beautiful illustrations and words will inspire you to be in awe of nature and all the creatures around us. There is so much to be thankful for if we just take a look around and really notice.

Good Morning, Good Morning

The lyrical wordplay encourages children to explore their surroundings and notice the subtle sensations within their bodies, all while helping them develop their daily mindfulness practice. Written and illustrated by women of color and featuring diverse characters. $12, ages birth-4, bounlesblooms.com

The Mighty River

Celebrates the community we share through nature and the diverse animals and plants that call the river home. Includes beautiful illustrations, a wide array of information, ideas on how to protect our waterways and space to draw and describe river animals and scenes. $15, ages 2-8, years, beautifulworldbooks.com

Kindness Tales

A curated collection of children’s stories celebrating the timeless power of kindness to make the world a gentler, safer and even more loving place by author and highly-respected folklorist, Margaret Read MacDonald. $16.95, ages 6-10, augusthouse.com

The Book of Cultures

A 120-page picture book for young readers to discover the world, embrace its diversity and go on adventures near and far, all from the comfort of their home. Featuring 30 stories with buddies from different countries, followed by a 2-page activity snapshot on each culture. $35, ages 4-9, worldwidebuddies.com

Be Together

To teach our kids about their big feelings is a true gift. Sit together, talk and use these creative and colorful cards to enhance your child’s social emotional learning.

The Little Yogi Deck: Simple Yoga Practices to Help Kids Move Through Big Emotions

A colorful card deck featuring 48 simple yoga and mindfulness practices to help kids work through big emotions on and off the mat. Eight color-coded categories include anger, worry, excitement, sadness, joy, jealousy, shame and peace. Includes a practice booklet. $19.95, ages 5+, Shambhala.com

Mindful Moments: Guided Exercises and Mantras for Kids

Easy-to-follow guided exercises blending mindfulness meditation and empowering affirmations to build emotional intelligence and encourage kids to tap into the present moment and their unique strengths. Includes mindful tips booklet. $30, ages 2+, boundlessblooms.world

Imagine That

It is through play that kids learn about life. Give them a world filled with imagination, kindness, love and generosity.

Poppy the Kindness Unicorn & Pawley Bear

Join Poppy and Pawley on their journey filled with friendship, kindness, and lots of fun as they spread kindness through Sharewood Forest. $34.99, ages 3+, plushible.com

Care Bears: Love-A-Lot Bear

A group of huggable BFFs living that sweet caring life. Perfect for unlimited bear hugs and ready for you to take on your adventures of sharing and caring. Comes with a collectible Care Coin to spark on conversation and action on everyday acts of kindness. $14.99, ages 4+, Walmart.com

Sharewood Forest Friends

Enter a magical world filled with friendship and sharing. Each friend comes with an adorable outfit, pajama set and reusable packaging that unfolds into a unique playscape, where kindness grows as large as the mighty oak and spreads like wildflowers. $34.99, ages 2-4, sharewoodfriends.com

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Crocheting with the Autry Museum

Published February 3, 2021

Join the Autry Museum for a fun craft. This beginner virtual class will walk you through creating a Sunset Mug Cozy. Using the Autry’s collection as inspiration, this series of video tutorials teaches the relaxing and creative craft of crochet. Julie Kadoi takes you through the steps to make a range of projects; all tied to objects, images, and designs in the museum.

This beginner’s tutorial is: Sunset Mug Cozy.

Click HERE to get started.

A Neighborhood Guide to L.A.’s Amazing Architecture

Published October 16, 2020

By Amy Rush Conroy

Architecture Spectacular views of Yamashiro Restaurant — Spectacular views of the city and Yamashiro Restaurant

Need a study/work break? Let’s take the classroom into the city and explore our very own architectural treasures.

A jaunt to Watts Towers can provide a lesson in engineering, art, local history and just plain wonder. The towers are closed during the pandemic, but a great deal is viewable from the street and merits a visit with a sketchbook in hand.

Up in Hollywood, take that sketchbook to Yamashiro restaurant, which translates to “Mountain Palace” in Japanese, and then to the nearby Holy Transfiguration Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Little Armenia.

In Downtown L.A., check out Frank Gehry’s infamous Walt Disney Concert Hall (can you see the ship in the structure?). Tours are canceled during the pandemic, but you can visit the outside of the building. These four distinctive forms of architecture constructed during four different decades in four different neighborhoods reflect just a sliver of the diversity we share.

If you’re looking for spooky architecture in the spirit of Halloween, FortLA has put together a “Witch Houses” trail to lead Angelenos through the hidden paths, secret byways and most fantastical homes curated by “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” star Amber Benson. Enter your email address on the organization’s website for free access to this and other trails, which you follow at your own pace. Architecture has never been so bewitching!

Click here to explore more area neighborhoods.

#SupportingFamilies: Tunes to Enjoy Together

Published March 13, 2020

By Elena Epstein

Music has a wonderful way of bringing joy into our lives and a dance party in your kitchen, and is a great distraction from the 24-hour news cycle that’s become our lives lately. These family-friendly albums are all NAPPA Award winners.

Small But Mighty, by Ginalina

This album features songs in French, Portuguese and Mandarin along with instruments including a “tres” (a Cuban guitar) and a “cavaquinho” (a Portuguese guitar). Ginalina’s tunes touch topics involving nature, inclusiveness and family and the acclaimed Canadian family musician is especially adept with her uplifting songs of encouragement. Ginalinamusic.com

Children on Parade by Bay Song

Composed by the husband/wife duo John and Jo-Anne, this album instills an endearing home-crafted quality. The couple, long-time teachers, have created a lighthearted record with a fun focus on food-inspired tunes: “Cookin’ Up A Song,” “Blueberry Blues,” and “Mac ‘n’ Cheese Overture.” Keenanliteracy.com

Sharon & Bram and Friends

Institutions in the children’s music world, Sharon Hampson and Bram Morrison spent decades, as 2/3 of the hugely popular trio, Sharon, Lois and Bram and, for most of the 21^st century, performed as a duo after Lois Lilienstein’s retirement (she passed away in 2015). The two recently had their 40^th anniversary farewell tour; however, they haven’t totally said goodbye, and this terrific album reveals that their music-making is as vital as ever. In their songs, they talk about having a peaceful world, the joys of playing an instrument, and the importance of compassion in ways that are straightforward but playful and engaging for young listeners. Fans, old and young, also will be pleased to know that the album concludes on a new “Skinnamarinky” note. Casablanckids.com

Heartsongs of the Rainbow

Created by a pediatric speech pathologist with the goal of uplifting, inspiring, nurturing and supporting those in the Special Needs Community. This album can also be enjoyed by all children. Murphy’s friendly, warm vocals hold an expressiveness (a bit of old school folk and a touch of Broadway) that draws in young listeners’ attention. theadrienneprocess.com

Songs in the Shade of the Cashew and Coconut Trees: Lullabies and Nursery Rhyme from West Africa and the Caribbean

An enchanting collection of 23 traditional songs that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage and multilingual communities of West Africa and the Caribbean. Stories about children playing in the schoolyard at recess, sisters braiding each other’s hair at the beach, and parents dancing and singing late into the night mesh together thanks to the music. songsintheshade

Moove to the Moozika!

Bilingual singer-songwriter and music educator Jesse Goldman brings an even dozen of the biggest hits from his acclaimed, Brooklyn-based Moozika! music classes and Moozika! band to his debut family album. This playful collection of city-based adventure songs in Spanish and English encompasses an eclectic mix of styles – folk, jazz, samba, blues, ranchera, pop, Latin, rock, and house music. Moozika.com

Sing With Me by Tracy Newman

This collection is all about sharing the joys of an “unhurried childhood” with infectious and fun tunes that entertain and teach important life lessons. The whole family will want to sing and dance along to these whimsical songs about food, dinosaurs, trains, walking for the first time, a new baby sister and more. Runalonghome.com

Beneath the Cherry Tree by by Kare Strong & Josh Goforth

A happy groundhog, a little bluebird and chickens on Blackberry Lane. There are flowers, fairies and farm critters – including a festive party for a pig. This menagerie of animals, nature and fanciful creatures are all beautifully brought to life through this lovely album. Karenstrongmusic.com

All I Do Is Hop by Grin Brigade

While hopping between various musical styles and singers, the CD creates an energetic eclecticism for listeners to enjoy. There are comical ditties (like the country rocker “Mr. Ticklebone”) and message songs (such as the bilingual “Mi Pelota”). In “High-Paying Job,” a kid voices his money concerns, while children are just looking for fun in “Halloween Party Tonight.”Also contains amusing educational numbers like the “Dog Alphabet Song,” the counting tune “One Fuzzy Caterpillar” and “Otter Facts.” Songwizard.com

Under the Big Umbrella by Brady Rymer and the Little Band that Could

Delivers an uplifting celebration to the culture of kindness. The messages of compassion and inclusiveness are presented in wonderfully catchy melodies that will get kids and parents dancing. “Drop In The Bucket” and “Different Is Beautiful (Yeah, Yeah, Yeah)” really rock out, while “Stick Up Stand Up” projects an early ‘60s R&B vibe. Bradyrymer.com

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Toy Fair 2019: The Coolest Toys & Games

Published February 25, 2019

By Elena Epstein

L.A. Parent team at Toy Fair New York

Our L.A. Parent team just came back from Toy Fair in New York and one thing we learned for sure is that you are never too old to play with toys.

The International Toy Fair, produced by The Toy Association, is an annual gathering of more than 1,000 toy and game manufacturers, big and small, that takes over the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City during President’s Day weekend.

What’s new and exciting for 2019? Lots! The fascination with surprise toys and unboxing will take on a whole new level as kids must now dig through or unwrap several layers to find the treasure. Better slime, putty and sand are coming to enhance imaginative play. The trend for STEM and STEAM-related toys continues to grow to help prepare and inspire kids for the future.

And many nostalgic toys of the 90s, such as Pretty Pretty Princess and Playmate’s Aladdin Genie featuring phrases from Disney’s classic 1993 release, are making a comeback. 2019 will also see beloved characters tied to much anticipated movie releases such as Toy Story 4 and Frozen.

Llamas are the it animal of the year. We saw them everywhere.

BearWear by Little Kids, Inc.
Wild Republic Llamas and Llama Pegacorn
Boppi, ‘The Booty Shakin’ Llama
from ZURU Pets Alive
Pikmi Pops Pajama Llama

“Parents and kids today are looking for toys and games that are fun, engaging, and keep them coming back for more, but that also enrich the play value to help build lifelong skills,” said Ken Seiter, executive vice president of marketing communications at The Toy Association.

We also noticed a lot of products that could be enjoyed as a family. Kimberly Mosley, President of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), says that there is a growing trend towards products that encourage play across the lifespan such as board games and puzzles. Another trend Mosley highlights is toys that encourage movement and activity in kids.

Here are just a few samples of the many fun things coming in 2019! We’ll be showcasing the best of the best throughout the year in our We Love It column and for even more reviews of award-winning toys and games, check out NAPPAawards.com.

Unboxing Craze Continues

Even the youngest ones will enjoy “unboxing” surprise with this adorable Dolce Safari Elephant
Peel the surprise with Bunches of Color
Love Em’s from KESS
Luvi Pups from Redwood Ventures
Dig to uncover the treasures with Moose Toys Treasure X Aliens
DoMis by Pikmi Pops
Form your own orchestra with these quirky monsters
Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty by Fun Rise
Calico Critters Baby Shopping Series

Learning Toys

Space Exploration with Playmobile
Robot fun with Thames & Kosmos
Art with Crayola
Hubelino building set at HABA
LeapBuilders by LeapFrog
A to Z Magnatab by Kid-O
Putty Puzzle by ThinkFun
DIY Pillows & Blankets by Mindware

Summer Fun

Musical Bubbles from Fubbles
MOBO Balance Bike
Tidepool Set by Green Toys
ShuffleToss by Wicked Big Toys
Giant Bubbles by Zing
Ice Hoop by KESS

Super Heroes

Descenders Wall Racers from Marvel Avengers
Pop Tops by Playmates
Ben 10 characters from Playmates
Mighty Beanz from Moose Toys
Adventure with PJ Masks
Harry Potter Real Talking Sorting Hat by YuMe

A special Halloween for Babies in the Intensive Care Unit at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Published November 4, 2014

Jamison Pugh, in pig costume, with mom Tina and nurse who helped sew some costumes, Shelley Sterrett. PHOTO COURTESEY OF CEDARS-SINAI’S MAXINE DUNITZ CHILDREN’S HEALTH CENTER

Volunteers were working hard on the days leading up to Halloween to ensure a festive celebration for the babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Cedars-Sinai’s Maxine Dunitz Children’s Health Center.

In what has become an annual tradition, volunteers from Good Beginnings and some nurses in the Maxine Dunitz Children’s Health Center created adorable costumes, all handmade, for the tiny babies who were spending their first Halloween in the hospital. Each specially-made costume features Velcro openings so the babies can easily be placed in them without disturbing their tubing to life-saving machines.

Jordan Downing with mom, Shirlon Fuller. PHOTO COURTESEY OF CEDARS-SINAI’S MAXINE DUNITZ CHILDREN’S HEALTH CENTER

The volunteers and nurses buy all the fabric and do all the cutting and sewing themselves. They made 40 costumes this year in various sizes. Parents were able to choose from 23 different themes, including butterfly, pumpkin, monkey, zebra, cheetah, minions, Olaf from Disney’s Frozen, pig, clown, tiger, owl, Dalmatian, candy corn and watermelon.

The Halloween costume party has been a tradition at the medical facility for 17 years.

“The costumes bring joy to the parents in an otherwise difficult time,” says Charles Simmons, MD, chair of the Department of Pediatrics and director of the Division of Neonatology. “It allows families to celebrate the holiday with their newborn even though their baby is still in the hospital.”

Costco Donates $10 Million to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Published August 21, 2014

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Costco executives celebrate Costco’s $10 million gift to CHLA. L-R, Ted Samuels, co-chair, Board of Trustees, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles; Katrina Wyhowanec, Costco regional marketing assistant; Helen Yniguez, Costco regional marketing manager; John Eagan, Costco vice president and senior general merchandise manager; Bruce Greenwood, Costco senior vice president and general manager; and DeAnn Marshall, MHA, CHLA’s senior vice president, chief development and marketing officer. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES

Making the largest single corporate gift Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) has ever received, Costco Wholesale Corporation has made a $10 million philanthropic commitment to support the pediatric medical facility.

In honor of this gift, the second floor of the Marion and John E. Anderson Pavilion, home to the hospital’s Heart Institute, will be named the Costco Wholesale Floor.

“Costco Wholesale has been a significant partner in our mission to create hope and build healthier futures for the children of Southern California,” says Richard D. Cordova, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “Costco’s generous gift will directly impact our ability to provide world-class pediatric care, conduct ground-breaking medical research and train the next generation of clinicians.”

Eileen Garrido, 15, who had heart surgery at CHLA in June, addresses crowd and performs a song at the celebration. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES

Since 1983, Costco Wholesale has donated more than $16 million to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles – with gifts coming from Costco’s shareholders, but also from club members, employees and business partners. Shoppers contribute at the registers every May as part of Costco’s month-long in-warehouse fundraising campaign; Costco employees volunteer their time to lead fundraising efforts; Costco business partners fundraise for the hospital at various charity events and the corporation matches all the gifts raised. Costco Wholesale’s commitment of $10 million over the next five years will support CHLA’s Children’s Fund, which is dedicated to the hospital’s research and clinical care programs.

“This gift to CHLA reflects our philosophy of being a responsible corporate citizen by doing our part to improve the communities where Costco operates and where its employees live and work,” says Bruce Greenwood, Costco Wholesale’s senior vice president, Los Angeles region.

Ballet for All Brings Dance to Typical Kids and Those With Special Needs

Published August 20, 2014

By Elena Epstein

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BALLET FOR ALL

Elise Luna, 6, loves to dance. With her ballet DVD in hand, she twirls around her living room every chance she gets. One of the biggest treats of the week is her ballet class.

While verbal communication is a challenge for Elise, who has autism, dance frees her to fully express herself.

Elise has been taking classes at Ballet for all Kids in Encino for the past year. The studio, founded by Bonnie Schlachte, also has locations in Westlake Village and Ventura offers classical ballet lessons for kids with all abilities. Classes are open to boys and girls ages 2 and up, including those with learning and developmental disabilities, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, ADHD, vision or hearing problems, and children who are nonambulatory – as well as neurotypical children.

“Elise has gained so much confidence since starting this class,” says Jennifer Luna, Elise’s mom.

There are currently 80 students enrolled in the program, which began as a way for Schlachte to combine her love of ballet and working with kids with special needs. Schlachte attended the University of Maryland on a ballet scholarship and, while in college, discovered her love of psychology and social work. She has worked with people with developmental disabilities for 20 years.

Ballet has many benefits for those with physical or developmental challenges. “It increases coordination, strength and flexibility,” says Schlachte, “but it also has tremendous developmental benefits. The parents tell us how much more self-regulated the kids are. They become more focused and do better in school and social situations.”

One of the most moving examples of the transformative power of ballet for Elise was at a party.

“Parties are typically very overwhelming for Elise,” says Luna. “But she brought her ballet DVD and just started dancing with it and three other little girls joined her. It was wonderful to watch.”

For Karla Diaz, Ballet for all Kids offers a rare opportunity for her 7-year-old daughter, Maya, who has autism, to participate in an activity with her two neurotypical sisters.

“This class allows them to be a part of each other’s lives and do something fun together,” says Diaz, who brings her daughters to the Encino studio every Sunday from Pasadena.

Ballet for all Kids works with close to 100 high school volunteers eager to share their love of dance with this special community. Some are so inspired by their volunteer work that they end up pursuing careers working with children or with those who have disabilities.

Rebecca Elbogen, 18, started ballet when she was 10 and soon joined a performance team with the Los Angeles Ballet Academy. A recent North Hollywood High graduate, Elbogen is headed to NYU for college. Saying goodbye to her students at Ballet for all Kids was difficult, she says.

“This was my first experience working with kids with special needs and I enjoyed it so much from day one,” says Elbogen. “I’m thinking of pursuing developmental psychology and working with kids.”

For more information, visit Ballet for All.

The Shops at Montebello Awards $9,500 in College Scholarships to Local High School Seniors

Published July 30, 2014

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SHOPS AT MONTEBELLO

Twenty high school students from the Montebello Unified School District were awarded $9,500 in scholarships through The Shops at Montebello’s Scholarship Awards, meant to recognize graduating seniors in the community and help them continue their education.

The scholarship program was created in 1985, when the center opened, as a way to assist local students in recognizing their educational goals and to provide initial monetary support to achieve those goals.

“We’re honored that we’re able to support the academic endeavors of promising and driven youth within the Montebello community,” said Marida Petitjean, director of marketing and business development at The Shops at Montebello. “Our hope is that our scholarships will help remove some of the financial obstacles that would otherwise prevent a student from achieving the dream of a college education.”

Candidates were evaluated on criteria that included a combination of academic accomplishments, work experience, involvement in the community and an essay detailing why it is important to further their educational path after high school. In addition to the completed application form, applicants were also required to submit letters of recommendation and a current school transcript.

Award recipients included the following high school seniors from the Montebello Unified School District:

Itzia Rosas and Juan Carlos Carmona—Community Day School

Graciela Jimenez, Narak Bin and Salvador Moreno—Vail High School

Benjamin Limones, Daisy Zavala, Noel Esparza Duran, Roberto Ulloa and Yessica Tellez-Escobedo—Bell Gardens High School

Emily Castro, Gia H. Duong, James G. Kladouris, Malachi Lee Jackson and Maribel A. Medina—Montebello High School

Elizabeth Moreno, Ellen N. Murana, Erick Rojas Garcia, Carina Areli Macias and Karina Amor—Schurr High School.

Celebrity Fashion Designer Debuts New Collection at the 16th Annual DesignCare to Benefit the HollyRod Foundation

Published July 22, 2014

By Elena Epstein

Holly Robinson Peete, Jason Priestley and Naomi Lowde-Priestley attend the 16th Annual DesignCare to Benefit The HollyRod Foundation at The Lot Studios on July 19, 2014. PHOTO BY TIFFANY ROSE/GETTY IMAGES FOR DESIGNCARE

Holly Robinson Peete and the Peete family hosted celebrities and friends at The Lot Studios in Hollywood for the 16th annual DesignCare, a celebration of fashion, philanthropy and music that benefits the HollyRod Foundation. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, silent and live auction, a runway show by fashion sensation Michael Costello and a special musical performance by Naturally 7, an a cappella R&B group known for their “vocal play.”

Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete are well known for their advocacy in the autism community, as well as many other organizations and causes including Parkinson’s disease. The couple, who have a 15-year-old son on the autism spectrum, recently shared a candid view of their life, marriage and family with L.A. Parent for our annual “Your Child with Special Needs,” publication. You can read their story here: LA Parent/Special Needs

The HollyRod Foundation, dedicated to providing help and hope to those living with autism and Parkinson’s disease, was founded in 1997 by NFL quarterback Rodney Peete and actress Holly Robinson Peete. For more information on the foundation, please visit HollyRod Foundation

Roman Peete, Dolores Robinson, Ryan Elizabeth Peete and Rodney Jr. Peete attend 16th Annual DesignCare To Benefit The HollyRod Foundation. PHOTO BY VIVIEN KILLILEA/GETTY IMAGES FOR DESIGNCARE

The July 19th gala honored the following community activists:

Serena Esformes, fashion designer and founder of SMAK Apparel – 2014 HollyRod Young Compassionate Entrepreneur Award
FedEx – 2014 HollyRod Corporate Compassion Award
Pamela Wiley-Wells, Ph.D., founder of LA Speech and Language Center – 2014 HollyRod Angel on the Path Award
Izzy Paskowitz, founder of Surfer’s Healing – 2014 HollyRod Angel on the Path Award
Ben Petrick, author and former Major League Baseball player living with Parkinson’s – Matthew T. Robinson, Jr. Award of Courage
Anthony Starego, first varsity football player with autism – 2014 HollyRod Autism Champion Award

Celebrity guests included:

Michael Costello, Naturally 7, NBA player Dwyane Wade, Russell Simmons of Def Jam Records, Candace Cameron Bure (Make It Or Break It), Laila Ali (All in With Laila Ali), former professional boxer Sugar Ray Leonard, Alex Meneses (The Cleveland Show), Leeza Gibbons (America Now), comedian Tommy Davidson, Octavius J. Johnson (Ray Donovan), Mayte Garcia (Army Wives), Charlotte Ross (Hit The Floor), model Daisy Fuentes, Amy Yasbeck (Life On A Stick), Jason Priestley (Call Me Fitz), Mohamed Hadid (Real Housewives of Beverly Hills), Melissa Carcache (Every Witch Way), Access Hollywood hosts Shaun Robinson and Billy Bush, Lisa Gastineau (The Gastineau Girls), Cleo King (Mike & Molly), comedian Byron Allen, Elise Neal (Belle’s), Heather McComb (Ray Donovan), Challen Cates (Big Time Rush), Peter Savage (The Deer Hunter), Blanca Blanco (On Air), and many others.

A New Place to Play in the West Valley

Published July 7, 2014

There is a new kids gym in town. KidZone, located in West Hills, features 3,000 square feet of fun for open play and private parties for children ages 12 and under.

The gym offers lots of different activities including a trampoline, zip line, building blocks, puzzles, craft table, rope wall, library, puppet stage, swings, and interactive games on Xbox with Kinect. There is also a parent lounge with HDTV, coffee, tea, water, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

KidZone is located at 6729 Fallbrook Ave., West Hills, 91307. For more information, visit http://www.kidzonewesthills.com

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Chesebrough Park in Santa Clarita Gets A Fun Make-over

Published July 3, 2014

Santa Clarita residents now have more reasons to enjoy Chesebrough Park. The City of Santa Clarita recently added some fun features to the popular community park.

The new and improved play area now includes bongo drums, a new Hot Wheels track, a climbing wall, Tech Deck fingerboard pool, sand box, and a shape puzzle designed for kids two to five years old. A new slide, climbing tube and swing set round out the state-of-the-art play area, which is surrounded by several new shade canopies. The park also features a new play area for kids five to 12, featuring a spinning pole, monkey bars, climbing wall, three slides, climbing ropes and rings, and a pull-up bar. A new rubberized surface puts an extra spring in kids’ steps.

The city donated the park’s original play equipment to ‘Kids Around the World, a nonprofit organization that delivers safe play equipment to children in need in other countries.

Chesebrough Park is located at 23505 Sunset Hills Drive. To view a complete listing of Santa Clarita parks, visit City of Santa Clarita.

Earth Baby Offers Eco-friendly Products

Published July 3, 2014

PHOTOS BY LAUREN GUILFORD

Earth Baby is a cute new boutique on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, offering an array of eco-friendly products including a large selection of cloth diaper brands, babywearing accessories, organic baby and maternity care products, and eco-friendly toys.

The boutique also offers classes on such topics as babywearing, essential oils, and diapering while traveling.

The boutique is the brainchild of mom of two, Renee Kennedy Powers. Her husband, Brian, helped build the store.

Earth Baby Boutique is located at 13454 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 91423. For more information, visit http://earthbabyboutique.com

Los Angeles Students Win Grand Prize at 48th Annual California Media Festival

Published June 25, 2014

The winners from Carpenter Community Charter Elementary School. PHOTOS BY PBS SoCaL AND THE ART INSTITUTE OF ORANGE COUNTY

Three Los Angeles schools were the Grand Prize Winners at the 48^th Annual California Student Media Festival. During the June 7^th awards ceremony, held at the Harmony Gold Preview House, 87 awards were presented to 47 elementary and secondary schools from across the state. The festival, presented by on PBS SoCaL and CUE, as well as support from eighth-year presenting sponsor, Wells Fargo, is the nation’s oldest student media festival.

The awards ceremony featured the winning entries, red carpet interviews, and Academy Awards-style acceptance speeches.

Grand Prize winning schools were chosen to receive a $1,000 cash grant for winning the best overall entry in their respective divisions. The Grand Prize winners include Carpenter Community Charter School in Studio City for Best Overall Elementary with Sir Francis Drake, Millikan Middle School in Sherman Oaks for Best Overall Middle School with To Confronting #8, and Downtown Magnets High School in Los Angeles for Best Overall Secondary with My Digital Story. Among the schools to receive recognition, Mission Middle School in Escondido received the most individual classroom awards with four wins.

Highlights from the Media Festival will be televised on September 25, 2014 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCaL. For a complete list of winners and videos, please visit PBS

Drink-up: Kids Encouraged to Choose Water

Published June 12, 2014

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL KOVAC/GETTY IMAGES FOR BRITA

The kids at the Burbank Community YMCA had a special treat June 11 when actress Eva Longoria, representatives from Brita water filtration systems and television camera crews took over their play yard as part of Brita’s nationwide summer kick-off campaign to encourage kids to drink more water.

Brita has teamed up with the national YMCA to donate water filtration pitchers and dispensers to locations throughout the country. During Wednesday’s kick-off party, Longoria and kids made special water blends infused with fresh fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, raspberries and apples. The kids also enjoyed some fun dancing with Longoria, made bubbles and created fruit-inspired arts and crafts.

Brita’s donation continues the brand’s support of “Drink Up,” the collaboration launched by the Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA) in September 2013. With PHA Honorary Chair First Lady Michelle Obama at the helm, Drink Up encourages everyone to drink more water more often. For more information, visit http://www.youarewhatyoudrink.org.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL KOVAC/GETTY IMAGES FOR BRITA

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