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If you are expecting your first child, you may be worried about your financial future, and with good reason. Children are an expensive undertaking, with some studies showing the average cost of raising an infant all the way through high school to be over $230,000. With college tuition skyrocketing, home values fluctuating, and job security changing, it’s wise to start planning for the future now. Thankfully, with some common-sense steps, you can ensure a financially healthy future for your family. Step 1: Know Your Money The first step is to become better aware of your current financial status. Start by creating a budget. Calculate your net income and monthly expenditures, including mortgage, utilities, loans, and so forth. Deducting expenditures from income will let you know whether you need to cut back someplace, or if you can set aside more in savings. You may consider starting a college fund or saving for Junior’s first car, which is a great time to do so. You should also save for an emergency fund for expenses like home repairs, new appliances, deductibles, car repairs, and so forth. While you’re at it, take stock of your assets and liabilities. Assets include things you own outright, and liabilities are debts. Assets include vehicles, vacation properties, and your house (you can determine your home’s value as easily as entering some information online). Together, your assets and liabilities determine your net worth. Step 2: Plan a Soft Landing Your monthly expenses are about to go up as you prepare for your little one. Not only do you need to prepare a nursery, but you should also consider medical expenses. You can use this calculator from BabyCenter.com to estimate your first-year baby costs. On top of all that, many families must pay childcare costs at the end of maternity leave or cover the loss of income if a spouse is staying home with the baby. If money is tight, one idea is to look into freelance or side work. Consider a flexible side hustle that lends itself well to your new role of parenthood, such as pet sitting, catering, or being someone’s personal shopper. Pick something you enjoy so you look forward to it, which is not a stressful addition to your lifestyle. Step 3: Evaluate Insurance Make sure you have the best medical coverage for pregnancy, labor, and delivery, as well as your newborn’s health needs. Don’t forget to add your new baby to your health insurance after the birth. Some experts recommend adding a child to your policy within 30 or 60 days of birth, but check with your insurance company for specifics. Along those same lines, consider adding life insurance and disability policies if you don’t already have them. This way, your family is covered should the unthinkable happen. This is also a great time to figure out ways to lower your auto insurance. Since having a baby costs a lot, finding ways to save money here and there is very important. For example, if you bundle your auto insurance with another policy, keep a clean driving record, or install an anti-theft device, some insurance companies will offer you lower rates. So, talk to your agent or, if needed, shop around for a new policy. Step 4: Must-Have Paperwork If you haven’t already done so, a will is a must-have for parenthood. It’s a chance to ensure your baby’s interests are met should anything happen to you. It’s also an opportunity to establish who raises your child in the event you aren’t able to do so. You may also want to establish a trust, which allows you to decide who manages an inheritance until your children come of age. Step 5: Planning for the Future Finally, wise parents will plan for their own retirements as well as their kids’ futures. In fact, Money Crashers recommends saving for your retirement before starting that college fund. If you aren’t sure of whether you’re on track for retirement, you can use a retirement calculator to give you more insight. It’s normal to worry about things like finances when you have a child on the way, and it’s healthy to make changes with your baby in mind. It’s not too soon to start planning for the future. The more you do now, the more secure finances will be for you and your children.

The Thrill Capital of the World, Six Flags Magic Mountain, is safely reopening for California residents starting April 3rd with new thrills! New at Six Flag Magic Mountain is "West Coast Racers", the world’s first single track quadruple launch racing coaster! This first of it’s kind racing coaster features two side-by-side tracks with four individual high-speed launches. The race covers two complete laps, multiple airtime hills, extreme high-banked turns and exhilarating over/under near misses. A highlight of the ride is an immersive real time “pit stop” designed and produced by world famous West Coast Customs that will provide you with a racing experience unlike any other. Most Rides are open at Magic Mountain except CraZanity, Jammin’ Bumpers, The Looney Tunes Lodge, Tidal Wave, and Whistlestop Train. Lives Shows have also been postponed until further notice. Find A Perfect Stay Near Six Flags Magic Mountain! To meet social distancing guidelines and ensure the health and safety of all the visitors, all visits to the park must be pre-scheduled. You can purchase your tickets online. Also, Six Flags Magic Mountain only accepts card and mobile payments at parking toll booths, restaurants, retail stores, games, ticket windows, and parking toll booths. If you have a 2020 Season Pass, you do not need to purchase a 2021 Season Pass. All 2020 Season Passes have been extended until December 31, 2021. For more information about Six Flags Magic Mountain, click here.

At Fun With Kids in LA, our mission is to inspire you every day to do fun things with your kids. We share the best of LA with our awesome followers, and as a thank you for being so awesome, we surprise you with gifts that will inspire you to make beautiful memories. This month, we are excited to partner up with Kirk Douglas Theatre to giveaway 4 tickets to the upcoming production of LITTLE BLACK DRESS. Leave the kids at home and go on a double date-night with your best couple friends, or for a girls night out with your besties! LITTLE BLACK DRESS follows the story of Dee and her best friend Mandy experiencing life through their little black dresses - first job interview, first date, first awkward sexual experience, second awkward sexual experience and more. Using hilarious improv, catchy songs, and a heartfelt story, LITTLE BLACK DRESS has made audiences across the globe laugh, cry, and party! With hilarious show-stopping musical numbers, “Magic Mike” influenced dancing, and loads of improvised audience mayhem, LITTLE BLACK DRESS makes for one wild and unforgettable evening. "By no means, was this your every-day musical. With audience improv built into the show, this high-energy performance was new, fresh and fun—something that you didn't know was missing from standard musical lineups until you got to immerse yourself in the interactive LBD story. It is difficult to box this musical into a genre because there is truly nothing like it." -- BroadwayWorld.com The running time for LITTLE BLACK DRESS is 2 hours with a 15-minute intermission. The production has adult themes and strong language, and is recommended for ages 19+. Click here to enter for a chance to win. You must be at least 18 years of age to enter. Giveaway ends on November 15, 2019. When: Sun. December 3, 2019 @ 8 p.m. Where: Kirk Douglas Theatre at 9820 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232. You can also purchase tickets online. Group tickets can be purchased by calling 213-972-7231 or by email at Groups1@CTGLA.org.

On the night of Halloween, trick-or-treating is a must to do with the kids. There are tons of neighborhoods that embrace the spirit of Halloween, but we have found you the best that guaranty safety for your little trick-or-treaters, where they can also collect the best candies ever! Angelino Heights Trick-or-Treating Carroll Avenue and Douglas Street Angelino Heights, CA This historic Los Angeles neighborhood is famous for its Victorian mansions, perfectly suited for atmospheric yard haunts, which the locals deck out in elaborate displays for Halloween. Consequently, the area has become a popular destination spot for trick-or-treaters from around Los Angeles, known as the “Haunted District.” Curious haunt-seekers can probably check out the decorations during the last week of October, but trick-or-treating festivities take place on October 31st around 5pm. ​ Beverly Hills Witch House Trick-or-Treating Walden Drive and Carmelita Avenue Beverly Hills, CA What you will see is a street full of lavish homes draped in Halloween decor. Best of all is the famous “Beverly Hills Witch House” designed in 1921 by Hollywood art director Harry Oliver with the deliberate intent to simulate a storybook residence. Walking by the unruly garden and murky pond, trick-or-treaters may think they have wandered into an elaborate live-action yard haunt version of “Hansel and Gretel”. ​Brentwood Trick-or-Treating Brentwood Glen, between Church and Beloit Streets Brentwood, CA This neighborhood has a reputation for good candy and decorated homes with spooky Jack O’Lanterns. The nearby Brentwood Country Mart hosts a Halloween evening from 3pm to 6pm on October 31. You can check out the decorations during the last week of October, but trick-or-treating takes place on Halloween Night. ​Santa Monica Trick-or-Treating Montana Avenue between 6th and 17th Streets Santa Monica, CA With 150 boutiques, bistros and bakeries, the ever-stylish and always chic Montana Ave is a great place for families to celebrate Halloween. The annual Halloween Hop, from 3-6pm, is a long-standing community tradition, continues to be a popular one for families who seek a fun and safe evening of trick or treating. Kiddos and their parents can meander down the 10-block shopping street and enjoy a sweet candy escape, then head to the surrounding residential neighborhood to end the night with more treats than tricks. ​Downtown Trick-or-Treating Grand Hope Park at the Fashion Institute of Design Merchandise Los Angeles, CA While Downtown may not be the easiest place to go when it comes to trick-or-treating, the locals know how to throw a party. The Annual Halloween Party for Downtown L.A. Kids at Grand Hope Park continues to thrive as parents celebrate the spookiest night of the year with bounce houses, caramel apples and “trick-or-treat-doors.” The event will be held on October 31, from 5pm to 8pm. Hancock Park Trick-or-Treating Ardmore Street, Rossmore Avenue, North of Wilshire Los Angeles, CA The homes in Hancock park go above and beyond to decorate their homes for the trick-or-treaters. Not only you get to see so many beautifully designed houses, this is also a very kid-friendly neighborhood for trick-or treating, and to show off your best costumes. Start on Larchmont, head over to Arden, and end your night with treats up and down Rossmore. Pacific Palisades Trick-or-Treating Huntington Palisades, West of Sunset Boulevard Pacific Palisades, CA This neighborhood is a favorite among parents during Halloween for a safe and fun environment. You can find some cool hunted houses in this neighborhood among so many beautifully designed houses for the holiday. Some houses even provide cool drinks for the parents who are accompanying their kids.

Get ready for some serious family fun at one of the new pop-up outdoor roller-skating rinks this summer! You can experience that pop-up roller-stake rinks in three different locations in Los Angeles, and if you keep reading, we will tell you exactly where they are and what you should expect. POP SK8 is now open at Westfield Valencia located at 24201 W. Valencia Blvd., Valencia, CA through May 27, 2019. POP SK8 will then move to the Westfield Woodland Hills located at 6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA from Saturday, June 1st through Sunday, June 30th. And last but not the least, they will move to Westfield Culver City located at 6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA from Saturday, July 6 through Sunday, August 4. Advertisement POP SK8's Musical Squares, Freeze Skate & Pizza Box Relay Race are just a few games to break the ice & test your skills! The POP SK8 experience will be themed-musical selections for each day of the week. For example, if you like the 80's music, Thursdays are the days to go, or if you prefer hit music from the '90s, Y2K, and today, you should go on Saturdays. Hours of operation are 2 pm to 10 pm Monday through Thursday, 2 pm to midnight on Fridays, 12 pm to midnight on Saturdays, and 12 pm to 10 pm on Sundays. All-day individual admission are $15 per person, or $28 per couple (skate rental included). Group packages are also available. Here is your chance not only to spend some fun time with your kids, you also get to feel like a kid yourself! For more information, please visit POP SK8's official website. You may also enjoy: 6 Best Bike Paths for LA Families!

Here is a list of all the Theme Parks in California that are bringing the cheer and joy of the holidays to town! Seeing Santa is a given at the parks this year, and with lots to do and lots to see, the 2019 holidays will be the one that you will talk about for years to come! Knott’s Berry Farm: Knott’s Merry Farm returns with Snoopy Ice show, old-fashioned holiday themed merriment and Christmas Crafts Village. Disneyland: There’s a cool parade, lots of interesting holiday cookies to buy, and "It’s a Small World" returns with special lights and a Christmas themed ride. Universal Studios Hollywood: While Grinchmas returns to Whoo-ville, there’s a more prominent offering as you enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Celebrate Christmas. Legoland California: The signature Legoland brick tree is the beginning of a fun-filled kids holiday with meet & greets, shows, special holiday foods and more. SeaWorld San Diego: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is one of the highlights to a warm and festive holiday that brings back Clyde & Seamore’s Christmas special. Six Flags Magic Mountain: Holiday in the Park includes 29 nights of holiday lights and entertainment. California’s Great America: WinterFest includes one of the tallest Christmas trees in the Bay Area adorned with thousands of twinkling lights accompanied by giant toy soldiers.

Your favorite series "Thomas and Friends" is now available on Netflix and YouTube! This animated children's series follows the adventures of Thomas, a cheerful blue tank engine who lives on the island of Sodor with his friends. The series launched in 1984 and aired on pubcaster PBS until 2017 when Nickelodeon signed a wide-ranging deal to become Thomas & Friends‘ network home. Nick Jr. carried Seasons 21. 22 and 23 of Thomas & Friends, along with specials. And now Season 23, which had aired on Nick Jr. last year, are available on Netflix, with the new Season 24 launching later this year. You can also watch Thomas and his friends’ adventures as he explores the Island of Sodor on YouTube for free, and bring them to life on your phone or tablet with fun and exciting games. There are several different apps available for download on App Store, Google Play, or through Amazon Appstore. Also check JustWatch App for Thomas and Friends, and similar series. Another exciting news is you can find bunch of fun activities like coloring pages and puzzles for your child to enjoy on Thomas & Friends' Website, and they are all free.

There is a high possibility that all LAUSD schools be closed as of next week, and if they do, it is predicted that schools will remain close for at least two to three weeks. There are no words out there yet as to when and how long the schools will be closed, but schools are preparing for the closure. In case of school closure, this is what you might expect: 1. Most schools are preparing packages for students to take home for home studying for at least three weeks. 2. If your school provides chromebooks to the students during the academic year, you maybe able to request to take the chromebooks home during the closure so that kids can continue to do their work and to communicate with their teacher(s). 3. The teachers will be still communicating with the students through email and are there to answer questions. 4. Your kids will bring home their books and all study materials during the closure to continue studying at home. 5. You may ask your school library to borrow books for reading at home during closure. 6. The staff will most probably be available through email to assist you with questions. 7. If the teachers have websites, they will post weekly curriculum on their websites, or you may receive emails from teachers with the curriculum. 8. Your kids still need to do homework during the closure and submit their homework to their teacher(s) online. 9. The California Department of Education has received a waiver from the federal government allowing it to continue to provide meals at non-school sites during school closures. The waiver allows families to take the meals home rather than eating them in a group setting. 10. The Los Angeles Times has reported Wednesday night that LAUSD is also considering teaching by television on KCET. Please check with your school for their own specific planning in case of closure. Information in this Article is not official and are for informational purposes only. For additional assistance to help your kids stay on track, there are many online resources: Khan Academy Khan Academy is an educational nonprofit program, which allows you to sign up for free, and make a profile for each of your kids base on their age and grade. There are different subjects that they can learn, and so many different lessons based on each kid's grade. Library Card Use your Library Card, and get Free ECourses & Instructional Videos. Take a wide range of highly interactive online educational courses. The Ecourses have been mostly designed for learners over 13 years of age. You can also get free research databases & images, free tutoring & homework help, and much more. To learn about all the free educational resources you can get with your library card, click here. Make Me Genius Another educational website that is free for kids is Make Me Genius, with lots of educational videos, cool facts, science tests, and quizzes for grades K through 7th. K5 Learning At K5 Learning's website, you can find lots of free worksheets, ebooks, math, and spelling lessons, and if you want to access more educational materials, you can try it for free for 14 days. K5 Learning is for kids in grades K through 5th. SightWordGames Find Sight Words, Reading, Writing, Spelling, Vocabulary, and Math Practices on SightWordGames.com for free. The practices are designed for kids in grades K through 7th. National Geographic Kids National Geographic Kids is another good source for teaching kids about nature and animals. You can find lots of cool educational videos, educational games, science experiments, geography facts, and much more. On National Geographic Education Resource Library, you can find numerous educational materials based on your kid's grade from Pre-K to 12th grade. PBS Kids PBS Kids offers lots of educational games and videos for the little ones, and they are all free. Cool Math Cool Math is an awesome source to teach kids addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, money and more. TIME for Kids TIME for Kids is loaded with interesting photos, videos, and articles about politics, the environment, entertainment, sports, health, and more, which is designed for kids in grades K through 6th grade. Fun Brain At Fun Brain, the kids can learn math, read books for free, and find so many fun learning games, and more. Fun Brain is designed for preschoolers through 8th graders. Exploratorium Exploratorium is a very cool website for learning science, and science experiments. It's a vast collection of online experiences that feed your kid's curiosity. The information in this article are not official and for informational purposes only. Please check with your own school for official information.

Swimming is one of the most important sports and a necessity for kids to learn! But You don't have to have a swimming pool, or take your kids to expensive private swimming lessons to teach them how to swim. The City of Los Angeles Aquatics Division offers kids affordable and safe aquatic activities at their public pools. The Aquatics Division operates more than 39 seasonal swimming pools, and you sure will be able to find one near you. The City is offering five swim sessions this summer! Online registration for Session #1 at the public pools opens on June 12th at 1:00 pm, or in person at your local pool on June 15th at 9:00 am. All sessions consist of ten 25 minute lessons over two weeks. To ensure you sign up for the right level, you need to visit your local pool to complete an assessment. Lessons begin June 17, 2019. Your kids must be given a Swim Assessment on or prior to their first day of lessons in order to confirm their eligibility in the class. Persons with disabilities are also welcome to participate in the classes. Accommodations will be provided upon request. For Citywide Aquatics, contact (323) 906-7953, or email: Citywide.Aquatics@lacity.org. You may also enjoy: The Best Splash Pads In Los Angeles for Kids & Families!

Enchanted Forest of Light returns to Descanso Garden this year starting November 17, 2019 through January 7, 2020. Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience featuring a one-mile walk through unique lighting experiences in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. You can walk at your own pace and get memorized along the way as you watch the garden come to life with beautiful light installations. Expect to spend one to one and a half hours at Enchanted. We highly recommend taking your fancy camera to take amazing pictures of all that is around you. It is best not to use the flashlight when you take pictures. Due to safety concerns, tripods are not allowed at Enchanted: Forest of Light, but Monopods and selfie sticks are permitted. The walk concludes with a spectacular light display in Descanso’s iconic Japanese Garden, where you can stop for hot cocoa or beverages. You may also make a reservation to have dinner at Maple Restaurant inside Descanso Gardens. To see the menu at Maple Restaurant, click here. Maple offers a nice kids' menu which includes enchanted burger, ravioli, pizza, hot dog, and chicken tenders for $12 each. Kids' dinner comes with a choice of fries or salad. Enchanted Forest of Light will have a preview party on November 16, 2019. Tickets will include food, drink, entertainment and entry, and are $150 per person. Enchanted Forest of Light runs daily from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm from November 17, 2019 through January 7, 2020. The Enchanted Garden is closed on November 22 (Thanksgiving), December 24 (Christmas Eve), and December 25 (Christmas Day). Each person in your party must have a ticket to enter Enchanted, including children under 2 (Children under 2 are free, but still require tickets). Tickets are $30 per person, but if you become a member of Descanso Gardens, you can get $5 discount. Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive in the City of La Cañada, which is approximately 45 minutes drive from Los Angeles, and the drive is totally worth it. For more information about Enchanted Forest of Light, visit Descanso's Garden's website. You may also enjoy:

At Fun With Kids in LA, our mission is to inspire parents every day to do fun things with their kids. We share the best of LA with our awesome followers, and as a thank you for being so awesome, we surprise you with gifts that will inspire you to make memories with your families. We’re excited to partner up with Kirk Douglas Theatre to give away four (4) tickets to "FRIENDS! The Musical Parody"! About the Show: FRIENDS! The Musical Parody is the comedic musical that lovingly pokes fun at TV’s Friends, celebrating the adventures of your favorite group of 20-something friends as they navigate the pitfalls of work, life, and love in 1990s Manhattan. It’s a typical day at New York’s only coffee shop, Central Perk, until an unexpected runaway bride enters the picture and kicks the whole gang out of second gear! The new musical recreates our favorite moments from all 10 years of Friends through an uncensored, fast-paced, music filled romp. "FRIENDS! The Musical Parody" will start on July 16, 2019 and run through August 4, 2019. The performance length is approximately two hours with intermission. The show is recommended for age 13 and older due to adult humor and language. To Enter: See our GIVEAWAY page for details to ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN. You must enter between July 9th through July 15th for a chance to win. For more information about the show, please visit FRIENDS The Musical Parody's official website. Enjoy 20% off tickets using this link. #giveaway

At Fun With Kids in LA, our mission is to inspire you every day to do fun things with your kids. We share the best of LA with our awesome followers, and as a thank you for being so awesome, we surprise you with gifts that will inspire you to make beautiful memories with your family. This month, we are excited to partner up with Underwood Family Farms to giveaway 4 passes to Annual Fall Harvest Festival at the farm plus 25 Activity Tickets and a Pumpkin! The 22nd Family Farm Harvest Festival at Underwood Family Farms starts on September 28th and runs through October 31st. Weekend Festivals include tractor-drawn wagon ride, corn maze, corn stalk labyrinth, Pig Races, Animal Show, Pumpkin House, Pumpkin playhouse, live music and entertainment, access to Pick-Your-Own fields and Pumpkin Patch, Animal Center including Bee Barn, hay pyramids, Fun Hill, Kid's Corral, Farmer Craig's Chicken Show, Combine Slide and more! For information on all activities, please visit the Farm's website! Friends of the Farm Weekend is on Saturday, September 28 & Sunday, September 29. It will be filled with demonstrations including Fire Trucks, Ambulances, members of the Bomb Squad with their bomb robot, Swat members with SWAT tank type vehicle, Search and Rescue Snow Cat, K-9 Demonstrations, Disaster Action, Response Team display (DART), Police Car, Police Motorcycle, Search and Rescue Displays, a Dozer plus much much more! The 2nd weekend of the Festival, October 5 & October 6, will be Farm Country Weekend! It'll be down home fun on the farm complete with country and bluegrass music and a live-remote visit from favorite local station KHAY. And the Antique Tractor Weekend is on October 12 & 13 (10am-4pm) with antique tractors and even a tractor parade by none other than Ventura County's Topa Topa Flywheelers! October 19 & 20 is Western Weekend! From 11am - 3pm, there will be stunt ropers, a covered wagon, music, magic and much more! At 3:00, the cowboys ride off, but the Festival continues until 6:00pm with music, games, rides, races and tons of family fun. The last weekend of the Festival is Saturday, October 26 & Sunday, October 27 "All About Pumpkins" which will be filled with with live entertainment from 10:30-5:45! They'll have pumpkin demonstrations & feature displays of pumpkins, squash, and gourds as well as new and different ways to decorate them, and favorite bands, The Catterwailers & Rocky Neck Bluegrass! On the weekends, there will be many food vendors serving up the Lion's Club hot dogs, hamburgers, roasted corn on the cob, pie, Spencer/Makenzie's Mexican food, shave ice, kettle corn, cookies and many more homemade goodies to make your mouth water. You can choose any date between September 28th through October 31st to use your tickets. Click here to enter for a chance to win. You must be 18 years of age to enter. Giveaway ends on September 21st at 12:00 am. We announce the winner by email. For more information about the 22nd Annual Fall Harvest Festival at Underwood Family Farms, visit their official website.

Ready for fireworks? Here are the July 4th events happening in and around LA. Celebrate Independence Day 2017 with fireworks shows, parades and patriotic concerts. 4th of July Block Party July 4, 2017 from 2pm-9:30pm Grand Park - The Music Center 200 North Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA This 4th of July Block Party takes place between Temple and Second Streets in downtown Los Angeles. Each year, it launches one of the city’s most dazzling rooftop fireworks displays for all to enjoy after an evening filled with live music and cheer. At this block party, everyone is a neighbor and welcome to come out to the downtown area to take part in the festivities. Attendees can enjoy music of all genres on three different stages and sample some of the best distinctly American foods from local restaurants and food trucks. Free admission. No alcohol or outside beverages allowed (free water filling station for empty, non-glass bottles) and no chairs. Check website for parking and transportation options, other rules and park map. Fireworks starts at 9:00pm. Parking: $10 under the park or at the Music Center, Bike Valet at 1st and Hill. Metro: Red Line to Pershing Square Station (Civic Center/Grand Park station will be partially closed). Metro users are encouraged to load their TAP card with round trip fare in advance, either online or on their way into the station, in order to bypass the TAP vending machine lines later in the evening. 4th of July Community Festival & Firework Show July 4, 2017 from 12pm-10pm Exposition Park 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA Fourth of July Community Festival and Fireworks Show at Exposition Park features games, food, music, and rides from noon-10 p.m. International fireworks starts at 9 p.m. LA Freedom Festival July 4, 2017 from 5:30pm-10:30pm Santa Monica Blvd between Avenue of Starts & Century Park East Iranian-American comedian Max Amini is master of ceremonies for the unveiling of the Freedom Sculpture, by artist Cecil Balmond, at a street party that includes music by international singers Ebi and Arash plus international food and fireworks. The L.A Freedom Festival will be a celebration of diversity and unity in Los Angeles, featuring amazing multi-ethnic foods, diverse musical acts, a range of celebrity speakers and much more. The festival is anticipated to be attended by thousands of Angelenos from a wide variety of cultures, lifestyles, and backgrounds. Dodgers 4th of July Spectacular Dodgers vs Arizona Diamondbacks July 4, 2017 from 6:10pm 1000 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles, CA The Dodgers will have a night of fireworks on July 4 after their game with the Diamondbacks. Game begins at 6:10 p.m. Fireworks starts after the game around 8:45pm. Purchase ticket through this link to receive a Dodgers’ Fourth of July T-Shirt, or check Goldstar for discount tickets. $35 and up. Marina Del Rey Celebration July 4, 2017 at 9pm 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 Spend the day in the Marina with a picnic in the park, enjoy a waterfront dinner with firework views, or hop aboard an observation cruise for a front-row seat to the show. Traditional fireworks extravaganza over the main channel programmed to patriotic music broadcast over FM radio KXLU, 88.9 and relayed over loudspeakers in Chase Park. Chase Park is one block west of Admiralty Way. The firework will also be viewable from Fisherman's Village and Marina Beach. This is a free event. Paid parking in County lots. The Culver City 4th of July celebration July 4, 2017 at 4pm West LA College 9000 Overland Ave, Culver City, CA 90230 The Culver City 4th of July celebration includes live music, food trucks, family-friendly midway games and a fireworks display at West LA College. Gates open at 4 pm. $5 per person, children under 6 are free. Parking: $10. Check the website for carpool deal if you can fit 6 or more in your vehicle. Three day 4th of July Celebration at the Hollywood Bowl July 2 through July 4, 2017 at 7:30pm Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave,, Hollywood, CA 90068 For 2017, Pentatonix will be headlining the three-day Independence Day celebration with fireworks each night at the landmark Hollywood Bowl. Tickets from $7-$266 + fee. Get more info at Hollywood Bowl Visitors Guide. 4th of July Late Night BBQ at the Aquarium of the Pacific July 4, 2017 at 5pm Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way,, Long Beach, CA 90802 Celebrate Independence Day with the red, white, and blue fish at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Families will be able to witness the ambiance of the Aquarium at night and get a fish-eye view of the Queen Mary fireworks display. Wave the flag, watch the fireworks, and enjoy some freshly grilled BBQ with the Aquarium of the Pacific. You’ll also be able to journey inside the Aquarium to see wonders of the sea until 10 p.m. Reserve tickets online for the cookout ($64 adults, $28 kids), which will feature classic summer treats like coal slaw and hot dogs, in addition to fancier fare, including brisket and s'mores bars. A kid-friendly menu is also available. The aquarium is open all day, but discounted admission ($14.95) starts at 5pm. Pacific Palisades Fourth of July Parade July 4, 2017 at 1:50pm Palisades Charter High School 15777 Bowdoin Street., Pacific Palisades, CA As the sun sets, the town will be dancing, singing and waving the American flag at Palisades Charter High School. Family-friendly activities and music from local musicians are available in the parking lot adjoining the concert/fireworks viewing area. Parade opens with skydivers at 1:50 p.m. (via de la Paz to Sunset Boulevard, east on Sunset to Drummond Street). Food trucks start serving at 4 pm. Covered grandstand parade seating ($10- 50, purchase on the website). Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Bring blanket or low-back chairs. Parking is extremely limited so reserve as early as possible. Knott's Berry Farm 4th of July Celebration July 1, 2017 through Jul 4, 2017 at 9:30pm Knott's Berry Farm 8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA 90620 Knott’s Berry Farm celebrates the holiday with fireworks displayed across the western skies of Knott's Berry Farm at 9:30 pm. Prices vary. July 4th Fireworks and Extravaganza in Woodland Hills July 4, 2017 from 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm Warner Ranch Park 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91367 Celebrate Independence Day in Woodland Hills during July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza. Hosted by Valley Cultural Center, this fun event takes place at Warner Ranch Park. This is known as one of the spectacular fireworks displays in Southern California, with a 15-minute long spectacular display following a free concert. 15-plus local restaurants will be on hand to sell their wares, as well as arts and crafts vendors and local businesses purveying their goods. This event is free, but there’s also a VIP option for $10, which reserves you a seat. For $25, you can get a reserved seat and a parking pass. You can buy tickets via this link. 4th of July at The Queen Mary July 4, 2017 from 2pm-10pm The Queen Mary 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802 It’s an “All-American” summer aboard the Queen Mary! Experience July 4th as special live entertainment, family games, arts & crafts, special historic tours and a patriotic theatrical movie in the Queen Mary Theater, and so much more fill the decks of the legendary ship. It’s a true red, white and blue celebration like no other. To top off the night the Queen Mary will present its signature fireworks spectacular filled with patriotic music while you enjoy a summer evening under the beautiful Southern California night sky with the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. If that wasn’t enough there will be a special performance by the hit 80’s artist The Pointer Sisters. The event sells out each year, so get your tickets early to secure your spot in this “All-American” celebration! Prices are $44.00 per adult (ages 12+) if tickets are purchased prior to July 4th. On July 4th at the door the price is $49 per adult (ages 12+) Prices are $24.00 per child (ages 4-11) if tickets are purchased prior to July 4th. On July 4th at the door the price is $29 per adult (ages 4-11) Coca-Cola 4th of July Fest at Six Flag Magic Mountain July 1, 2017 through July 4, 2017 from 10:30 am - 9:30pm Six Flags Magic Mountain 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy Valencia, CA 91355 The July 4th weekend festivities at Magic Mountain include a nightly fireworks show. Celebrate with a musical salute featuring bands in the Park throughout the day capped off each evening with a dazzling star-spangled nighttime show set to patriotic music. The best place to view is from the Full Throttle Plaza. Approximate show time is 9:30pm nightly. Exclusive Ride Time on at least four separate rides one hour before the park opens on July 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th! Bring in any can of Coca-Cola® product with you along with your admission ticket or season pass to Six Flags Magic Mountain on those four days for early entry. #weekendfun #LosAngeles #Outdoor #FamilyEvent

One of the major concerns for parents is to keep the kids active and engaged after school. If you are on a tight budget, you should know that there are so many after school programs that are inexpensive or cheap and are mostly offered at your own kids' school. Take a look at our list to find out the best match for your kids. Beyond the Bell Type: Academic Levels: Elementary+ Location: Los Angeles Contact: (213) 249-7900 The mission of the Beyond the Bell is to ensure that all children and youth in LAUSD have access to high quality, safe, and supervised academic, enrichment, and recreation programs that inspire learning and achievement beyond the regular school day (before and after school and Saturdays). Parents should request an application directly from your schools' after school provider. ​ Star Nova Type: Academic, STEAM, Arts, Sports Levels: Elementary+ Location: LAUSD Contact: Nova@starinc.org STAR Education offers a wide breadth of exciting and original STAR NOVA enrichment classes in the areas of Academics, STEAM Education (science, technology, engineering, art and math), Language, Performing Arts, Sports & P.E., Recreation, Visual and Media Arts and so much more! STAR NOVA enrichment classes take place once or twice a week, allowing for a university quality class with a more individualized approach tailored to the specific needs and interests of each student. STAR collaborates with artists in residence, universities, and professionals in each field to create stimulating classes that give each student invigorating insight into the real world. ​ Star Galexy Type: Academic, Homework lab, Sports ​Levels: Elementary+ Location: LAUSD Contact: registration@starinc.org STAR Galaxy offers a balance of academic support, enrichment classes, fitness and recreation programs as well as special events on campus, community events and activities. It’s a recipe for a balanced childhood and a preparation for future success! STAR Galaxy offers a daily dose of scheduled classes, August through June, from the end of the school day until 6 pm. Students rotate through group tutoring, a homework lab, sports/fitness/recreation, and enrichment classes. ARC Type: Academic Levels: Elementary to High School Location: Los Angeles Contact: (310) 671-4400 ARC is an award-winning, nationally recognized after school and experiential education provider. ACR bridges the opportunity gap by creating transformational learning opportunities that empower youth to realize their full potential, serving 19 high schools, 16 middle schools, 2 K-8 schools, and 15 elementary schools in the Los Angeles area.​ L.A.C.E.R. Type: Academic, Art, Sports Levels: Middle School to High School Location: Los Angeles Contact: (323) 957-6481 The award-winning L.A.C.E.R. After-school Programs provide middle and high school students in Los Angeles with free arts, athletics, and academic activities after school. By allowing young people the opportunity to expand their learning, improve their skills and develop new ones in a safe, supportive setting, L.A.C.E.R. fosters scholastic achievement, self-confidence, and good citizenship. Classes and supplies are free to all students, with a nutritional snack served daily. The program operates five days a week from immediately after school until 6:00 pm. To enhance learning, weekend and evening field trips to cultural and sporting events are scheduled throughout the school year. Check the website to see if your child’s school is on the participating schools list. CREST Type: Academic, Sports Levels: Elementary Location: Santa Monica Contact: (310) 458-8540 The CREST programs are available to students attending SMMUSD schools. It is an easy way for parents to add more fun to their child's day with before, after, and out-of-school activities that appeal to a broad range of interests. The highly-trained, professional staff work with children year-round, right at their school site! Check the website to see if your school is one of the participant. ​ Los Angeles Public Libraries Type: Academic ​​​Levels: Elementary+ Location: Los Angeles Contact: Click here Most Public Libraries offer variety of free after-school programs and activities. Kids and teens can explore, create and experiment, and have fun at the same time. Variety of free STEAM-related programs and workshops are offered which will inspire and motivate kids and teens with fun, hands-on learning activities. Contact your nearest public library to learn more! ​ THINK Together Type: Academic ​​​Levels: K-8th Grade Location: Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County Contact: Click here THINK Togehter's Afterschool Expended Learning Programs provide meaningful academic and enrichment activities to K-8 students. THINK Together Afterschool programs keep kids safe, provide them with homework support and dynamic learning time, while helping working families. THINK Together's curriculum is focused on English Language Arts, Math, STEM, Youth Development, and Arts & Enrichment. THINK Together programs are available in schools and at sites in the Bay Area, Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County. Contact THINK Together to find out if this program is available at your school. ​ LA's BEST Type: Academic ​​​Levels: Elementary Location: Los Angeles County Contact: (213) 978-0801 At LA’s BEST, children go straight into the program after the last bell rings, without ever leaving school grounds. From Sun Valley to San Pedro, El Sereno to Venice, students at 193 elementary schools across LAUSD are greeted after their last class of the day with a nutritious snack, help with their homework, and exciting things to do and learn. Click on the link above to see if your school is a participant. ​ LA County Parks & Recreation Centers Type: Sports, Homework Club ​​​Levels: Elementary+ Location: Los Angeles County Contact: Click here Various LA County Parks and Recreation Centers offer after-school programs, and a fun place to meet new friends, receive healthy snacks and receive helpful homework assistance. The After School Programs are managed by trained recreation staff and ensure participants a balanced curriculum of fun and educational activities. Click here for locations. ​ Boys & Girls Clubs of America Type: Sports, Art, Homework Club, Technology ​​​Levels: Elementary+ Location: Los Angeles County Contact: info@BGCA.org For a minimal annual membership, kids can take part in the club’s sports, arts, homework help, and computer lab, and even eat a free snack while they’re doing it at Boys and Girls Club. Many local clubs offer daily transport from the public school to the club for an extra annual fee. Find your nearest location near you here. ​ YMCA Type: Sports, STEM, Art ​​​Levels: Kindergarten through Middle School Location: Various locations Contact: 1-800-872-9622 There are nearly 10,000 local kids’ programs across the country at YMCA. The YMCA is helping all children reach their full potential by supporting their unique youth development journeys. At more than 1,000 YMCA sites nationwide, youth are engaged in year-round activities that nurture their curiosity, inspire creativity and teach them how to succeed. ​ 826LA Type: Academic, Homework Club ​​​Levels: Elementary through High School Locations: Echo Park & Mar Vista Contacts: (213) 413-3388 & (310) 915-0200 826LA provides a variety of free programming for students ages 6–18, designed to challenge and enchant while strengthening writing skills. During the school year, 826LA offers tutoring Monday through Thursday, for students ages 6–11; and in the evening, Tuesday and Thursday, for students ages 11-18. Students gather into our writing labs at both 826LA in Mar Vista and 826LA in Echo Park to complete their homework, read, and respond to writing prompts based on a monthly theme. Daily writing prompts are posted for students when they complete their homework and reading. ​ After-School-All-Stars Type: Academic, Homework Club ​​​Levels: Kindergarden through High School Locations: Los Angeles County and Lucerne Valley Contact: (323) 957-4426 Email: info@la-allstars.org Founded in 2002 by Arnold Schwarzenegger, ASAS-LA serves over 14,000 students annually and average 6,000 students a day at 48 schools throughout the Los Angeles County and Lucerne Valley, offering a broad enrichment curriculum and homework help. After-School All-Stars' mission is to educate, enlighten, and inspire young people by providing exciting and dynamic opportunities for their success, while cultivating students’ self-esteem, leadership and respect for one another to help build healthier communities. Contact ASAS-LA to find out if this program is offered at your school.

Each October, San Diego invites families to explore this beautiful city while kids can enjoy 100+ hotels, restaurants, attractions and more for Free the entire month. During the month of October, your little ones will be treated like kings and queens in San Diego. They get to enjoy free attractions, eat meals on the house, and enjoy tons of free perks throughout the city of San Diego. Free Activities for kids include the following attractions and much more: SeaWorld San Diego Get a free child ticket (ages 3-9) to SeaWorld San Diego with each full-paid adult ticket and save up to $84.99. Aquatica San Diego Get a free child ticket (ages 3-9) to Aquatica San Diego with each full-paid adult ticket and save up to $42.99. Dolphin Interaction at SeaWorld Kids (ages 10-12) get a free Dolphin Interaction program reservation with each paid adult reservation. Legoland California Receive a free child hopper ticket with the purchase of a full-price adult hopper ticket to Legoland California with your choice of Sea Life Aquarium or Legoland Water Park. San Diego Zoo Kids under 11 years go to San Diego Zoo for free per 1 paid adult ticket (up to 10 kids). San Diego Zoo Safari Park Kids under 11 years go to San Diego Zoo Safari Park for free per 1 adult ticket (up to 10 kids). Kids Cruise on Hornblower Cruises Kids cruise free on any 1 or 2 hour daily Harbor Cruise in San Diego. Valid with purchase of 1 adult ticket. Birch Aquarium at Scripps Children 12 and under receive free entry to Birch Aquarium at Scripps with the full price paid admission of at least one accompanying adult. Valid for 2 children per paid adult. SEAL Amphibious Tour Kids can enjoy a free SEAL Amphibious Tour per one paid adult. Flagship Cruises & Events Enjoy 3 free children tickets per one paid adult on all 1 and 2 hour San Diego Harbor Tours. The Hopper Kids 12 and under ride free during the month of October. Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise Kids under 12 years can enjoy free Whale Watching and Dolpine Cruise per 1 adult ticket. Museums 2 kids, under the age of 12, can visit over 40 museums for free with every adult ticket purchase. Old Town Trolley Tours Kids can enjoy the old town trolley tours for free per one paid adult. Numerous Hotels offer "Kids Eat Free" the entire month of October while you stay at their hotel. For a list of the hotels that feature kids eat free, click here. Various Restaurants in San Diego also offer free meal with a paid adult. For more information about venues that participate in the "Kids Go Free October", visit SanDiego.org.