Everyone loves a good book and Story Time at the library is a hot-spot for families with toddlers. These special programs are designed to provide young children with interactive playtime where books are the launch pad for crafts, songs and plays. Orange Public Library and History Center (cityoforange.org/depts/library) holds Toddler Story Time at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, while the El Modena Branch and Taft Branch hold it at 10:00 on Tuesdays. In addition, the Orange Public Library also offers Music Story Time at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesdays and Pajama Story Time at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.
With over 400 acres of attractions, Irvine Regional Park (ocparks.com/irvinepark) has a little bit of everything to fill a toddler's need for fun. Orange County Zoo and the William Harding Nature Center satisfy the young animal lover, while the mini-railroad and pedal boats can keep the on-the-go toddler moving. Families can rent surreys with toddler seating for a tour of the park, or enjoy a spin on the children's pony rides for a tot-sized equestrian adventure.
This bird and animal refuge (tuckerwildlife.org) is well known for its hummingbird population, which peaks during March and April. Toddlers and their families can get a good view of these beauties and their bird buddies on the porch that overlooks the feeders or go on a bird hunt along the short trails around the preserve. Don't miss the Children's Garden, which is filled with plants that are safe for kids to touch and smell and that also attract butterflies. The wildlife museum highlights the species that inhabit the region and includes a gift shop where snacks can be purchased for a quick picnic underneath the oak tree.
Grab the kids and head down to Hart Park on summer evenings for a chance to get into the groove. The City's (cityoforange.org) free Concerts in the Park series runs the gamut from the oldies to reggae and classic rock to contemporary country for crowd (and toddler) pleasing tunes. Bring a picnic basket to make it a dinner dance!
Community events sponsored by the City of Orange (cityoforange.org) provide great options for family entertainment around the holidays. Watch the calendar for their annual Treats in the Streets Autumn Festival for a safe Halloween night for toddlers. Keep the Christmas spirit alive with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Candlelight Choir Procession and Children's Holiday Breakfast.
