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Find Gifts for the Kids in the North County

It probably comes as no surprise that some of our favorite gifts for the kids aren’t “things” at all — they’re the gift of experience. There are, of course, exceptions to this rule. Because there are some seriously adorable kid stores in the North County. And if you’re really set on something to wrap, many of our favorite kiddo experiences also offer gift cards. 

In no ranking order, here are our recommendations on local places to shop for gifts for the kids this holiday season (or anytime). I’ve also included their Instagram handles because if you know me at all, you know that’s my favorite way to scope out local businesses these days.

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10 Tips for Taking Your Kids to Our Local Parades

The North County’s heritage will once again be on full display this fall with tractors, classic cars, and all the grandeur brought by the Colony Days and Pioneer Day parades. So it’s time to grab the kiddos, line our city streets and show some community spirit at our local parades! But not go crazy in the process. And for that, I bring you parade tips. Lots and lots of parade tips.

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The Kiddo Guide to the California Mid-State Fair

You’ve arrived at the California Mid-State Fair with kiddos in tow. You’ve probably memorized your hands-down favorite fair eats or where to nab the cheapest beer, but do you know the best spot to wash your toddler’s sticky hands? Or, where to grab some free drinking water? Well, you’re in luck, my friends, because I have all the 411 for navigating the Mid-State Fair with kids.

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Magical Elfin Forest

One of our hands-down, favorite kid-ventures voutside of the North County is the magical Elfin Forest in Los Osos. This 90-acre slice of public land at South Bay Boulevard and Santa Ysabel Avenue encompasses a series of scenic walking trails with views of an estuary and woodlands.
Its most-known attribute, though, is its magnificent pygmy oak forest of twisty, tiny oak trees that make for some truly awesome Instagram-worthy selfies and photography of your kids.