I've got four brand-new ideas, only one of which is specific to L.A. area readers.
1) From my friend Shauna K., a great way of keeping track of your kids on outings - Go to Michael's, Joann's, or a bead store. While you're there, buy elastic or beading cord and beads with numbers. The first day or two of vacation, make bracelets with your kids WITH YOUR CELL PHONE NUMBER ON IT. If your kids aren't interested in bracelets, you could also do the same thing with a key chain, adding a whistle if you want to. That way, your kids can supply a trusted adult (like a mom with kids, a docent, or a cashier) with your cell number if you get separated in a crowded, public place.
2) From my friend (and amazing arts educator), Sharon Saks - Looking for a way to expose your kids with classical music? My kids usually just listen to KUSC (available on the radio or online). However, Sharon pointed me towards these CDs by Classical Kids. "My top 5 kids stuff purchase ever. So highly recommend. Relistening to these for the umpteenth time in the car in the mornings to school. Kids remain enthralled while imbibing authentic classical music, and beautiful storytelling. In order of preference: Beethoven, Vivaldi, Handel, Bach, Tchaikovsky, Mozart."
3) I'd already planned to make homemade ice cream in a baggie with my kids the first day of vacation when my friend Meav G. found this great video that explains how to do it for newbies. Guaranteed fun, takes only about 10 minutes total, and the recipe requires no fancy equipment.
4) For Angelenos - Yesterday, I dropped by Blick Art on Beverly Blvd at Poinsettia and found out that this Sunday, June 7th, they're hosting a Draw Your Own Superheroes and Princesses Demo for kids from 1 pm - 3 pm. The guy at the desk told me they'll be hosting other events throughout the summer, sometimes on Saturday, sometimes on Sunday. He also explained that there will be discounts for supplies purchased for your kids on many of those days.
Let me know how you feel about these ideas or send me your own either in comments below or by sending me an email via the form to the right of this post!