September 17, 2004

Number 49

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The Orange Cat

Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley

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By Karen E. Klein
I chuckled when I picked up the latest issue of Newsweek. The cover features a glowering mom facing off with a scowling boy. The headline: "How To Say 'No' To Your Kids."

Initially, my response was to recall that cranky office poster I'm sure you've seen a million times: "Exactly what part of 'NO' don't you understand?" The story focused on teaching parents how to quash their kids' ever-growing demands for designer handbags, MP3 players and flat-screen TVs.

But the story was also about something more fundamental. It reminded me of the day I spent recently with a friend whose son is just a couple of months older than my 14-year-old. As we were saying goodbye, she pulled me aside in amazement: "Your boys are so polite. And they actually listen to you! How do you get them to do that?"

The question startled me, though my boys actually had been on their (rare) best behavior that day, while my friend's son exuded a snarky "I get to do whatever I want!" vibe. My friend clutched my arm, seemingly desperate for my "secret." Baffled, I mumbled something lame and managed to escape, but the question got me to thinking.

That thinking dovetailed with another article I picked up, an op-ed column written by a top magazine editor who puts in 10-hour days at the office while a nanny watches her infant and toddler at home. The piece truly was heart-wrenching: A new mother intensely insecure about the time she spends away from her kids and intensely jealous of their relationship with their nanny. Her consolation, she wrote, is that of the 3-1/2 hours a day she gets with her daughters "...at least two of them are spent on the floor playing peek-a-boo, tending to a sick doll, acting out 'The Three Billy Goats Gruff.'"

Somehow, I wonder whether the dilemma of parents who can't say, "No," and the dismay of parents whose children won't listen, may be tied into the dilemma of the mother who spends most of her time as her children's playmate.

Don't get me wrong here. I feel for working mothers who have no choice but to spend most of their time outside the home, and I respect women who choose to pursue careers full-bore after they have children. There's absolutely nothing wrong with peek-a-boo, patty-cake or a good game of chase. And I love "The Three Billy Goats Gruff." When my kids were little, I spent loads of time playing with them, reading to them, taking them to parent ed classes and playgroups, singing to them and cuddling with them. And I tried to say "Yes," as often as possible.

But no matter how much I was working, my goal was to be first and foremost my children's mother, not their playmate. After all, kids will make tons of friends over their lifetimes, but they'll only have one set of parents - and they need those parents desperately. What's the difference between a parent and a playmate? Parents can have fun with their kids, act as their confidantes and laugh with them just like friends can. But a playmate doesn't tell another playmate "No!" with any authority, while a parent can - and must.

Quality time. It was advertised as the big cure-all for "working parent guilt syndrome" a couple of decades ago. For full-time moms, and mothers who can work part-time or work primarily from home, quality time doesn't really become an issue. You spend so much quantity time with your kids those first few years that you experience good times, bad times, frustrating times, dull times and wonderful times every single day. Saying "NO!" - and meaning it - isn't typically a problem, either. People who don't develop the ability to discipline children who are underfoot 24/7 would surely go insane or at least risk serious injury.

What about those parents who work full-time and delegate the major part of child-rearing to someone else? Of course they want quality time. And I imagine it is probably more difficult for them to discipline their kids, because laying down the law is often unpleasant. It's only natural that if you have limited time with your children, you want to make that time as pleasant as possible. But while I didn't do it myself, I know plenty of people who worked full-time and raised children very successfully.

My cousins' three daughters, for example, are all smart, responsible young women who adore their parents and make them proud every day. They had an attorney dad who worked long hours in his own practice and a nursing-instructor mom with a demanding full-time schedule. The girls spent most of their time in the care of a live-in nanny who, rather than becoming a rival, has had a long-term relationship with the family and is still a beloved friend. I think what made it work was that the girls had caring, available grandparents and their dad, particularly, was truly involved in every aspect of their lives. Most importantly, he took a firm hand toward setting limits when they were needed.

It's an old cliché, but I think it's true: Kids simply do need limits. They need parents who are willing to give peek-a-boo a rest long enough to be the "bad guys" and enforce rules when they need to. No, it's not always pleasant, and discipline doesn't make for a fun home atmosphere all the time. But it pays off in the long run.

I noticed that my friend's son - the one with the 'tude - acts light-years older than my own boys, who are still more kids than adults. My friend's boy affected a swagger and sophistication that they don't pretend to have. But underneath, I saw some major insecurity in this boy. He's not old enough to be making all the decisions for himself and he knows it. But his parents, who for years have treated him as an equal rather than as a kid, don't step in to make decisions for him when he's floundering. They capitulate to his every whim, he manipulates them all he can - and I worry about what the outcome will be.

My friend is a lovely person, and I hope her son gets through adolescence without a hitch and grows into a fine young man. The next time I see her, I hope I can articulate a better answer for her question, though I suspect what I would say is that the process of teaching kids to respect and listen to their parents starts from day one.

In the meantime, I plan to exercise the "N" word (NO!) in my house as often as it's needed.

I've said before that going from a full-time journalist to work-at-home mom was the most difficult time of my life. What helped ease the transition was a play group that my friend Linda organized for several first-time moms she knew. We had holiday parties, lunches, coffee klatches and park outings. At one early meeting, I remember a new mom showed up nearly in tears. She was a "type-A" person who had formerly had a very busy, high-powered job and was having a hard time easing into the drudgery of full-time motherhood. She looked around the group and asked frantically, "What do you DO with yourselves all day?"

Now, this woman obviously had a quiet, sleepy baby who took up very little of her time (as opposed to my high-strung, high-need baby, who kept me hopping literally all day - and night). The rest of the group offered tepid responses about running errands, doing the shopping, cleaning house and taking care of the baby. Not very inspiring stuff. But that's why the little play group was a godsend for all of us every month, if for nothing more than easing the loneliness.

That's also why I was happy to hear about another play group that meets locally to explore free museums and parks every week. The "Adventuring Preschool Playgroup" meets on Tuesday mornings for fun outings. If you want to join them, call Orange Cat reader Michelle at 626-305-7636. One outing you might want to undertake in the next few weeks is fall pumpkin-picking. I'm not talking about picking up a pumpkin from a gas-station lot. I'm talking about snipping a growing gourd off a real live vine and hauling it away in a wagon! We'll have information here in The Orange Cat (when it's available) about Cal Poly Pomona's annual pumpkin patch and festival. But Orange Cat reader Julie asked if I knew of anything closer to home. I don't - but maybe someone else does. Please email me if you're aware of another pumpkin patch in the San Gabriel Valley and I'll let everyone know about it.

Speaking of letting everyone know, please feel free to let your friends, relatives, neighbors and acquaintances know about The Orange Cat. If you would be willing to hand out flyers at your preschool, play group or workplace, we'd be happy to supply them for you. Just email me and I'll get a stack out to you right away.

By way of incentive, I heard from an "accidental" Orange Cat subscriber last week. Sandra said she doesn't know who signed her up for our e-news kitty, but she's awfully glad someone did. "Your publication became special to me because it provided my family with another option we so needed; the option of enjoying time spent with one another. Your publication gave me a chance to laugh with my family. This laughter is shared with so, so many other families," she wrote. I swear, folks, I'm not making this stuff up! So do someone you love a favor, and clue them in to The Orange Cat's free subscription. We really do offer a great value for your money. See you next time! Karen@theorangecat.org.

Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 2004

Step Into the Past Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Explore how people lived, worked and played in bygone times in this guided tour for children and families. An activity sheet provides for further exploration in the galleries and at home. Free with museum admission of $6 adults; under 18 free. Information 626-449-6840. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children can really put on a show with people-shaped puppets they design themselves. We’ll provide tons of craft materials to make it happen. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Evaluating Schools: Pasadena Education Network (PEN) 3-5 p.m. Mikala L. Rahn PhD., President of Public Works, Inc., speaks about how to evaluate test scores of public schools. What do the numbers really mean in terms of educational excellence? Learn how to evaluate public schools, what test scores really mean and much more. Dr. Rahn has extensive experience in school reform, curriculum and assessment, teacher retention, after-school programs, school-to-work transition and parent involvement. Her company has worked with both PUSD and LAUSD schools. Adults only; learn more about PEN and meet other parents interested in public education in Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre. Contact PEN via email: pasadenaednetwork@earthlink.net or toll-free: 866-216-7334. Pasadena Central Library, auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Author Event: Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Bookstore 4:30 p.m. G. P. Taylor will stop by to sign copies of his books, "Shadowmancer" and "Wormwood." 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Chess!: Pasadena Central Library 3 p.m. Do you love to play chess? Want to pick up some chess tips? Never played chess before, but want to learn how? This is a perfect place to start learning; pair up and play with other first timers. Snacks and drinks will be served. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Animé Review: Pasadena Central Library 12:30 to 2 p.m. Calling all teen lovers of Japanese animation! We’ll be showing movies and episodes from popular television shows and reviewing them. Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Sunday, Sept. 19, 2004

Author Event Vroman's Bookstore 2 p.m. G.P. Taylor discusses and signs "Wormwood." Taylor's first book, "Shadowmancer," has been proclaimed "Hotter than Potter" by critics and fans. In this sequel, young Thomas faces more adventure and danger in a book that will delight fans of all ages. Taylor will sign an unlimited amount of copies of Shadowmancer and/or Wormwood if purchased from the store (have your receipts handy!)and only one book if brought from home. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8-10 a.m. Join us outdoors for a bird walk. Bring binoculars, shade hat, water; please no dogs. Information: 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 20, 2004

Teachers Night Vroman's Bookstore 6 p.m. Pre-K through 12th grade educators, librarians and home school instructors are invited to attend an evening to discuss the latest in children's literature, upcoming school events, bookstore services and more. There will be plenty of goodies on hand for your classroom, so don't miss out! 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2004

Sweet Reads Ice Cream Social: Lamanda Park Branch Library 4 p.m. School-age children are invited to fall back into books in a sweet way. Enjoy delicious ice cream while getting the flavor of some new stories. Children can create a new bookmark to take home. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Happy Birthday, Bilbo Baggins!: Pasadena Central Library 7-8 p.m. We’ll celebrate fantasy’s favorite hobbit adventurer with book discussion, cake and more. Don’t miss this chance to meet other teenaged Tolkien fans. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Thursday, Sept. 23, 2004

Author Event Vroman's Bookstore 2 p.m. Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson read and sign "Peter and the Starcatchers." Ever wonder how Peter Pan and Captain Hook first crossed paths? Find out in this fantastic junior fiction novel. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Storytime: Arcadia Public Library 7 p.m. Stories, videos, crafts and other surprises presented for the whole family. First come, first served; space is limited. All ages. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Saturday, Sept. 25, 2004

Author Event Vroman's Bookstore 11 a.m. Tony Johnston discusses and signs "The Mummy's Mother," the story of Ramose, a mummy whose mommy has been stolen from her eternal resting place. Ages 8-12. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Bike Safety Rally: City of Alhambra 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bike safety training course, fingerprinting and photo ID for kids, games, raffles, entertainment. Almansor Park and Golf Course, Corto St., Alhambra.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Every little magician needs a magic wand and this is one they’ll make themselves. We’ll provide the materials, just bring your imaginations. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Sept. 26, 2004

Hike to the Falls: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9 a.m. to noon. Hike to waterfall is 3.5 miles long and involves crossing steams, boulder-hopping and moderate pace. Bring sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat and snack. Information: 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 27, 2004

Teen Knitting Club Vroman's Bookstore 4:30 p.m. Jennifer Wenger leads a workshop and signs, "Teen Knitting Club." The owner of L.A.'s Jennifer Knit will help novice knitters create their first row, and will bring a cool hat design that more advanced knitters can begin with. Ages 10 and up. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2004

Acoustic Music: Pasadena Central Library 7:30 p.m. Author and film reviewer Ross Anthony juggles and plays the piano, guitar and flute. All ages. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Family Open House: Hastings Branch Library 6 p.m. We’ve got all of the cool school tools that you need to help with your next school project! Elementary students and their families are invited to learn about these library tools ... what they are, where to find them and how to use them. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2004

Fall Fun Open House: San Rafael Branch Library 3 p.m. Welcome back for another fun school year! Drop by and enjoy snacks and drinks while you check out our books, magazines, audiobooks, computer resources and more. 1240 Nithsdale Rd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Oct. 2, 2004

Open House: The Little Gym of La Canada 3-6 p.m. Come enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of stretching, tumbling, music, refreshments, raffles and prizes. The Little Gym offers motor skill development programs by way of non-competitive gymnastics for children ages four months to 12 years. Information: 818-249-4GYM (4496). 2196A Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

Pancake Breakfast: Monrovia High Big M Boosters 8 to 10:30 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice will be served; money raised goes to athletics department. $4. Monrovia High School, cafeteria, 845 W. Colorado Blvd., Monrovia.

Author Event: Vroman's Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Illustrator Marla Frazee discusses and signs, "New Baby Train," her book for preschoolers that brings a Woody Guthrie song to life. Singer Michelle Bloom will also appear. Ages 2 through 6. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Angel Festival: Memorial Park 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Family festival is being held for the 11th year. Information: 626-794-4458. 222 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hang-anywhere collage mirror is a dazzling mirror that kids can set up anywhere. Materials like glitter, yarn and collage shapes provided. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Central Chat: Pasadena Central Library 1-2 p.m. A book discussion group for ages 13 to 18 takes up the theme of "Ghosts and Haunted Happenings." Bring a favorite ghost story or haunted happening to discuss. Teen Central, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Magic the Gathering: Pasadena Central Library 3-5 p.m. Fun for beginners or experienced players! Enjoy the card game that started the whole collectible card game hobby. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Register Early

Teen Book Club Sierra Madre Public Library Free program is open to readers in grade 7 and up. Group meets Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. to discuss books and publish a teen book review newsletter. Session begins Oct. 7 and runs through Jan. 13, 2005. Enrollment limited; register early. Information 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Mars Rover Scientist: Pacific Asia Museum In his red, white and blue American flag shirt, Chinese-American Wayne Lee was a memorable figure in media coverage of the Mars Rover landings this year. On Sept. 22 at 7 p.m., Lee will discuss his role as chief engineer for entry, descent and landing of the rovers as well as sign his book, "To Rise From Earth." $7 adults, $5 students/seniors, children under 12 free. Reservations strongly recommended: 626-449-2742, ext. 20. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena.

Musical Fun For Tots: Classes by Miss Claire. Music, crafts and singalong classes are offered at several venues for 1 to 2.5-year-olds. Tiny Tots dance classes for ages 2 and 3 also available. Information: 626-403-3828 or email: roches@pacbell.net. YMCAs, community centers in South Pasadena, San Gabriel, San Marino.

Barks and Books: Pasadena Humane Society Be a special reading buddy to a real live dog! Elementary school-aged children can read a book about dogs to a gentle dog. This program is held several times a month; check website for times and reservations. Various Pasdena branch libraries.

Book Buddy Program: Arcadia Public Library An opportunity for your child to have a weekly, one-on-one reading experience with a teen volunteer. Reading sessions will be held Wednesday afternoons and evenings in October. Ages 5 through 8. Registration begins Monday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m. Arcadia residents, 11 a.m. open registration. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Monopoly Tournament: Hastings Branch Library Do you love to play Monopoly? Challenge your neighbors and friends and you may win prizes too! Tournament will be held Saturday, Sept. 25 at 2 p.m. for ages 10 to 18. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations: 626-744-7262. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Scientific Sleepover The Huntington Library On Saturday, Sept. 25, kids and parents can enjoy a night of scientific discovery, from hands-on fun in the Children’s Garden exploring the elements of earth, air, light and water, to a nature walk at dusk and some cool experiments in the lab. After a good night’s sleep indoors, it’s back to nature once again to pick fresh oranges for breakfast. Program concludes Sunday, Sept. 26 at 9:30 a.m. Ages 7 and up; one parent or guardian required for every two children. $45. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Family Nature Walk: Children's Nature Institute Nature walk specifically designed for families with young children will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 14. Hike led by Alison Morgan. Registration mandatory; limited spaces fill up fast: 310-998-1151. Eaton Canyon, 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens Docent Jim Jackson will lead the way through the night life of Descanso and share information about the gardens' history on Oct. 8 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Ages 12 and up; bring jacket and flashlight. $13. Register by Oct. 6: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Toddler Treks: Descanso Gardens The autumn sessions of this nature program for children ages 2 to 4 begin Sept. 23 and 24. Classes meet at 9:30 or 10:30 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays through Oct. 22. Each week’s program includes storytelling, crafts and a walk in the garden. $55 per adult/child pair, $35 each additional child. Register: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Family Adventures: L.A. County Arboretum Afternoon nature program for the entire family is held on the first Saturday of every month at 2 p.m. A short story or talk, a walk and take-home nature craft are included. $20 per family. Sept. 4 History hunters travel back in time to when natives lived here. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Family Nature Walk: Children's Nature Institute Nature walk specifically designed for families with young children will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 16. Event led by family team Debbie Hill and Dorthea. Registration mandatory; limited spaces fill up fast: 310-998-1151. Eaton Canyon, 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Toddler StoryTime: Alhambra Public Library Storytime for children ages 12 to 24 months begins on Sept. 17 and runs through Dec. 17. Program held Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Spaces limited; register at the children's reference desk or call 626-570-3215. 410 W. Main St., Alhambra.

Continuing Activities

Roadhouse Coffee Stop Storytime for toddlers to eight-year-olds will be held every Thursday from 4:30 to 5 p.m. with Doug Edwards, a parent education instructor for Pasadena City College. 5725 Rosemead Blvd., Temple City.

Montrose Harvest Market: Weekly farmer's market includes giant slide, obstacle course bouncer and 25-foot portable rock climbing wall. Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information: 818-957-3809. Montrose Shopping Park, Honolulu Ave. and Ocean View Blvd, Montrose.

Alhambra Summer Jubilee: Street fair will be held every Saturday through September from 6 to 10 p.m. Second Street, Alhambra.

Monrovia Public Library "Time for Twos" is an introductory storytime for toddlers and their parents held Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. Activities include stories, songs, flannel tales and a small creative project. "Munchkin Storytime" is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. for children 3-5. The half-hour program includes stories, songs, flannel tales and incentive stickers. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Sierra Madre Public Library: Two Preschool story hours are held each week in the Children's Room. Mondays at 10 a.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Cathy Ryne, children's librarian, tells stories, sings songs, and organizes craft projects. 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Excellence in Education Home school park day; bring lunch, toys, games, sports equipment. Mondays at noon. Eisenhower Park, Colorado Blvd at Second St., Arcadia..

Monrovia Reads: Hour-long story times include crafts, stories, songs and fingerplay. Ages 0-5 with parents or caretakers. Tuesdays 10 a.m., All Nations Church, 1948 S. Peck Road; Thursdays 10 a.m., Boys and Girls Club, 600 S. Shamrock Ave., Monrovia.

MOMS Club of Pasadena-North Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena (north of 210 fwy) and Altadena. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com .

MOMS Club of LaVerne Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. Information: momsclublvsd@yahoo.com .

Adventuring Preschool Playgroup: We are moms of preschoolers in the San Gabriel Valley, exploring different free museums, parks and taking field trips together. We meet Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call Michelle for information: 626-305-7636. .

Mt. San Antonio College International marketplace is held every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring arts and crafts, antiques and certified farmer's market. Parking and admission is free. Stadium parking lot, off Temple Avenue, just west of Cal Poly.

Huntington Hospital: Perinatal Health Education department offers ongoing classes and support groups for new moms, including breastfeeding Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Mommy & Me Tuesdays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Postnatal Fitness Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 5:45 to 6 p.m.; Baby & Me; infant care; and infant/child CPR. Some classes involve fees. Information and registration: 626-397-8768.

Monrovia Family Festival: 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays. Games, food, rides, shopping and farmer's market. Myrtle Ave south of Foothill Blvd, Monrovia.

MOMS Club of Covina & West Covina Support group meets reularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking day time activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina, Azusa and Irwindale. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email JillVidal@hotmail.com Covina Library, 234 N. Second Ave., Covina.

Vroman's Book Store: 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Storytime with Mr. Steve features contemporary and classic tales read aloud. Ages 2 to 8. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Eaton Canyon Nature Center Family nature walk held every Saturday morning, weather permitting, 9 to 11 a.m. Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, hats are recommended for this guided walk geared toward families with small children. Meet in front of the building. 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer 15 storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. .

Pasadena Central Library: Short preschool videos shown every Friday at 10 a.m. in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium. Central Library, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

The Huntington Library Nature activities are scheduled on Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can explore the world of nature at hands-on plant discovery carts located at the Lily Ponds, Desert Garden and Japanese Garden. Older kids can examine plant cross-sections under a microscope, learn how plants and animals use camouflage, compare soil and water samples, or look for local wildlife using a field guide. Younger children can make leaf rubbings, examine seed pods, create origami, or experience "a bug’s life" through insect puppet play. On the first Saturday of each month, nature crafts are also offered near the entrance pavilion. No reservations required; free with museum admission. $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 12-18 or with student I.D.), $6 for youth (ages 5-11), free for children under 5. Information: 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Glendora Public Library PJ family story time at 7 p.m. each Wednesday offers a half hour of magical stories, songs and fingerplays. A great alternative to TV! Information: 626-852-4891. Children's Room, 140 S. Glendora Ave., Glendora.

South Pasadena Public Library: Family Storytime Tuesdays 7:30 to 8 p.m.; Pajama Storytime: For ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 to 7:30 p.m.; Preschool Storytime: For ages 3-5, Thursdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Toddler Storytimes: For ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.; For ages 2-3 Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. Grandparents Read-Aloud: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Register at 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Altadena Public Library: Preschool storytime Wednesdays 11 a.m. 626-798-0833. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

Monrovia Canyon Park: Guided nature hike held 10 to 11:30 a.m. most Saturdays. Call 626-256-8282 to confirm. Monrovia Nature Center, 1200 N. Canyon Blvd., Monrovia.

San Marino Public Library: Weekly preschool story time for 3- to 5-year-olds offered on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Tuesdays at 3:30 for 5- to 8-year-olds. Call 626-300-0777 to register. 1890 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Preschool storytime, for ages 2-5 and parents, Tuesdays 10 a.m. PJ Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

San Dimas Public Library: Preschool story time is held every Friday at 11 a.m. 145 N. Walnut Ave., San Dimas.

Stone Center for Children's Books Children’s storytime is held Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Information: 909-607-3670. Stone Center, Claremont Graduate University, 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Arcadia Public Library: Grandparents and Kids reading hour is held Mondays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., from Oct. 4 through Dec. 20. This is a drop-in program, no registration required, for children of all ages to hear stories read by experienced, caring seniors. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

MOMS Club of San Dimas: Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. Information: sandimasmomsclub@yahoo.com.

Blue Chair Children's Books Toddler storytime Tuesdays at 11 a.m.; afterschool storytime Thursdays, 3:30 p.m.; special events every Friday night, check website for details. 177 N. Glendora Ave., Glendora.

Gymboree: Play, music and art classes offered on an ongoing basis. Free trial classes for new families. Information on classes: 626-445-1122; parties: 626-445-5161. 518 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia.

Parents Without Partners Covina Valley chapter of single-parent group holds orientation meeting and dance on the second Friday of each month, 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Information: 626-294-3211. Pyramid Room, Covina Bowl, 1060 E. Rimsdale Ave., Covina.

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets weekly and sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net .

Hurst Ranch: Living history ranch is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Information: 626-813-0116. 1227 S. Orange Ave., West Covina.

MOMS Club of Pasadena Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena, South Pasadena, San Marino and Ahambra. For more information please e-mail: membershipvp@pasadenamomsclub.com.

Pacific Theatres Monday Mom Movies are first-run film screenings specifically for mothers with babies. Check website for schedule. Paseo 14, Paseo Colorado, Pasadena.

West Covina Library: Homework help is offered on a walk-in basis, free of charge, Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Helpers assist youngsters in grades 1 through 8 with homework questions, homework strategies and study skills. Help is available in all subjects, including math. Tutoring is available on Saturdays by appointments. Storytimes are held Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. for the whole family and on Fridays at 10 a.m. for preschoolers. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina.

Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org.

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