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October 29, 2004 |
Number 52 |
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By Karen E. Klein The chill in the air and rain on the roof always starts me thinking about holiday time. As I've mentioned before, I don't shop year-round and get everybody's gifts purchased before Thanksgiving, like many of my friends do (yes, I hate them). I'm in the weird minority who actually like the hustle-bustle, the lights, the crowds and the decorations at Christmas time and don't mind shopping in December. When it comes to gifts for children, I'm in the "simpler-is-better" camp. Toys that flash, whistle, rely on batteries and run sophisticated programs may captivate a baby or child in the short-term, but I've found they don't hold their attention over the long run. Low-tech, time-tested toys are my favorites, and I found that they were definitely favorites with my kids, too. Toys that tap into a child's wide-ranging imagination are the best because they can find myriad and amazing ways to play with them. I was glad to see my gut-instinct confirmed by some child development experts in a science article in the New York Times recently (you may have to register - for free - to read it). Gifts that turn kids into passive observers, rather than active participants in play, may not necessarily be the boons to intelligence that they claim to be, the article says. And while every parent wants to expose her child to richest possible environment during the critical developmental years, much of intelligence is inherited. Bombarding a baby or toddler with "educational" tapes and videos in order to make her smarter may not enhance her natural ability. My kids were definitely fans of basic toys - and tended to immediately break or become frustrated with new-fangled "pop-and-whiz" offerings. We still have a huge box full of Legos that the boys won't let me give away, despite the fact that they haven't played with them for a long time. Cars on track that can be put together in different formations were another favorite, as were blocks, paints, clay and board games. They didn't play with dolls, but they spent years in imaginative play with their beloved stuffed animals. When it comes to gifts for kids - yours or others - be wary of the "next big thing." In this case, same-old, same-old may be the better choice. Speaking of old-fashioned things, I once wrote about a company that makes a product called oilcloth, a sturdy, wipe clean vinyl fabric that's been around more than 100 years. Stain-resistant oilcloth was used for tablecloths, bibs and aprons for decades but the product has been eclipsed in recent years by lightweight (and vastly inferior, in my estimation) plastic substitutes and now it's hard to find. That's why I was delighted when the company's owner, Cardie Molina, wrote me recently. Seems she was planning to attend the Gourd Festival at the Arboretum and found The Orange Cat while searching for something else to do with her family in Arcadia. After we renewed our acquaintance, Cardie told me that her firm, Oilcloth International, normally a wholesale supplier, is holding its first-ever warehouse sale next month. I'll include the details in our calendar next time, but if you're interested she's going to open her Highland Park doors to the public on Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Along with yardage (oilcloth has a cotton-mesh backing that makes it easy to sew with), she'll be selling cut-to-order tablecloths, placemats and other finished products in many gorgeous retro prints. I know what my relatives will be getting for Christmas this year! Some free advice: Never, never, never, never take a long walk in flat, backless shoes, feel a twinge in your heel, and then make the same boneheaded blunder the next day. Especially don't ever do this if you're over 40 and have high arches, as I do. I committed this error about six months ago and wound up with a frustrating and debilitating condition called plantar fasciitis. I won't go into how the pain has thrashed my exercise routine, nor will I mention my ongoing feud with an arrogant podiatrist (no, that's not an oxymoron), but I will tell you about a treatment program I found that has been helpful. Between stretching, taping, icing and massaging my aching foot daily, I'm hopeful that I will eventually be pain free - though I'm told that complete healing can take months or even years. I'm also told that about 8 million Americans suffer from this problem, which is why I hope my sad story can help some Orange Cat readers avoid the injury. Be nice to your feet, for my sake. I watch very little television these days, far less than I watched even a few years ago. And in recent years I must confess to deriving quite the sense of superiority by avoiding, with one exception, the worthless "reality TV" craze. (The exception: Two time Emmy-winner The Amazing Race, a global scavenger hunt that is loads of fun and educational, too!) My superior perch has been shortened considerably this fall, however, by the arrival of an hour-long program that has me hooked: Wife Swap. Is anybody else watching this thing? The premise, for those who haven't seen it, is to take two women with vastly different values and lifestyles and have them switch places for 10 days. (Despite the scandalous title, there's no marital hanky-panky going on - visiting wives get their own bedrooms.) Yes, it's silly and voyeuristic, and yes, the producers obviously scour the country looking for extremes; they love swapping compulsive cleaners with free-spirit types who clean house once a year "if the place needs it," for instance. What fascinates me about the show, however, is the rare glimpse it affords inside real American families. How do other women raise their children, run their households and support - or exploit - their husbands? How do other couples split the household duties and find time for each other with young children at home? Over the course of the hour-long show, you really get a handle on how a mother's (and a father's) attitudes and priorities affect their children, for good and bad. Indulgent, controlling mothers tend to turn out belligerent, neurotic offspring. Women who require a lot from their kids find later that they live up to expectations, even when mom's not around. Fascinating stuff. I don't normally recommend TV shows, but this one's worth a look. Another activity you may want to take a look at is the Wednesday morning family program at Jungle Gym Arcadia. For $5 per family you can take your babies and toddlers in and let them go to town on the padded floors, venture through tunnels and bat balls around from 10:30 a.m. to noon. From noon to 2 p.m., your older kids can swing on ropes, build a fort or climb the walls (literally). That costs $5 per kid, definitely a bargain these days. From time to time, we hear from parents across the country who are getting ready to move into the San Gabriel Valley and need help finding resources for their little ones. Shannon, for instance, will be moving to La Canada or Pasadena early next year and needs some suggestions for a highly regarded preschool for her 3-year-old and 2 1/2-year-old. Anybody have recommendations for her? Lots of great activities taking place this weekend for Halloween and into November. One you should not miss is a fundraiser called the Stroll to End Child Abuse. Another, of course, is election day. Don't forget to vote next Tuesday, Nov. 2. If you need an incentive, here's one: Anyone who brings in their "I Voted!" sticker to a Vroman's store gets 10% off any purchase on election day. Happy voting! I also have to send out my congratulations to any Red Sox fans who read The Orange Cat. My family are die-hard Yankees fans, so they weren't exactly thrilled by the long-suffering team's World Series victory this week. But I always root for the underdogs (plus I'm a hippie at heart and thought all the wild hair was cute) and I love witnessing big moments in history, so I was happy to see the curse finally eclipsed. Chicago Cubs, 2005 belongs to you! Happy Halloween. karen@theorangecat.org By the way, we just launched a new classified ad section. Just click here to give it a look. These do-it-yourself ads are aimed at readers looking for employment, babysitting, etc. You can place one online here. |
Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Friday, Oct. 29, 2004 Kids Halloween Party: Jungle Gym Rock Climbing 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Three hours of climbing with our staff, costume contest, pumpkin carving and lots of fun! All ages welcome. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Information: 626-446-5014. 305 N. Santa Anita Blvd., Arcadia. The Passing Zone: Caltech 8-10 p.m. Owen Morse and Jon Wee have done the impossible: They've made juggling hip, and funny. Really funny. And now ... they juggle people! Admission: $25, $21, $17 adults, youth $10. Information: 626-395-4652. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Dia de los Muertos: El Centro de Accion Social 6-9 p.m. Traditional celebration marks Mexico's "Day of the Dead." Madison Elementary School, 515 Ashtabula St., Pasadena. Saturday, Oct. 30, 2004 Halloween Party Vroman's Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Our traditional Halloween celebration of treats and a costume parade will include face painting and trick or treating. Come dressed up in your Halloween best! 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Spooktacular Special: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. A Halloween program featuring one hour of holiday stories, songs, crafts, film and refreshments. Costumes are welcome. For all ages. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Family Re-Photography Day: Pasadena Museum of California Art 3-5 p.m. Two local photographers lead families through the neighborhood around the museum, re-photographing sites based on historic photographs. Participants receive copies of historic photographs; $10 per family. Information: 626-568-3665. 490 E. Union St., Pasadena. Walking with Dinosaurs: Caltech 2-3 p.m. The Cinemuse high-definition film "Walking with Dinosaurs" is the world's first natural history of dinosaurs. A post-screening discussion will be led by Donald Prothero, Professor of Geology at Occidental College, and lecturer at Caltech. $5. For ages 6 and up. Information: 626-395-4652. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Halloween Book Signing: The Huntington Library 2:30 p.m. Children's book illustrator Gris Grimly will read and sign copies of his latest book, "Boris and Bella," by author Carolyn Crimi. The book tells of a messy monster and a persnickety ghoul who get together at a Halloween bash in Booville. Adding to the creepy-crawly fun, some live snakes, spiders and insects from Wildlife on Wheels will make a special appearance. Friends Hall, 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino. Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids will love trick-or-treating with colorful goodie bags that they decorate themselves. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. "The Hundred Dresses": Haugh Performing Arts Center 2 p.m. A young immigrant girl is teased at school because she wears the same dress every day. Play is based on the classic story by Eleanor Estes. $5. Tickets and information: 626-963-9411. Citrus College Little Theatre, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Trick or Treat Tales: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. Wear your costume, if you want, and listen to Halloween stories at this special family storytime. Story Room, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Old Fashioned Halloween Party: Lamanda Park Branch Library 2 p.m. Dress in your costume and attend our party! Listen to Halloween tales, enjoy fun games and delight in delicious Halloween treats. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Pumpkins & Potions in the Park: City of Monrovia 2-6 p.m. Annual carnival and costume contest celebrate the holiday. Costume contest for ages 12 and under at 2 p.m., carnival for 14 and under runs through 5 p.m. Trick-or-treating at the Myrtle Avenue shops, 3-6 p.m. Library Park, 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Spooky Spectacular: City of Sierra Madre 3:30 to 5 p.m. Downtown trick-or-treating sponsored by the chamber of commerce. A costume contest and parade begins at 4:30 p.m. for children up to 14. All participants must check-in at Kersting Court. Parade begins promptly at 5 p.m. from Kersting Court to Memorial Park. Awards will be presented to the scariest, funniest, and most original costumes in each age category. Kersting Court, downtown Sierra Madre. Hallowscream: City of Alhambra 10 a.m. The spirits invite kids, ages 1 through 12, to wear their best costumes for a Halloween costume contest. Registration begins at 10 a.m., followed by contest with prizes and trick-or-treating at local merchant's shops. Information: 626-675-6515. Alhambra Renaissance Cineplex Plaza, Garfield Avenue and Main Street, Alhambra. PRIDE foster parent preparation classes will be held at 2055 N. Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. This is the standard foster parent/adoption preparation class used by most agencies. The course is free of charge and will be held on: October 30 and November 6 and 13. Please RSVP to Josh at (626) 798 6793 x120 (jricho@5acres.org) or meet with him at the class. Sunday, Oct. 31, 2004 All Hallow's Eve: One Colorado 4-7 p.m. Children and their caregivers who visit One Colorado's shops and restaurants will enjoy treats from each merchant. Get into your best Halloween mood and costume and roam the alleys and courtyard for an early evening of community fun and sweets. Colorado Boulevard., between Union and DeLacey streets and Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena. Halloween Carnival: Temple City Recreation Department 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Games, contests, bingo, haunted maze and magic performance. Information: 626-579-0461. Live Oak Park, Temple City. Monday, Nov. 1, 2004 Pajamamania: Monrovia Public Library 7:15 to 8 p.m. Evening storytime invites kids four and up to come to the library dressed in their pajamas. They will be served popcorn to munch on while listening to stories, watching a film and singing songs. Parents are invited to join in on the bedtime fun. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Pasadena. Walk to Art: La Pintoresca branch library 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Walk to the Pasadena Armory for the Arts and develop your artistic skills and creative ideas. Free after-school art classes taught by a professional artist. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2004 Laugh It Up Party: Santa Catalina branch library 3 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. Also today at 4 p.m. at Linda Vista branch. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2004 Laugh It Up Party: San Rafael branch library 3 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. Also today at 4:30 p.m. at Villa Parke Community Center branch. 1240 Nithsdale Rd., Pasadena. Silly Stories: Hastings branch library 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. A fun program for preschoolers that will get them giggling as we share some of the library's silliest stories, fingerplays and flannelboards. Each child will receive a free paperback book to take home and keep (while supplies last). 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena. Animal Tales: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Creatures great and small star in this story hour for children and families held in the museum's galleries. Free with admission, adults $6, under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Author Event: Mrs. Nelson's Toy & Book Store 10 to 11:30 a.m. Award-winning author Arthur Dorros will give a presentation and sign his books, including "Under the Sun," the story of 13-year-old Ehmet's journey to a village of children after his separation from his parents by the Balkan War. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Thursday, Nov. 4, 2004 Laugh It Up Party: La Pintoresca branch library 3 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. Also today at 3:30 p.m. at Allendale branch. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. Family Night: Arcadia Public Library 7 p.m. All ages are welcome to come learn interesting things about local and exotic animals, reptiles, amphibians and insects! No registration is required, but seating is limited to 150. Cay Mortenson Auditorium, 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Everything Bad Is Good for You: Caltech 8 p.m. Techno-cultural historian Steven Johnson, author and contributing editor for Wired and Discovery magazines, talks about why today's pop culture is making our kids smarter. No tickets or reservations required. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Saturday, Nov. 6, 2004 Japanese Garden Festival: Descanso Gardens 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Descanso will be filled with the beauty, grace, music and artistry of the Japanese-American culture during this annual weekend (also Sunday, Nov. 7). Dramatic performances, tea service, tours, displays, origami workshop for kids and a family Taiko drumming class will be featured. Check website for times and registration for classes aimed at children 5 and over and their parents. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge. Laugh It Up Party: Pasadena Central Library 2 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Silly Stories: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. A fun program for preschoolers that will get them giggling as we share some of the library's silliest stories, fingerplays and flannelboards. Each child will receive a free paperback book to take home and keep (while supplies last). Children's Room, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Rip Van Winkle: Parson's Nose 11 a.m. Parson’s Nose Productions tells the story of the poor but good hearted Rip, his long suffering wife Gretchen and the evil Klaus Van Beekman who tries to take his land. Of course there’s also a trip up the Catskill Mountains and bowling with ghostly Sir Hendrick Hudson and his pirate crew, to make it a perfect Halloween show. Ages 6 and up. Also Nov. 13 at 11 a.m. Tickets $10 adults, $5 kids. Box office: 626-356-PLAY. Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown: Haugh Performing Arts Center 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. All of the beloved "Peanuts" gang come to life in this enchanting musical that takes place on "an average day in the life of Charlie Brown." This theater production is specially designed to introduce children of all ages to live performance. Tickets: $6, can be purchased at the door or by calling 626-963-9411. Citrus College, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can bring a little bit of nature wherever they go when they make a wood branch necklace that includes a medallion made from a real tree. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. PRIDE foster parent preparation classes will be held at 2055 N. Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. This is the standard foster parent/adoption preparation class used by most agencies. The course is free of charge and will be held on: November 6 and 13. Please RSVP to Josh at (626) 798 6793 x120 (jricho@5acres.org) or meet with him at the class. Sunday, Nov. 7, 2004 Stroll to End Child Abuse: Foothill Family Service 11 a.m. Family fundraiser benefits counseling programs that deal with local children who are at risk of or have been abused or neglected. The event includes a 1.5 mile stroll followed by activities including rock climbing, arts and crafts, face painting and caricatures. Registration: $15 adults; $10 children; signups taken online. Information: 626-564-1613. Central Park, 37 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena. Monday, Nov. 8, 2004 After School Programs: Pasadena Education Network 6-8 p.m. Wondering what Pasadena schools have to offer your child after school? In the first half of this program, come hear representatives from Pasadena LEARNS (PUSD's After-School Program), YMCA, City of Pasadena and Altadena Christian Children's Center, all of whom conduct after-school programs at PUSD sites. Plus a Q&A on the district's open-enrollment process. Meeting for adults only. Information: pasadenaednetwork@earthlink.net or 866-216-7334. Pasadena Central Library, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2004 Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting for all members welcomes visiting moms and children. Guest speaker Dr. Susan Reedy talks about "Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child." Information: 626-580-8514 or email: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com. Group has no religious affiliation. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Musical Concert: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. Susan Salidor of Chicago performs in the auditorium. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Magic the Gathering: Allendale branch library 3:30 p.m. Fun for beginners or experienced players. Enjoy the card game that started the whole collectible card game hobby. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena. Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2004 Laugh It Up Party: Hill Avenue branch library 3:30 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena. Cello Man: Shumei Arts Council 12:40 p.m. Young people's concert by cellist Eugene Friesen. Humor, masks, mime, characterization and music characterize his performance. Reservations: 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004 Laugh It Up Party: Lamanda Park branch library 3:30 p.m. Don't you ... be blue! Wear something weird and bring your favorite funny book or joke or both to this party. Share a snack, some jokes and so much more. You'll really be smiling when we give you a free paperback book to take home and keep! Elementary school-aged and up. Also today at 4 p.m. at Hastings branch. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Art Festival & Sale: Creative Arts Group 7-9 p.m. Work by more than 70 professional artists, demonstrations and student art sale. Also Nov. 12 and 13, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Nov. 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 108 N. Baldwin Ave., Sierra Madre. Saturday, Nov. 13, 2004 Annual Rosebud Parade: Kidspace Children's Museum 8 a.m. Bring your bike, scooter or wagon and march in our just-for-kids parade! Decoration begins at 8 a.m. and the parade begins at 10 a.m. South Lake Avenue at San Pasqual, Pasadena. Watershed Restoration: Upper SG Valley Municipal Water District 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteer to plant saplings, gather seeds and help with other watershed restoration efforts. All ages welcome; children must be supervised by adults. Bring lunch, water, work gloves and garden tools. Information: 626-335-1251 or 626-443-2298. San Gabriel Canyon Environmental Ed Center, Hwy 39 at Rincon Fire Station, Azusa. Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Make a gem-encrusted treasure chest to stash a few of your favorite things. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Musical Circus: Pasadena Symphony 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Los Angeles Percussion Quartet bring nature to a dramatic crescendo as its instruments illustrate some of nature's nuances. Musical "petting zoo" begins at 8:30 a.m. with children getting a chance to hold and "play" orchestral instruments. Information: 626-793-7172. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. PRIDE foster parent preparation classes will be held at 2055 N. Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. This is the standard foster parent/adoption preparation class used by most agencies. The course is free of charge. Please RSVP to Josh at (626) 798 6793 x120 (jricho@5acres.org) or meet with him at the class. Register Early 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. The Nutcracker: Luckman Fine Arts Complex Ballet Internationale-Indianapolis performs holiday classic over Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 26 - 27, at evening and matinee times. $65, $55, $50. Box office: 323-343-6600. California State University, Los Angeles. 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. 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. Nov. 6: Leaf art. 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. Career and College Day: Pasadena City College 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Fourth biannual "Get a Life in the Arts" day, Nov. 6, is specifically designed for high school students interested in careers in the arts. Includes panel discussions with professional artists and designers; Q&A with college art students, a college fair, portfolio reviews and financial aid consulting. Seating limited, register early: email careerday@armoryarts.org or call 626-792-5101 x113. 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Family Storytimes: La Canada Flintridge Public Library Storytime will be held at 4 p.m. on Nov. 10; Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is the focus. Space limited; reservations mandatory. Information: 818-790-3330. 4545 N. Oakwood Ave., La Canada Flintridge. Storytime: Arcadia Public Library Storytimes for various age groups are designed to introduce reading to young children. Programs include short stories, flannel boards, fingerplays, videos, music and crafts. Registration, required for all groups, begins Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. for Arcadia residents; noon forward for general public. Baby Tales for 4 to 18 months is held Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. from Nov. 4 to Dec. 18. Time for Twos and Threes is held Tuesdays at 1 and 6:30 p.m. and Wednesdays at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. from Nov. 2 through Dec. 15. Preschool Storytime is held Wednesdays at 1 and 6:30 p.m. from Nov. 3 through Dec. 15. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Miniature Painting: Linda Vista branch library Enroll now for two classes on miniatures by a prize-winning painter. The sessions will be held Nov. 5 and 19 at 3:30 p.m. Bring a Warhammer figure and try it yourself; limited supplies provided. Reservations: 626-744-7278. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena. Haunted Canyon Night Hikes: Monrovia Canyon Park Chills and screams prevail on this ranger-led hike of a dark and eerie canyon. Hike is .75 miles, full of jarring scares and takes 45 minutes to complete. Definitely not for the faint of heart. Held Oct. 28, 29 and 30, hikes leave every 30 minutes starting at 7 p.m. through 9:30 p.m. All ages welcome on 7 p.m. hike only, later hikes recommended for ages 11 and up. $5. Tickets available pre-sale only at Canyon Park or Monrovia City Hall; no walk-ins or drop-offs. Information and tickets: 626-256-8282. 1200 N. Canyon Blvd., Monrovia. Teaching Skills for Outdoor Exploration: Descanso Gardens Anyone planning to be outdoors with preschool through early elementary school-aged children this fall can learn how to make a fun activity a powerful learning experience. Workshop held on Nov. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to noon teaches parents, teachers and youth leaders how exploring the outdoors can foster language development, inquiry learning, science concepts. Educator Linda Prosser will begin the class at Descanso’s Sycamore Science Center then show how to use the landscape to make the most of exploring the outdoors. Adults only; $13. Register by Nov. 2 at 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge. Continuing Activities 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. 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 . Jungle Gym Rock Climbing: Toddler and children's climbing classes, homeschool groups, competitive climbing and winter adventure camp offered at gym designed for kids 14 months to 14 years. Birthday parties and family nights also available. Information: 626-446-5014. 305 N. Santa Anita Blvd., Arcadia. 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. La Canada Farmer's Market: Held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beulan Street at Foothill Boulevard., La Canada. Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra. |
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