February 18, 2005

Number 59

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

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By Karen E. Klein
I heard from quite a few readers, including some adult survivors of abuse, after last issue's column about child molesters and how to keep your children safe from them, while at the same time staying sane and not becoming paranoid.

Lillian pointed out that the website of the California Attorney General includes a Megan's Law site that lists California's registered sex offenders as well as provides links to facts about the crime and how to prevent it. Good information - thanks Lillian!

A woman who is a survivor of child sexual abuse wrote this: "Often times people find me to be overprotective, which I just laugh at. If they realized how at-risk their child really is, they would take the measures I do to keep their kids safe." Very true. Molestation is too often a hidden crime, one that sometimes is not recognized for many years.

I also heard from a mom who explained that she was having a "tug-of-war" with her almost 8-year-old son on the topic of public restrooms. Mom doesn't want to send her son into a men's room alone, so she has him go into the ladies' room with her. The boy is rebelling against this scheme. I had to tell her that I couldn't blame the kid - he's humiliated. There comes a time when boys are understandably uncomfortable in the women's restroom - and they make the women there uncomfortable, too. I found that this occurred around age six. Boys need to identify with males at that stage, and it's just embarrassing for them to use the "powder room."

What I did before my guys were big enough to fend for themselves was to accompany them to the men's room and stake out a position near the door. That way, anyone going in would have to cross paths with "momma bear" protecting her cubs. I also would make a point, when my boys went into the bathroom, of loudly stating, "Okay honey, hurry up. I'll be waiting right out here!" That way, I figured, anyone inside who might be interested in taking advantage of a little boy would know I was there to identify him as he left the premises.

The truth is, while random perverts are out there and sometimes strike, most molesters are people you know and unsuspectingly trust to care for your children - babysitters, friends, relatives, coaches. It's probably much more effective to be cautiously watchful of those relationships than it is to worry too much about every public contact your kids might have with strangers.

It really is a balancing act, just like almost everything else about parenting. I mentioned a while ago that I've become hooked on "spouse swap" reality shows that take two women and have them live out each others' lives for a short time period. I think one thing that makes them so much fun to watch is the extreme parenting styles that seem to emerge, no doubt because producers know that reasonable, balanced parenting may be the ideal but it's not terribly interesting.

A couple recent episodes have really stuck in my mind and made me think a lot about my own parenting priorities. One of those involved a mother I can only charitably describe as "self-involved" who switched places with a woman who truly should be on the short list for sainthood. This woman has a big passel of kids from various racial backgrounds (I didn't catch the beginning of the show, but I assume many were adopted) who absolutely adore her. And watching the show, it didn't take long to figure out why: She's a smart, devoted mother, sweet without being saccharine, who truly values each of her children as individuals.

When she went to spend time in the selfish woman's household, she initially hit a brick wall of silence and suspicion from that woman's four teenagers. Her early attempts to bring some fun and caring into the home were sadly rebuffed, but gradually she befriended the eldest son, a heavily pierced, tattooed guy who looked to be in his late teens.

His own mother was extremely negative about his appearance, and I have to admit I could relate. I wouldn't be pleased if my kids came home shot through with metal studs and sporting various pieces of "body art." Hey, I participated in the development of those bodies for nine long months, and I'd like to see them stay whole and unblemished, thank you very much!

But I would also hate to think that I'd react so negatively and be so judgmental that I would drive the kind of emotional wedge into our relationship that would estrange me from my sons. I mean, you have to establish standards for your family and teach your kids what you think is right, but at some point you also have to step back and let your kids make their own choices - a lesson I'm currently learning as the mom of two teens.

What was heartwarming was to watch as the saintly mom (who privately admitted she wouldn't choose an eyebrow stud herself) showed some sincere, non-judgmental interest in this guy and he responded, revealing himself to be a serious, talented, polite young man that any parent should have been proud of - piercings notwithstanding. (They're only skin deep, right?) I thought, "That mother has raised a terrific human being, but she's so busy being angry at him that she hasn't even taken the time to get to know him and realize what a great person he is." How sad.

Here's a mind-boggling statistic, from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: "Teens with a television in their rooms are twice as likely to smoke pot, 30% more likely to drink and 50% more likely to be sexually active as kids without one." This comes from a survey of 12- to 16-year-olds.

Why would that be? I can only surmise that there's a degree of negativity and isolation for kids who spend hours watching TV by themselves instead of interacting with their families. Or maybe it's just that they spend a lot of time unsupervised, and their parents don't check on them because they assume they're watching TV.

I don't think my kids would watch TV in their rooms even if they had their own sets - which they don't. Our favorite TV shows become family occasions - with cookies and milk or even dinner in front of the tube - and my kids really enjoy them. In fact, while they value their personal space and asked for separate rooms a few years ago, they have never liked being isolated. I set up desks and lamps in their rooms so they could do homework there, and they still insist on studying at the kitchen counter while I'm making dinner. "I hate being in there working all alone!" is the explanation I get when I ask why. So much for those nice study areas in their rooms. Maybe they'll use them if they don't go away to college.

It's been a lot of years since we've had a real rainy season here in Southern California, but we're certainly getting one this year - and the wet weather just keeps on coming! I honestly don't mind it, but I'm sure I'd feel differently if my kids were younger and hanging around indoors for days on end.

If you're at wit's end - or even if you're not - check out this new indoor playground in Arcadia called Kids Island. Owner Christine saw the need for a clean, stimulating, kid-friendly environment for local families, so she gutted a former book store in the Burlington Coat Factory center on Baldwin Avenue and opened it up to reveal high ceilings. Then she added bright lighting, a colorful paint job and lots of super toys and play equipment. She's offering open play times, an infant-appropriate play area, parenting classes, music and dance courses, private parties and more for kids ages 6 months to 6 years. Go by a give it a look. Even better, take our special Orange Cat coupon with you and sign up for some of her classes. Your cabin-fever-suffering kids will thank you.

Assuming it clears up in the next couple of weeks and you can get out in the evening, don't miss the next Pasadena ArtNight on March 4, when a dozen museums and other cultural institutions open their doors for a free night of special events. All the venues are linked by a free shuttle that circles between the sites and the Memorial Park Gold Line station, so you can even leave your car at home. Imagine that! The event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. and some local restaurants are getting in on it by offering free desserts or other perqs for ArtNight participants.

I'm always thankful for our wonderful reader recommendations. Here's one from Orange Cat Dad Larry. He says friends have given good reviews about the train rides over at the L.A. Railroad Museum near Griffith Park. I can second those good reviews. My kids adored the train rides and the pony rides at the railroad museum and in the park itself. Best part is that it's really not hard to get there - just take the 134 up over the hills of Eagle Rock and through Glendale, cross the L.A. River and you're there. You can do the whole outing in the morning, take a picnic lunch and be home by naptime.

Here's another recommendation, for those struggling with the perennial sleep problems of toddlers and preschoolers. It's a book and a "stay in bed by yourself" training method from child therapist and author Janie Peterson called "The Sleep Fairy." Does her magical method for getting kids to sleep happily really work? I don't know, but maybe it's worth a try. Let me know if you decide to try it and tell me whether you have any success or not. Sometimes I think real magic is the only thing that will help on this issue.

Let me know if you have any magic tricks - or tips - for The Orange Cat and our readers. You can always email me at Karen@theorangecat.org - I really do write back! Take care.

Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see special printable [coupons] and [classifieds] exclusively for readers of The Orange Cat.

Saturday, Feb. 19, 2005

Chinese New Year: The Huntington Library 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Family festival marks the start of the Year of the Rooster. Activities include Chinese flower market, lion dancers and martial arts demonstrations, folk dancers, storytelling, musicians, Chinese painting demonstration and a talk about the botanical and symbolic aspects of plants and flowers of the Chinese New Year. Crafts for children include dough doll making, paper cutting, knotting and lantern making, and Chinese calligraphy. Included with admission fee of $15 adults, $12 seniors, $10 students age 12-18, $6 ages 5-11, free under 5. Information: 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Informational Workshop: Great Wall China Adoption 10 a.m. Informational meeting sponsored by nonprofit adoption advocacy agency is aimed at adults who are interested in exploring adoptions in China. Westin Pasadena Hotel, 191 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can’t wait to jot down messages on hanging notepads that they’ve created themselves. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Boardgame Afternoon: Pasadena Central Library 3-5 p.m. Challenge other game lovers to Risk, Monopoly, Chess, Connect Four, Yahtzee, Checkers, Life, Battleship and more. Teen Central, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Anime Review: Pasadena Central Library 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join us in the for an afternoon of free animé! Lovers of Japanese animation who are ages 13-18 are invited. Newbies to the world of animé are invited too. Snacks and drinks will be served. Teen Services: 626-744-4766. Donald R. Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Crazy About Comics, Mad About Manga: Pasadena Central Library 1-2 p.m. Bring two or three of your favorite comics, manga and graphic novels to share and come see what’s new at the library. 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Black History Parade & Festival: City of Pasadena 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parade celebrating black culture and history starts at 10 a.m. in Altadena, at North Fair Oaks and Ventura avenues and ends at noon in Pasadena, at Mountain and Fair Oaks avenues. Festival runs noon to 4 p.m. Information: 626-744-7062. Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena.

Sunday, Feb. 20, 2005

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8 a.m. to noon. Meet at the nature center building for a bird walk. Bring binoculars, shade hat and water. Please, no dogs. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Friday, Feb. 25, 2005

Imago Theatre: Caltech 8 p.m. Imago's mask theater troupe presents "Biglittlethings," bringing to life insomniac hippos, hitchhiking rabbits, impatient mice, spies in dresses, multi-chromatic superheroes and transforming aliens. Adults $25, $21, $17; youth $10. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Feb. 26, 2005

Open House: The Little Gym of La Canada 3-6 p.m. Children 4 months to 12 years are invited to explore our obstacle courses and equipment and participate in games, warm-ups and activities. Motor-skill development and building self-confidence are the cornerstones of The Little Gym philosophy in a non-competitive and nurturing environment. Refreshments, raffles and prizes will be offered. Information: 818-249-4GYM (4496). 2196A Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

Monopoly Tournament: Allendale Branch Library 2 p.m. Those who dream of wealth and power, of owning and controlling vast amounts of real estate, come and join our winner-take-all Monopoly tournament. Prizes will be awarded. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Armenian Storytime: Santa Catalina Branch Library 4 p.m. Author and storyteller Alidz Agbabian will launch Saturday's Stories, a new series of monthly Armenian storytelling programs. For school-aged children. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday For Kids: Haugh Performing Arts Center 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" is a musical adventure story of four children in war-torn England who accidentally enter the land of Narnia by climbing through a magic wardrobe. Ages 8 and up. $6. Tickets available at the door one hour before performances or call: 626-963-9411. Citrus College, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Space Exploration Film: Caltech 2 p.m. Space has taken us from our own planet Earth to the very edge of the universe. We have witnessed the beauty and the violence of the cosmos. But will we ever see these wonders for ourselves? Filmmaker Sam Neill goes in search of the technologies which may one day take our future generations to the stars. A post-screening discussion will be led by Michelle Thaller of NASA. Geared for ages 6 and up. $5. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children will love using tissue paper, pom-poms, pipe stems and more to create a brilliant butterfly. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Feb. 27, 2005

Hike to the Falls: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9 a.m. to noon. Hike geared toward anyone comfortable hiking 3.5 miles at a moderate pace, crossing water several times. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes, sunscreen and hat recommended. Hiking staff and snack optional. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Hinamatsuri Doll Festival The Huntington Library 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Dressed in colorful kimonos, children from the Kodomo no Ie preschool in San Gabriel will perform Japanese songs and dances in celebration of Himamatsuri, the ancient Japanese doll festival. A display of elaborate dolls representing the imperial court and their attendants will be on view from Feb. 25 to March 7 at the Japanese House. Free with general admission of $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students ages 12-18, $6 youth ages 5-11, free under 5. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Family Concert: Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra 2 p.m. Kids will love the sounds of spring birds, a summer thunderstorm, the celebration of the fall harvest and the chill of winter when the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra plays excerpts from Vivaldi’s "The Four Seasons." The performance is part of a family concert series designed to capture the imagination of children and allow families to discover together that classical music is cool. Single concert tickets $14 or $8.50. Three-concert series tickets $30 or $18. Information: 213-622-7001, ext. 215. The Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale.

Tuesday, March 1, 2005

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena 10 a.m. to noon. Open House will feature information on the chapter as well as offer fun activities and refreshments. MOMS Club is an international non-profit organization that supports mothers who have chosen to leave their paid careers for a new career staying home to raise their children. Group has no religious affiliation. Address and information: email membershipvp@pasadenamomsclub.com or 626-459-5381. Trinity Lutheran Chuch, Pasadena.

Crafts for Teens: Santa Catalina Branch Library 3:30 p.m. Learn how to make something new! Expert crafter Debbie Salcedo will demonstrate how to make your own cool craft. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, March 2, 2005

That’s Entertainment: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. One-hour "Stories in the Afternoon" program features a museum educator reading stories for children and families in the galleries while children participate with props. This program focuses on Degas’ "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen" and features stories from the circus, ballet and more. Ages 4-8. Free with admission of $8 adults; under 18 free. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, March 3, 2005

Transitioning Marriage to Parenthood: Mothers & More Pasadena 7 p.m. Guest speaker addresses support group for moms. Visitors welcome; no children over 6 months. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, between Cornell & Arden on Wilson Ave., Pasadena.

Denali String Quartet: Sierra Madre Public Library 8 p.m. Hear a classical music trio perform locally. Information: 626-355-7186, after 11 a.m. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Fire Fighter Visit: Hastings Branch Library 4 Learn about fire safety and prevention when a real firefighter visits the library. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, March 4, 2005

Art Night Pasadena: Twelve Pasdena Cultural Institutions 6-10 p.m. Visitors can sample the variety and quality of art, artifacts and music throughout Pasadena during semi-annual evening when a dozen institutions open their doors to the public for free. Collaborating venues will be linked by free shuttle service and include Armory Center for the Arts, Armory Northwest, Student Gallery of Art Center College of Design, Norton Simon Museum of Art, One Colorado, Pacific Asia Museum, Pasadena City College, Pasadena Conservatory of Music, Pasadena Museum of California Art, Pasadena Museum of History, Pasadena Jazz Institute at Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts and Pasadena Symphony at the Civic Auditorium. Taking Metro Gold Line is encouraged; shuttle will service the station. Information: 626-744-7249. Main shuttle stop is Armory Center, Raymond Ave. near Holly Street, Pasadena.

Saturday, March 5, 2005

Musical Circus: The Pasadena Symphony 8:30 to 10 a.m. Performance by the Los Angeles Children's Chorus is preceded by a musical "petting zoo" where children 10 and under can hold and play symphony instruments. Information: 626-793-7172. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Saturday Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrate family by creating a hanging family banner made from felt, sequins, macaroni and more. Ages 3 and up. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Kids Music Club University of La Verne 10 a.m. Go to the opera with this workshop that introduces children to music education. Information: 909-593-3511 x4921. Founders Auditorium, second floor, 1950 Third St., La Verne.

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.

Cooking With Kids: Los Angeles County Arboretum Workshop on Wednesday, April 13, from 4-6 p.m. is for children ages 8 to 10. Alexandra Poer Sheridan, mother, chef and caterer, teaches kids to prepare Sunday breakfast for their families. Starting with a walk through the kitchen garden to pick fresh ingredients, kids will learn to make omelettes, muffins, fruit skewers and pancakes with initials on them. $25. Space limited. Register: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Family Hike: Children's Nature Institute Walk designed especially for families with young children will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 22. Led by Bette Simons. Reservations mandatory: 310-998-1151. Eaton Canyon, 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Arbor Day Art Class: South Pasadena Public Library "Drawing and Painting Trees" is a class presented by Vivian Flynn of the Chouinard Foundation School of Art for children ages 7 and up. Class will be held March 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Reservations must be made by March 1 at the library or by calling 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Open House: Cottage Co-op Nursery School Information night for prospective parents will be held March 2 at 6:30 p.m for fall enrollment. Cottage Co-op is a parent-owned nursery school that follows the "whole child" approach to learning and development, emphasizing learning through play for children ages 2 (potty training not required) to 5. Reservations: 626-799-0387 or online. 169 West Arlington Dr., Pasadena.

Master Ballet Class: Le Studio Serious ballet students may sign up to take a master class with world-renowned Ballet Master Mansur Kamaletdinov, formerly of the Bolshoi Ballet, on Feb. 20 from 2 to 5 p.m. The class will serve as an audition for those wishing to attend his 10th International Vaganova Summer School, to be held at Le Studio from Aug. 1-20. The program is mostly for advanced and pre-professional students, ages 12 and up, but an intermediate group may be added depending on size of enrollment. $25. Contact Geraldine Baum for registration/information: 323-953-5177 or email info@russianballet.net 100 W. Villa St., Pasadena.

Children's Concert: Shumei Hall Concert geared toward children in 3rd to 5th grades will be performed on March 4 at 12:40 p.m. by saxophonist Ashu with piano accompaniment. Program includes pieces by Debussy, Rachmaninoff and Villa-Lobos. Approximately 40 seats are available for home-schoolers or anyone else interested. Reservations: 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Junior Master Gardeners: The Huntington Library Worms are recyclers, fertilizers and diggers - in other words, a garden’s buried treasure. Junior gardeners in grades 3-5 will unearth the secret world of worms in this workshop, "The Wonderful World of Worms," on Saturday, Feb. 26 from 9 a.m. to noon. $35. Registration: 626-405-3586. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Bonsai Workshop: The Huntington Library Adults and children can learn the art of bonsai from the masters in a hands-on workshop on Saturday, Feb. 26 from 9 to 11 a.m. Adults: $20; children $15. Registration adults: 626-405-2146. Registration kids: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Through the Looking Glass: South Pasadena Public Library Creative writing class for ages 10 to 14 will include discussions designed to help students write about the world in which they live. Students will improve their writing skills using library and school resources as well as through reading, seeing and listening to examples of stories, music, and art. Class will be held on Saturday afternoons, April 2 through May 21. Register in the children’s department or call 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Arbor Day: South Pasadena Public Library Vivian Flynn of Chouinard Foundation School of Art will instruct children and teens on drawing and painting trees in a workshop to be held March 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Flynn will help participants develop an appreciation for the variety of trees in South Pasadena, a Tree City, by training them to study and paint trees. Ages 8 to 12. Space limited; register in the children’s department or call 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

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: 626-335-3042 or email: butlig@integrity.com .

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: Mondays, 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.

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.

Terrific Twosomes Mothers of Multiples: San Gabriel Valley-based, non-profit support organization exists as a forum for parents of twins, triplets, quadruplets and higher multipes to come together to exchange everything from advice to outgrown baby clothing! We meet on the second Tuesday evening of each month; see website for details on meeting place and time. .

Healthy Eating Lifestyle Program: Ongoing, five-session nutritional and exercise workshop is designed to help families with kids who are at risk for being overweight. Classes include smart shopping tips, family meal planning advice, creating simple recipes, games, parties and activities for kids aged 5 to 12 and their entire families. Sessions held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and Monday and Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. Families must register and complete medical screening in order to attend. Contact health educator Kam Miller at 626-397-3660 or via email: healthy.eating@huntingtonhospital.com Huntington Hospital, 100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena.

The Bunny Museum: See the world's largest collection of bunnies and bunny artifacts, with more than 20,000 items on display. Private home is open for tours by appointment every day of the year. No appointment needed on most holidays. Call for schedule: 626-798-8848. 1933 Jefferson Dr., Pasadena.

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.

Kidspace Children's Museum: Where else can kids dig, learn about fossils and the evolution of earthquakes, ride trikes and climb 40 feet into the air? Museum exhibits highlight the arts, sciences and humanities in a manner that promotes exploration, investigation and expression. Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day. Admission: $8 for adults and children; under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

La Canada Farmer's Market: Held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beulan Street at Foothill Boulevard., La Canada.

Kids Island Parenting classes, infant play area, arts and crafts, music and dance studios, open play times and children's parties are offered at this indoor center for children six months to six years. Call for information/admission prices: 626-447-8003. 1313 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Follow The Rainbow: 3,000-square-foot indoor playground has things to climb on, bounce on, dig in and play with. A safe, fun environment for young children with quieter room for reading or board and card games provided for older children. Parents can play with their kids, stand back and guide them or sit and relax in view of all the action. Open 7 days, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily admission: $7, monthly $30, annual pass $105. Birthday parties start at $300. 626-794-0925. 2525 N. Lake Ave., Altadena.

Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra.

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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