September 2, 2005

Number 73

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

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

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By Karen E. Klein
Do you ever get the uncomfortably creepy feeling that people don't want your children around? I'm not asking about friends and family (I hope not, anyway!) but about the general public. While most people are typically relaxed and some even go out of their way to be friendly

toward families, I've found that this isn't always the case. In fact, we occasionally find ourselves drawing nasty glances from fellow diners in restaurants or frowns from store owners in the mall. The reactions aren't tied to my boys breaking rules or doing anything particularly wrong. They're just kids acting like ... kids.

All I can conclude from these reactions is that some people flat-out don't like children. I noticed it when Matt and Andy were busy toddlers, when they were active boys and I still notice it now that they are polite, well-behaved teenagers. There just seem to be people who are convinced that when children are let out in public they will cause chaos, destroy property or say something rude. Instead of giving children the benefit of the doubt, these folks make negative assumptions, perhaps about boys in particular. Maybe it's a throw-back to the old "children should be seen but not heard" parenting philosophy that packed youngsters off with hired caretakers 90 percent of the time, so that they wouldn't "bother" adults enjoying meals or entertainment.

The blatant anti-kid attitudes of some staff members and condo residents were the only negatives we experienced during our wonderful vacation last month. We were paying guests, we were quiet, we caused no trouble, but my boys could hardly venture into the lobby without these busybodies lecturing them about the ping-pong table rules or warning them about the dire consequences of not drying off thoroughly after exiting the pool area. It was exasperating.

I can't figure out if these people have never had children, and thus never developed tolerance for little people who don't act like miniature adults, or if they have just lost the patience they had for their own families. Either way, it can be tough when your kids have to interact with them and they get really mean (the adults, not the kids). I am losing patience with these types myself, I'll tell you that much. I just hope when I'm an empty-nester, I don't forget how to treat kids right.

A tip from my son, who recently took a nutrition unit as part of his summer school health and safety class: Slip some spinach leaves (buy the prewashed, bagged kind) into your sandwich in place of lettuce. You won't taste the difference, but you'll get a whole lot of extra nutrition! This class also taught him all about first aid, food safety and the health dangers of cigarettes, illegal drugs, alcohol and STDs. He's heard it all from me since he was born, but the teacher really scared him straight with dire facts on addiction and other dangers. Boy, I loved that class! My only regret is that it didn't include CPR certification. If you're not certified yourself, by the way, you should be. Take a class on infant and child CPR at Huntington or one of the other local hospitals. If your child were to stop breathing, you'd need to know what to do before help can arrive. So make sure you learn.

Do your children enjoy baseball as much as mine do? Here's a recommendation for you: "The Sandlot." Rent, buy, or put it on your Netflix list, even if your kids are casual ball fans, or don't play at all. I bet they will love this story about a bunch of ragtag neighborhood kids who play baseball in a vacant lot. "Sandlot" is a small film from 1993 that didn't feature any big star turns and didn't make much of a splash when it was released commercially. But it has certainly found an audience on video and DVD, especially amongst ballplayers. We laugh every August as we are following the Little League World Series games on ESPN, because at least half the participating players name "Sandlot" as their favorite film. Check it out.

And while you're at it, make a note to go out to San Bernardino next summer for the Little League Regional Finals that are held at Al Houghton Stadium, usually during the first two weeks of August. Admission is free, the food is dirt cheap and the facility is terrific. Best of all is watching the fantastic competition between 11- and 12-year-olds from all over the Western U.S., Alaska and Hawaii. We fell in love with the kids from West O'ahu after seeing them play in San Bernardino this year (and driving by their home town on our vacation) and we couldn't have been more thrilled when they emerged at the very top of the heap as the Little League World Champions in Williamsport, Pa. last month. Seeing talented young people and their dedicated coaches work hard, exhibit great sportsmanship and persevere toward a goal is heartwarming. It's experiences like these that prove the anti-kid cranks have got it all wrong.

I'm sure there will be an enormous outpouring of monetary support in the next weeks and months for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. I adore New Orleans and I've been overwhelmed watching the suffering going on there and elsewhere. So, I encourage you to donate anything you can to the relief efforts. But please, give through well-known, legitimate organizations that can really do some good. Don't send money to phone solicitors or respond to emails claiming to represent a relief group. Why? In the wake of every highly publicized disaster, there are despicable people who set up scam "charities," solicit donations for victims and then pocket the cash themselves. Nothing makes me angrier than people who take advantage of the good intentions of kind-hearted people who want to do their part. So please, be smart with your contributions and don't let crooks profit off others' misery or line their pockets with your generosity.

I don't know about your kids, but mine are already back in school and hitting the books. If you want to help your kids do well in class this year, there's an easy and significant way to assist them: Get them library cards and encourage them to read for fun. The American Library Association has declared September to be "Library Card Sign-Up Month." Did you know that studies show that children who are read to at home and who use the library perform better in school? They are also more likely to continue to use the library over their lifetimes than those who are not introduced to the library as kids.

Libraries don't just offer books anymore. Most have audiobooks (a great way to enjoy a story with your kids while you're driving carpool or running errands), videos, DVDs, music on CD, computers with free Internet access and loads of free events for children and adults (many of which we list in our calendar). If you haven't taken your kids to the library lately, what are you waiting for? Another incentive during the dog days of fall - they're air-conditioned!

Thanks again to all our new subscribers. If you haven't joined The Cat Club and sent in your $12 (one year) or $22 (two years) donation, please do so! If you don't have an account with PayPal or don't want to pay via credit card, no problem. You can send a check made out to: KBN Publishing, Inc. (the parent company of The Orange Cat) and mail it to 5645 Heleo Ave., Temple City, CA 91780. We appreciate your support! - 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. Also, see our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat.

Friday, Sept. 2, 2005

Laughter Workshop: Pasadena Laughter Club 6:30 p.m. The founder of the Laughter Yoga movement, Dr Madan Kataria, gives a public workshop. $20 suggested donation; bring a cushion. Armory Center for the Arts, 145 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Sept. 3, 2005

Explore, Express: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Choose from messy art, movement and music activities, all designed for children age 4 and under. 480 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 5, 2005

Backyard Picnic: Descanso Gardens 4-7 p.m. Say goodbye to summer at annual family picnic. Event features live swing music of the 1930s and ‘40s and lively soda jerks dishing up fountain favorites for dessert. A special treat for children will be a chance to meet and greet live cows or ride the Enchanted Railroad. Bring your own picnic, or order from Patina: 818-790-3663 no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2. Free with admission of $7 adults, $2 kids 5-12, under 5 free. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge.

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Meet a baron, a countess and even a princess in this story hour for children and families held by Goya's 'Portrait of Doña Francisca Vicenta Chollet y Caballero.' Free with museum admission of $8 adults, free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Sept. 10, 2005

Children's Author: Huntington Library 2:30 p.m. Local author Tony Johnston reads and signs her book, "Isabel's House of Butterflies." A craft activity will be offered before and after the program. Friends' Hall, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Handy Magnet Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children create one-of-a-kind magnets using buttons, craft sticks, stampers, and more. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Sept. 11, 2005

Pam Matson-Storyteller: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. Join storyteller Pam Matson for stories of family and remembrance. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, Sept. 15, 2005

Support Group: Mothers and More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. General meeting includes discussion of "Crazy Parenting Techniques." Visitors welcome; adults only. Polytechnic School's Boswell Library, located between Cornell and Arden Roads on Wilson Avenue in Pasadena.

Saturday, Sept. 17, 2005

Back to Work: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Explore the tools of many trades, and then make an artwork that expresses what you want to be when you grow up. Free with museum admission of $8 adults, free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Magic Wand Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids use beads, yarn, and more to create a unique wand for all kinds of magical merriment! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Library Storytimes: Arcadia Public Library Age-appropriate storytimes are designed to introduce babies, toddlers and preschoolers to reading and the fun of visiting the library. Weekly programs include stories, flannel boards, finger plays, videos, music and crafts. Fall session runs Sept. 13-Oct. 19. Registration begins Saturday, Sept. 3; Arcadia residents 10 a.m., all others noon. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Meat-Eating Plants: The Arboretum Come and see amazing plants that eat living, breathing bugs! On Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. you can also tour the tropical greenhouse and make your very own toy pitcher plant. Each family will receive a Venus flytrap plant to take home. $20 per family; registration: 626-821-4623. Under big oak tree, Ayres Hall, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Preschool Program: Huntington Library Children discover the animal life of The Huntington, from the furry and feathered critters inhabiting the gardens to the artful creatures found in the paintings and sculptures of the galleries. Program will be held on Wednesdays, Oct. 5 through 26, at 10:30 a.m. Games and craft activities will round out the program. Ages 3 - 5, with accompanying adult. $65. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Kids' Art: The Arboretum Fine art drawing classes offered to help kids ages 4-12 develop attention span, artistic ability and self-confidence. Saturdays, Sept. 24-Nov. 19, noon to 1 p.m. $117. Registration: 818-248-2764. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Children’s Workshop: Huntington Library "Gargoyles and Grotesques" is a program being held on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The bizarre, beastly and not-so-beautiful faces of The Huntington will be explored through sculpture and sketching, as youngsters hunt for gargoyles and grotesques throughout the collections. Ages 7 and up. $15. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Pirate Sleepover: Huntington Library Join us for a night of swashbuckling adventure, complete with a hunt for buried treasure, crafty pirate activities and spine-tingling stories. To be held Saturday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. through Sunday, Sept. 25, 9:30 a.m. Includes light breakfast. Ages 7 and up. One parent or guardian required for each two children. $45. Registration 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Teachers Night: Vroman's Bookstore Fall teachers' event will be held on Thursday, Sept. 22. Librarians, educators of pre-K-12 and home-school instructors are invited to attend an evening to discuss the latest in children's literature, upcoming school events, services and more. There will be plenty of goodies on hand for your classroom for all in attendance. Register: 626-449-5320 x448. Grades Pre-K-5: 4 p.m., grades 6-12: 6 p.m. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., 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.

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.

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. .

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 .

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 membership@momsclubcovina.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 Story times for kids 3-5 are held Tuesdays and Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m.; infants and toddlers Thursdays 10:30-10:45 a.m. 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 is offered Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.; Pajama and Preschool storytimes for ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 p.m. and Thursdays 10:30 a.m.; Toddler storytime for ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 a.m.; ages 2-3, Fridays 11 a.m. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

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: Pajama Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Alhambra Public Library Pajama Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. Wednesdays at 7 p.m. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

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. .

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. Call for information and location: 626-294-3211. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

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 .

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.

Mothers and More Pasadena: Support group meets regularly for moms-only coffees and lunches focused on career planning, transitions to paid work and challenges or opportunities with current employment. Chapter meetings occur first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. and are open to visitors. Group also sponsors Moms’ Nights Out, book club and playgroups. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, 1030 E. California Blvd, Pasadena.

Stroller Strides: Exercise classes for parents and their babies held at Brookside, Lacy and Finkbiner parks. First class free, subsequent classes cost $3.75 to $10 each. Check website for schedule or call 888-250-1761or email susanlile@strollerstrides.net for more information. Pasadena, San Marino and Glendora..

Child Care Information Service: Referrals to licensed child care providers are available to all families, regardless of income. Referrals are random, based on geographic area, ages of the children and availability of child care spaces. Cities served are Altadena, Arcadia, Duarte, La Canada, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Pasadena and San Marino. .

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 eight 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.

Pasadena City College: Registration continues year-round for Parent Education courses, which feature parent-child interaction, playtime, crafts, songs and parenting advice and information from seasoned instructors. Classes available for infants through per-Kindergarten and their parents or caregivers. Some multiple-child classes and special Dad's evening courses available. Information: 626-585-3038. Classes held at various San Gabriel Valley locations.

Amy's Playground Indoor playground features 3,000-square-foot play area with maze, bouncer, infant area and free weekly crafts. Must wear socks to enter. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; call for weekend availability. Adults free; kids two and older $8; siblings and kids under 2, $6. 1115 Mission St., South Pasadena.

Altadena Public Library: Reading club, weekly musical shows, kids' workshops and activities. Check Web site for times, dates. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Fall music programs offered for students and adults, infants to senior citizens. Music for Young Children program includes parents and young children making music together and establishes the goundwork for music literacy and later instruction on an instrument. Classes also include young musician's program, recorder ensemble and world drumming for students Kindergarten to sixth grade. Individual instruction also available. Information and registration: 626-683-3355. 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. Information: 818-249-4496. 2196 Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

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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