October 7, 2005

Number 75

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

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By Karen E. Klein
Don't put your kid in a box. Of course, this is a lot easier said than done.

Ever think about why we stereotype certain groups or label individuals simplistically, when actually the reality is far more complex? Reducing people to easy classifications comes naturally, according to scientists. Our brains are

wired to seek patterns and group people into neat affiliations. Often, that tendency extends even to our own children: There's the smart one, that's the shy one, she's the brainy one, he's the class clown, she's the athletic one.

A friend of mine, a wonderful woman who probably never caused her parents an ounce of real trouble, recalls being labeled "the difficult child" when she was young. It's hard to believe, but I can only imagine that she was livelier and more active than her rather passive older brother and sister. Her mother, therefore, naturally felt the contrast and used it to brand her. My friend recalls often overhearing her mother complaining about her to relatives and friends. And while she grew up to be a good student and responsible adult, she still smarts when she thinks about that label - and resents it to this day.

When her own son was a toddler, he was very active and rather headstrong. Here was a wiry kid who started clambering to the top of the jungle gym and scampering across it just months after he mastered simpler skills like walking and running. I always admired how my friend handled him. Not only did she understand his competence level - he was agile enough to make it across those monkey bars safely with mom spotting him underneath - but she always refrained from labeling him negatively.

Though the temptation was probably strong (because active kids truly are exhausting as I well recall), she never referred to him as a "handful" or a "troublemaker." She'd had to live with those monikers for her whole childhood and was determined not to put her son through the same thing.

Of course, her son is a terrific, polite and talented young man these days, and I give his mom a lot of credit. I think some kids who get pigeonholed early in life, while their personalities are still developing, are never able to shrug off those negative stereotypes. It's almost like, "Well, mom thinks I'm a troublemaker? Okay, I guess I'd better live up to the billing!" They act out the roles their families have created for them. A shy preschooler, for instance, may stay that way if she's not encouraged to branch out and take risks. A smart kid puts terrible pressure on himself not to deviate from the role that the family has carved out for him, even when he would benefit from lightening up a bit.

We all want to puzzle out the mysteries of our children's personalities. And it's tempting to think you've figured out everything there is to know about your kids when they're 2, and then to think that they will always behave the way you perceive them at that moment. I'm here to tell you that's seldom the case. Children really do change as they grow up - outgoing ones turn shy, outstanding athletes gradually become average players, quiet kids blossom into the life of the party. I think even we, as adults, change a lot over time - none of us is set in stone at age 18 - or 25 - or even 40!

So, my advice is to notice what you can about your children and then try to mostly tuck it away in your heart. Let them grow and change and surprise you. Don't force them to play out a role you've determined for them way too early. Continue to observe them and learn all their nuances. Let them be complex, sometimes baffling, unpredictable people - not stereotypes. And for goodness sakes, don't go around loudly making blanket statements, especially negative ones, about your children to relatives, friends or strangers. I've heard parents make egregious comments about their kids, "Steven's a nerd" or "Janie's so superficial!" while the children were standing right there!

I don't know whether they think their kids suffer from selective hearing loss, or what. I do recall, however, that when I was a child my ears pricked up whenever adults were talking and my name was mentioned. Thankfully, it usually meant my mother was doing some shameless boasting about my latest accomplishment, which was fine. I don't think there's anything wrong with letting your children overhear your praise and admiration once in a while - as long as you lavish it in moderation. It just shows that you're a proud parent. And that's a good thing for them to know.

Speaking of good things, if you've ever tried to help your child with algebra homework, or Spanish, or chemistry and found yourself stumped, you'll be glad to know that the Pasadena Public Library has instituted a Live Homework Help program for kids in the fourth grade and above. All you need to participate in this online, interactive homework assistance service is a Pasadena public library card. This way, credentialed tutors who really know what they're talking about can lend a hand - and you don't have to brush up on that high school geometry! What a joy.

Have you been driving around the San Gabriel Valley lately and seen a glassy-eyed woman in the next car, breathing heavily and hanging onto the passenger side door for dear life? That'd be me. My older son, Matt, got his learner's permit over the summer and now needs to accumulate 50 hours of supervised driving practice before he can get his driver's license.

Guess who gets to supervise him? That'd be me.

When I had my learner's permit, I thought it was loads of fun squiring my family around everywhere we needed to go. I remember being exhilarated, not frightened. But from a parent's perspective, I can tell you that the process is not so much fun. As we get older, that sheen of invincibility recedes and we're left acutely aware of all the bad things that can, and sometimes do, happen. Especially when teenagers get behind the wheel.

Thus, my brand of supervision tends to take the form of clutching the door, jamming my foot reflexively down on an invisible brake pedal, and pleading: "Brake!" "Slower!" "Go!" My son is generally responsible, capable and performs just fine behind the wheel. I just don't so much like his tendency to charge up to a line of cars waiting at a red light and slam the brakes on at the last second. Or his tendency to "nose out" to where he can see around the oncoming car when making a left turn (without a left-turn signal) and then sitting in the path of oncoming traffic while he evaluates whether to try and make a quick turn or not. Yikes.

Matt turned 16 yesterday (hard to believe) but he won't be able to get his license until January, after he's had his permit for six months and completed his supervised driving hours. So, there's more behind-the-wheel time to come. Just wish me luck.

We do get letters, here at the Orange Cat, though they mostly arrive in electronic rather than physical fashion. Orange Cat mom Michele would like to find an etiquette class for teens somewhere in the Pasadena, San Marino or South Pasadena area. I've never seen one, but there sure is a need for one from what I can see. I met a retired English teacher recently who told me she used to spend an entire class period during prom week, instructing the boys (particularly) on how to behave at a dance. The poor guys bombarded her with questions about such niceties as opening car doors for their dates and how to purchase a corsage, and then pin it on. If you know of a class for Michele's teens, please email me and I'll let her know about it.

Another reader, Barbara, would like her 9- and 12-year-olds to learn how to type. Mostly because, well, it's a good practical skill everyone needs to learn, and also because Barbara's tired of playing personal secretary! So far, her children's public school doesn't offer typing and she can't get the kids interested in the "Learn to Type" instructional CDs she's picked up for them. Anybody know of a typing class for middle-school kids - preferably one given after school or on Saturdays? She's also interested in starting them on Spanish before they hit high school, so if you have a Spanish teacher you'd recommend, she's all ears. Send me your suggestions and I'll pass them along and report on them here. As always, you can reach me via that electronic mail delivery system at 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, Oct. 7, 2005

ArtNight Pasadena: Pasadena Arts and Culture Commission 6-10 p.m. Twice-yearly event opens Pasadena's museums and conservatories free to the public with special exhibits and events. Shuttle bus is provided between venues. Information: 626-744-7887. Various Pasadena cultural venues.

Science Center Debut: Huntington Library 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. New interactive science center for children and families opens today. The Rose Hills Foundation Conservatory for Botanical Science allows visitors to explore plant biodiversity in three distinct environments. Interactive exhibits are designed to engage youngsters in hands-on experiments using scientific instruments and living plants to explore the natural world around them. Aimed at ages 9-12, open to all. Free with admission of $15 adults; $10 ages 12-18; $6 ages 5-11; free under 5. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 2005

Musical Circus: Pasadena Symphony 8:30 a.m. Event includes instrument petting zoo, where children are encouraged to touch, explore, play with and play a tune on a variety of child-sized instruments. At 9 a.m., playwright and poet Dennis Escobedo presents a storytelling and musical program called "Fanciful Tales." Ages 3-10. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Animal Tales: Caltech 2 p.m. Films on dolphins, peacocks and cheetahs will be accompanied by flamenco guitarist Luis Villegas and percussionist Ray Yslas. Michael Hartl, of Caltech's Physics Department, will introduce the films and lead a post-screening discussion.$5; free tickets will be handed out at 1 p.m. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Day of the Dead: The Folk Tree 2-6 p.m. Public reception will be held to open 22nd Annual Day of the Dead exhibit. The show, which runs through Nov. 5, features traditional altars and other work by local artists, as well as Mexican folk art commemorating this major holiday. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday noon to 5 p.m. Information 626-793-4828. 217 South Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena.

Barks and Books Pasadena Central Library 11 a.m. Share a story with a furry friend. In the Story Room. A dog from the Pasadena Humane Society loves to listen to stories read by school-age children. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena. Also at Hastings Ranch Oct. 11 at 3:30 p.m. (registration necessary); at San Rafael on Oct. 10 and 24, at 2 p.m.; and at Santa Catalina and La Pintoresca Oct. 13 at 3 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 9, 2005

A Sensory Journey Kidspace Children's Museum 10 a.m. - noon. Take a journey through different aromas. Learn which plants can be used for aromatherapy, and take home your favorite smell in a bottle of lotion or pure-fume. Plus, read books about your five senses. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Oct. 10, 2005

Evaluating Schools: Pasadena Education Network 7 p.m. "Test Scores and Beyond" discussion for adults (no child care provided) features Dr. Mikala Rahn. The Pasadena Education Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accurate information about Pasadena public schools to parents of preschool-aged children. Information: 866-216-7334. Pasadena Central Library, Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2005

Infant Storytime: Pasadena Central Library 9:30 a.m. In the Story Room in the Children's wing. For babies up to 17 months. Pre-registration required. Call (626) 744-4066 and press option #4. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Toddler Storytime: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. In the Story Room in the Children's wing. Suited for 18-36 months olds. Pre-registration required. Call (626) 744-4066 and press option #4 for information. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena-North 10 a.m. General meeting features Denise Momsen, C.S.W., addressing the issue of post-partum depression. Information: 626-580-8514 or email: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com. Group has no religious affiliation. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2005

Staying Safe: Alhambra Public Library 7 p.m. For Fire Prevention Week, stay safe by learning the life-saving ins-and-outs of fire prevention from City of Alhambra Fire Prevention Specialist Shari Miller. Reservations required; call (626) 570-3215. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Thursday, Oct. 13, 2005

Wisdom Tree: Wild Rose Elementary School 7 p.m. Native American Storytelling Program involves dance, live music, storytelling and ventriloquism. Campus opens at 6 p.m. for a bring your own dinner family picnic. PTA will sponsor a bake sale. Bring blankets to sit on. Information: 626-471-2500. Wild Rose Elementary School, 232 Jasmine Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday, Oct. 15, 2005

Scarecrow Puppet Pal: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create a scarecrow puppet using sticks, buttons, wiggly eyes and colorful hair. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Humane Society Visit: Arcadia Public Library 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet some furry friends and learn more about the care of animals. The Humane Society's mobile unit will be on hand in the library’s west parking lot. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Scarecrow: Kidspace Children's Museum 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Create a scarecrow that you can take home in time for Halloween. Also, at the same time on Oct. 16. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Marionettes: Kidspace Children's Museum 1 p.m. Puppet show with Scott Land's handmade marionettes. After the show, learn about Scott's original marionettes, designed and hand-built over thousands of hours in his private studio. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Kid's Theater: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents two performances of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and other Eric Carle favorites. The theater troupe uses the magic of black light to capture the charm of Carle's beloved stories. $6. For ages pre-K through third graders. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Kid's Concert: University of La Verne 10 a.m. Come hear musical group "The Happy Crowd," Hai, Kenny and Smartie Martie the Professor. Founders Auditorium, 1950 Third St., La Verne.

Sunday, Oct. 16, 2005

Orange Blossom Family Day: Pasadena Museum of History 1-4 p.m. Join us for a variety of activities: Create your own packing crate labels; hear citrus stories and tales from around the world; compete in the Orangeade Olympics; visit Leonora's Orange & Lemonade Stand; take a special guided tour of the exhibit. Information: 626-577-1660. 470 W. Walnut St. , Pasadena.

Monday, Oct. 17, 2005

Charles the Clown: Hastings Branch Library 7 p.m. Enjoy Charles the Clown as he highlights the joys and usefulness of books in a comedy performance. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2005

Infant Storytime: Pasadena Central Library 9:30 a.m. In the Story Room in the Children's wing. For babies up to 17 months. Pre-registration required. Call (626) 744-4066 and press option #4. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Toddler Storytime: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. In the Story Room in the Children's wing. Suited for 18-36 months olds. Pre-registration required. Call (626) 744-4066 and press option #4 for information. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Charles the Clown: Allendale Branch Library 3:30 p.m. Charles The Clown has been performing for more than 30 years. He has created an award winning video and the book Charles the Clown's Guide to Children's Parties. He has appeared in more than 75 radio and television programs. 1130 South Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Thursday, Oct. 20, 2005

Support Group: Mothers and More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. Join a light discussion on personal development, with questions to reveal the "you" that is more than a mom. Discussion led by Rebecca Little. Visitors welcome; adults only. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, Wilson Avenue between Cornell and Arden roads, Pasadena.

Cornelius P. Mud: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. It's time for bed and Cornelius P. Mud knows what that means - putting toys away, brushing his teeth, putting his pajamas on. But this plucky piggy has his own ideas. Join Barney Saltzberg, author of Cornelius P. Mud Are You Ready For Bed? For preschool to second grade kids. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Charles the Clown: Arcadia Public Library 6:30 p.m. Charles begins the program as an ordinary man, then after discussing costumes, he starts to become a clown. Everything goes wrong! He loses track of the powder puff, the jacket goes on backwards, but eventually, after many laughs, he finally gets dressed as a clown. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Friday, Oct. 21, 2005

The Recess Queen: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Visit with Alexis O'Neill, author of The Recess Queen, a rhyming book that shows what happens when a bully and a new girl square off on the school playground. For children in preschool through 3rd grade. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Cello Man: Shumei Hall 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Grammy-award-winning cellist Eugene Friesen performs as "Celloman," a unique blending of sonority, humor, pathos and theatrics. Information: 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Oct. 22, 2005

Magnetic Collage Frame: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Display a favorite photo in an imaginative frame that kids decorate with flowers, happy faces, hearts, and more. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Pumpkin Locomotion: Descanso Gardens 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pumpkin parades of children in Halloween costumes, a model train show, wildlife display, crafts, hay rides and a pumpkin patch are featured at this weekend event. Also Sunday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $7 adults, $2 kids five to 12; under five free. Some fees for individual festival events. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

The Big Squeal: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Author Gail Small talks about her latest book: The Big Squeal. This picturebook for children 2 to 8 is designed to inspire children to read, and teaches lessons of character and acceptance. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Thomas the Train: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Thomas & Friends storytime with a giant read-aloud copy of Calling All Engines. Wear your favorite railroad-inspired outfits. Refreshments, balloons, Thomas tattoos, and lots of trains. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Gourd Festival: Los Angeles County Arboretum 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy gourds and woven art from around the world; activities for the entire family. Also Sunday, Oct. 23, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Information: 626-821-3222. Free with admission of $7 adults, $2.50 kids five through 12; under five free. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats: Caltech 8 p.m. Under the direction of the Hai family, this company interprets the precision and grace of the Chinese acrobatic art form, honing their craft through years of training and discipline. Their multi-faceted and multi-cultural production features acrobatics, feats of daring and balance, explosive Kung Fu, brilliant costumes and Chinese comedy. Tickets: $25, $21, $17 adults; $10 youth. Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Register Early

Storyteller: Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center Storyteller and author Joel ben Izzy will share tales on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 7:30 p.m. His stories are filled with myth, poetry, magic and belly laughs. Advance tickets: $18; $25 at the door. Information, tickets: 626-798-1161. 1434 North Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Things That Go Bump in the Night: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Explore nature after dark on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Discover earthly night crawlers and winged creatures. There will be plenty of live animals, activities, crafts and a night hike. Bring a picnic dinner and a flashlight. Registration: 909-625-8767 x224. $5 per person, $20 per family. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

A Night with Poe & Gorey: Huntington Library Thrill to the chilling side of the classics during an evening devoted to the works of author Edgar Allan Poe and artist Edward Gorey. Costumed actors will reenact haunting scenes by candlelight. To be held Saturday, Oct. 22, 7-10 p.m. Ages 10 and up. Adults $18, children $12. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

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. .

Fibromyalgia Support Group: A free support-and-information group for fibromyalgia sufferers and their families meets every third Friday of the month, 5-6:30 p.m. Reservations required. The group facilitator, Charles Yarborough, is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain syndromes. Information: 626-319-8725. 1028 N. Lake Ave. Suite 108 Pasadena.

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.

Take the Baby and Run: Bring your baby and your stroller for a great one-hour workout. Held Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. Information: 818-517-3082. Mention The Orange Cat and get your first class free. Lacy Park, San Marino.

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.

Los Angeles County Arboretum: Garden Sprouts program invites kids ages 5-8 to plant and tend a garden, play nature games and learn gardening crafts. This is a drop-off program held on the first Saturday of each month from October through June, 9-11 a.m. $30/quarter or $12 per Saturday. Information: email lisa.beach@arboretum.org or telephone 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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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