December 16, 2005

Number 80

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

The Back Fence

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By Karen E. Klein
There are a lot of companies that claim they can make your kids smarter. Their baby-focused DVDs, computer software, and Mozart for toddlers CDs will significantly raise your

little tyke's IQ, they say. Can you really afford NOT to buy these trendy new products? Can you withhold something that will give your child the ability to excel in today's high-stress, competitive world?

Man, talk about a guilt trip! It's no wonder that high-tech (and high-priced) educational toys are all the rage among well-intentioned parents again this holiday season. Forgive me for being a skeptic, but I feel compelled to call "bah humbug" on these hucksters. The reality is that there's no research to show that plunking your 2-year-old in front of a laptop will really help her get ahead in the world. I had to laugh at a comment from a parent I read recently. Seems she had tried and failed to teach the alphabet to her 1-year-old son. Now that the boy is nearly 3, she said, she's purchased the latest ABC software program and "he's picking it right up!"

Well, duh! The learning going on obviously has everything to do with her child being developmentally ready and absolutely nothing to do with her purchase of expensive computer software. After all, kids were learning the alphabet back when I was a kid and we didn't even have computers! Imagine this: We just had to listen to the teacher sing the A-B-C song! (My Kindergarten teacher had a piano in her class and she had us singing all kinds of songs while she played, as I recall. I bet a lot of you had Kindergarten teachers like that, too.) But this mother was attributing her son's success solely to the expensive technology she'd purchased.

There's a lot to be said for an enriched home life. It is helpful for young children to be raised in an environment where there are many possibilities for them to explore and learn safely and naturally. I'm a fan of the movement to make preschool universally available, even for children whose families can't afford to pay for it, because I saw kids from impoverished backgrounds come directly into Kindergarten and they definitely started out at a disadvantage.

But the emphasis on teaching ABCs to 1-year-olds is not only ridiculous, it may actually be harmful, especially if it cuts down on essential human interaction. There's absolutely no substitute for talking to, hugging and playing with your baby: Research has definitively shown that it's essential to her mental, physical and emotional development. Likewise, toddlers need to explore the physical world and exercise their newfound physical abilities to run, jump, throw balls and climb. Those that don't get this chance become stunted in their growth and development.

So, if you are using the computer or the television or a flashing, beeping electronic toy as a babysitter, and spending less time with your kids, all that pricey technology won't help them. But it could hurt them, if the focus on the screen becomes extreme. The good news is that kids are hard-wired to demand attention from their parents, so I don't think it's likely that many children will truly be harmed by electronic devices.

At worst, most of these toys are simply a colossal waste of money. The other reality, after all, is that much of intelligence is innate, and hereditary. What I think parents can do to really help their kids (aside from passing on good genes) is to teach them things like study skills, a love of reading and the value of education. I've known lots of people of average intelligence who absolutely shine in school and in life. Their success doesn't come from early-childhood exposure to DVDs and computer programs. It comes from listening, diligence, meticulous hard work, ambition and asking lots of clarifying questions. Some of those things are personality traits, true, but I believe parents can help encourage those traits by setting expectations high early on.

By the way, playing classical music for children of any age is a great idea. But you can find wonderful classical CD collections on sale at any music store, or at discount sites like Half.com You don't have to pay the inflated prices to buy CDs especially compiled for children.

Although my teenagers are getting some new software and a new video game this Christmas, in general I favor low-tech toys. This year, I found some great old-fashioned toys for my niece and nephews - playing cards, handheld pinball games, even a gyroscope - at the Fair Oaks Pharmacy in South Pasadena. Along with retro toys, candy and collectibles, they carry loads of other unusual items and cute stocking stuffers. And, you can get an ice cream sundae at their soda fountain, which really takes the sting out of holiday shopping for someone who doesn't love it.

Speaking of shopping, I'm happy to report that I'm nearly done with mine, and it wasn't as painful as I'd feared. If you're still looking for some special items, check out the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, a sort of Consumer Reports specifically for toys and children's items. They have a searchable database divided by age groups, and claim to extensively research and kid-test the products they recommend.

One DVD I will recommend that your family buy (or rent) this year is a movie that we recently enjoyed a lot. While there is no shortage of family-friendly films in the theaters right now, sometimes it's nice to go home and watch something together in your living room after a long day of shopping or visiting relatives. "Mad Hot Ballroom" is a documentary that I figured my boys would never deign to sit still for. After all, it's about ... dancing. But it's also all about competition, and that's something they can rarely resist.

The movie is one of those feel-good, root-for-the-underdog films that are always fun, but I also found it remarkable for the insights it gave into elementary-school children from impoverished New York City public schools. What impressed me was how grounded and articulate these sixth-graders came off on camera. For anyone who despairs about the failings of the younger generation, this movie gives the lie to a lot of that negativity.

With winter break coming up, and our calendar of events looking a little thin this time of year, here are a couple of good ideas I'll pass along from our readers. The Griffith Park light festival is an amazing drive- or walk-through light show, emphasizing whimsy and humor.

My buddy Tamara mentions that her family went to the El Monte Airport recently to eat at their coffee shop and enjoyed watching the planes take off and land. "The food was quite good and reasonably priced," Tamara says. "Our waitress told us there is a free aircraft and car show there on the fourth Sunday of every month. If I can remember, we'll take a look and chow down again while we're at it." Check it out after your next shopping bout.

Finally, I'd like to remind you that we're still encouraging our regular readers to subscribe to The Orange Cat Club and send in payment for their one-year or two-year subscription. $12 annually, or $22 for two years. We'd like to close the books with 100% paid subscribers before the end of the year - will you help us reach that goal? The funds we collect will help us continue to provide this service and expand it locally in 2006. So, if you haven't gotten around to paying up - now's the time! You can use the above links to PayPal your money painlessly, or you can write a check to KBN Publishing Inc. and send it to me at: 5645 Heleo Ave., Temple City, CA 91780. PLEASE write your email address in the memo section of your check, so we can account for your payment and mark you "paid."

For now, Merry Chrismukkah to all (did you know Christmas and Hanukkah both fall on Dec. 25 this year?). We are expecting great things for you - and for The Orange Cat - in 2006. May great joy and peace be yours this season. 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.

Saturday, Dec. 17, 2005

Author Event: Huntington Library 2:30 p.m. Join author and illustrator Marla Frazee as she reads and signs her new book, "Santa Claus, the World’s Number One Toy Expert." Free with admission of $15 adults, $10 students 12-19, $6 kids 5-11, free under 5. Friends Hall, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Sparkle and Shine: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Explore how artists achieve special effects, and then decorate a picture frame with your own designs. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

New Year's Noisemaker Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Shake it up! Kids will love using this easy-to-make noisemaker to ring in the New Year. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Stories and Cookie Sprinkles: Hastings Branch Library 11 a.m. Children are invited to hear sweet holiday stories and decorate sugar cookies with their favorite colorful sprinkles. All materials provided. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Night: Descanso Gardens 5:30 to 8 p.m. Visitors will enjoy music, train rides and free, lighted tram rides to the marketplace and Santa at the Boddy House. Holiday music and family-favorite foods also available, as are magicians and performers. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2 children 5 to 12; free under 5. Information: 818-949-4200. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Sunday, Dec. 18, 2005

Hansel and Gretel: Intimate Opera Company 2 p.m. Local opera group performs Humperdinck’s version of the classic fairy tale. Admission: $8 adults, students and children free. A portion of the proceeds will benefit programs at Sycamore School. Tickets: 800-888-7287. Sycamore Elementary School, 255 West 8th St., Claremont.

Monday, Dec. 19, 2005

Holiday Storytime: San Rafael Branch Library 3:30 p.m. The annual Holiday preschool story time. Stories, songs, a special craft, and snacks for all. Children of all ages welcome. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2005

Kids in the Courtyard: Armory Center for the Arts 1 p.m. Kids will laugh and be amazed at Obediah Thomas's antics and even get an opportunity to test his super extra hugemondo heavy bowling ball. Obediah plays trumpet, and kids sing along to holiday favorites. This series of performances and holiday gift-making workshops allows kids to make one-of-a-kind gifts using found trinkets, papers, unusual items, fabric, clay and everyday stuff. Art projects are staged in a semi-enclosed outdoor space, with tables and some seating for parents. All art materials provided. One Colorado Courtyard, Colorado Boulevard between Fair Oaks and DeLacey, Pasadena.

Tree Decorating Party Pasadena Central Library 3:30 p.m. Kids, come help us decorate our holiday tree. We will listen to some holiday music, have holiday snacks and make an ornament to hang on our tree. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Ornament Fun: Villa Parke Community Center 4:30 p.m. Create an ornament to celebrate the season. Supplies provided. A holiday movie will be shown. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005

Visit Santa: Alhambra Public Library 7 p.m. Visit with Santa Claus. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Thursday, Dec. 22, 2005

Holiday Storytime: Pasadena Central Library 10:30 a.m. Enjoy holiday stories, snacks, movie, and more. We will also make an ornament to hang our tree. For ages 2-6. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Register Early

Dance and Musical Fun: Miss Claire's Music and Dance Class Register now for upcoming sessions of Musical Fun for Tots, for children ages 1 to 2.5, and dance classes, for children ages 2 to 12. Classes are held beginning in January at various local community centers. Information and pricing: 626-403-3828. South Pasadena, San Marino and San Gabriel.

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 regularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking daytime activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email admin@momsclubcovina.com. Our club has no religious affiliations. Saint Louise de Marllac Catholic Church, at Covina Blvd. and Bonnie Cove, 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 Tuesday 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 momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. 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.

MOMS Club of Azusa: Meetings held monthly are open to all stay-at-home moms from Azusa. Children welcome at meetings, which are held on the last Wednesday of every month 11 a.m. Information: MOMSCLUB@aol.com or Summerlh@earthlink.net. Azusa City Library, auditorium, 729 N. Dalton Ave., Azusa.

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

Victory Park Community Center: "Single Mommy and Me" group meets on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. for fun and friendship. For information, email founder Dianne Duncan: webeduncans@charter.net. 2575 Paloma St., Pasadena.

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.

GymnastiKids: Gymnastics classes for all ages in a non-competitive, fun-filled environment. Safe and fun classses are taught by energetic instructors. Free trial classes offered. Information: 626-796-KIDS. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd., 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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