January 13, 2006

Number 82

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

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By Karen E. Klein
Every parent bringing an infant home for the first time knows the feeling: As a mom or dad, you will do anything necessary to protect that baby, including giving your own life if necessary.

So how can it be that that strong, primal instinct seems to fade for some parents after a few years? I don't understand it. But I do see evidence that, as children get older, parents start to relinquish their primary role as guardians and protectors of their kids.

I see it, for instance, at movie theaters, where parents insist on bringing their young children to films that are scary, violent and adult-oriented. I'll never forget the sobs of terror from the preschool-aged children sitting around me when "Jurassic Park" first came out in 1993. Those vicious dinosaurs scared the daylights out of me - I can only imagine the fear that they must have invoked in children too young to differentiate fact from fiction.

My friend, Stephanie, noticed this phenomenon recently at "King Kong": "The theater was packed with young children and, not surprisingly, kids were crying or fussing within minutes," she wrote. "When the dinosaurs, prehistoric bugs, and Kong appeared, the place was in an uproar, with parents fleeing the theater with their screaming children in tow." Hey, at least they exited. I remember children whining through the entire 130 minutes of "Jurassic Park," terrified, while their parents loudly shushed them, or chided them for being scared: "Shut up! It's just a movie!"

Stephanie, giving these parents the benefit of the doubt, wondered whether there is insufficient information available about movies and kid-appropriateness. I don't buy it. In this information-saturated age, there's no way that reasonable, concerned parents can innocently blunder into inappropriate movies with their kids. With reviews readily available in the newspapers, on the radio and online, it couldn't be easier to distinguish the appropriate from the inappropriate.

That leads me to the conclusion that some parents just let down their guard when it comes to protecting their kids. Getting a babysitter is a hassle, it's expensive and lots of children object to being left home while mom and dad go out. So, rather than do the tough thing and stay home, or pay the money and get a good babysitter anyhow, people give up and drag their kids along. Maybe it's just that after a certain amount of time, vigilance gets exhausting, and protecting a child full-time is a tough job. Or maybe it's that, as kids get older, the threats are less physical. Once a child can walk without wobbling, and can read a "poison" label, some people seem to think that their parenting duties are over.

Far from it. In my opinion, shielding my kids from trips and falls was easy compared to keeping them safe from the deeper emotional and mental scars that come at them from all sides as they get older.

How do you do it? I think the best strategy is awareness: Know what your kids are doing. Know who their friends are. Know where they are, whom they're talking to, what they're reading, listening to and thinking about. Am I advocating snooping? Sure, if it's necessary. If you're the parent of a minor, you are in a need-to-know position.

But mostly, this strategy relies on good communication. Listen to your kids, and be available for them when they are ready to talk (which isn't often, when it comes to adolescent boys). Talk to your kids. Warn them about dangers they may encounter. Explain peer pressure to them and why it's harmful to cave in to negative peer pressure (positive peer pressure, on the other hand, is a wonderful thing).

And, along with listening to them and talking to them, you also have to be willing to make the tough decisions for them. Everybody else is going to see the latest gory, dehumanizing horror flick? Sorry, but the gang can count my boys out. This stance certainly doesn't always make me popular, but I believe - like mothers through the ages - that they will thank me someday. (And I don't fail to mention that fact, when appropriate.) I remind them that, in a few short years, they will be 18 and then they can do as they please. But in the meantime, I tell them, I have a serious responsibility to be the gatekeeper for them, and I take it seriously.

In fact, the job is deadly serious. A couple of items in the news last year really got my attention. One was about a mother who lost her child to the choking game, which I may have mentioned here already (they say that the short-term memory is the first thing to go, don't they?). And the other was about a teen-aged boy who became a cam whore, a tale so unbelievably horrifying that I would have doubted its veracity if it hadn't been documented meticulously by the writer responsible.

In both of these cases, the children involved had parents in their lives - parents who are now suffering terribly. And yet, why didn't they protect their kids from the dangers that, in hindsight, were so obvious? I believe that these people wanted to protect their children, and thought they were doing so. I just think that maybe they didn't realize how much work and vigilance it takes. And how unpopular it makes you, as a parent, to do your job well.

Speaking of parents who are loathe to be unpopular, here's the most ridiculous parenting idea I've come across so far in 2006 (actually in several years). Your child is demanding, imperious, antisocial and stubborn? No, he's not suffering from ADHD, or simply a spoiled brat, he's a magical emissary sent from the cosmos to clean the world of social ills and corruption! I would normally dismiss such nonsense as the wishful thinking of a small tribe of kooks desperate to get off the hook parenting-wise, but for the news that a cottage industry has sprung up and half a million books have been sold promoting this viewpoint. All I can say is that there are people who, without a doubt, will believe anything someone else is willing to sell.

Nobody's selling a new online service that provides live homework tutors to students in grades 4-12. It's being provided for free, in English and in Spanish, by the County of Los Angeles Public Library for anyone who has a county library card. Have your kids take advantage of this great service when they need it.

Here's another freebie: A free, guided tour of a Smithsonian traveling exhibition that lands at the Pasadena Museum of History next week. Check out our calendar for details (in the "continuing" section) about the "Doodles, Drafts, and Designs" exhibit, on display from Jan. 21-March 19. There are a couple opportunities to get in free, on Friday, Jan. 27 and Sunday, Jan. 29.

We do get mail, and one inquiry came from Orange Cat mom Mitzi, whose first-grade daughter loves cheerleading and is looking to join up with a team in Pasadena, San Marino or South Pasadena. "She is already taking an after-school class ... but I really want to get her signed up to cheer for a youth team," Mitzi writes. Anybody know of a group for Mitzi's daughter? Write and let me know, and I'll pass the information along. Let me also - at the risk of being labeled an old-school feminist - pass along the suggestion that girls also be encouraged to participate in team sports on the field or court, not just on the sidelines. There's absolutely nothing wrong with cheerleading. I wasn't introduced to athletics as a kid and I got great exercise and had loads of fun as a member of my high school drill team. But I really like the girls I know today who play basketball, volleyball and soccer: Every one of them is down-to-earth, self-confident and physically fit. I wish I'd had a chance to get out and play when I was a girl, and it's great that today's girls do have those opportunities available to them.

Okay, that's enough lecturing for this issue. If you wish to take issue with me - or let me know how your parenting responsibilities are going, drop me a line: 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, Jan. 14, 2006

Barks and Books: Pasadena Central Library 11 a.m. Share a story with a furry friend. The gentle volunteer dog from the Pasadena Humane Society loves to listen to school-age children reading stories aloud. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Create-A-Face Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children use buttons, yarn, and more to create a happy face that's sure to bring a smile. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

College and Career Fair: L.A. County Arboretum 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Coach Ken Carter Foundation and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation team up to bring students and parents together to meet with colleges and organizations to preview education and career opportunities and gain information on scholarships and workshops. Celebrities will be on hand to meet and greet. Free with admission of $7 adults; $5 students and seniors; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 310-339-5515. Also Sunday, Jan. 15. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Create-A-Face: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children use buttons, yarn, and more to create an happy face that's sure to bring a smile! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Gizmo Guys: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Allan Jacobs and Barret Felker are talented, world-class jugglers and zany, polished comedians. Their wise-cracking mayhem is the most fun in person. Show for kids of all ages; tickets $6. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Sunday, Jan. 15, 2006

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8 a.m. Join us outdoors for a bird walk; meet at the nature center building. Bring binoculars, shade hats and water; please, no dogs. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Thursday, Jan. 19, 2006

Snow Festival: Linda Vista Branch Library 4 p.m. Snow flakes and snow cones. Let's make winter. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena.

Family Films: Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. G to PG rating films shown. Also at the same time on Jan. 26. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Support Group: Mothers and More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. Sometimes it helps to get other people’s perspectives on our skills and strengths when we are sequencing back into paid work or even just thinking about it. This meeting focuses on personal development with an exercise that will help us do just that. Come and join your friends to reflect on each other’s hidden skills and strengths. Adults only; guests may attend three meetings before joining. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, 1030 E. California Blvd, Pasadena.

Friday, Jan. 20, 2006

Free Concert: Caltech Jazz Bands 8 p.m. Music of New Orleans and Los Angeles big bands will be featured. Information: 626-395-4652. Beckman Auditorium, Caltech, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Jan. 21, 2006

Storyteller: Arcadia Public Library Cay Mortenson Auditorium 2:30 p.m. Barbara Wong presents "Tales of Asia and the Pacific," in which she tells riddles about Chinese food, brings a Hawaiian shark adventure to life, and shares folktales. 20 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia.

Kids Club Concert: University of La Verne 10 a.m. Music Express is the theme of this concert designed especially for children. 1950 Third St., La Verne.

Chinese Lanterns: Alhambra Public Library 2 p.m. Learn how to create your own Chinese lanterns for the Chinese New Year. Reservations required. Please sign up at the Reference Desk or call (626) 570-5008, ext. 5630. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Snazzy Snail: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children make a snail that is both adorable, and a pencil holder. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Hold On to Your Hat: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. An hour filled with songs and stories about hats of all sorts. Children will make and take home a hat of their own. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Family Day: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Explore artworks that depict brave men and women from the past in a guided tour through the museum's galleries. Then, invent your own heroic characters and create costumes and tools to complement their special powers. Free with museum admission of $8 adults; free for children under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Musical Circus: Pasadena Symphony 8:30 a.m. Event features instrumental "petting zoo" where children ages 3-10 are encouraged to touch, explore, play with and play a tune on a variety of child-sized instruments representing virtually every instrument in the orchestra, from percussion and brass to strings and woodwinds. At 9, families will assemble for an interactive performance featuring members of Pasadena Dance Theatre. Information: 626.793.7172, ext. 18. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Sunday, Jan. 22, 2006

Nature Hike: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 9 a.m. Hike to the waterfall moves at a moderate pace and is geared toward anyone comfortable hiking 3.5 miles, crossing streams and boulder hopping. Wear hiking boots or study shoes, and bring a snack. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Piano Concert: Pasadena Civic Auditorium 3 p.m. The Rachmaninoff International Piano Competition and Festival presents two international piano virtuosos, Gold Medalist winners Evgeni Mikhailov from Russia and Wen Yu Shen from China. Proceeds will benefit the 2007 Rachmaninoff International Piano Competition and future competitions. Tickets $15-$75, discounts for children available; 626-449-7360. 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Monday, Jan. 23, 2006

What to Believe: The Pasadena Education Network (PEN) 7 p.m. PEN joins with Caltech to host a discussion and question and answer session with a panel of parents with children enrolled in PUSD elementary schools. Join us for "Reality vs. Myth: Pasadena Public Schools and What to Believe" at the Beckman Institute Auditorium on Caltech's campus. The event is free. PEN is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accurate information about Pasadena public schools to parents of preschool-aged children.

Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2006

Willy Wonka: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Visit Willy Wonka's famous Chocolate Room. Taste chocolate treats and make your own chocolate concoction. You may even find a golden ticket. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2006

Science of Magic: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 8 p.m. Performance by Bob Friedhoffer, author of more than 25 books for children about science and magic. His last four books have focused on creating physics labs from products found in the supermarket, the home, and in hardware and housewares stores, emphasizing the physical principles underlying common household gadgets. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Magical Afternoon: Allendale Branch Library 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. A magical afternoon with magician Damien and a score of children as they perform enchanting magical illusions that transform one object into something else, make things disappear and reappear, and many other sleight of hand tricks. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Curious George: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10 a.m. Curious George and friends will visit from January 26th through February 3rd to celebrate the release of his new movie. There will be story times with George and friends for classes and groups of kids, plenty of photo opportunities, copies of George's new book "The Journey That Saved Curious George", and bananas to feed everyone. George will be available to meet kids without appointment on Saturday, January 28th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Going Bats: Monrovia Public Library 3:30 p.m. Diana Simons, bat rescuer and expert, will at the library with bat in hand to show how fascinating, beautiful, and beneficial these creatures of the night are. Ages 5 and up. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Friday, Jan. 27, 2006

Madagascar: Alhambra Public Library 3:30 p.m. Kid's Afternoon Movie Day, featuring "Madagascar" - Sign ups begin at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 17. For more information, call (626) 570-3215. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Saturday, Jan. 28, 2006

Scrapbook: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids can keep their mementos in this scrapbook that they make and decorate themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Music Masters: South Pasadena Public Library A music appreciation program will be offered for families at 3 p.m. on Sundays, beginning Jan. 22 through March 5. This series is designed to encourage both students and their parents to explore the development of popular music throughout Western history. Free. Registration: 626-403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

KidsArt at The Arboretum: L.A. County Arboretum Fine art drawing classes develop attention, ability and self-confidence for ages 4-12. Class meets Saturdays from Jan. 21 through March 25, noon to 1 pm or 1:15 to 2:15 pm. $117. Information and registration: 818-248-2764. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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: A 30-minute program with picture book stories on the big screen for ages 3-5. 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. Grandparents and Books Read-Alouds are scheduled for Thursday afternoons from 3–5 p.m. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Board Games are placed out on tables for everyone to play with. For all ages. 363 E. Villa Street, 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.

Claremont University Stone Center for Children's Books: Saturday Storytimes are held from 10-11 a.m. each week. 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

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.

Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Preschool films. A 30-minute program with picture book stories on the big screen for ages 3-5. Weekly on Friday. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Santa Catalina Library 3 p.m. Elementary school-age children can read a book to a gentle dog every second and fourth Thursday. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday Movie-Time: Allendale Branch Library 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Family videos, suitable for school-age children. Mondays. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Pasadena Museum of History "Doodles, Drafts, and Designs" is a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution that spotlights two centuries of American ingenuity and industry, from inventor's hand to investor's boardroom, from patent office to factory floor. The exhibit will be on display from Jan. 21 through March 19. Exhibit hours are noon to 5 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays. Adults $5; children under 12 free. Special events include Doodles Day, on Friday, Jan. 27, when 10,000 napkins, imprinted with exhibit/museum information, will be distributed at 50 participating restaurants in Pasadena and neighboring communities. The public will be invited to doodle their original inventions on these napkins and return them to the museum for free admission. On Sunday, Jan. 29, the public is invited to enjoy free guided tours of the Doodles exhibit and join artist-in-residence Jon Pearson in a participatory art demonstration that shows how doodling can unlock your own creativity. 470 W. Walnut St., Pasadena.

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. Family Adventures program is held on the first Saturday of the month, 2 p.m. under the big oak tree in front of Ayres Hall. All ages learn, make and take crafts, enjoy a nature walk. $20 per family. Iformation: 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.

Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore: Art classes with Gloria Aluzas provide an opportunity to complete a piece a child can be proud of! Call or visit the store for details. Ages 6-10: Mondays at 4 p.m. Kindergartners: Thursdays at 4 p.m. Information: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

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.

L.A. County Arboretum: Arboretum Bookworms, for ages 3-8, meets on the third Sunday of every month from 2-3 p.m. Children explore the arboretum and its library, enjoy plant and nature tales and make and take crafts. Meet at the main entrance. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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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