May 19, 2006

Number 91

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

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

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By Karen E. Klein

Dorothy's fantastic column on birthday parties last issue elicited a big outpouring of reader response, much of it from readers grumbling about how they hoped "the people who need to read it" actually would read it - and take notes. I'm hopeful as

well, though I have my doubts. People like that generally don't read. And they certainly don't read the Orange Cat! If they did, they'd have far better manners, of course.

I'm thankfully past the kids' birthday party stage by now (my kids just have their buddies over for pizza-and-Super-Smash- Brothers marathons on their birthdays) but I could relate to a lot of Dorothy's gripes, particularly on the topic of those insane people who refuse to RSVP. And the goodie bag dilemma! Oh, how I hated spending money on all that gross plastic junk.

But let's admit it: No matter how crummy they are, kids look forward to getting those goodies to take home from a birthday party. No doubt it takes the sting out of watching the birthday child get piles of presents. So, you pretty much have to have something for them, or risk having disappointed guests - already typically at the breaking point from party exhaustion - leave your party in tears.

Orange Cat reader Joyce came up with a great suggestion on that topic. Instead of buying chintzy toys for her party guests, she found mini-packets of (at least semi-healthy) chocolate and strawberry milk mix at Sur La Table and handed those around as guests departed. Very cool idea, and I bet the parents really appreciated it. I know I would have.

Another reader, Drew, had a creative approach that combined a treat for the guests with party entertainment. "My favorite idea was to hire a caricaturist who taught the kids how to draw and sent each child home with a caricature," she wrote. Very clever!

For parents who are committed to making a stand - and who have a group of friends willing to back them up - Orange Cat dad John had a revolutionary suggestion: "Here is another idea for birthday parties that has become popular in our group of friends," he wrote. "On the invitation you say, 'Instead of a birthday present, please bring a gift (under $10) for a gift exchange.' Then, during the party, you come up with a fun way for each child to pick a gift from the gift exchange. You can attach numbers to the presents and then have the kids draw a number from a hat. Or, we did a fishing pole behind a curtain, and each kid would `catch' a present with the fishing pole." With a gift exchange, John pointed out, everybody gets a present to take home, the birthday kid gets a present for his birthday and he doesn't get overloaded with tons of toys.

John, you're a brave man. While his solution sounds perfect to me, my kids turned into wild-eyed, greedy, "it's mine, mine - all mine!" misers at birthday time. (No doubt we instilled this tendency in them ourselves when they were in utero.) I don't know how they would have reacted to only getting one present. Or, actually, I do know how they would have reacted. And it wouldn't have been pretty. They definitely would have fired me from my job as their mother if I'd carried out the idea of one of Dorothy's friends. "The host said absolutely no presents, and cited the overflowing closets, toy chests, etc.," Dorothy recalled. "She said if anyone wanted to donate to a charity of their choice in the name of the birthday child, that would be wonderful." Donate to a charity? Admirable, yes, but at my house there would have been a mutiny.

Orange Cat mom Erin had a suggestion about handling the birthday party chaos that tends to erupt so often. "My son is four-and-a-half and I'm right in the middle of the party life," she wrote. "My sister with grown children suggested a few years ago that the number of invitees should equal the number of years the child is celebrating. Minimizing the whole charade sounds like a good idea to me! After all, so many times I've noticed that the parties are so hectic and loud that the person having no fun at all is the overwhelmed birthday child."

I agree with Erin. I never had more than 10 guests at any of my kids' parties after they were old enough for parents to drop their kids off and leave. I don't do well with chaos myself. But Dorothy offered a different perspective: "It's difficult for most parents [to limit guest lists] once the child is in preschool," she noted. "They invite the whole class, which automatically makes for a hectic affair."

When my kids were in preschool, they had fairly small class sizes. And I don't remember them ever getting invited to "whole-class" birthday parties anyway (maybe they were just wallflowers, I don't know). I do remember one excruciating party faux pas, however, involving an invited guest.

When Andy was 3, he was in morning nursery school a couple days a week and he'd stay for lunch and afternoon care occasionally when I was busy working. He kept talking about a boy he knew from the afternoon program named Shawn. I knew the kids in his morning class and most of their parents, but I didn't know all the kids who stayed on at school during the afternoons. When it came time to hand out his birthday party invitations, I gave them to his teacher for his classmates, but I didn't know how to get one to Shawn (Andy didn't know his last name). I asked the preschool director for help and she assured me she knew who Shawn was and would pass along the invite.

Shawn's mother was one of the good ones: She promptly called to RSVP and made sure to let me know that Shawn was really looking forward to the party. Great, I said. I was looking forward to meeting Shawn, since Andy had spoken so highly of him. On the day of the party, Shawn came running into our backyard yelling, "Happy Birthday Andy!" The problem was, he continued running - right past my child. He searched the backyard frantically for a few seconds, than came running back to his mom, who was just saying hello to me. "Where's Andy?!" he wailed, near tears.

I pointed out my son, but Shawn still looked baffled. "That's not Andy!" he insisted. Whoops. His mother and I put our heads together and realized that Andy had been talking about a different Shawn, and Shawn had been thinking about a different Andy. What are the odds?! Shawn's mother offered to take her son home, but I insisted that they stay for the party, though I told them to take home the present they had purchased for "Andy." The capper to the whole embarrassing incident came near the end of the party when Shawn, who did eventually join in and have a good time, tripped and cut his lip on one of my backyard sprinklers. It was the only injury I ever had at a birthday party, no less.

Boy, the good old days. I really don't miss them, let me tell you.

I don't know about your kids, but my teens need to squeeze in some community service hours over the summer. Seems that since I went to high school, they've instituted this idea about requiring students to do so many hours (100 at our school) of volunteer work before they can graduate. I like the idea, although with all the academic requirements and time my kids devote to athletics, the community service hours can really be tough to fit in. Still, if the requirement wasn't there, it's unlikely they would do any volunteer work. They're just too busy! If your kids are looking for community service hours and enjoy working with younger kids, have them touch base with your local librarian. All the summer reading programs are gearing up for June kick-off dates, and most of them are looking for teen volunteers to help out.

This one is way out of our calendar area, but it sounds like a lot of fun if you're up for a drive. Suzanne Curtis wrote to let me know that on Saturday, June 3, more than 3,000 young children and their families are expected to turn out for the 16th annual Kids’ Nature Festival at Temescal Gateway Park, 15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The festival, designed for children 12 months to 8 years old, will feature dozens of activity booths, live concerts by Dan Crow, food, live animals, a gift shop, a silent auction and more, Suzanne said. Tickets to the festival, which benefits the Children's Nature Institute's science and nature programs for underprivileged pre-K through third graders, are $9 adults; $8 children 12 and under; babies free. Call 310-860-9484 for reservations or order tickets at the website.

If you'd like to get in touch with nature during this fine spring weather, but are otherwise engaged on June 3, Orange Cat mom Teresa recommends the Audubon Center at Debs Park in Los Angeles. "This is a great place for kids," Teresa writes, "but make sure to bring extra clothes. My kids usually end up soaked and muddy." Sounds like my kind of fun.

If you have a favorite place for mud fights, or other horse play, won't you share it with us? Write me 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, May 19, 2006

Ovations: Blair IB Magnet School 7:30 p.m. High school performance choir will perform a Broadway-style musical revue featuring songs from: "Oklahoma," "Anything Goes," "A Chorus Line," "Pippin" and "Footloose," with a tribute to the 70's disco era. Tickets: $10; contact 626-441-2201 x116 or email dtmdata@aol.com. Performances also held Saturday, May 20, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Pasadena City College, Sexson Auditorium, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, May 20, 2006

Comic Book Special: Pasadena Central Library 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Join graphic novelist Kazu Kibuishi and manga artist Amy Ganter as they talk about their work and the process of creating it. Attendees will also get a free comic book. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Cheap Children's Books: Altadena Public Library 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Altadena library is having it's yearly book sale, with many children's books available at a very low cost. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

Flea Market: Kidspace Children's Museum 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children can shop, sell, or barter for treasures and talents at the Kidspace Flea Market. Recycle gently used toys and clothes that you have outgrown and pick up some "new" things, or share a talent such as face painting or a puppet show. See the variety show at 1 p.m. Recommended ages for participation as a vendor or a performer are 4-12. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Tambourine: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children can make fun rhythms with a tambourine they create and decorate themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Open House: Jet Propulsion Laboratory 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate JPL's accomplishments with exhibits and demonstrations about the laboratory's ongoing research and space exploration. Food and beverages will be available, along with space souvenirs and NASA and JPL merchandise. No backpacks or ice chests are allowed, with the exception of small purses and diaper bags. Visitors, vehicles and personal belongings are subject to inspection. Also held Sunday, May 21. 4800 Oak Grove Dr., Pasadena.

Family Day: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Catch a glimpse of a bug or two in paintings by the masters, then create your own fabulous creature in this program for children and families. Free with admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 7 p.m. Kevin Henkes presents and signs "Lilly's Big Day." Henkes is the Caldecott-winning author/illustrator of "Kitten's First Full Moon" and "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse." 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Music Time: Monrovia Public Library 3:45 p.m. "I Love to Sing" is a musical program for children of all ages and their parents or caregivers. Monrovia Community Center, Kay Dalton Room, 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday, May 27, 2006

Kids Fun Run and Art Show: City of Sierra Madre 8 a.m. Young runners are invited to race up Baldwin and back, finishing under the same finish line banner as runners in the 40th Mount Wilson Trail Race. Also, Sierra Madre kids ages 5-10 participate in an art show celebrating the 40th anniversary of the race. Art will be displayed in Kersting Court on Friday, May 26, from 6-8 p.m. and on Race Day, May 27 from 7-11 a.m. Art submission details: 626-355-5502. Kersting Court, Downtown Sierra Madre.

Native American Flautist: Kidspace Children's Museum 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Evren Ozan, Native American flautist, was six years old when he discovered the native flute on a trip through the Grand Canyon. Ever since, Evren, a 13-year-old music prodigy of Anglo, Osage, and Turkish descent, has studied native flute and is now an acclaimed recording artist whose traditional, tranquil sounds appeal to children and adults alike. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Rubbing Plate Masterpiece: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create their own masterpieces, using rubbing plates and lots of collage materials. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Game Night: Vromans Bookstore 7 p.m. We have games galore and we're bringing out our favorites for some old-fashioned fun. Sit down to do your best in competition with your own family or join a table and play with others. Have a hoot playing Snorta, the game that will challenge your memory and have you shouting animal sounds. Or give Blink a try; it's the world's fastest game. Maybe you're up for a mystery or a word game? We've got those, too. Program geared toward families with kids ages 6-12, but all are welcome. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Marla Frazee presents and signs her picture book, "Walk On! A Guide for Babies of All Ages." This book is about first steps and next steps. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, May 28, 2006

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Listen to tales about motherly love, then craft your own colorful flowers for someone you adore beside Rivera's Flower Vendor in this story hour for children and families. Free with admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, June 3, 2006

Hawaiian Lei: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Colorful leis let little ones bring home tropical fun. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Family Evening: Huntington Library Enjoy one of the longest days of the year on June 16, 6-9 p.m., as the summer solstice approaches. Guided walk included. Adult: $30. Child: $25. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Plants in the City: Huntington Library June 17 9-noon. Learn about different trees and plants and the benefits of plants in an urban environment. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Young Writers & Artists Camp: Cal State Los Angeles A three-week summer program, designed for young writers and artists, will be held July 10-27 from Monday through Thursday, 9-12:30. The program is conducted under the direction of distinguished university faculty members and a staff of classroom writing teachers. For grades 2 through high school; $260. Information and registration: Cathy Morales, 323-343-5901 or email Dr. Carolyn Frank at carolcsula@aol.com. 5151 State University Dr., Los Angeles.

Pasadena Day Jams: Pasadena Music Camp Rock music summer camp for beginners and experienced musicians, ages 9-15, will run July 31-Aug. 4 and Aug. 7-11. Learn guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and vocals from professional musicians and teachers in a friendly and creative environment. Information: 818-442-9294. New Horizon School, 651 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Sleepover Huntington Library 6 p.m. Saturday, May 27, to 9:30 a.m. Sunday, May 28. Unravel the mystery of Henry Huntington’s wife, Arabella. Dinner and a light breakfast are included. Ages 7 and up. One parent or guardian required for every two children. $55. Registration: 626-405-2128 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Fabulous Flags Huntington Library 9 to 11:30 a.m. June 10. Compare the designs of flags from around the world, and learn the meanings of the colors and symbols. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

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.

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

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.

Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - noon. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Monday

Allendale Branch Library: Family videos, suitable for school-age children, are shown on Mondays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., 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.

Tuesday

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.

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. .

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.

Wednesday

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.

Alhambra Public Library Preschool Story Time 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Featuring stories, finger plays, songs and puppets. For kids, ages 3 to 5. Then, at 7 p.m., Pajama Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

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.

Thursday

Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. Family films, rated G and PG, are shown on Thursdays. 363 E. Villa Street, 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.

Friday

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

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.

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.

Pasadena Laughter Club: Free group meets each Friday from 6-7 p.m. Families invited, no age restriction. The only condition for participation is the willingness to laugh for no reason. Information: info@laughteryoga.us or 626-755-5999. Yoga Kingdom Sanctuary, 553 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Alhambra Public Library 10:30 a.m. Toddler Story Time, for ages 12 to 24 months. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Saturday

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.

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.

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

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.

Alhambra Public Library 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Saturdays. Story Time for children of all ages. Provided by volunteer story readers. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Other

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 .

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. .

Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer many storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. .

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.

Pasadena Central Library Gentle, affectionate dogs from the Pasadena Humane Society love it when children read to them. At the Central Library and various branch libraries. See library calendar for details. 285 East Walnut 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. Also, Saturday storytime is from 11 a.m. to noon. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

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.

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.

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.

Pasadena Libraries Elementary age children can read a book to a gentle dog at various Pasadena library locations through the Barks and Books program. .

MOMS Club of the Foothills: Support group for at-home moms meets regularly for general meetings, speakers and mom's night out. Information: email foothillmommembership@hotmail.com or call 323-496-0844 .

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.

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; free trial classes. Also offering summer camp featuring safe, beginning gymnastics instruction through positive games and organized activities. Camp will run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with early dropoff available. Pre-registration accepted now: 626-796-5437. 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.

Allendale Branch Library 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Board game mania is held monthly, featuring games of all kinds, like Monopoly, Checkers, Chess, Cranium, Risk, Scrabble and more. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

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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