February 9, 2007

Number 108

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

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By Karen E. Klein

Do your children do household chores? This topic was a mine field for me when my two sons were young. Polite, thoughtful, sweet boys almost all the time, they turned into selfish, snotty monsters whenever I asked them to help around the house.

"This is forced child labor!" my younger son would declare, as he grudgingly cleared the table, or unloaded the dishwasher. "Are you paying us for this!?" my older son would pout accusingly as he raked leaves, or emptied the trash.

In the hope of training gracious, cheerful house helpers, I tried everything: Setting up chore charts, giving them a regular allowance, asking nicely, consulting experts, getting angry and resorting to that oh-so-natural last resort of all mothers, the guilt trip.

In the end, I did find myself paying them when I needed help, though it went against my principles ("Children should earn their keep!" my parents used to say) and didn't guarantee good attitudes on their parts anyway.

I'll never forget my chagrin when I went to pick up a friend from my son's kindergarten class for an after school play date.

The little five-year-old answered and door and explained politely that he'd be out in just a few minutes. "I have to finish my chores before I can come over," he told us, as my son and I stood at his front door.

"Chores?" I asked his mother, a slim, beautifully-coiffed woman who came to the door carrying a baby on her left hip. She had five children, a lovely home and was well-known in PTA circles for the healthy, home-cooked lunches she packed for her kids and the delicious treats she often brought to school for the staff.

"Yes. He empties the trash cans, dusts and puts away the dishes every day, and vacuums his room twice a week," she explained nonchalantly. I was stunned. "Wow, how do you get him to do all that?" I asked. "Does he complain?"

She looked at me blankly, as if I were speaking a different language. "All my children have regular chores. They don't have a choice about it," she said.

Suddenly, it became clear to me how she managed to look so great and seem so pulled together with five kids, when I straggled around like a maniac with only two. Her children functioned as her household staff, older siblings caring for the younger ones, each performing specific chores that freed her up to supervise and spend a little time every day on herself.

I was amazed, and frustrated. How could her children march along in lockstep with her program, while my two lazy, entitled brats rebelled at the smallest imposition upon their play time? Where had I gone wrong as a mother?

I'm ashamed to even mention the low point in our several-years-long chore wars saga. It came about one weekend when I walked into the living room where the boys were watching television. I brandished a list of assigned weekly chores that hadn't been completed, reading off the tasks and reminding them to get busy.

As I finished, my younger son piped up in a smart-aleck tone: "Hey Mom, you expect us to do all this work - what are you doing today!?" To say I was furious is an understatement. All the days of changing diapers, the nights of sacrificing sleep, the hours of mind-numbing drudgery that accompanied motherhood flashed before my eyes. In short order I turned into a nagging, shrill stereotype: "How dare you question my commitment to this family? I do nothing but sacrifice for you. Obviously, I'm not appreciated around here. Maybe I ought to just pack my things and get out!"

Oh boy, what a temper tantrum. I wish I could say it worked - but it didn't. I made an emotional scene, the kids whined through their chores, and things went back to the way they were for at least a few more years.

There's got to be a better way, right? The Orange Cat asked parents to contribute some suggestions. Here are a few we received:

"Kids are very competitive and if you make a game out of the chores it works best. Races over who can do something fastest works best, with someone winning a nice little treat. Don't always make it a food treat; maybe one night they get to stay up later. Something else I have found is that kids love the movies. I tell them if they do their chores for a week without complaining, we can go to the movies. This can be substituted for mini-golf, carnival, having a slumber party and other activities."

"Parents should set a good example for their young children by consistently doing chores in front of them. Then, as they begin to grow older, make the chores fun. Turn on music and dance around the house while dusting and vacuuming. If the child senses that the parent dreads his or her own chores, the child will have similar feelings as he or she grows older. At 3 or 4, the child can use toys to mimic the adult and clean house. Be sure to praise the child for a job well done, and thank the child for his or her help."

"We tried the yelling method, the time-out method and the reward method. It wasn't until my wife came up with the idea to sit down and make a list of household rules that the children participated in that we started to get compliance. You see, the household rules included rules governing our behavior as parents as well as expectations for the children. For the children, successful completion of the chores for the week means they receive their 'commission' of $6 for the oldest and $3 for the youngest. We opened an account at the local credit union and use this as an opportunity to teach fundamentals of handling finances and some basic math skills. This has become standard operating procedure in our household and the consistency has made it successful."

Good ideas, all. I think consistency - which I was always too frazzled to achieve - is probably the key. Here's another approach that I probably should have tried:

"I believe the best way to get children to do their chores is to teach them that they are a part of a society and if everyone doesn't pull their weight it won't work. If they appreciate the fact that someone worked for months to grow the food they eat, drove for days to deliver it, and that their parents work for hours each day just to buy it and prepare it, the children will realize that washing the dishes isn't too much to ask. My parents used this method on me, and I scrubbed those pots and pans without a complaint."

I was writing about generational differences in business the other day, and I learned something interesting about how Gen Yers (today's young adults) differ from us Baby Boomers. For younger employees, it's not enough to know that the boss wants something done in a particular way, as it might have been for me when I was a recent college graduate starting in my first job. Today's young employees want to know why something needs to be done, why it's important to do it in a specific manner, and how it matters in the big picture. Expecting Gen Yers to blindly obeying an authority figure does not work anymore.

That's certainly what I've seen from my kids as they have matured. After years of those household struggles, as they entered adolescence I started to see a light at the end of the tunnel. A few years ago, the boys were helping me clean house on a Saturday and when we finished I went to get my wallet and give them their pay.

"No mom, you don't have to pay us. It's all right," my younger son said. My jaw must have dropped to the floor. Where did that generous attitude come from? Maturity is the only change I can identify. As they edged into their teen years, the boys could finally appreciate how hard we all have to work to keep our family afloat, and how important it is for all of us to share the load. Chalk one plus up for kids getting older and wiser!

Would they have listened and understood, had I found a way to convey this to them when they were younger? It's hard to know, but I think I certainly could have tried harder to give them the bigger picture. It was my own stubbornness - "You'll do it because I said so!" - that probably shot my chances of getting at least a little cooperation during those years. Don't make the same mistake I did!

How would your kids like to go to Mars? Well, maybe they'll get a chance to go in person some day, but right now, they can go in spirit. That's because The Planetary Society is sending a DVD containing the names of individuals from around the world to Mars aboard NASA's first Scout mission, Phoenix. Once a name is entered on The Planetary Society website, a certificate can be downloaded that verifies the name's inclusion on the archival message from Earth to Mars. So far, about 200,000 people from more than 70 countries have signed up. But the deadline to submit your name is coming up next week, Feb. 12, 2007 at noon. Get busy if your kids would like their names included in the first "library" to land on the Red Planet.

Another item to put on your agenda this weekend is a visit to The Little Gym of Monrovia/Arcadia, a kid-friendly business that opened last month on Foothill Boulevard one block east of Fifth Street in Monrovia. On Saturday, they're holding a parent survival night, and on Sunday, you can stop by for an open house and check out the facilities. Look for more information in our calendar listings.

Up in Sierra Madre, folks will be reading L. Frank Baum's wonderful "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" this year in preparation for the city's centennial celebration in May. Copies of the book, which was first published in 1900 and differs significantly from the movie, and audio book will be available for check out at the Sierra Madre Public Library. Call 626-355-7186 for more information about how you and your family can participate in this One Book, One City program.

Finally, I'll share some good news I got from Orange Cat dad Mike, who recalled that one of our readers was looking for a local chess class for kids some time back. "My son and daughter go to a chess class at Excellence in Education in Monrovia. The introductory class is on Mondays, from 4 to 6 p.m. and the teacher is Matthew Beelby. He is very good and the kids are very engaged. It's a serious class though, with homework, but the interested kid will eat it up. Fee is $50 a month and you can start any time." Thanks for the information, Mike!

We have such great resources in all our Orange Cat readers. If you know of an interesting, fun, family-friendly activity, or have a tip for getting kids to do chores (and maybe even like them!), please let me know about it and I'll publish it here next time. 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, Feb. 9, 2007

Into the Woods: South Pasadena High School 7:30 p.m. A family-friendly production of the Stephen Sondheim musical features a cast of 60 fifth-graders from South Pasadena elementary schools. Production is also being held on Saturday Feb. 10 at 3:30 p.m. $6 adults; $2 children. Information: 626-441-3481. Auditorium, 1401 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena.

Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007

Musical Circus Pasadena Symphony 8:30 a.m. A half hour instrumental petting zoo in the lobby is followed by a performance from Lineage Dance. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

The Uncle Brothers: Arcadia Public Library 3 p.m. Join us for a performance of music from The Uncle Brothers. Their family shows are upbeat and interactive for all ages. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Heart Health Week: Kidspace Children's Museum Become heart-wise during Heart Health Week! Create a heart seed mosaic or a heart mask for your sweetheart. Be a contestant on the "Eat Your Heart Out!" game show. Watch the Kidspace Crew Follies present a heart-warming performance. Get your heart pumping at the Fitness Challenge with Hoppy the Grasshopper. Then, satisfy your appetite at Harvest Corner with a "hearty" snack. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Valentine's Day Stories: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Stories about love at this special Family Storytime for preschoolers (ages 3-5) and their families. (30 minutes.) In the Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Valentine’s Day party: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Join us for fun, with crafts and treats, after storytime at 10 a.m. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Valentine's Day Get Together: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Annette Simpson will read all about the holiday of hearts and cupids. Event includes snack and craft. Ages K-5. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Big Heart: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Celebrate Valentine's Day with a jumbo-sized heart decorated with fun craft materials. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Heart Felt: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Join us for a "heart felt" time of story reading, making a Valentine's Day card and playing games. There might even be a sweet or two. Please pre-register (909 599-4558). Free. Ages 5 and up. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Sunday, Feb. 11, 2007

Open House: The Little Gym of Monrovia/Arcadia 2-5 p.m. Children and families are invited to join in the tumbling, refreshments, raffles and prizes. Little Gym offers non-competitive gymnastics classes for children age 10 months to 12 years. Parent/Child, Preschool/Kindergarten and grade school programs are available. Information: 626-301-0100. 925 W. Foothill Blvd, Monrovia.

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2007

Monrovia Idol: Monrovia Public Library 6:30 p.m. Sixth through twelfth graders are invited to help choose Monrovia’s next middle or high school idol. Students in the audience will get the chance to vote on the performers. Monrovia Community Center, 119 West Palm Avenue.

Support Group: MOMS Club of Pasadena 10 a.m. to noon. Open house for mothers living in Pasadena, south of the 210 freeway, or in South Pasadena, San Marino, Alhambra and the 91775 zip code of San Gabriel. Come see the activities the MOMS Club organizes and meet other local stay-at-home-moms. Demonstrations from the Music Together program, as well as Ident-A-Kid. Children welcome. Information: secretary@momsclubpasadena.com. Boys and Girls Club of Pasadena, 3230 E. Del Mar Blvd, Pasadena.

Valentine's Party: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. -4:30 p.m. Craft a valentine for a friend. Treats will be served during the event. Classic Valentine's stories will be told. Space is limited and participants must register at the front desk. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Hearts and Hugs: Lamanda Park Branch Library 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Valentine Storytime and a sweetheart of a craft - a Valentine's Day card to keep or give to a special friend. Stories perfect for ages 2 to 5. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Valentine's Day Stories: Hill Avenue Branch Library 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts for Valentine's Day, plus snacks. Make a Valentine to give to someone special.Suitable for children ages 3-5 years. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007

Roundtable Discussion: MOMS Club of the Foothills 10 a.m. We'll be talking about potty training techniques, ideas for picky eaters, sleep issues, best baby equipment and more. Visitors and children welcome. Babysitting provided; group has no religious affiliation. Information: 323-496-0844. St. Luke's Church, 2563 Foothill Blvd., La Crescenta.

Elmo Birthday: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10 a.m. A walkaround-Elmo will visit to celebrate his birthday. Tickets required. To attend, reserve space by calling (909 599-4558) or stopping by the store. Meet and greet sessions are scheduled on the hour, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The presentation will also include a story and a craft. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Friday, Feb. 16, 2007

Support Group: MOMS Club of Altadena 10 a.m. This month's discussion is on fitness for the stay-at-home mom, with a personal trainer from Baby-on-the-Go as our speaker. Information: Talin Dikranian at altadenamomsclub@yahoo.com or call 626-844-7916. Farnsworth Park Community Center, Altadena.

Saturday, Feb. 17, 2007

Family Day: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Look for telling details in photographs, then create your own storybook. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Chinese New Year: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Gung hay fat choy! Celebrate the Year of the Pig with Asian folktales and pig stories for preschoolers (ages 3-5) and their families. In the Pasadena Central Library, Children's Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Delightful Duck: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create their own feathered friend. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Kids' Yoga: Kidspace Children's Museum 11 a.m. -noon. Kids' yoga instructor, Abby Wills, will lead families through various yoga poses to help build family bonds, balance, and agility. All ages welcome. Space is limited. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Feb. 19, 2007

Scapin: Kidspace Children's Museum 2 p.m. Parson's Nose presents Scapin, by Molière, a fast-paced farce. Scapin, a crafty servant, tries to help four lovers escape a tyrannical matchmaking by their greedy fathers, but gets caught in his own mess. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2007

Talent Show: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. -4:30 p.m. "La Pintoresca Idol" talent show featuring singing, dancing, and acting. Auditions for talent show open to young people age 5-18. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Year of the Pig: Hill Avenue Branch Library 4 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Celebrate the Year of the Pig with stories and snacks. Make a Chinese lantern and a banner to celebrate 4705! 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2007

Children's Theater: CalTech Beckman Auditorium 10 a.m. TheatreworksUSA presents the story of a courageous young girl and a great warrior for justice, and their battle for equal rights. This show chronicles the school desegregation battles. Grades 3-9. Tickets: 800-497-5007. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Thursday, Feb. 22, 2007

Rhythm Around the World: Monrovia Public Library 3:45 p.m. Drummer Marcus Miller will present Rhythm Around the World, which focuses on the historical and cultural significance of drumming, in Monrovia’s Library Park. The program will be held in the Band Shell on the northwest corner of the park. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Creative PlayGround: Arcadia Public Library 6:30 p.m. Professional performers and educators present Aesop’s Fables, a literature-based, interactive theatre performance for the family. Ages 5 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Saturday, Feb. 24, 2007

Chinese New Year Festival: Huntington Library 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Celebrate the "Year of the Pig" with lion dancers, Chinese music and dance, children’s activities, martial arts demonstrations, informal talks, plus a traditional flower market with dozens of stalls with breathtaking blooms for sale. Free with general admission. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Military Recruitment: Talk About Parenting with Shirlee Smith 10 a.m. to noon. Panel discussion focuses on what families need to know about military recruitment. Moderated by the League of Women Voters, this is an informational opportunity to hear the facts, ask questions and get answers. Panelists include: military recruiters, parents, school administrators, JROTC, Coalition Against Militarism In Schools and L.A. County Juvenile Probation Office Directors. Information: 626-296-2777. Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Handprint: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create a personalized handprint keepsake. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Movies and Fashion Show: Kidspace Children's Museum 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. A day of short animated films, classics and recent favorites, in honor of the 2007 Academy Awards. Then vote for your favorite animated short to win the Oscar. Children can take part in a theatrical role-play and a glamorous Red Carpet Fashion Show, followed by entertainment and the announcement of the Kidspace Family Animated Movie of the Year. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2007

Teen Talent Show: Monrovia Public Library 6:30 p.m. Sixth through 12th graders are invited to compete for the title of Monrovia Idol. Teens can sing, lip sync, dance, recite poetry, play an instrument, perform a stand-up comedy routine or come up with a unique talent. Solos, duets and group performances (no more than four) welcome. Entrants, who need not be Monrovia residents, must register at the Youth Services Reference desk prior to the event. Information: Denise Neujahr, 626-256-8274 or email dneujahr@ci.monrovia.ca.us. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday, Feb. 17, 2007

Saturday Series for Kids: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Two performances of "Junie B. Jones," adapted from the books by Barbara Park, will be presented by Theatreworks USA. $6 Grades K-6. Tickets available at the website. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Saturday, Feb. 24, 2007

Parents Night Out: GymnastiKids 6-9 p.m. Drop your child off for three hours of fun and fitness. Our energetic instructors will lead your child through obstacle courses, trampoline fun, foam pit games, parachute, fort buiilding, arts and crafts, movement games, popscicle breaks, rope swing, rock wall climbing and more. Ages 3 and up. Reservations: 626-796-5437. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

Rock Rose Art Gallery: Family drum circle is held 12:30-1:30 p.m. Donations requested. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

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. - 11:30 a.m. 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.

Pacific Theatres: Moms, dads and caregivers, here’s your chance to see a first run adult-themed movie...with your baby! No one will mind if your baby cries, everyone will have a baby and all babies cry. 11 a.m., film title changes weekly. Paseo Colorado, 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 12-1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups, family parties and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre and Temple City. We also are currently enrolling residents of Arcadia with the understanding that they will form their own chapter in June 2007. Information: email momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Monrovia Public Library Best Books is a weekly program for elementary-aged youth, held Tuesdays in November from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Students will take a magical journey through an exciting book, with a librarian reading a chapter or two aloud, then offering a snack, followed by a bit more reading. Youth are invited to bring copies of their own books to read along. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Altadena MOMS Club: Support group for stay-at-home moms meets the third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Our chapter offers play groups, a hiking group, a book group, monthly meetings and a great network of moms that live in Altadena. Please contact Talin Dikranian at 626-844-7916 or membership@altadenamomsclub.com for more information. Farnsworth Park Community Center, Altadena.

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., Family Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

San Dimas Farmers Market Come and experience a night full of live music and dancing every Wednesday, beginning at 4:30 p.m. 245 E. Bonita Ave. Civic Center Park.

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. Wild Oats Natural Marketplace, conference room, 603 S. Lake Ave. Pasadena.

MOMS Club of Azusa: Support group for kids and stay-at-home moms in the city of Azusa. General and new-members meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month at 3:30 p.m. Information: e-mail momsclubofazusaca@yahoo.com. Library Auditorium, 729 N. Dalton Ave., Azusa.

Friday

Monrovia Winter Market: 5-8 p.m. Street fair and certified farmer's market, with craft booths, kiddie rides, live music, food and family fun. Myrtle and Olive avenues, Monrovia.

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.

Rock Rose Art Gallery: MOTHEREAD/FATHEREAD, L.A. is held from 10-11:30 a.m. This is a 10-week family reading program based on a simple idea: When families read together, remarkable things happen. Family ties are strengthened. Parents become reading role models for their children. Children become better readers and better learners. Information: Rosamaria Marquez, 323-222-4740. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park.

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

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 the 210 Freeway. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com .

South Pasadena Strings: Afterschool music, art and foreign language classes for preschoolers and kindergartners. For all ages, group and private lesson in violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, voice. Award-winning youth orchestras. For more information, email stringsprogram@aol.com, or call 626/403-4611. South Pasadena.

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. .

MamaMia Fitness Variety of yoga and fitness classes are held outdoors for all fitness levels. Babies of all ages attend class and are incorporated into the workout. We also organize play dates, "Mommy's Morning Out" and field trips. Rose Bowl, Brookside Park, 360 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

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.

Lil' Critter Stroller Club: Barnes & Noble Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Lil' Critter Stroller Club storytime features ABCs, songs, and stories. For ages six months to two years. On Wednesdays and Fridays. 111 W Colorado Blvd., 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 12:30 p.m.; 2-year-olds Mondays at 10 a.m. Children of all ages are invited to practice their reading with the Barks and Books program on the third Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Information and registration: 626-300-0777. 1800 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Pajama Storytime Fridays at 6-7 p.m. Also, Saturday storytime is from 11 a.m. to noon. Preschool Storytime and crafts is Tuesday 10-11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Pasadena Central Library: More dinos than you can imagine at most Pasadena libraries during November. Check library calendar for dino storytimes, movies, snacks and free books. .

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@momsclubpasadena.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, parent's night out program, 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 the Foothills: Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playgroups, and much more. Serving La Canada, La Crescenta, Montrose, Sparr Heights, Tujunga, Sunland and Kagel Canyon. 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.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. New location now open in Monrovia, at 925 W. Foothill Blvd, one block east of Fifth Street. Information: 626-301-0100. La Canada location 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.

Arcadia Public Library: Storytimes for various age groups are offered throughout the week. Book Buddy program, where teen volunteers read to young children, and Barks and Books programs also offered. Pre-registration required; see librarian for details. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

MOMS Club of Monrovia Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for park days, stroller walks, and all-member meetings. Serving Monrovia, Duarte, and Bradbury. For more information please e-mail: momsclubofmonrovia@yahoo.com. .

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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