March 23, 2007

Number 111

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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 Dorothy Reinhold
Guest Columnist

Elementary school circles buzzed recently with a hot rumor: The tooth fairy recently brought one lucky Brentwood child a $100 bill for a first tooth and $50 for subsequent teeth.

I may be delusional, but I hope this is a modern urban legend. Yowza! I knew inflation was baaaaad, but that is astonishing!

A few years ago, one of my daughter's friends lost a tooth in preschool and proudly brought to school the next day the $20 bill that she found under her pillow. None of the other 4- or 5-year-olds had lost a tooth yet, but were they ever thrilled to see that the tooth fairy was so generous!

Because I knew this mom pretty well, I was confident enough to say to her, "Have you lost your mind? What's up with the $20? You've set the bar so high, now we're all going to have to match it!"

Her excuse? The tooth fairy didn't have any change in her wallet, so had to give the big bill. Well, I said, the tooth fairy better lay in a stock of ones, because there is no way $20 is going to fly.

When our time came, in first grade, the tooth fairy gave a generous $5 for the first tooth, and $1 for each subsequent tooth. She also left the tooth behind if my daughter wrote a note requesting it. Very nice of that fairy, I thought.

What's the going rate for loose teeth? Not surprisingly, it depends on your upbringing and your own family traditions. Here are some comments from an informal poll I took among a bunch of So Cal moms:

"A dentist in our neighborhood gives stickers and erasers instead of coins, along with a new toothbrush. The tooth fairy leaves this note on the new brush: You don't have to brush your teeth -- just the ones you want to keep!"

"We gave $10 for the first and $2 bills for each one after that. When I was little, I got .25 cents for every tooth, but that was when cars were $2,000, Good Humor ice cream was .10 cents and school lunches and gallons of gas were .35 cents each."

"I gave my son $1 and went up to $2 as he got older. Now my 6-year-old has been losing her teeth and I was giving her $2 as well. This last time she said ‘Mommy, I don't want to get $2. I want to get $6 because I'm 6.' I told her she would have to write a letter to the tooth fairy and ask. Sure enough, she wrote this cute letter (which I am saving) and the tooth fairy gave her $6. Now my son is mad because he never thought of writing for more money!"

"Our daughter just lost her first tooth and we dug around and came up with an old silver dollar coin for the tooth fairy. We shined it up a bit and it made quite an impression. I had forgotten how huge those are! Of course with four kids all in line to lose teeth in the next few years, this precedent might get pretty exorbitant. Perhaps we'll scale it back to a .50-cent piece for all teeth after that first one."

"We had the tooth fairy write a letter to our daughter and we sprinkled fairy dust on her window sill and along a path leading to the letter. The letter congratulated her on this milestone, complimented her on her great dental habits, and explained how the tooth fairy travels all around the world visiting lots of little boys and girls who lose their teeth and how just that very night she was in Mexico, so she left our daughter a peso (we had one left over from a vacation). She LOVED this little scenario. I think we all appreciated how it focused more on the milestone and the experience and less on the money aspect. Three teeth later, now we are running out of foreign coins."

That fairy dust is pretty popular. "I remember that in my own childhood, several times, the tooth fairy even left a trail of fairy dust that went from my bed to the corner of the window...my tooth fairy was, and still is, quite creative. Needless to say, I was a believer. Did you also know there is also a nap fairy? But that's for mom's benefit."

"Our daughter likes to draw a picture and write a little note to the tooth fairy, who then leaves $1 for her. The first tooth that my daughter lost, we gave her a special coin in a sparkly little wallet."

"We are continuing the tradition/custom in our family where the tooth fairy brings pennies based on the age that you are and one for good luck. Growing up, I got the most because I didn't lose my last tooth until I was 15 1/2 years of age!"

A French mom said, "We have the same sort of thing in France, only it's a mouse, and yes, you do leave cheese with the tooth under the pillow so she can find it. The mouse brought us coins. And didn't we all swear we heard her little feet scurrying across the floor? (We also have church bells that bring us chocolate on Easter - for some reason that was not a huge stretch of the imagination for kids.)"

An Italian mom chimed in that the same little mouse brings Italian children money or small gifts.

When in doubt, we consult the source of all knowledge in the universe - the Internet. ToothFairy.org (you knew there had to be such a site, didn't you?) says the going rate is $1 per tooth.

If you are in the bloody tooth-losing phase at your house, you might want to read the children's book, "Throw Your Tooth on the Roof: Tooth Traditions From Around the World," by Selby Beeler (Houghton Mifflin, 1998).

Are you searching for ways to construct your own rituals? Here are a couple of spots to visit.

You might pick up some wording that works for you, an explanation here or there, a coloring page to print out for your child, a printable envelope for the money, or just a few magical ideas to make it all more fun. Warning: Some of these sites sell things, but we're not pushing purchases. In our book, the tooth fairy isn't about retail.

If your child is an e-mailer, he can get an e-mail note from the tooth fairy. She can find quotes about the tooth fairy and losing baby teeth and all kinds of tooth-fairy ritual, origins and popular culture references at Wikipedia.

I'll leave you with this thought to ponder: There are three stages in your life. Stage 1: You believe in the tooth fairy; Stage 2: You don't believe in the tooth fairy; Stage 3: You ARE the tooth fairy!

And that, m'dears, is my .02 cents worth.

Dorothy Reinhold is a freelance writer who lives in Malibu with her husband and two toothy children. You can reach her at DReinhold@aol.com.

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, March 24, 2007

Musical Circus: Pasadena Symphony 9 a.m. Musical Circus welcomes Cedric Berry. Come at 8:30 to experience the Instrumental Petting Zoo before the concert begins at 9 a.m. Information: 626-793-7172. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena.

Foam Creations: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. -3 p.m. Children exercise their imaginations to make creations with fun foam. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Youth Concert: Shumei Hall 2 p.m. Young musicians from the University of Southern California, the Colburn School, Junior Chamber Music, and a winner of the Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition 2006 will perform classical chamber music. 2430 E. Colorado Avd., Pasadena.

Parent and Caregiver Conference: Day One Pasadena 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parents, grandparents, foster parents, caregivers and mentors are invited to a free parenting conference. The activities provided give a needed and well-deserved break for all caregivers and provides parents an opportunity to relate to other parents and caregivers, as well as to receive help, resources, and support. Conference tracks in English and Spanish include: effective communication and discipline, anger management, the parenting grandparent, and parenting teens/adolescents. In addition to workshops, there will be continental breakfast and lunch, and child-care provided all day. Registration: 626-229-9750 or staff@dayonepasadena.com. PCC Community Education Center, 3035 E. Foothill Blvd, Pasadena.

Berenstain Bears on Stage: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. For the first time, the beloved bears created by Stan and Jan Berenstain in multiple books for young readers come to life in this musical production created especially by the authors. Omaha Theatre Company touring production. Tickets: $6. Recommended grades: K-5. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Sunday, March 25, 2007

Open House: FasTracKids 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come learn what our program is all about. Science educator Richard Shope, of JPL, will speak at 12:15 p.m. about star formation and exploring planets. Free trial classes offered, including Core Program, FasTrack Signing and FasTrack Music. Refreshments and raffle prizes. Information: 626-254-8500. 1010 South Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Get acquainted with some fantastic animals through books, then craft your own animal mask beside Rousseau's Exotic Landscape. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Theater: The Gooden School 4 p.m. Parson's Nose Family Theater presents "A Midsummer Night's Dream. Tickets: $5. Reservations, information: Beckie Holmes, 626-791-4975. 192 N. Baldwin Ave. Sierra Madre, CA 91024.

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Traveling Pants: La Pintoresca Branch Library 4-5:3 p.m. A two-part program based on the book, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, about four best friends and a magical pair of jeans that they pass along during their first summer apart. Watch a bit of the movie, create your own jeans art, share ideas about friendship, and snack on popcorn, chips and soda. Bring a pair of jeans. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Call of the Wild: Pasadena Central Library 1-3 p.m. See the movie, Call of the Wild. Buck, a handsome, gentle dog, is stolen from his master in the United States and is plunged into the savage life of a gold rush sled dog in the frozen Yukon. Based on the book by Jack London. In the Central Library Auditorium. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Friday, March 30, 2007

Movie Premiere: Relay for Life Of Monrovia 5 p.m. Kickoff event includes premiere of Disney movie "Meet the Robinsons" in downtown Monrovia. Join other relay teams and committee for an eventful evening and day. Information: Mohna, 626-359-4114. 410 South Myrtle Ave. , Monrovia, CA 91016.

Romeo & Juliet CalTech Beckman Auditorium 8 p.m. Aquila Theatre Company's new production of Romeo and Juliet uses their highly talented British and American ensemble to create a stylistic adaptation that will focus on the major themes of the story and bring the text to vivid life. 320 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, March 31, 2007

Cesar Chavez Birthday: Kidspace Museum 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Honor Cesar Chavez' dedication to aid the struggles of farm workers during his birthday celebration. Featuring interactive activities and special presentations. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Fanciful Kite: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids' imaginations take flight as they make and decorate a play kite! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Egg Celebration: West Covina Civic Center 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Craft fair, egg hunts, crafts for kids, food, entertainment, photos with the Easter Bunny, pancake breakfast, and more. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina.

Sunday, April 1, 2007

Silly Sunday: Kidspace Museum Embark on a silly scavenger hunt, make silly faces and silly animals. Share your jokes and learn new ones at the interactive joke wall. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Birthday Pigeon: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 1 p.m. Celebrate Pigeon's birthday. Mo Willems' picture books about foolish Pigeon's adventures are hugely popular. There will be a special story time, craft balloons and maybe a hot dog. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Bunnies Are Coming: Lamanda Park Branch Library 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. The bunnies are coming to this preschool storytime. There will be bunny stories, crafts and snacks. Also, Thursday April 5th at 2:30 pm. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Susan Patron: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 10 a.m. Susan Patron, the author of the Newbery Award winning book, "The Higher Power of Lucky," will be visiting the store. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Theatreworks USA: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 10 a.m. and noon. Two performances of this show, a musical revue based on popular children's books, including If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Math Curse and Owen. Call Theatreworks for reservations: 800-497-5007. Recommended for grades K-4. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Enjoy tales about rainy days and windy nights, then make a rain stick in front of Nolde's 'The Sea I,' 1912. Free with museum admission. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thursday, April 5, 2007

Bunny Storytime: Lamanda Park Branch Library 2:30 p.m. The bunnies are coming to this preschool storytime. There will be bunny stories, crafts and snacks. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Saturday, April 7, 2007

Spring Critter Craft: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children make a brightly colored animal pal. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Friday, March 30, 2007

Don't Stop The Presses: Huntington Library 9 a.m. Children can experience the hands-on excitement of using a printing press as they make their own small book or newspaper in a workshop led by Mark Barbour of the International Printing Museum. Participants will set moveable type and print on an antique press while hearing stories about the amazing world of printing, from the Gutenberg Bible to newspapers like the Los Angeles Times. Ages 7 and up, with one accompanying adult, $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Saturday, April 7, 2007

Easter Hunt and Brunch: Descanso Gardens 9:30 a.m. Easter weekend is always special at Descanso with children's egg hunts every 45 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and family brunches from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Egg hunt tickets available for $5 on a first-come-first-served basis Saturday morning. Brunch prices, including gardens admission, are $42 adults, $15 children ages 4 to 12, and free for those 3 and younger. Brunch reservations required: call 818-790-3663 by Monday, April 2. Brunch also Sunday, April 8. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Pack a Picnic Huntington Library 9 a.m. Chef Lisa Fontanesi brings another installment of food and family fun to the Huntington. Participants will prepare a complete picnic made of seasonal produce, gathering some fresh ideas along the way for healthy lunches on-the-go! Ages 7 and up, with one accompanying adult, $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

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

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.

Mocha Moms: The Pasadena Chapter of Mocha Moms is a nonprofit organization for mothers of color in the San Gabriel Valley. We meet weekly for playgroups, bi-weekly for "moms only" events and other planned activities. Chapter meetings are open to newcomers on the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. For more information and location, visit website or email: pasadenamocha@yahoo.com .

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.

Stone Center for Children's Books Stories and crafts are open for kids of all ages most Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Information: 909-607-3670. Claremont Graduate University, 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

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.

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.

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.

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 818-306-3655. .

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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