July 6, 2007

Number 118

............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

...................................................

........................................................................................................

.....................................................

By Karen E. Klein

Already running short on ideas to keep your kids busy over the summer? Maybe these activities, designed to keep little minds and bodies active during the long school hiatus, will help.

Build: Encourage your kids to build a kite, a bird house, a boat or even a Lego structure. Building accesses spatial-temporal reasoning and improves fine motor skills. More importantly, most kids get absorbed in the process of creation.

Cook: Have your kids help you out in the kitchen, or if they are old enough, allow them to plan and create a meal. Cooking utilizes reading skills, math skills and basic judgment. The finished product will produce pride and self-confidence, not to mention it might give you a little break (depending on how much supervision is required, of course).

Board games: Good ones to buy for your kids are Chess and Scrabble. Chess uses math and sequencing skills, and it’s an excellent way of keeping your child’s mind active and quick. Many public libraries have chess clubs that match up players of like skill levels for competitions. Scrabble is an excellent way of building your child’s vocabulary and perfecting their dictionary skills. You can compete one-on-one with your child, or get the whole family involved.

Art: Summer art projects can be great for keeping your kids busy. Get them outside working on landscapes, paintings or drawings. Starting a "found art" project involves looking for components, which can become a treasure hunt, and will cut down on costs for art supplies. The point is to give them ideas and turn on their creativity.

Write: Activate your children’s storytelling abilities by reading them a portion of a story and having them finish writing the story in their own words. Younger children can draw their stories in a series of pictures. Writing flexes the entire brain and is beneficial for a child’s development and success in school.

Tour: Taking tours can be fun and educational, and they can also spark an interest in a potential future career. You can go to a museum, the zoo, a factory, an art gallery, the post office or a local newspaper office or TV station, among other places. Call and ask about arranging a child-friendly tour. Spending a day in another world opens up children’s minds to lots of new possibilities. (Thanks to The Celerity Educational Group for the suggestions!)

As I mentioned here last time, we had some hilarious responses to Dorothy's recent column about parents who send their kids to school sick. Many of you could relate - both as whiny "perpetrators" of the stay-home-sick scam and as heartless "illness deniers." May I just go on the record here and say: I am shocked and appalled at all of you!

"A story of my own efforts toward illness will give a different perspective, that of the demented child that really should not stay home," wrote Orange Cat mom Shanna. She explained that as a kid, she often longed to stay home from school, lounging about in her jammies watching cartoons and game shows and snacking all day. "My mom, however, was a nurse, so convincing her that I was sick was not easy! Most often, she used fever as the gauge for my right of passage, but I was never lucky enough to 'suffer' from one," Shanna recalled.

Clever little girl that she was, Shanna decided to find a way to manipulate the thermometer. At home alone one day, she set about looking for something that would do the trick: "My first idea was to the rub the tip of the thermometer on the palm of my hand repeatedly, but unfortunately the friction caused more discomfort than generating heat. I then tried rubbing the thermometer on the carpet, but stopped for fear that I would snap the thermometer in half. I eventually realized that a light bulb might be the perfect solution, so I found the nearest floor lamp and stood for what seemed like an hour holding the tip of the thermometer to the bulb. Sadly, the number did not budge," she wrote.

Less determined children might give up at that point, but not Shanna. (Here’s where the story starts to cross over into the horror genre.) "I was left with only one idea. The stove. It is a sure bet for heat. So I approached our harvest gold stove top with the tile surround and I ignited the burner. I carefully held the thermometer right in the middle with the tips of my pointer finger and thumb, paying special attention to not block the numbers 100°, 101° or 102°. I waved the thermometer above the flame with a quick, short motion to avoid burning myself. I was fearful that the entire glass cylinder might heat up and would scald my fingertips before I could achieve my goal. As the thermometer darted over the flame, there was no change."

Again, some kids might give up, but not this one: "I quickly realized that there really was no other choice ... I was going to have to face the fire head on. I turned the tip of the thermometer to the gently bouncing flame and within an instant, POW!!!! The back end of the thermometer shot across the kitchen and I watched in horror as mercury danced all over the kitchen floor. I knew on that day that not only was I not cut out for trickery, but I wouldn't make a very good scientist either," Shanna said.

Good lessons to learn. And kids, please don’t try that at home. Not only are exploding glass shards a hazard, but mercury is an extremely toxic heavy metal poison. According to this site, "The air in a room can reach contamination levels just from the mercury in a broken thermometer." Yikes. Shanna didn’t say how she cleaned up the mess, but apparently she remained unscathed - she also didn’t say whether her mom the nurse ever found out!

Orange Cat mom Tamara wanted to make it clear that it’s not only moms who can be hard-nosed about ignoring or denying their kids’ illness. Her husband the sports nut (he once coached my kids, so I can call him that with real authority) witnessed their 12-year-old son crash into another kid on the soccer field last fall. "Both boys fell to the ground, but mine couldn't seem to manage the upright position without cringing and crying. He's never been a baby or called uncle over anything. When he says he feels sick and may throw up, by golly he throws up five seconds later," Tamara wrote.

On this occasion, however, her husband told the poor boy to buck up, try his hardest, and get back out on the field. His team needed him, after all! "It was apparent there was no way on earth he was going to be able to do that. Nevertheless, my husband told him he could walk to the car because he probably wasn't that bad off. Never mind that my son had to use the chair as a crutch to get to the car," Tamara recalled.

Well, you guessed it. After three days of icing and limping around on crutches, x-rays revealed a broken knee. "My son insisted on hobbling into the waiting room to tell his dad himself and show off the copy of the fresh x-ray. Wish you could have seen my husband’s eyes!" Of course, Tamara never chastised the man, or said "I told you so." Of course she didn’t!

Another Orange Cat dad had a different perspective on the staying home sick issue. Eric recalled that when he was in high school, his mother said that as long as he did well in school she would write him sick notes when he requested them. "My report cards (hand-written!) from those days show the total amount of days absent per year. I did the math and determined I had been absent about one day a week for three years of high school. Nonetheless, I was a good student, graduated in the top 15 or 20 of a class of 600 and was accepted into some highly regarded colleges," he wrote.

It might not work for many kids, but Eric concluded that his mother had enough trust and confidence in him to handle his own affairs as a teenager. "She somehow knew that I didn't need a lot of hand-holding and if I was going to be an independent responsible adult, I had better be well on the way to accomplishing that," he said.

Well, that one probably wouldn’t work for every kid, but for Eric it apparently was just fine. A friend of mine in high school had a younger sister in elementary school, and since she’d been there herself not so many years earlier, she sympathized. Once my friend turned 18, she would drop in at the elementary school with a "get out early" note once or twice a semester, just to make her kid sister feel like a celebrity and give her an afternoon off. They’d typically go to lunch or out for ice cream sundaes. I always wished I had a cool older sibling like that!

Hope you had a great holiday. We hope The Orange Cat will be helpful to you as you plan your summer and cope with the heat. Stay cool, and keep the feedback coming! 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, July 6, 2007

The Figureheads: Kidspace Museum 11:30 a.m. The Figureheads will perform hits from their new CD, The Movement. This positive hip-hop group has created lyrics that explore making good decisions, discovering one's voice and the power of family and friendship. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

And Baby Makes Four: Vromans Bookstore 7 p.m. Are you a mother-to-be with a pet in the house, and you're not sure how the furry family member will react? A Pasadena Humane Society representative will speak on preparing the family pet while helping to address specific pet behaviors that may concern parents-to-be. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, July 7, 2007

Stinky Cheese Man: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. See a preview of the Pasadena Junior Theatre production of The Stinky Cheese Man, a twisted set of fairy tales written by Jon Scieszka. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Animal Collage: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids use shells, buttons, spangles, and more to create adorable animal collages. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Little Miss Liberty: Kidspace Museum 11:30 a.m. In honor of the 4th of July, Chris Robertson, author of Little Miss Liberty, will read and have a fun lesson, then learn a little history from Little Miss Liberty herself. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Tanabata Children's Program: Huntington Library 1:30 p.m. Celebrate Tanabata, the Japanese Star Festival, in a program of songs and storytelling featuring children from the Kodomo No Ie preschool in San Gabriel. Origami crafts will also be offered. Free with library admission; in the Japanese Garden. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Monday, July 9, 2007

Reading Theater Group: Arcadia Public Library 2:30 p.m. Our read-aloud mystery scripts are a fun way to improve your language skills, and offer an opportunity to gain confidence speaking before an audience. Ages 8 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Author Event: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Elizabeth Haydon, author of the fantasy series The Lost Journals of Ven Polypheme, will speak. For ages 9 to 12. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Bob Baker Marionettes Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Bob Baker and his Marionettes are vibrant and high energy, inspiring audiences of all ages. Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

Mystery Mammals: Santa Catalina Library Pacific Animal Productions will give clues and rhymes to help the audience solve the mystery of what's inside each box. On July 9, at Santa Catalina Branch at 10-11 a.m.; at Hastings Branch Library from 1-2 p.m., 3:20-4:30, and 7-8 p.m. On July 10, at La Pintoresca Branch at 11 a.m. to noon, and from 1-2 p.m.; at San Rafael Branch from 3-4 p.m. On July 11, at Santa Catalina Branch at 11 a.m. to noon, at Allendale Branch from 2-3 p.m. On July 12, at Hill Avenue Branch, from 11 a.m.-noon; at Villa Parke Branch from 1-2 p.m. and at Lamanda Park Branch from 3-4 p.m. On July 13, at Linda Vista Branch, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. On July 14, at Pasadena Central Library from 10-11 a.m. .

Harry Potter: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. See the movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005: PG-13: 2 hours 36 min.) J.K. Rowling's fourth book comes to life as young wizard Harry Potter faces evil Lord Voldemort. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Family Concert: Monrovia Public Library 7 p.m. Folk-singing duo Gigi and Mike perform at the Monrovia Bandshell in Library Park. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Banned from the Beach: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 11 a.m. Celebrate the release of Walter's new summer adventure, Walter the Farting Dog: Banned From the Beach. There will be reading Walter stories, playing a game, and making a special Walter craft. $2 activity fee. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Friday, July 13, 2007

Little Miss Liberty: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Also July 14 at the same times. Celebrate Bastille Day with the return of Mini Iron Chef. Kids put their creative culinary skills to the test. There are two challenges each day. Space is limited so sign up at the Kidspace website. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Peacock Jewelry: Arcadia Historical Museum 12-2 p.m. It’s time to celebrate Arcadia’s peacocks! Learn how to make your own jewelry inspired by peacock feathers. 240 West Huntington Dr., Arcadia.

Barnyard Play Day: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 1 p.m. Make animal faces, play barnyard charades, read barnyard stories and have tasty treats. Children ages 4 and up. Space limited. $2 supply fee. (909) 599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Coin Collector: Lakeshore Learning Store - 3 p.m. Children can stash their coins in personalized banks covered in fun collage beads and shapes. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Seussical: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Seussical The Musical. See the Dr.Seuss books come to life in story and song. A free preview of Pasadena Junior Theatre's newest production starring local kids. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Family Storytelling: L.A. County Arboretum 2-3 p.m. Bring your family for a picnic lunch followed by a storytelling program. Event also held July 18. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Tuesday Afternoon Special: Monrovia Community Center 3 p.m. Storyteller Leslie Perry will perform "Big and Tall Trickster Tales" for audiences of all ages. 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Circus Night: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. Terrell and Takako, a husband-and-wife variety duo, perform as jugglers, magicians, mimes, unicyclists, and paperfolders for audiences of all ages throughout the world. Equally adept as stage, street, or strolling entertainers, this couple has delighted audiences in Canada, Japan, and the United States. Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

In the Dirt: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Join a gardening party. Plant a flower garden, make pressed flower book marks, play games, have a special storytime, and eat "buggy" treats. Ages 3 and up. Space is limited, call for reservations (909) 599-4558. $2 supply fee. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Pasadena Central Library 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. See Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006:PG-13:2 hours 30 minutes). Swashbuckling Captain Jack Sparrow, young Will Turner and headstrong beauty Elizabeth Swann. Once again, the trio returns to the realm of the supernatural as Jack tries to weasel his way out of a blood debt with the ghostly Davey Jones. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Dragon Party: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 1 p.m. Listen to stories, play dragon games, make your own dragon and enjoy tasty dragon treats. Ages 4 and up. Space is limited, so make reservations early (909) 599-4558. $2 supply fee. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Leslie Perry: Pasadena Central Library 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Leslie Perry tells "Big and Tall Trickster Tales" featuring bigger-than-life tales full of marvelous characters like Brer Rabbit, Anansi the Spider, Coyote and more. Also, at 1-2 p.m. at Allendale Branch, and 3-4 p.m. at La Pintoresca Branch. The Central Library is at 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Harry Potter Midnight Release: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 11:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Release party for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Magic Wayne will amaze you, your future from Professor Trelawney, Harry Potter trivia, make a potion at the Magic Potion Lab, come in costume or your favorite "stay up all night and read" outfit, treats, goodie bags (limited), and raffle prizes. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Puppet Pal: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children can put on all kinds of shows with their own hand-made puppet. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

Friday, July 13, 2007

Summer Night Walks: Descanso Gardens 7:15 p.m. Docent Jim Jackson will lead this evening tour of Descanso and share its history. Participants must be at least 12 years old and should wear sensible shoes, and bring a jacket and flashlight. Space is limited so early registration is recommended. Fees: $15 ($10 members.) Reservations requested. To register, call 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Parents Night Out: GymnastiKids 6-9 p.m. Gymnastics, movement games, pit games, arts & crafts and more! Ages 3 and up, cost $35.00, siblings $25.00. For more information or to sign up call 626-796-KIDS 2237 E. Colorado Blvd. B106, Pasadena.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Musical Pajama Party: Pasadena Conservatory of Music 7 p.m. Music and a bedtime story, a fun way for parent and child to welcome the sandman with one of the Pasadena Conservatory of Music’s most beloved teachers. This event is for parents and their infants and toddlers. To make a reservation for this event, call 626-683-3355. 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Family Art Days: Pacific Asia Museum 2-3 p.m. Designed as family activities, projects are best for ages 5 and up. Pre-registrations are encouraged, call 626-449-2742 ext 31. Workshop fees are $2 per participant in addition to the regular museum admission price: $7 general, $5 students/seniors. Children ages 11 and younger are admitted free to the museum 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Aug. 4, 2007

Nature Printing: Los Angeles County Arboretum 2 p.m. Take a stroll through The Arboretum gathering pieces of nature like leaves, seeds, and stems to print on a piece of clothing. Bring a colored T-shirt or piece of clothing and create your own nature design to print. Event costs $20 per family. In the event of rain, the program is cancelled. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007

Family Art Days: Pacific Asia Museum 2-3 p.m. Designed as family activities, projects are best for ages 5 and up. Pre-registrations are encouraged, call 626-449-2742 ext 31. Workshop fees are $2 per participant in addition to the regular museum admission price: $7 general, $5 students/seniors. Children ages 11 and younger are admitted free to the museum 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena.

Sunday, Aug. 12, 2007

Summer Family Basket: L.A. County Arboretum 2-4 p.m. Join us and learn a collaborative technique known variously as "community basket", "family basket" or "people basket". You will learn weaving and twining techniques, and will be using a plywood base, reed and whatever yarn you bring to the mix as well as grasses and recycled fibers, palm inflorescences and the surprises that people bring to the mix. Event costs $50. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

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

Best Books: Monrovia Public Library 3:30 p.m. The program will feature selections from favorite mysteries read aloud by a librarian. Snacks will be served. Children are invited to bring their own copies to follow along. The program will run on Mondays through July 30, 2007. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

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 meeting location and more information .

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.

Wonderful Wednesday Specials: South Pasadena Public Library 2 p.m. These programs, funded by the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library, are offered free to the public. The events will be held in the Library Community Room through August 8th. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Thursday

Pasadena Central Library 11 a.m. - noon. Professional storytellers will tell their tales in their own unique style on Thursdays July 12 through August 2. Thursdays Tales are especially suited for elementary school-age children and older. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

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

The "Best of the West" Film Festival: One Colorado 8:30 p.m. One Colorado's annual outdoors film festival features a line-up of the best films in the Western genre. Free seating is provided, and there will be dedicated space for those who bring their own chairs and blankets. Films start at 8:30 P.M. and run Friday and Saturday nights through July 28. Colorado Boulevard, between Union, Fair Oaks and DeLacey streets, Pasadena.

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.

Mystery Movies: Sit back, relax in the cool at a Pasadena library and watch a movie, including such films as Spy Kids 1, Spy Kids 2, Harriet the Spy, How to Eat Fried Worms and more. See library calendar for details. .

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.

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................

| Visit us online |

© Copyright 2007, KBN Publishing Inc., 332 N. Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................