July 20, 2007

Number 119

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

The Back Fence

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By Dorothy Reinhold
Guest Columnist

There comes a time in every mother's life when she must step up to the plate, eye the fastball her child is pitching her way, and swing fast and true.

I had a feeling my batting time was near, so I did what any respectable mom does these days: I clicked onto Amazon.com. Faster than you can say, "one-click shopping," I had The Care & Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls in my shopping cart and on its way to us.

It arrived and I put it away, thinking we might have a year or so until I actually needed it. Such are the delusions to which we moms fiercely cling. "No, my baby isn't growing up!" - a hopeful lie similar to the one I told myself when I blithely filled the candy bowl with festive Hershey's Kisses and set it on the kitchen counter. "My 5-year-old son won't touch those if I tell him not to!"

Wrong-o. What was I smokin'?

My daughter came home from school one day and promptly flopped down in the living room with a book. She was there for what must have been an hour before I popped my head in.

"Whatcha reading?" What, to my wondering eyes did appear, but "The Care & Keeping of You."

"Where'd you get that?" I asked. I might have kind of yelled it, but let's not get off track here and descend into an analysis of my parenting skills. It turns out she had seen the book in her friend's room, had asked to borrow it, and voila, was exercising her superior reading skills, of which I am ordinarily very proud, to devour this slim yet fascinating volume.

I put a blank look on my face (correction: I tried to wipe the supremely annoyed look off my face) and tried to calmly explain to her that parents want to be in charge of that information. Moms want to be the ones to give that book to their daughters when they think the daughter is ready to absorb the information, I said. Mothers really know best about the timing of books like that.

She stared at me. "But I'm already reading it. It's interesting!"

I knew when I was beat. "Well, now that you've started it, you might as well have your own copy. Why don't you give that copy back to your friend, and I'll bring out the copy I already have for you. I was going to give it to you anyway, just a bit later."

We sat down and paged through it a bit, looking at some of the chapters together. It was clear to me that she had already read into it deeply, so she was ready with some questions.

Some ideas she just wanted confirmation on: "But Mom, isn't that sort of really disgusting?" Some things she needed additional information on: "But how will we know when I need a bra?" And other things she just wanted practical or logistical clarification about - what sort of product you might use to take care of this or that need. All of her questions and comments were interesting to me, and I welcomed the chance to talk with her about them, and frankly, to put my spin on things.

That's really the thing, isn't it? As a mom, all you really want is a chance to present your case first and compellingly, whether it is a preschool chat about sharing and how to be a friend to others, or a pre-teen chat about developing bodies, which may eventually (and much later, I hope!) lead to a discussion about emerging sexuality and ultimately the attendant reproductive issues that spring from that.

How to pull off that conversation without embarrassing either side is another thing though. I highly recommend this particular book, but certainly there are other books in the same genre. A book delivers information honestly, straightforwardly, clearly, in an age-appropriate way and without embarrassment. It also allows your child to read at their own speed, absorbing at their own pace. If she comes to an "icky" chapter, you can tell your daughter to skip over anything she doesn't want to read right now and go back to it eventually once she's ready.

A book also helps you, as a parent, to realize that you can ease into this information, and you don't have to tell every single gory detail at the start. It gives girls (or boys) a chance to read in private, and then you can carve out time to talk about it with them at another time. That way your child can absorb and process it at her speed, not yours.

The book in question also introduces a lot of body care topics, offering commonsense advice on hair care, braces, acne, posture, nutrition, eating disorders, fitness and sleep. It's not all about periods and the pubic area. In fact, the period part is not the main focus of this book; it is presented in the context of total body care.

Let's face it, sometimes it is easier to take advice from a good book than from your mother. Stuff like, wash your face, don't listen to your iPod with the volume cranked up too loud, don't bother comparing yourself to the girls you see in magazines or on TV because they are airbrushed.

A book also can act as a catalyst for eventually talking about any number of potentially difficult issues - dating, sex, drug use, good and bad life choices - with your kids. And while you're talking, you can underscore the fact that your child can talk to you about anything, anytime and you will be happy to tell her what you know about it. I also liked that there's no sex talk in this book. That is left up to you. From a mother's perspective, it is nice to have a book geared from the 9- to 12-year age range that doesn't talk about sex.

Of course, there are other books out there. When I asked friends what books they recommended, they mentioned these other worthy titles: Ready, Set, Grow! A What's Happening to My Body? Book for Younger Girls by Lynda Madaras, who's also written several other books on this topic. This one is for girls 9-12, and moms praise it for being funny and reassuring (you may develop earlier or later than the average). It also has a Q&A in each chapter.

Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume. Today's moms remember it from their own youth, and author Blume apparently gets pre-teen body-angst just right. This is fiction, rather than a strictly informational book.

Keep Talking: A Mother-Daughter Guide to the Pre-Teen Years by Lynda Madison. This is one to read together, to keep you connected to your 10- to 14-year-old.

The Period Book, Updated Edition: Everything You Don't Want to Ask (But Need to Know) by Karen Gravelle. Moms praise it for its calm and thorough tone.

There are many other books, so browse around. This might be the time to either hit a brick-and-mortar store or the library, so you can see for yourself what is - and equally importantly, what isn't - included in each of these books. Whichever book you get, here's another bit of advice. When you give it to your daughter, call the mother of her best friend and tell that mom what you have done. I did this with my daughter's best friend's mother, and she was grateful for the heads up, and it gave us both a chance to lament the coming loss of innocence. I also ended up getting her a copy of the book to give to her own daughter when she thought the time was right.

She recently did give the book, and the best friend said to my daughter, "Guess what? I got a copy of that book, just like you have! Now I have my own copy to read!" Apparently, it's the talk of the playground each recess. As mothers, we can't stop progress. But at least they have the facts!

Dorothy Reinhold lives in Malibu with her husband and two children, who are growing up too fast. 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.

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.

Potter Release Party: Vromans Bookstore 10 p.m. Rock out to live music, enjoy the traditional art of storytelling, partake of enchanted fortune-telling, get your very own lightning bolt birthmark, do crafts, win prizes at our Harry Potter trivia booth. Enjoy light refreshments. Plus, be one of the first to get the final Potter book, which goes on sale at midnight. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

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.

Potter Release Party: Vromans Bookstore 9 a.m. Enjoy the Los Angeles Zoo's extra-special presentation with live animals; Rob Rasner will perform magic; test your Potter knowledge with our trivia game. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Animal Guys: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. Let The Animal Guys show you some of the exotic animals that populate our globe: from fox to porcupine, and alligator to cervel and woodchuck. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Children's Story Time: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Travel to the south of France and meet legendary artists Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin with children's author Susan Goldman Rubin. For children ages 4 through 10. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Learn to Cartoon: Santa Catalina Library 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Draw cartoons with the help of step-by-step instructions by Dave Boatman and Michael Garisek, professional caricaturists and cartoonists. Also, Lamanda Park Library from 3-4 p.m. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Vacation Bible School: Christ Church of Pasadena 9 a.m. to noon. A great way to kick off the summer with a deep sea storytelling theme. Free ages 3 - post 4th grade. Register online or at the door. 2750 E. New York Dr., Pasadena.

Get a Clue: Allendale Branch Library 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Was it Mrs. White in the billiard room? Or Colonel Mustard in the living room? Play the game of Clue or Jr. Clue with friends. Games will be supplied. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

The Sunflowers: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. The Sunflowers are Terri and Michael Taylor Fontaine, who have appeared on Broadway, network TV series, variety shows, and movies for television and on theater and variety stages in United States and in six foreign countries. Terri and Michael are the parents of two children, so it's only natural that they have gravitated to kid's music. Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Beethoven's Wig: Kidspace Museum 6 p.m. Beethoven's Wig, the brainchild of creator, lyricist, producer and lead vocalist Richard Perlmutter, Beethoven's Wig takes zany lyrics and sets them to the greatest hits of classical music. Tickets are $15 each. See website for details. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Mrs. Nelsons Bookstore 10 a.m. Jeff Kinney will share his novel, Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Diary portrays - in graphics and writing - the life of Greg, as he navigates middle school. Painfully funny and true to life. For ages 10 and up. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Danza Azteca: Monrovia Public Library 7 p.m. Danza Azteca will dance in traditional multi-hued headdresses and garb accompanied by live music played on traditional authentic wind and percussion instruments. For more information contact Youth Services Librarian Shawn Thrasher at 626-256-8254. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Make your own candy: Arcadia Historical Museum 12-2 p.m. Do you love sweets and want to learn how to make simple candy recipes? Come make your own candy creations and sample old-fashioned candies from days gone by. 240 West Huntington Dr., Arcadia.

Melissa: Kidspace Museum 2 p.m. This will be Melissa's second performance at Kidspace. Get ready to sing and dance to Melissa's upbeat children's songs. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Make a Mirror: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create a hang-anywhere collage mirror using craft materials like glitter, yarn and collage shapes. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Family Game Night: Vromans Bookstore 7 p.m. Come out and play with us! We have games galore and we are bringing out our favorites for some old-fashioned fun. Sit down to do your best in competition with your own family or join a table and play with others! 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Childrens Story Time: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Beat the heat while listening to tales about the beach in front of Gustave Courbet's Cliffs at Étretat, the Porte d'Aval, 1869, then make your own cool sunglasses. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Puppet Show: Monrovia Community Center 3 p.m. Puppeteer Richard Woloski will present "Who Framed the Big Bad Wolf?" 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia.

Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2007

Intimate Opera Company: Levitt Pavilion 7 p.m. The Intimate Opera Company introduces "Opera Stars of the Future" - talented young artists who will present popular opera highlights from Carmen, The Marriage of Figaro, The Mikado, Westside Story, and The Merry Widow, to name a few. Scenes will be presented with chamber orchestra, with narration introducing each selection. Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

Summer Musical: GATE Summer Theater Workshop 7 p.m. Original musical show, "It's a Helluva Town," written and directed by Ryan Scott Oliver and performed by students who attend his workshop. Five New York City-based musicals are cobbled together to create this piece, accompanied by live band. Performances also on Aug. 2 at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. $10 adults, $5 students and alumni. Woodrow Wilson Auditorium, Wilson IB Middle School, 300 S. Madre St., Pasadena.

Thursday, Aug. 2, 2007

Debi Derryberry: Kidspace Museum 6 p.m. Debi Derryberry, known as the voice of "Jimmy Neutron", will perform hits from her new award-winning CD, What a Way to Play. It is an eclectic blend of rock, country, blues, jazz and boogie woogie that the L.A. Daily News calls "impossible to resist." Tickets are $15 each. See web site for details. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Saturday, Aug. 4, 2007

Kindermusik: San Rafael Branch Library 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Kindermusik by Art of Music Studio. 1240 Nithsdale Road, Pasadena.

Chalk on the Walk: Kidspace Museum And August 5. See all that chalk can do with art and science projects. A two-day workshop for children ages 7 and older where they can watch street painters at work, and create their own chalk masterpiece. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Crowns: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create crowns fit for royalty. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Register Early

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.

Friday, Aug. 3, 2007

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens 7:15 p.m. The Gardens are a new world after dark. Trees seem closer together and leaves rustle along the path in the cool night breeze. The night life begins for Descanso's resident nocturnal animals and insects. 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. Reservations requested. To register, call (818) 949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge.

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.

Parent Night Out: GymnastiKids 6 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.

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. $50 per family. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007

Summer Family Garden Art Workshop: Los Angeles County Arboretum 2-4 p.m. Instructor Leigh Adams helps families create a lasting piece of garden art. We will use melted marbles, stained glass, pebbles and/or dishes and tiles to create a one of a kind outdoor art piece. Learn techniques you can use to create stepping stones, garden walks, picture frames. Bring eye protection and your favorite broken dishes, melted marbles, tiles. $50 per family. Register: 626-821-4623. 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

Monrovia Public Library: 3:30 p.m. Weekly program for elementary schoolers will feature selections from favorite mysteries read aloud by a librarian. Snacks will be served. Mondays through July 30. 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.

South Pasadena Public Library: 2 p.m. Wonderful Wednesday programs offered weekly in the Library Community Room through Aug. 8. 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.

Dino Days: FasTracKids Sponsoring the Kids Club at the Westfield Santa Anita Mall. This event will be held monthly on the first Thursday of each month beginning on August 2. Our first event will be "Dino Days" and it should be a thriller for all of the kids. .

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

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.

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.

Pasadena libraries: 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.

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