September 14, 2007

Number 123

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

The Back Fence

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By Karen E. Klein

I'll never forget the looks of shock and dismay on the faces of our dear friends that day.

They were a very sweet young couple, newly married, who'd invited our family to dinner at their small, non-childproofed apartment. I had two energetic - to put it mildly - little preschoolers at the time and they didn't have much experience visiting households without other kids and all their accoutrements.

I scrubbed the boys clean, not a small task in those days, and lectured them on the drive over about how "restaurant rules" would apply for this event. That meant no throwing food, no running around, no going under the table, no yelling "yuck!" if they didn't like something on their plates. They also got reminded about using "inside voices" and saying "please" and "thank you."

Needless to say, my worst nightmare was that one of the boys would break something, the other would throw a hideous tantrum and both of them would reject some special dish our hosts had prepared "just for them." I'm sure our friends would have taken such a happening in stride, and probably with a good sense of humor, but as a young mom I was paranoid and always anxious to put our family's best foot forward. I'm sure none of you can relate!

Despite my fears, the nagging must have worked, because I recall the evening passing quite pleasantly and all of us having a good time. At the end of our meal, our hosts mentioned that they were thinking about trying for a family themselves fairly shortly.

"We really look forward to having long, peaceful, relaxing family dinners with our kids every night, just like you have with yours!" the wife said, beaming at the boys. My husband and I looked at each other and laughed. Then I confessed that this particular dinner had been rather ... atypical.

For years when the boys were little, dinnertime was always the most stressful event of our day. It started when they were newborns and the colic machine cranked up around 5 p.m. Even after the colic subsided, both my kids were always cranky, starving and generally out-of-sorts by the time my husband got home from work. By the time I got the food on the table, I was often in the same frame of mind myself.

Instead of long, peaceful and relaxing, dinnertime was more often short and stressful. Someone would inevitably spill their milk, someone else would cry about the "unfair" way the food was being proportioned and one of my unbelievably picky eaters would refuse to eat. I would typically resort to the old, "You can't leave the table/have dessert until you eat three bites of your (fill in hated veggie here)" and the power struggle would begin.

Sounds like fun, doesn't it? I described the brutal truth to our friends and their eyes sort of glazed over. I hope I didn't discourage them too much, but I thought honesty was important. I had completely unrealistic expectations for parenting and I think I would have coped better if my hopes had better matched reality.

Nevertheless, I do have to say that we stuck to the idea of having dinner together as a family and we still do it most weeknights. Obviously, it's gotten a lot easier over the years. Heck, these days it's actually pleasant! Here's a dirty little secret I'll share in the spirit of brutal honesty: Things got a lot better once we started watching a favorite TV show during the meal.

Yes, I know, you're supposed to have pleasant conversation during dinner, share the events of the day and banter over evening plans. That's well and good for some families, but it never worked for ours. By the time dinner rolled around, no one was in a "pleasant" mood, for starters. The boys always did their homework after school, and by dinnertime the last thing they wanted to talk about was what happened at school that day. If my husband and I tried to talk to each other, the boys got bored and inevitably started fighting.

But when we turned on syndicated reruns of "Malcolm in the Middle" and "The Simpsons" over dinner, things brightened up considerably. We laughed together and discussed other episodes we'd enjoyed. We chatted about the characters we liked and disliked. The kids were having so much fun, they forgot about the power struggles and choked down whatever amount of broccoli I asked them to. We muted the volume and yakked during commercials. It sounds crass, and I'm sure this isn't an optimal practice, but it made our family dinnertimes a whole lot better. And, it goes along with my "you gotta go with what works" parenting philosophy.

I bring all this up because I learned recently that September 24 is "Family Day," a day when families across the nation make a point to eat dinner with their children. This event is the brainchild of The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, which sponsored a study a few years ago that showed the more often children and teens eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs.

Here are their recommendations for family dinners: Start the pattern of family dinners when your children are young. At the start of each week, identify several nights when the entire family can eat together and try to stick to the schedule. Turn off the TV and let your answering machine answer any calls during dinner. (Oh well ...). Talk over dinner about what happened in everyone's day. Make sure everyone gets a chance to speak. Eat dessert or play a board game after dinner to continue the conversation.

My kids tell me that most of their friends never eat dinner with their families. Everyone sort of grabs whatever's available in the kitchen when they get hungry and repairs to their own corner - someone takes a plate to the living room to watch TV, dad heads for his office, mom eats while talking on the phone, someone else wolfs down a sandwich in front of the computer. That's kind of shocking - and sad, I think. It's a good thing to eat a communal meal and get everyone involved in cooking, setting up or cleaning up. Even if the television is on, at least everyone's gathered together around the table for a few minutes, sharing an experience, once a day.

It doesn't surprise me to learn that families who eat together are more successful. Along with less addiction, kids who eat dinner with their parents also are less likely to be obese or overweight. The importance of parental influence on kids is hard to overstate, so spend as much time with your kids as possible. As long as everyone's going to eat dinner at some point during the evening, why not do it together? Even if it's take out, or going out, involve your kids. You'll be glad you did - even if you have to turn on the television.

News you can use: I was stymied a few months back when I wanted to jettison some obsolete computer equipment and couldn't find a way to dispose of it properly. Our trash company wouldn't take it and electronic waste recycling days happen only infrequently and involve loading up the equipment and driving it to a remote location. However, I learned that Mission Recycling in Pomona accepts all electronic waste, for free, six days a week. You still have to take it there, but you can do it at your convenience. Or you can also investigate donating the equipment, if it's usable, to a charitable group. But make sure you purge any information that would pose a security concern - such as your bank accounts or credit card numbers.

Why bother saving for college when your kids are only in preschool? According to the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, two-thirds of the class of 2007 will leave college in the red, with debt averaging about $19,000. However, the survey goes on to say that it's not uncommon for some students to end up owing as much as $35,000 or more; so much that they won't be able to take the jobs they want, or they'll put off going to graduate school.

If you can help your kids pay for college by putting a little away every month over several years, you can help them avoid many tough years as they dig out of debt while trying to launch their careers.

Speaking of preschool, Orange Cat mom Grace wants recommendations for preschools in South Pasadena. Her 3-year-old is on three waiting lists and she needs help! If you have any suggestions, I'll pass them along. Send them to 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.

Saturday, Sept. 15, 2007

Family Day: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Discover what makes an art gallery eye-catching, from the color of the walls to the frames around the paintings, as you construct your own mini-version complete with miniature masterpieces from the museum's collections. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Crazy Collage: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create a one-of-a-kind collage-using buttons, stickers, macaroni and other craft materials. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Beautiful Days: Santa Catalina Library 2 p.m. Busy moms. Is the weekend your finish line? Switch from survival to satisfaction every day. Join Marianne Jeff for a workshop on how to enrich your lives one day at a time, in Seven Steps to Seven Beautiful Days. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Author Event: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 11 a.m. Bring the kids to meet Barney Saltzberg, the author of Cornelius P. Mudd, Are You Ready for School? He will read from his latest story and autograph books. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Sunday, Sept. 16, 2007

African Treasures: L.A. County Arboretum 2-3 p.m. Bring your family for a picnic lunch followed by a storytelling program. Event also held Sept. 19. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Roald Dahl Birthday Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 1 p.m. Roald Dahl would be 91 this year. Though he passed away 17 years ago his quirky children's books continue to be among the most requested in book stores and libraries. Celebrate with games, cake, and take-home goodies. $5 activity fee. Ages 7 and up. Call (909)-599-4558 to reserve space. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2007

Aaaarg! Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. Join Cap'n Margo to celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day. We be learning pirate vocabulary, singing pirate songs, hearing a pirate tale or two, eating pirate grub, and making a treasure chest to store our booty. Space be limited. Call (909)599-4558 to reserve a spot. Activity fee $6. Ages 3 and older. Costumes welcome. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Thursday, Sept. 20, 2007

Read for The Record: FasTracKids 1:30 p.m. Help try to set a record for the most people reading the same book on one day by participating in an international event that will increase awareness of the education gap that exists between income levels. We will challenge the record set on a single day in August 2006, when 150,000 people read the same book across the country. Reading at 1:30 p.m. features Dr. Louise Taylor, superintendent Monrovia School District; 2:30 p.m., Mayor Mickey Segal of Arcadia; 4 p.m. Darlene Bradley, Arcadia children's librarian. 1010 South Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Saturday, Sept. 22, 2007

Fall Celebration: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Leaves are falling and the weather is a bit cooler. Celebrate the beginning of Fall with seasonal stories, and by making a leafy craft and enjoying a delicious snack. Call (909) 599-4558 to reserve space. $5 supply fee. Ages 3 and up. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Magic Wand: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Abracadabra! Kids use beads, yarn and more to create a wand that's perfect for magical merriment! 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Movie Promotion: The Little Gym 3-6 p.m. The Little Gyms of La Canada/La Crescenta and Monrovia/Arcadia are holding an open house to promote the new Walt Disney movie, Enchanted. Activities available for children from ages 4 months to 12 years. 2196A Foothill Blvd., La Canada and 925 W. Foothill Blvd., Monrovia.

Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007

Once Upon a Time: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Journey to 17th-century India and relive the legend surrounding the building of the magnificent white tomb that memorializes the love of a Mughal emperor and his wife. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Knuffle Bunny: Kidspace Museum 10 a.m. Author-illustrator Mo Willems, famous for his Pigeon series and titles such as Knuffle Bunny and Edwina, celebrates the release of Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity. At 10 a.m. in the Celebration Center see the animated short, Knuffle Bunny. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Monday, Sept. 24, 2007

Sisters Grim: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 3:30 p.m. Michael Buckley will present the latest in the Sisters Grimm series, Once Upon A Crime. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Saturday, Sept. 29, 2007

Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Jon Scieszka & Lane Smith, the pair behind The Stinky Cheese Man, have collaborated again with Cowboy and Octopus, a picture book told in hilarious mini-episodes and illustrated in colorful vintage-style cut-outs. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Ocean Menagerie: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create an undersea centerpiece using materials such as seashells, beads and sequins. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Health Fair: Kidspace Museum 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. At the Children's Heath Fair see what can happen to our bodies if we don't exercise, eat right, or take care of ourselves. Learn to live healthier and have fun at the fat belt relay race with Hoppy the Grasshopper, design "Get Well" cards for sick children at the Los Angeles Children's Hospital, and more. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Search 'n' Social: Sierra Madre Public Library 12-4 p.m. Search and Rescue Team will conduct a series of mock rescues and medical demonstrations on the front grounds. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Register Early

Friday, Sept. 14, 2007

Night Walk: Descanso Gardens 7:15 p.m. The night life begins for Descanso’s resident nocturnal animals and insects and the sun goes down. Participants must be at least 12 years old, 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, Sept. 15, 2007

Artistic Adventures: La Canada Community Center Children ages 6-12 will learn a range of drawing techniques using a variety of media such as colored pencils, crayons, pastels, watercolors and three-dimensional interactive art. Participants will have take home art projects. Programs available for ages 6-8 and 9-12 during fall session, Sept.15-Oct. 27. $120, includes materials. Register online, in person or by calling 818-790-4353. 4469 Chevy Chase Dr., La Canada.

Back-to-School Lunches & Super Smoothies Huntington Library 11:30 a.m. Join chef Lisa Fontanesi for a family cooking workshop and pick up ideas for lunches and breakfast smoothies. Ages 7 and up, with an accompanying adult. $30. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Monday, Sept. 17, 2007

Dance and Music Classes Local recreation centers Miss Claire offers dance and music classes for children ages 2 to 7 as well as classes for toddlers ages 1 to 2. Fall sessions begin the week of September 17. Registration online or call 626-403-3828. San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena, Sierra Madre.

Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007

Family Fun Day: Pasadena Museum of History 1-4 p.m. Celebrate the San Gabriel Valley's business history. Take a tour of the historical businesses around town. Reservations suggested, 626-577-1660, ext. 10. 470 W. Walnut St., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2007

MOPS Lake Avenue Church 9-11 a.m. Moms in the San Gabriel Valley connect through Mothers of Preschoolers, which meets on the second and fourth Tuesday or Wednesday of every month. $50 for mom, $25 for the first child, $15 for the second child, $10 for the third child. Contact mopsinfo@lakeaveorg or 626-817-4552 to register. 393 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007

FasTrack Signing classes FasTracKids FasTracKidsis offering FasTrack Signing classes for parents with babies and toddlers (up to 24 months). A new session 10 week session will begin on September 27 and September 29. Seating is limited. For more Information, call FasTracKids at 626-254-8500, or e-mail busybeeindustries@yahoo.com. 1010 South Baldwin Ave.

Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007

Drawing Carnivorous Plants Huntington Library 9-11 a.m. Take a close-up look at the strange and wonderful world of carnivorous plants in this botanical art workshop. Children can sharpen their drawing skills while investigating the mysterious habits of carnivorous plants. Ages 7 and up, with accompanying adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007

Carnivorous Sculptures Huntington Library 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about how carnivorous plants evolved into meat eaters with some hands-on activities. Sculpt your own carnivore from clay and other materials. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Getting a Step Ahead for College South Pasadena Public Library 2-3 p.m. Getting a Step Ahead for College will be offered for high school students, with goals being improving college essays and interviews. To register, call (626) 403-7358. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007

Eastern Thunder and Wind Shumei Hall 12:10 p.m. The Shumei Arts Council of America will present a special children’s musical performance titled "Eastern Thunder & Wind", featuring world-renowned Shakuhachi player and Taiko drummer, Marco Lienhard. Admission is free. Reservations are required. Call 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Avd., Pasadena.

Continuing Activities

Sunday

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

L.A. County Arboretum: Arboretum Bookworms, for ages 3-8, meets on the third Sunday of every month from 2-3 p.m. Children explore the arboretum and its library, enjoy plant and nature tales and make and take crafts. Meet at the main entrance. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena.

Monday

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. Information: email momsclubofsierramadre@yahoo.com. Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

MOMS Club of Altadena: Support group and great network for stay-at-home moms in Altadena. Meets second Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. for speakers and activities. Offers weekly playgroups, monthly outings, MOMS Night Out, fitness group, book club, holiday parties, and more. (626) 844-7916 or altadenamomsclub@yahoo.com for more info. .

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

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 Kids Club is held on the first Thursday of each month. Westfield Santa Anita mall, Arcadia.

Mothers and More Pasadena: Mothers & More is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. We address mothers' needs as individuals and promote the value of all the work mothers do. We meet at 7:30 p.m. on the First and Third Thursday of the month in the community room at Wild Oats Market. 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 Family Festival: 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 films and storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require 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 below the 210 freeway. 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.

Stroller Strides: A total fitness program that new moms can do with their babies. Meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. with specially trained instructor. Routine includes power walking and intervals of body toning using exercise tubing and the stroller. Recreation Park, 500 S. Shamrock Ave., Monrovia.

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. Locations in Monrovia, 626-301-0100, and La Canada, 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. .

MOMS Club of South Pasadena: Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving , South Pasadena, San Marino Alhambra & north San Gabriel. For more information please e-mail: southpasmoms@gmail.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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