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November 23, 2007 |
Number 128 |
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Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley | |||||||||||||||
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The Back Fence |
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By Brad Haugaard,
Do you want to go to Disneyland? Yes! No! Basketball Signups Do you want to go out for an ice cream cone? Yes! No! Do you want to go to the beach? Yes! No! Do you want to go trick-or-treating? Yes! No! These are the responses my wife and I have come to expect from our two children. Now, Patti and I knew - on a theoretical level at least - that "each child has a different personality" and all that stuff, but, come on! Not wanting to go to Disneyland, get an ice cream cone or go to the beach? What's to disagree about? But, I'm afraid there is. We have the two opposites. Our daughter wants to go everywhere and do everything and be with people, people, people! Our son wants to stay in his room and read books, watch TV or play video games. And as for people? Well, a couple friends are enough; and seeing them once or twice a year is plenty. Sigh. How do you connect with someone for whom connecting seems to be a low priority? Well, I'm not sure I'm the best one to answer this. My fathering skills are flawed - as my children have pointed out - and then have pointed out again later just in case it has slipped my mind - but let me share four things that seem to have worked for me. 1. As I wrote once before, my son is a reader and so am I, so even though he is perfectly able to read to himself - and does - we try to read together just about every night. Actually, I should rephrase that: I read and he listens. And every time I finish a chapter he has to give me a hug. That's the payment. He sighs but pays off. I like books with short chapters. It's a good time together.
PEN 2. I heard him laughing uproariously one day as he was watching television. Since he is generally very subdued (I think laughing is undignified or something), that was very curious. I went into the family room to see what he was watching and it was - naturally - old reruns of I Love Lucy. Thank you Lucy! That prompted me to think, What other old shows might he like? So I ordered DVDs of Green Acres, Gilligan's Island, Hogan's Heros, McHale's Navy, and a few others, and struck gold. He and I have relived my childhood many times over - too many times over - thanks to those old videos. (And, yes, I guess I'm dating myself there.) 3. Now I advance this next idea with real fear since I think it needs to be done with real care - if at all. Over the years our son has been bullied at school and I believe bullying really needs to be reported, and I definitely do not want to add to it. But, he has also been kidded, and I began to get the feeling from things he said - when he said anything - that maybe he was lumping light-hearted kidding together with cruel words and bullying and was sometimes reacting angrily to kids who were just trying - in their own weird little masculine way - to be friendly. Anyway, I wanted him to know the difference between innocent joshing and cruel words, and to learn a bit of friendly verbal sparring, so I decided to try a bit of careful kidding. I even told him what I was doing and why I was doing it. Then I did it, and now when I do it and start to see him having trouble suppressing a smile (corners of mouth twitching up and covering his mouth with his hand) I know I'm on target and press forward until I get a nice - if embarrassed - smile, then gave him a big hug. 4. As I mentioned, the offer to take him somewhere is almost invariably declined, but I really feel every kid should grow up with some street-smarts; knowing how to get along in the big world and not just in school, so occasionally I'll give my son the choice of a couple outside-the-house activities. "Do I also have the choice to stay home?" he asks. "No," I say. "Pick one." So he reluctantly does and I drag him to the bookstore or whatever and give him some money and make him take the books to the counter and pay for them by himself, then I have him buy us lunch ("Can we just take it home?" he asks. "No, we're eating here."). And he's doing just fine, and I'm feeling a lot better about his ability to tackle the world on his own. On a completely different topic, in riding my bike around, I've noticed parents out exercising with all kinds of neat "babytech" devices: jogging strollers, baby backpacks, baby-bicycle trailers, in-your-ear cell phones that let you talk while holding a child, and it made me think that it might be a neat column to list some of the best of BabyTech (not just for exercise, but for anything child-related). Since my kids are way beyond that age, I thought some of you who have really little ones (or who are just through that stage) might share some of the best babytech gadgets you have used or seen. Send them to me at brad@theorangecat.org and I'll try to use some of them in an upcoming column. |
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, Nov. 23, 2007 Holiday Celebration: One Colorado 4- 9 p.m. Holiday festivities include performances, Santa's arrival, live reindeer, real snow and a tree-lighting ceremony. Kids can play in 30 tons of trucked-in snow on Holly Street between Raymond and Fair Oaks, see live reindeer, ride a holiday train, draw in a kids' art area and enjoy live music. At 6 p.m., Santa arrives to light the 35-foot Christmas tree in the One Colorado courtyard, accompanied by the Pasadena Tabernacle Children's Sotheby's International Realty chorus. Bring an unwrapped toy or book for the Charles Cherniss Tournament of Toys toy drive, which benefits children throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Children and adults who donate will receive a free photo with Santa. Information 626-546-1066. Colorado Boulevard, between Union, Fair Oaks and DeLacey streets, Pasadena. Saturday, Nov. 24, 2007 Window Art: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Let the sun shine in through window hangings that children make and decorate themselves. Ages 3 and older. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Turkey Tales: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. In the Storyhour Room. Storytime for preschoolers about Thanksgiving, families and food. No registration required. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena. Sunday, Nov. 25, 2007 Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2-3 p.m. Delight in tales about Thanksgiving as you construct a special hand turkey to adorn your holiday feast in front of Frans Snyders's 17th-century painting Still Life with Fruit and Vegetables. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Monday, Nov. 26, 2007 Book Club: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 4 p.m. At this meeting the Winter Book Club will discuss the children's mystery, "Chasing Vermeer," by Blue Balliett ($5.59 book club price). Call to reserve a space. 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2007 Harvest California: City of West Covina 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wild Wednesdays family fun after dark. For info, call (626) 375-0527. Galster Park, 1620 Aroma Drive, West Covina. Thursday, Nov. 29, 2007 Holiday Boutique: First Presbyterian Preschool of Monrovia 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Also Friday, Nov. 30 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 101 E. Foothill Blvd., Monrovia. Friday, Nov. 30, 2007 Out Of Thin Air: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 8 p.m. Magician Bradley Fields combines sleight-of-hand with mime and comedy in this family-oriented magic show. Tickets $25, $20 and $15; $10 youth. Senior rush tickets will go on sale for $10 beginning a half hour before the performance, subject to availability. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Saturday, Dec. 1, 2007 Holiday Gift Box: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids make a craft box to stash their favorite holiday wishes. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Charity Gift Wrap Party: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Help make this upcoming season special for local charities. Donate a book and Mrs. Nelson's will provide wrapping supplies and refreshments. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. 58 Tons of Snow: West Covina Civic Center Courtyard West Covina's Winterfest 2007 features arts and crafts, food booths, photos with Santa, and 58 tons of snow including a popular 80-foot sled run and two play areas. For more information call the West Covina Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina, CA 91793. Christmas Is: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 2 p.m. Annual holiday program is a tradition featuring the Citrus Singers, live orchestra and our entire music department. Additional performances at 2 p.m. on Dec. 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19, 22 and 23; and at 8 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 15. Tickets: $18 adults, $15 ages 16 and under. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Advertise for Christmas in The Orange Cat Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007 Winter Concert: Pasadena Presbyterian Church 7 p.m. Los Angeles Children's Chorus presents its annual winter concert, this year featuring the Los Angeles premiere of Chen Yi's, "The Cataract of Mount Lu." Yi's piece, which portrays the sounds of China's famous waterfall and will be sung in Chinese, is being presented in honor of LACC's tour to China in July 2008, prior to the Beijing Olympics. Also Sunday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2007 Tree Lighting: West Covina Community Services 6 p.m. 8 p.m. Refreshments, entertainment and photos with Santa at the West Covina Tree Lighting Ceremony. For more information call the Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430. 1200 Lakes Drive, West Covina, CA. Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 4 p.m. Listen to stories about living creatures with an ear for music and a talent for dance as you create your own melodious instrument in front of the three angel musician sculptures from the Pisan School, 14th century. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007 Rose Bowl Run: Pacific Sports 8 a.m. This inaugural event will be a half marathon road and trail run through the Arroyo Seco. A 5K distance run and kid's run will also be offered. Information: 714-978-1528 or email Kylee@PacificSportsLLC.com. Rose Bowl, Brookside Park, 360 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Snowflake Ornament: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children use craft materials to create holiday ornaments. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Breakfast with Santa: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 9 a.m. Parents and children younger than four are invited to join Santa for breakfast. There will be lots of elves as well. Space limited. Call 909-599-4558 for a reservation. (A $15 charge for each attendee over 3). There will be time after breakfast for kids to visit Santa and take photos. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Wild Secrets: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 2 p.m. Film on Adelie penguins, which are custom built to survive in extreme conditions and may face difficulties due to climate change. Jillian Dempsey of Caltech's Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering will introduce the film and guide the post-screening discussion. Recommended for ages six and up. $5. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Holiday Concert: Musical Circus 8:30 a.m. Program begins with musical petting zoo and continues with family-friendly holiday concert by the Occidental College Glee Club. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. The Christmas Box: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. What are the kids to do? Have the grown-ups forgotten Christmas? Help the Baker triplets (and some other familiar faces) figure out the secret of the Christmas Box! Tickets: $5. Weekday performances available for school groups December 4-7, suggested for grades K-6. Information: 626-963-9411. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Register Early Saturday, Dec. 1, 2007 Holiday Workshops: Paintbox Kids 10 a.m. Craft workshops will be held every Saturday in December for children 5 and up and their families to make candy houses, ornaments and gifts. Most workshops $10 per kid; $25 per family. Register online or call 626-808-0330. 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007 Children's Theater: Pasadena Playhouse 11 a.m. "Lights In The Sky" is a live theater production especially designed for young audiences. For additional performances, check website. $12 adults, $7 kids, ages 2 and under free. Tickets: 626-356-PLAY. 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. Friday, Dec. 14, 2007 Santas Lodge: Descanso Gardens 4:30 p.m. Children of all ages can sign up to enjoy a kid-friendly meal at Santa's Elves Buffet; write letters to Santa, make seasonal nature crafts and decorate a yummy gingerbread cookie; talk with Santa and listen to holiday stories; sing carols by lantern light on a holiday hayride through the Gardens. Sessions last approximately two hours. Choose one of three starting times on either Friday Dec. 14 or Saturday Dec. 15 at 4:30, 5:45 and 7 p.m. $45 adults, $35 kids 4-12; $20 kids three and under. Fee includes food, activities and supplies. Reservations are required, adults must accompany children throughout the event. Registration: 818-949-7980. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007 Holiday Origami: Huntington Library 9 to 11:30 a.m. Origami master Peggy Hasegawa gives traditional Japanese paper-folding a new twist with creative ideas for holiday gifts, decorations and ornaments. Ages 7 and up with accompanying adult. $25. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. Continuing Activities Sunday Rock Rose Art Gallery: Family drum circle is held 12:30-1:30 p.m. Donations requested. 4108 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park. L.A. County Arboretum: Arboretum Bookworms, for ages 3-8, meets on the third Sunday of every month from 2-3 p.m. Children explore the arboretum and its library, enjoy plant and nature tales and make and take crafts. Meet at the main entrance. Free with admission of $7 adults; $2.50 children 5-12; free children 4 and under. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Hill Avenue Branch Library: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. This Spanish playgroup meets every Sunday and provides Spanish literacy for Spanish-speaking children. 55 S. Hill Ave., Pasadena. Monday 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. Monrovia MOPS: Mothers of Preschoolers meet on the first and third Wednesdays monthly from 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Mothers of newborns through kindergarten aged children are welcome. Information: email mops@circlehead.com First Presbyterian Chuch of Monrovia, 101 E. Foothill Blvd., Monrovia. 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. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. The Coffee Gallery, 2029 N. Lake Ave, Altadena. 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 Glendora Support group for Glendora moms who are at-home full- or part-time. We meet for service projects, field trips, walking clubs, park days, MOMS Night Out, holiday parties, monthly member meetings. Fun, friendship and inexpensive ways to spend time with your children and other moms. Information: 626-294-3255. . 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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