|
||||||
|
March 14, 2008 |
Number 135 |
|||||
|
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ |
||||||
| The Orange Cat | |||||||||||||||
|
Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley | |||||||||||||||
|
The Back Fence |
Upcoming Events |
Our Sponsors |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
................................................... |
........................................................................................................ |
..................................................... |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
By Karen E. Klein At any given moment, on any given weekend, I may find that my office computer has been commandeered by a 17-year-old boy who absolutely must - right now! - check his MySpace page. My This Space Available dining room table may have been transformed into a Texas Hold 'Em tournament locale. My living room television may have been hijacked by four or five guys clanking and tapping their way through a tune on "Rock Band" or "Guitar Hero." This is what happens when your house becomes the hangout for your teenaged kids and their friends. And while it means that my once-tranquil, neat home often turns loud and messy, I wouldn't have it any other way. The boys do occasionally go to their friends' houses, see a movie or get invited to parties. But our house seems to be the default for impromptu get-togethers. "Ya doin' anything? Wanna come over?" The invite goes out via cell phone or instant message, and within moments our place is inundated. Even though my husband and I sometimes have to retreat to our room to watch TV, or escape altogether for a quiet dinner out, we're okay with it. Better to have our boys here, where we can keep an eye on what they're up to and who they're associating with, than have them disappear to who-knows-where to do who-knows-what. What's interesting to me is that many of our kids' friends have parents who reportedly work exorbitant hours, travel extensively and are rarely at home. The boys could undoubtedly congregate at their houses free of parental oversight any time. And yet, they seem to like being here - even though I'm on the premises working most days after they get home from school, and we're usually home on weekend afternoons, too. (We really do need to get out more!) We don’t intrude on our kids' activities, but we do form a benign backdrop to their socializing and I've been known to bake cookies for the hordes from time to time. I even mended a shirt for a boy who said his mother couldn't sew. PEN I thought about it one day and - though I may be crazy - I had to conclude that maybe these guys prefer having some grownups around. Although they'd probably never admit it, maybe they feel more secure having an adult presence in the background. This whole issue of how much supervision kids need - and sometimes want - was the subject of a Frontline documentary recently called "Growing Up Online." The show included some scary elements - including a young girl who found advice and encouragement for her secret anorexic disorder on the Internet - but overall it wasn't alarmist, as so many presentations about teenagers can be. The kids who get in trouble online tend to be kids who go looking for trouble, and probably have a history of getting in trouble offline, the program's producers concluded. The vast majority of the teens they interviewed had good commonsense notions about boundaries and about avoiding predators who might try to connect with them on the web. And while they did recommend that computers should be kept in common areas - something I've always believed - they also reassured viewers that computers aren't inherently dangerous and can be reasonably monitored by concerned parents. There's actually more peril to kids from an older, better-known technology, according to a recent New York Times article headlined "A One-Eyed Invader in the Bedroom." The article estimates that half of American children have a television in their bedroom. One study they cited showed that 70 percent of third-graders had their own TVs. But the bad news is that "a growing body of research shows strong associations between TV in the bedroom and numerous health and educational problems," the story says. Name an unfortunate outcome for your child, and chances are it's associated with having a bedroom TV. Children with bedroom TVs score lower on school tests, read less, are more likely to have sleep problems and are more likely to be overweight and at higher risk for smoking. It goes without saying that kids with TVs in their rooms watch far more television - up to nine additional hours a week - than those who don't. And, of course, parents' ability to monitor what their kids are watching goes out the window once the "invader" is installed - typically never to be removed. (If you've ever had to fight to take away some established privilege from your child, you'll know what I mean by that last bit.) So, my advice for those of you with adolescents or soon-to-be adolescents: Get used to some close quarters. Put the TV in the family room, and the computers in the kitchen or den. Forget the notion of peace, quiet and privacy for a few years, and resign yourself to the fact that you're going to have kids - and maybe their friends too - underfoot. Watch TV together as a family, learn to rock out with Guitar Hero and plan on ceding your computer once in a while. It won't be long until they head off for college. Really. After my last column, about feuding divorced parents, long-time Friend of The Orange Cat, Susan, wrote me about another perspective. It's a blog called The Doughtie Houses Exchange, and subtitled, "A mom and a stepmom share stories, ideas, friendship and family." Susan called the blog fun and insightful reading for divorced and non-divorced parents. "They do an excellent job of showing what can happen when the step moms become a team," Susan wrote. How great to have a positive alternative! Thanks, Susan. Well, my household is on pins-and-needles these days, awaiting letters from college admissions departments, and I know many of you are checking the mailbox, too - for letters from colleges, private schools and (yes) even preschools! Let's all try to stay calm. My newly-employed older son is channeling some Zen techniques and refusing to sweat the small stuff. If only his silly parents could follow his calm and mature example. Maybe some day! Good luck, all. Karen@theorangecat.org. |
Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat. Friday, March 14, 2008 Vision and Learning: Alhambra Public Library 10:30 a.m. Dr. Karen Chao will speak about identifying and seeking assistance for visual problems in children. 80% of learning is dependent upon vision, and one out of four children may have an undiagnosed vision problem. Information: Nancy Hoven, 626-570-5079, ext5616, or email nancyh@alhambralibrary.org. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra. The Green Brick Road: Pasadena Central Library 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. A Storybook Theatre performance by a nationally renowned "Judy Garland as Dorothy" impressionist, re-enacting scenes from The Wizard of Oz. Photo ops and lollipops from Munchkinland, too! Part of Pasadena ArtNight. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena. This Space Available Soon! ArtNight Pasadena: OldTown Pasadena 6-10 p.m. Cultural and educational venues in Pasadena open to the public with shuttle service, special programs, a bike route and restaurants participating. See website for details. Pasadena. Saturday, March 15, 2008 Kid’s Craft Day: Tree of Life Center 10 a.m. - noon. Crafts that appeal to children of all faiths and those who are not religious. Puppet show and songs by Penelope Torribio. Healthful snacks and at least three responsible adults present. Parents welcome to attend and meet other local children and adults. $4. Ages 5-12. Contact Marcielle Brandler: marcielle@verizon.net, 626-355-0745, or 626-355-3802. 26 N. Oak Ave. Pasadena, CA 91107. Celtic Adventures: Arcadia Public Library 3:30 p.m. Come celebrate the wearin’ of the green with professional storyteller Rebecca Martin who will introduce you to giants, fairies, and brave heroes from the Highlands of Scotland and the Hills of Ireland. Ages 5 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Egg-Celebration: West Covina Civic Center 9 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Craft fair, egg hunts, crafts, food, entertainment, photos with the Easter Bunny, and more. Egg Hunt Schedule: 11 a.m. - 2 to 3 year olds, 11:30 a.m. - 4 to 5 year olds, noon - 6 to 7 year olds, 12:30 p.m. - 8 years and older. Bring your own basket. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina. Lucky Rainbow Mobile: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create a colorful mobile to brighten up their room. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Shin Dance: Pasadena Civic Auditorium 8:30 a.m. This program begins with a musical "petting zoo" of orchestra instruments followed by a performance especially for music lovers ages 2 to 10. This year features host Greggy Dee. Sponsored by the Pasadena Symphony Association. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. St. Paddy Party: Monrovia Public Library 2 p.m. Celebrate the wearin’ o’ the green with librarian Annette Simpson presenting an hour of leprechaun and Irish stories, songs, games, crafts and snacks. K-5th grade. Santa Anita Family YMCA, 501 S. Mountain Ave, Monrovia.. BodyWise: Caltech's Baxter Hall 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. A one-day conference for middle school girls (grades 6-8) and the adults who care about them. Our goal is to help girls develop a positive body image and a healthy, fit lifestyle. Hear inspirational keynote speaker Jessica Weiner, the "Queen of Self Esteem," participate in interactive workshops, and explore the live exhibits. Breakfast and lunch included in the $5 registration fee. 320 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Firefighter Day: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 11 a.m. A special storytime will be provided by the La Verne Fire Department. Join us as some real-life heroes read stories and talk to the kids about fire safety. (Parents please note that firefighters are on duty and event may be cancelled in an emergency.) 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Pasadena Area Kitchen and Bath Remodeling St. Patricks Day Party Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Wear green and bring the Luck of the Irish to our St. Patrick Day's storytime celebration with Cleary Irish Dance school. Come share stories, dancing, treats & fun. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Paper Magic: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. See how imaginative you can be with a simple sheet of paper. Participants will learn the methods and techniques of the ancient art known as origami as they create a three-dimensional still life inspired by art. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Rapunzel: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. The coming-of-age tale of the girl traded away and raised in an enchanted tower is told through comedy, song, powerful language and delightful characterizations. $6. Recommended for K-6th grade. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Sunday, March 16, 2008 Swap Meet: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. A swap meet for kids. Children can sign up for a table and peddle their wares, whether they be home-made friendship bracelets, cookie recipes, face painting or any other talent or treasure. This is also a chance to recycle gently used toys and clothes that kids have outgrown by passing them on. Kids will learn the value of money as they "buy" and "sell" using Kidspace currency while parents learn about "saving for college" at a 2 p.m. seminar. Also, there will be a balloon artist and performance by the Lineage Dance Company at noon in the Stone Hollow Amphitheater. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Little Women: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 2 p.m. Fresh from Broadway and now touring the country, Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women follows the adventures of Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March as they grow up in Civil War America and cope with issues as timeless and relevant today as when they were written. $32. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora. Monday, March 17, 2008 Luck o'the Irish: Santa Catalina Library 2:30 p.m. Games of chance, fun and nonsense. Refreshments will be a part of this early spring fling. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Saint Patrick's Day: Lamanda Park Branch Library 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Fun and stories in celebration of Saint Patrick's Day. 140 S. Altadena Dr., Pasadena. Tuesday, March 18, 2008 Trivia Champ: Glendora Public Library 7 p.m. Record-breaking Jeopardy! winner Ken Jennings will emcee a trivia night and talk about his new book. Information: 626-852-4891. Glendora Library & Cultural Center, 140 S. Glendora Ave., Glendora. Persian New Year: Pacific Asia Museum 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Participate in the celebrations for the start of the Persian New Year, Norooz." Authentic Persian refreshments, entertainment, music, art and educational presentations. Free with admission. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. Wednesday, March 19, 2008 Trivia Champ: Altadena Library 1 p.m. Record-breaking Jeopardy! winner Ken Jennings will emcee a trivia night and talk about his new book. Information: 626-798-0833. 600 E. Mariposa St, Altadena. Easter Storytime: Allendale Branch Library 10:30 a.m. Dance the Bunny Hop and celebrate Easter. We will be reading egg-cellent stories and creating egg-straordinary crafts. Also on March 20 at 10:30 a.m. 1130 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena. Dutch Family Storytime: Santa Catalina Library 4 p.m. Enjoy Dutch stories, songs, and friends. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Firefighter Day: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Mike Lupica, sports columnist and author of Travel Team, Heat, Miracle on 49th Street and Summer Ball, will be signing his new novel, The Big Field. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Saturday, March 22, 2008 Easter Weekend: Descanso Gardens 9:30 a.m. Children’s egg hunts on Saturday, baby animals on Sunday and delicious brunches both days. Egg hunts take place Saturday only, every 45 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be surprises, photo opportunities and the Easter bunny. Reservation times are taken on a first-come, first served basis, beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing until all times are sold out. The demand is high and baskets sell out quickly so families should reserve a time as early as possible. Cost is $4 per child. Family brunch will be served in four seatings in Descanso’s Rose Pavilion; $45 adults, $15 children 4-10; free kids 3 and under. Brunch reservations must be made in advance: Patina, 818-790-3663. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge. Barks & Books: Altadena Public Library 11 a.m. Children ages 5-12 are invited to read animal related short stories of their choice to a loveable dog from the Pasadena Humane Society’s Companion Animal Program. Main library community room, 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. World Water Day: Pasadena Water and Power 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. World Water Day raises awareness about world water supply challenges and promotes water conservation. Learn more about these issues at a celebration that includes performances of "The Water Pirates of Neverland" by The National Theatre for Children, live entertainment, free water conservation activity books and more. Garfield Promenade at Paseo Colorado, Pasadena. Egg-cellent Stories: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. A special storytime for preschoolers with stories, songs, fingerplays, flannelboard stories, and a short video. For ages 3-5 and their families. No registration required. In the library Storyhour Room. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena. Easter Basket: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children's imaginations get hopping as they create a charming goodie basket. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Sunday, March 23, 2008 Easter Weekend: Descanso Gardens 9 a.m. Spring farm animal display will feature baby goats, sheep, bunnies, chickens and ducks. Family brunch will be served in four seatings in Descanso’s Rose Pavilion; $45 adults, $15 children 4-10; free kids 3 and under. Brunch reservations must be made in advance: Patina, 818-790-3663. 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge. Thursday, March 27, 2008 Family Sing Along: Monrovia Public Library 3:45 p.m. Gigi and Mike’s Family Folk Sing-Along & Hootenanny features Gigi Johnson and Mike Salas. They present stories of times gone by, humor, interesting musical instruments and more. Bradoaks Elementary School, Monrovia. TheatreWorks: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 10 a.m. Generations of children have grown up with A.A. Milne's stories about Christopher Robin and his toy animals. Now, all the heart, wisdom and fun of the classic tales come to life in this Two Beans Productions' musical of Winnie the Pooh. Pre-K through third graders. Tickets: 800-497-5007. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Friday, March 28, 2008 Fun Flick Friday: Altadena Public Library 3:30 p.m. Join us for a special screening of Bee Movie, rated PG. Main library community room, 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. Saturday, March 29, 2008 Shake a Tail Feather: Arcadia Public Library 2:30 p.m. Get your dancing shoes on and join us for an afternoon of groovy stories, a dancing character craft and songs about dance. Ages 5 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Tambourine: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Little ones can make all sorts of fun rhythms with a fun tambourine they create themselves. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Animal Magic: Rosemead Library 11:30 a.m. An amazing show full of comedy magic and exotic pets. 8800 Valley Blvd., Rosemead. Register Early Saturday, March 15, 2008 Parents Night Out: GymnastiKids 6-9 p.m. Need a night out?? Drop your child off for three hours of gymnastics fun and fitness. No experience necessary, ages 3 & above. $35 per child; $25 for siblings. Reservations: 626-796-5437. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd. B106, Pasadena. Wednesday, March 19, 2008 Monrovia Idol: Monrovia Public Library 7 p.m. Second annual teen talent competition is open to participants in 5th through 12 grades. Register: Denise Neujahr, 626-256-8274. Talents may include singing, dancing, reciting poetry, playing a musical instrument, performing a stand-up comedy routine, or performing a short skit. Solos, duets and group performances (of no more than four) are all welcome. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finalists. Family and friends are welcome to come and cheer their favorite participant. Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia. Saturday, March 29, 2008 Robot Workshop: Paintbox Kids 10:30 a.m. Create robots with recycled materials and creative thinking in this parent/child workshop open to all ages. $25. Registration: 626-808-0330 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Saturday, April 5, 2008 Garden Sprouts: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden We will be spending our days planting and tending our garden. After planting flowers and vegetables, we will learn about what makes your garden grow, have fun making garden crafts, and finally enjoying the food we grow. Class meets first and third Saturdays beginning in April at the Old Ranch Road entrance to The Arboretum off of Colorado Boulevard. Ages 5-8. $30 per quarter or $12 per session. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. The Tweaksters: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 2 p.m. The Tweaksters use their athletic prowess and imagination to manipulate flower pots, luminescent ropes, galvanized pipes, and more to create such effects as pingpong air raids and glow-in-the-dark illusions. Tickets to this performance are priced at $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. Tickets can be purchased at 626-395-4652. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Saturday, April 19, 2008 Royal Tea Party: South Pasadena Public Library 3 p.m. How do you become a Rose Queen or Princess? What kind of training does the Royal Court receive? Where do princesses get their pretty dresses? And what are the Rose Queen’s and Princesses’ favorite books? Children are invited to ask the Tournament of Roses Queen and Court at this event. Reservations required; tickets available in library children's room. Library community room, 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena. Click on the Continuing Activities headline directly above, or here, to see more fun children's activities. Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org. |
|
|
........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... |
|||
|
| Visit us online | |
© Copyright 2008, KBN Publishing Inc., 332 N. Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016 |
||
|
........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... |
|||