What's Up For Kids, October 2015 by Alessandra Media Group LLC

W HAT ’S UP FOR KIDS OCTOBER 2015

ON DAD’S WATCH

THE ORGANIZED FAMILY

FAMILY FRIENDLY TRAVEL

Connecting Parents With Resources www.WhatsUpForKids.com

Letter from the publisher Until we meet again...

Wow, I’m doing the happy celebration dance. This issue completes 20 years of What’s Up For Kids! I cannot believe it. I started the magazine when Ana was 2 ½ and Lyn was a baby. Chris wasn’t even a sparkle in my eye yet. I started with the newsletter and delivered them with my kids in tow. As they grew up, so did the magazine. We’ve published over 200 issues! We’ve produced 18 years of kids expos and my kids have “worked” at many of them. Cindy has been with me since nearly the beginning and I couldn’t produce this magazine without her! With all that said, it’s time. Time for me to retire from What’s Up For Kids. My kids are now 23, 21 and 19! My husband and I are empty nesters. I’ve taken on exciting new endeavors including writing a book, speaking on stages nationally, traveling and I’ve launched the #YESICAN Movement– you can check it out and read all about it at www.YesICanWomen.com. This may possibly be the very last issue. But maybe not! I have a few moms who are interested in serving you as the new owner and publisher, but with 20 years of What’s Up For Kids being the go-to resource, I’m not going to let just anyone serve you. They need to be the right fit! So, goodbye for now. Thanks for the many years of reading and supporting What’s Up For Kids! I’m still here in the South Bay and hope to run into you and your family!

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I have very mixed feelings as I write this. It is hard to be anything but thankful for the past 20 years working for, and with, Cathy Alessandra. We have shared many laughs and good times while brainstorming how to improve and serve our readers and advertisers. At the same time, we have watched each other’s children grow up. When I started with What’s Up For Kids my firstborn was less than a year old, she is now almost 21. This job allowed me complete flexibility to volunteer at her school and with other programs she and her younger sister were involved with. When I tell people I that I work for What’s Up For Kids, I always hear what a great source of information we are for parents both with our magazine and our annual Expo. I feel so fortunate to work with the owners of so many unique and wonderful camps, classes, and family-orientated South Bay businesses as they get the word out about their programs. Bringing families and resources together has always been our mission, and I am hopeful that one way or another, what Cathy has created will continue. Cindy

Cathy, Cindy and kids circa 1997

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In This Issue 8

The Organized Family Jump Start The Holidays?

14 Family Friendly Travel You Should Do Peru! 18 Parent’s Corner Be Kind, Dammit! 20 When Clothing Hurts Choosing Clothes For Sensory Sensitive Kids 22 On Dad’s Watch Veal Parmigiana 24 From The Artbox Everyone Is An Artist 26 Mommy & Me Joining A Class With Your Little One 28 Calendar Find all the latest things to do around town! As events change be sure to call ahead!

COVER PHOTO AND STYLING COURTESY OF

Stylist: Christie Richards Photo: Cynthia Olkie, Fleur De Lis Photo www.fleurphoto.com

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The Organized Family Jump Start The Holidays? I know, I know… but it’s not too early to plan for the holidays. By gradually easing into them, you will be better prepared and less stressed! Here are a few ideas to ponder while you get over the fact that I am discussing this in October.

1. Lists DO work! In a notebook or folder in your computer, list friends and

family members you routinely buy gifts for. Then add 1 or 2 possible gift ideas. As you purchase a gift… cross it off your list. Keep this information accessible to add ideas for next year, and to recall what you gave them. Could be embarrassing to repeat the same gift… which I did before keeping track.

2. If you give craft items or baked goods to neighbors, friends, teachers, etc., you can list this years’ offering as well on your reminder list.

3. After the holidays, scout around at discount stores as they often sell

leftover items at very low prices. You can find some good bargains on greeting cards, giftwrap and decorations. Add these items to your list for the next holiday season and note where they are stored. It’s not a bargain if you cannot locate it next year. Trust me, I have learned!

4. Look at your calendar now and begin planning entertaining you might

want to involve yourself in and plan a menu, guest list, invitations, etc. Look for food and beverage items on sale now. For example: turkey at a reduced price that can be frozen and used later or ingredients that store well for your holiday baking spree will also save money. Well, that should get you started thinking about the holidays. You might even enjoy the hustle and bustle of the season after a little planning. Happy holidays… early! Ann Gambrell

Ann Gambrell is an organizational consultant and speaker available to inform and entertain audiences. She facilitates weekday and Saturday Clutter Support Groups and teaches organizing classes through the Torrance Adult School. To learn more, phone Ann at 310-212-0917 or to request her FREE monthly email tips email gambrellann@aol.com. You will be glad you did!

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Cardiff Headrest Say Goodbye To Noodle-Neck

Parents, you know that moment when your kid falls fast asleep in the car; that moment you secretly jump for joy because it means some peace and quiet for you. But then you cringe when you hit a bump, turn a corner or go around a sharp curve, knowing that they have a case of “noodleneck” and their head falls over causing them to slump over or even worse, they knock heads with their sibling or friend next to them. Suddenly they are awake again, crying or fighting or simply antsy to get out. Thanks to the innovative Cardiff Travel Headrest, your child’s head will avoid the dreaded “head bob,” staying upright and comfortable for that much needed and much enjoyed car ride nap. With a flexible design fitting users of all sizes (including adults), the Cardiff Travel Headrest comfortably aligns your child’s head and body upright in the seat as they sleep. It is instant comfort for children riding in cars (adults, too!) and prevents neck pain from being slumped forward or to the side. Helping to achieve that comfort and fit for all users are fully adjustable settings. The padded arms of the headrest feature soft, padded fabric sleeves, which are also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning. When not in use, it simply flips up for stowage completely out of the way. Co-founder Jason Arriola recalls, “After countless trips in the car, whether after a soccer game or heading up to grandma’s, once the kids fell asleep in the car it was an unsettling feeling to say the least. My twin boys would slide out of their seatbelts with their heads bobbing left and right, my wife and I would call it ‘noodleneck.’”

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Cardiff products can be traced back to 1996 when Will Regan and Jason Arriola spent their time skateboarding up and down Southern California. In 2009 that friendship turned into family when Will married Jason’s sister, and now they are business partners set out to prove that family and business do mix. “Most important to us in business is the satisfaction of our extended family and that’s you. We treat every customer like it’s one of our moms buying from us,” states Jason. Retailing for $49.99, the Cardiff Travel Headrest is available online for at www.cardiffproducts.com or in-store at Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart, Amazon, Babies R Us, Buy Buy Baby, and more. Never dread a car ride again because of a hectic early morning, missed nap, exhausting day or missed bedtime with the Cardiff Travel Headrest. You’ll look in your rearview mirror and smile in satisfaction seeing your kid comfortably fast asleep – and staying asleep – with many quiet miles ahead of you wherever you’re going.

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Family Friendly Travel You Should Do Peru! From its shimmering coastline to its intense bio-diverse rainforest and in between, Peru has a staggering variety of topography; Lake Titicaca the “birthplace of the sun,” with its floating islands, the majestic Andes mountain range, the Nazca lines, sand dunes and of course its major tourist attraction, Machu Picchu. Here you will find a world of outdoor adventure primed for a memorable family vacation and punctuated with delicious trendy Peruvian cuisine. Your return flight from Peru will have you wanting for more time to explore this beautiful and diverse country especially if you, like many travelers, focus on experiencing the bucket list Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, as we did this past summer. However, active families can find plenty of adventure in the Sacred Valley en route beforehand, offering a nice balance between ruin viewing and adventure. For example, horseback riders will love saddling up and absorbing the spectacular scenery in the Sacred Valley of the Incas while spending the day riding and picnicking. Also, the breathtaking views and Incan ruins can be enjoyed while river rafting on mostly class three rapids, a mild and perfect two hour excursion. Lunch along the bank was a highlight for my boys as the river guides joined them in playing a soccer game while the delicious meal was being prepared. Although hard-core trekkers prefer the multi-day hike on the Incan Trail, families with children of all ages can enjoy the easier, faster, more gentle approach with a comfortable train journey to Machu Picchu lasting only 90 minutes. During the return on the Vistadrome, we were pleasantly surprised when the attendants traded in their aprons for costumes, performing Peruvian dances, followed up by a fashion show.

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The aura of seeing the 15th century Machu Picchu, for the first time is an unforgettable moment for anyone. Our guide made the ruins come alive with his descriptive stories about the Incans. The next morning we climbed the mountain that towers over the ruins, Waynapicchu at 9100 ft., a one hour vertical hike on an ancient narrow trail that is not for the unfit. We were all proud of our accomplishment after reaching the summit, rewarded with a stunning view down on Machu Picchu. Finally, while in Cusco, we asked our guide to take us to a local school. We stopped and bought candy for every student and teacher and connected with the children by practicing our broken Spanish in front of the classroom. The students sang to us from their desks and we returned with singing “You Are My Sunshine.” After my boys passed out the candy, the students ran around them with beaming smiles. Peru truly is our sunshine!

Cynthia Bartlett is an independent travel planner and affiliate of Travelstore, She loves sharing her passion of travel with her clients and strives to create itineraries that are unique and stress-free. Having lived in the United Kingdom and France, Cynthia has an extensive experience in and knowledge of Europe. However, she has also traveled to 6 of the 7 continents, so is able to assist in crafting unique itineraries in all corners of the world. She enjoys finding adventurous activities and experiences that are unique, so that her clients feel they have traveled “deeper” than the average tourist. Her expertise is in family/multi-generational travel, but she loves the challenge of making anyone’s travel dreams a reality! Cynthia can be reached at cynthia.b@ travelstore.com or 310-750-9404.

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August 2015

Parent’s Corner Be Kind, Dammit! The morning began as a typical morning; I poured a cup of coffee, rushed to make breakfast, rushed to get kids ready, tried to remember to get myself ready (to avoid that horrible dream about driving to school in my pj’s), and there was a minor scuffle between the kids about whose turn it was to choose the movie for movie night. Throughout the bickering, I continued to remind my little angels that kindness was king. I gently shared that if they chose kindness to express themselves, they’d be more likely to get the results they were looking for. Of course this was translated to “kid-like” language for understanding purposes. I was rather pleased with myself for using this opportunity to teach such an important quality. My confidence began to wane on the car ride to school as my children’s voices rose to, let’s just say; an uncomfortable level. Add in an inconsiderate driver cutting me off which led to an inappropriate, “what a jerk!” Not exactly, what I want my kids to hear me say. As I pulled up to my son’s school, ten minutes late and kids still arguing, I put the car in park and in a very stern voice said, “BE KIND TO EACH OTHER!” With all the fervor of an out of control football coach. They stopped yelling and their eyes were like deer in headlights as they stared at me. Not so pleased with myself now. Where did I go wrong?!? I was trying to teach them about kindness instead of showing them kindness. It would’ve been fine to “share” how kindness works but, what I was really doing was forcing my agenda on them when it just wasn’t a “teaching moment”. If they listened to my ohsowise words, they would immediately show kindness to each other and decide as a perfect little team how to choose the movie together. Everyone would be happy

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and it would be a perfect world. Kindness can’t be taught in five minutes. It has to be demonstrated consistently. Perhaps if I’d kept my cool when the guy cut me off and interrupted the kids to say, “Wow, I bet that guy is having a tough day. I wonder what might have happened for him to be in such a hurry? Poor guy, I hope the rest of his day is better.” Even if you don’t completely believe it, THAT would be a real life teaching moment.

Michele Pullo created happycalmchild out of the needs of her own family and friends to have simple, tangible tools to help our children self-regulate their emotions, focus and ease anxiety. She works with both children and their parents through live and virtual classes, talks, webinars, family workshops and a private family program. She’s combined evidence based stress reduction tools with effective parenting techniques to give parents the support they need. Her experience as the mother of a 9yr old with ADD and a spirited 4yr old keeps her in the trenches with you! Michele’s background working with children, teaching Yoga and Dance along with 25 years of study on Stress Reduction Techniques, Movement for Learning and the Mind/ Body Connection helped her create a structured, easy to follow, fun curriculum that gives kids the tools they need while giving parents the results and support they’ve been looking for!

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When Clothing Hurts

Choosing Clothes For Sensory Sensitive Kids Finding the right clothing can be difficult for any child, but it is even more challenging for kids with tactile sensitivity. Children with tactile sensitivity (also called tactile defensiveness) have an increased sensitivity to everyday touch experiences. This hypersensitivity can run from mild to severe and can make everyday tasks, like getting dressed, a challenge. For children with sensory problems, clothing textures and fastenings against the skin can be painful. To make getting dressed easier for both parent and child, try these tips when shopping for a sensory sensitive kid. Look for clothing with: no tags: especially in the neck area of shirts, sides of shirts and back of pants. You can cut tags out or look for clothing where the tags are printed directly onto the garment. flat seams: certain brands use a special machine or technique for this. The result is a seam that doesn’t “stick out” like a traditional seam. When searching online, try the word “seamless”. This includes socks too! covered elastic waist: all pants should have a very stretchy elastic waist and none of the elastic should be exposed (especially for underpants). soft fabric: this is very important, no rough fabrics (like denim). Good options include combed cotton, organic cotton and bamboo. loose fit/tight fit: for some hypersensitive children loose clothing is an absolute must. Others prefer to have a tight spandex type garment under their clothing providing even pressure. Taking your child shopping with you, at least once, will help you figure out what they prefer. simple design: choose a garment without excess decoration (avoid buttons, zippers, bulky pockets and lace trim). Hopefully, with these tips in mind, your back-to-school shopping experience will go a little more smoothly! If you are the parent of a child with clothing sensitivites, you can check out my line of kids sensory friendly clothing at: www.pineapplepete.ca Alison Edwards is an entrepreneur and mom of two whos eldest son developed sensory sensitivity as a toddler. After years of struggling to find clothing that her son could stand to wear, Alison decided to create Pineapple Pete Kids, a small business which produces sensory friendly clothing for children with skin sensitivities. You can find more information online: www.pineapplepete.ca.

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On Dad’s Watch Veal Parmigiana by Michael Malgeri It was nearly a year ago when I whined about our daughter crushing my culinary fantasy in a story succulently titled, “Chicken Parmigiana.” Recently, I feared this would be an annual event. As the noon hour approached, I was returning from an errand, which separated me from the Styrofoam container preserving the second half of my veal Parmigiana sandwich, left-over from last night’s visit to Pedones. Had I remembered last year’s episode, I’d have packed a cooler or hidden it in my sock drawer. Often these precautions don’t enter one’s mind until the pangs of hunger emerge. It was certain that before the clock struck 12, the Malgeri “let’s eat” gene would have driven my daughter perilously close to my delicious prize. I considered calling in a stern threat. “IF YOU TOUCH THAT SANDWICH I’LL *$*%$*!!!!!” However, love got the best of me and while I wasn’t magnanimous enough to say, “Hey Dom! You wanna have something cool for lunch!?” I decided to let fate prevail. “Just a few more blocks,” I thought. I was already 20 miles above the speed limit. Had the child on Avenue F not had good reflexes, I may be facing manslaughter charges. “Just another block!” “RINNNNNNGGGGGG!!!” An iPhone tune struck fear in my body. Caller ID, while an amazing invention, only served to elevate my anxiety by reporting, “INCOMING CALL FROM... DOM MALGERI!” “What are the chances she’s calling to say she misses me?” I thought. “Hi Dad! Can I eat your sandwich?!” Gosh, she still sounds like my little baby doll. She’s such a sweetheart. “Sure luv! Go ahead. Enjoy.” “Thank you Daddy, I love you!” “I luv you too. See you soon. Bye!” And THAT’S the way it goes! I’m sure every one of you can relate. Along with “On Dad’s Watch” Michael has also written a series of books he calls “Bedtime Stories about Capitalism,” which teaches kids about honest profit making. Visit http://www.kids4biz.com. You can write to him at mmalgeri@kids4biz.com

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From The Artbox Everyone Is An Artist How many of us have said, “I can’t draw a straight line” or “I am not an artist”. I’m sure many of you reading this right now would agree. When we work with adults in our creativity and art workshops, it is honestly extremely common. Somehow, somewhere, we have been told we are not an “artist”. Oh does my heart drop when I hear this! Unfortunately, we start hearing this from our students as early as 7 or 8 years old. Why is it that everyone in kindergarten raises their hands when asked, “who is an amazing artist here today!” Hands go up! We have seen firsthand that by 2nd and 3rd grade very few raise their hands. So, what happened? We can talk about schools and their systems, testing and more, but as parents, it really depends on how we interpret success and failure. I think of all the great innovators, creators and artists: everyone from Steve Jobs to Albert Einstein to my son who has to rewrite a report 6 times. How many times did the “greats” have to try until they got it right? Thousands… As we watch our children go through school, our real job is to give them the patience and confidence to try. Failure is part of life if we are to invent, create and seek new resolutions to problems. If we see our children getting frustrated writing a paper, coming up with a poem, project idea or even have an obstacle in sports, let’s remind them the art of trying is what we are after. Success can only be around the corner. Not trying is the real failure. Art To Grow On Children’s Art Center, Inc., brings Art Enrichment Programs, Products, and Services to children ages 18 months –18 years old. Owner Lauren Perelmuter’s extensive background working with schools, both private and public, along with Cities, Corporate Day Care Centers, and non-profit organizations has moved Art To Grow On Inc. to the forefront as one of the leading art enrichment providers in Southern California. For class information and details, visit www.art2growon.com or call 310-625-6028.

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Mommy & Me By Annette Gunderson Having a tough day and don’t know what to do? Is your baby crying because of teething or your toddler not eating? What should you do? Join a mommy and me class in your area. These classes are not only an opportunity for your baby/toddler to learn skills such as cognitive learning, physical, socialization as well as bringing in language and other skills. They are also an opportunity for socialization for adults and learning parenting skills from a professional and getting advice from other parents who may be having the same issues. Sometimes it nice to know that you are not alone in raising children. As they say “it does take a village” or in this case a lot of really good advice and peers. How should you choose a mommy and me class? You will want an instructor who has a degree in Early Childhood Education. Remember qualified instructors have studied at what age children do various skills such as walking, talking and eating. They usually have taught parents and children and are prepared to make it enjoyable for both during the class. They should have knowledge about parenting skills, health, nutrition, physical growth learning skills and general brain development. I always encourage my attendees to suggest topics that they want to learn about in each session since they are there to enhance their parenting skills as well as enjoy the class as opposed to a set curriculum that repeats itself every 8 weeks. Annette Gunderson has been an early childhood educator working with children in the Southbay area for over 25 years. She specializes in Music and Literature with children and has done numerous workshops and lectures with various moms group and mentoring teachers. She is currently teaching mommy and me classes in Rancho Palos Verdes from birth to age 3. She is also the current owner of Kids Music N Motion and teaches music to ages birth to adults in the Los Angeles area. Find out more at www.kidsmusicnmotion. com or call (310) 373-0280. You can also find out more about Kid’s Music N Motion at the Annual Rancho Palos Verdes Music Fair at the Ladera Linda Community Center on October 24th from 10am to noon.

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Boost Plus

Highchair And Booster Seat

How many times have you balanced your toddler on your knee for a sit down dinner at a relative’s house, or put your little one in a not so clean restaurant high chair or booster? Here is a product that doubles as a travel high chair and grows into a booster seat as your child grows. With summer trips to grandma’s house and/or family vacations coming up, Prince Lionheart’s theBOOST Plus could be very handy!! This item is especially designed for families who are tight on space while traveling. The bebePOD Boost Plus has a 3 point safety harness and dual strap design that fits it securely on any chair. It also features a scratch free pad to protect high end furniture from being marred. This item is versatile and be used to promote good posture during play time of a safe environment for feedings. Remove the detachable feeding tray and it easily converts in to a big kids booster chair. Its compact design makes it easy to take with you while traveling. Available in Berry Blue, Galactic Grey, Flashbulb Fuchsia, and Gumball Green, theBOOST Plus retails for $45. Recommended ages: 9+ months – 50 lbs. Prince Lionheart’s theBOOST Plus can be purchased online at: www.princelionheart.com.

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Ollie Swaddle Improve Baby’s Sleep

Parents, take note! There is a new way to swaddle your baby, The Ollie Swaddle. Named after and invented for Oliver, a foster baby that wasn’t thriving until Ollie Swaddle founder (and his foster mom) Hindi developed The Ollie Swaddle. The Ollie improves quality and duration of sleep for all babies (including premies and high risk), reduces fussiness and helps baby self-calm. The elasticity allows for freedom of movement while the opening at the bottom makes it easy to change diapers. Its custom developed moisture wicking material reduces overheating promoting physiological regulation. Ages 0-4 months. Find out more at http://shop.theollieworld.com

Calendar October THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 310-7823989. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 Barnes and Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts storytime. 11am. 310-370-5552. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30pm. 310-3717546. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts “Friday Fun”, a hands-on program for preschoolers, ages 3-6 years and their parents or guardians. The program will incorporate story time, science, art and a tour emphasizing the chosen topic. Some weeks there will be potting and other activities. The topics emphasize respect for all living things and prepare the children (and parents) to be good stewards of the planet. Space is limited to 20 children. Free. A $5 donation is greatly appreciated. Pre-registration is required. To register and for more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at 310-782-3989. La Leche League of Redondo Beach hosts a breastfeeding support group the 2nd Friday of every month at Beach Cities Health District. 10am. krislaleche@yahoo.com SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 Barnes and Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts storytime. 11am. 310-370-5552. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Turtle and Tortoise Day! The California

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Turtle and Tortoise Society’s primary purpose is to foster and make available for adoption turtles and tortoises. They will be present to educate about the proper and safe care of these interesting animals. This is a hands-on event and you are encouraged to bring in your own turtle and tortoise to learn more about, show, and share. Free! 310-782-3989. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes, hosts Momme & Baby Group. Club MomMe is a community of moms, expectant parents and families of littles. They host social and educational events each month in several cities, along with a few big events each year that you do not want to miss! Classes include a therapeutic walk around the Garden to conclude every class. Drop in pricing available – all the details can be found at www.clubmomme. com/mommebaby. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, hosts Water Color in Nature. 310-782-3989. Here’s an opportunity for adults and children to learn to paint or sharpen already acquired skills. Paint the wonders of nature on the Preserve. Supplies will be provided. $5 per person or $10 per family. To register or for more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at 310-7823989.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts 2nd Sunday Science. 2-4pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Sunday Science. 2-4pm. $5 per person or $10 per family. For more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at 310-782-3989.

October 2015

of events MONDAY, OCTOBER 19 The South Bay evening group of LaLeche meets the 3rd Monday of each month at the Beach Cities Health District. 7:00pm. Free. krislaleche@yahoo.com TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 La Leche League of Redondo Beach hosts a breastfeeding support group the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Beach Cities Health District. 7pm. (424) 634-2660. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 Plaza El Segundo Shopping Center presents The Mommy & Me Free Kid’s Club theThird Thursday of each month April 2015 - October 2015 from 10:00am- 12noon, meet in front the Counter restaurant. www.plazaelsegundo.com South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes, hosts a special Kids Club and is included with the Critters and Wildlife Garden Walk. Learn about spiders and make a spider craft. Limited to 25 children on a first come, first serve basis with adult reservation to the Garden Walk. Children are welcome to attend either the Garden Walk or Kids Club. Members only. Free. 5-7pm. 310-544-1948. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. Barnes and Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance hosts storytime with Cookie Mouse. 1pm. 310-370-5552. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts the 10th annual Sea Scare. The best family Halloween party around is back and only at CMA! Sea Scare is washing ashore with lots of thrills and chills. Sea Scare brings back all your favorite attractions like Trick-or-Treat Trail, Seaside Boardwalk, the Sea Scare Party Zone, and Skull Alley. We also have some exciting Tricks and

Treats to celebrate Sea Scare’s 10th Anniversary and the Aquarium’s 80th Anniversary. Plus, aquarium members get a special early entry into the event at 6pm. So come in costume and join in on the masquerade of ghosts and goblins, it’s sure to be a frightfully good time for the whole family! 310-548-7562. Ladera Linda Community Center, 32201 Forrestal Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, hosts the Annual City of Rancho Palos Verdes Kid’s Music Festival. Lots of fun activities for kids, including free music lessons, and music petting zoo! 10a-2pm. This event is free!!! (310) 373-0280. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. Madrona Marsh also hosts Sunday Science: Reptile and Amphibians! 2-4pm. The primary goal of the Los Angeles herpetology Society is to promote knowledge, encourage conservation and appreciation of all reptiles and amphibians. Whether a beginner or life-long hobbyist this program is for anyone with a passion or curiosity for these amazing animals. Live critters will be on display for all to marvel! $5 per person or $10 per family. Pre-registration is highly recommended. To register and for more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at 310-782-3989.

LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY?

VISIT OUR WEBSITE! www.WhatsUpForKids.com for 100’s of ideas!

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ONGOING

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES As events may change, please call ahead.

MONDAY

Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., R.H.E., hosts Babies in the Library, a story time designed just for 6-23 month olds. No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am. 310-377-9584, ext. 601. Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina, PVE., hosts a story time for ages 2-5 year olds. 10:30am. 310-3779584, ext. 551.

TUESDAY

Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts story time Ages 2-5. No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts story time for ages 6-24 months. Free. 11:30am. 377-9584. Kids Music N Motion hosts classes for various age levels at 4 South Bay locations. Call for the details. 373-0280.

WEDNESDAY

Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts story time for ages 2-5. Free. 11:30am 377-9584. Lomita Library, 24200 Narbonne Ave., Lomita, hosts preschool story time at 10am. 539-4515. Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts story time for ages 2-5. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601.

THURSDAY

Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts story time for ages 2-5. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. Redondo Beach Library North branch, 2000 Artesia Blvd., hosts story time for 1-5 year olds. 1pm. 318-0675.

30 What’s Up For Kids

. Redondo Beach Main Library, 303 NO. Pacific Coast Hwy., hosts Pajama story time. All ages. 6:45pm. 318-0675

FRIDAY

Little Fawn, a parent participating nature program for children ages 2-5, takes place every Friday at Deane Dana Friendship Park, 1805 W. 9th St., San Pedro. 10-12noon. $5. (310) 519-6115. Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina, PVE., hosts Babies in the Library, a story time designed just for 6-23 month olds. No registration necessary. 10:30am. 310-377-9584, ext. 551. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Friday fun (all Fridays in September/October). Learn about nature through crafts, stories and hands-on fun! 10-12noon. $5 donation. (310) 782-3989.

SATURDAY

Barnes & Noble, 21400 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts Children’s Story Time. 11am. 310-725-7025.

SUNDAY

Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier offers story time every Sunday at 11:30am. 379-8117. Southern California Live Steamers offers free train rides the first Sunday of every month from 11am—3pm at the East end of Wilson Park in Torrance.

Visit the website for more exciting things to do with your family! www.whatsupforkids.com

October 2015

Family Resource