What's Up For Kids, September 2015

W HAT ’S UP FOR KIDS SEPTEMBER 2015

IN THE SPOTLIGHT CANVAS AND CLAY

FROM THE ARTBOX THE ART OF DISCOVERY

HEALTHY FAMILIES BUILDING A POSITIVE BODY IMAGE

Connecting Parents With Resources www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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In This Issue 6

Parent’s Corner Why Order Is Important For Your Child

8

The Organized Family Kids’ Room Organizing

12 On Dad’s Watch The Wiseacre 16 Healthy Families Building Positive Body Image 18 In The Spotlight Canvas and Clay 20 Family Friendly Travel A Monkey’s Roar In Ecuador 24 From The Artbox The Art Of Discovery 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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Letter from the publisher It’s back to school, where did summer go? It flew!

And now it’s school supplies, backpacks and school lunches. For me, September is like new years– a time to refocus on me and my priorities!

This is our back to school issue with tons of great stuff to kick-start your back to school season! Our writers share their expertise with you, like a dad’s point of view to getting things organized! And the calendar is chock full of fun as well.

I’m super excited to announce a few new things going on. If you read my publisher’s note here or follow me on social media, you know I’ve been through a bit of a transformation over the last 4-5 years. I’ve had a few personal challenges I’ve had to work through. During that time, I learned a lot– about myself, my faith and my life. For some reason, it took me until age 50 to figure it out.

While I know you are younger, I want to encourage you to take control and design your life now– and not wait until 50! I’ve written all about it in my new book being release September 15th on amazon.com. Yes I Can: The Mindset, Mantra and Motivation for Success is all about facing your fears, pushing aside the shame and guilt, and living your best life. From September 15 – 18th, you’ll be able to download the kindle version absolutely FREE! Maybe you prefer the print copy as I do! No problem, that is available for purchase as well.

If you are a business owner or even have a business on the side, I strongly encourage you to attend our live event- the Yes I Can Conference, Thursday, November 5th at the Torrance DoubleTree Hotel. It’s a full day of inspiration, motivation and tried and true business strategies. You can get more information at www.YesICanConference.com.

I hope you have a fabulous September! Stay tuned for some BIG news next month!

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Parent’s Corner Why Order Is Important For Your Child September is to moms what January is to the general population. In January, most adults are thinking about how to plan out their year, get organized, take care of themselves and become a success.

It’s pretty much the same for moms but OUR year begins a little earlier and it’s centered around those precious little people that live with us.

September marks the beginning of the next year of our children’s lives. We can’t help but think about how we’d like “family life” to look. It’s natural to yearn for order at this brand-spanking-new time of the year. I’m not talking about military school style order but, the kind that creates a blank canvas for your kids to learn and grow from. Whether your family tends to focus on structure, fun, creativity or learning, order will be a vehicle to help you achieve that quality.

Children thrive on consistency but, that doesn’t mean you can’t be spontaneous! As you begin to establish your school routine, think about your child’s basic needs and no, soccer is not a basic need. ; ) Build structure around meal times and bed times, they will be your biggest priority.

Homework works best once it’s a habit and ok, soccer practice can work its way onto the list.

Beyond the above-mentioned, allow for free time that will be whimsical and adapt to you or your child’s day. Fun can be squeezed into two minutes here and twenty minutes there.

There are hundreds of books that can teach you how to organize your home, what I ask you to consider is this; What kind of home will nurture a healthy, happy child who learns to enjoy school, manage their emotions and handle childhood challenges? Imbue the order in your home with your answers and post them on your refrigerator for a focal point to help you begin each day.

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For Order and Fun Model calm responses today Make prepping dinner fun by including kids!

Go for a family walk after homework

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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The Organized Family Kids’ Room Organizing…Yikes!

Yes, we avoid entering their room when possible, because we know what it will look like… and it isn’t good. The floor may not even be visible; cluttered with clothing, papers, books, back pack spilling out and maybe even dirty dishes. It is so easy to close the door and walk away. Not only is this difficult to look at, it actually can decrease their productivity, academics, self-esteem and socialization.

Since we ARE the parent and responsible to help them to be responsible, they need our wisdom on this. The room does not have to meet Martha Stewart’s or a professional organizer’s standards. It just needs to be useable... sometimes just getting from the doorway to the bed or closet!

My favorite method of organizing just about anything, is the “salami technique.” Simple explanation: in order to consume a chub of salami you need to slice it into eatable pieces. Thus the salami techniquedividing things into workable pieces, bit by bit!

Examples:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Pick up the clothes and place in closet or hamper.

Replace books to shelf or wherever they are stored.

Hang backpack on hook or even door knob.

Empty backpack each day after school. Stuff collects and some can actually become smelly!

5. Remove all dishes, glasses, food from room daily.

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Assign these bits of the problem (slices) one at a time daily, before activities (TV, computer, etc.) or before bedtime.

The entire room can be overwhelming to the child and the parent. Reward for child: some activity (TV, computer, out to play, etc). Reward for parent: Less stress and more control as a parent.

Ann Gambrell 7/2015

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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Daddy Caddy from Go Mama Go Designs

They can be spotted at grocery stores, playgrounds, schools and shopping malls all over the country. They stand out like a sore thumb. They are the dads who have left home with the kids and mom’s diaper bag. While animal, floral and pastel patterned bags are the perfect style statement for many moms, when they are hanging from dad’s shoulder something looks a little off. And, because most dads are not used to maneuvering with a bag on one shoulder they can make caring for kids a little awkward. Go Mama Go Designs has created the first hands-free diaper bag designed specifically for dads, the Daddy Caddy.

The Daddy Caddy is perfect for storing the essentials when leaving home with young children. A matching wipes-holder can be used to seal in just enough wipes for the trip while a few diapers are stashed inside the Daddy Caddy pocket. Personal items like a wallet and keys or a pacifier can be stashed in the zippered pocket. The Daddy Caddy can be attached to a belt loop with the built-in carabineer adding an extra pocket to any pants or shorts dedicated to baby gear. The Daddy Caddy can also be attached to a baby carrier, backpack and worn many other ways. It even features a waterresistant lining in case it needs to be used to transport a dirty diaper until a trashcan is reached in an emergency situation.

“In the majority of families today, dads are just as involved in caring for children as moms,”said Go Mama Go Design founder Georgia Fiebrich. “We created the Daddy Caddy to fit the lifestyle most men are used to. They don’t carry a hairbrush, nail file, headache medicine, a sewing kit and everything else women like to have stashed in their purses just in case. It is not how they think before having kids and for many it’s not how they think once little ones enter the picture. They want to pack the essentials and go, and that is what the Daddy Caddy enables them do. This way they can hold their child, not just all their stuff!”

The Daddy Caddy is available in gray, navy blue, desert camo and black leather. It has an MSRP of $19.99 – $29.99.

For more information and ordering, visit: www.gomamagodesigns.com

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On Dad’s Watch The Wiseacre

by Michael Malgeri This silly tale dates back to last summer. It was late in the evening and I’d suggested to my daughter that we take a stroll along the beach. She’s one of those kids to whom you can say, “Do you want to...” “YES!!!!” Nuff said about how she responds to doing...whatever.

I wasn’t planning on getting wet, but when you’re near my daughter and the ocean, it’s best to stay inland if you want to remain dry. I’d recommend Oklahoma. On this occasion, I think I managed to keep water out of my ears.

Anyway, while there was still about 30 minutes of daytime remaining, and a pending kaleidoscopic sunset, we decided to text Mom, a.k.a. LisaBelle, to join us on the sand.

“She’ll never come down,” said my daughter who’s much faster tapping out a message with her thumbs than I. “Why not?” I asked. “She LUVS beautiful sunsets.”

“Yeah, but she hates sand even more.”

“Bet she’s down here before the sun sets, smarty pants.”

“I’m tellin’ ya. She’s not coming down!” Geez, it was like, “put your money away!”

Tick tock, tick tock. The kid was gracious enough to not say, “I told you so,” as the temperature dropped precipitously, Cinderella’s chariot turned back into a pumpkin, and a new day was dawning in Australia.

As we walked home I had to concede her victory. “How did you know Mom wouldn’t show?”

The clever little wiseacre responded, “You’ve only known her for 25 years. I’ve known her all my life.”

“OUCH!”

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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Millions of kids agree. . .

My Gym

fo r

RULES Back to School!

The best fitness programs and birthday parties designed for ages 6 weeks to 10 years.

Free Membership!

Must mention Whats Up for Kids to receive discount and enroll on day of guest class. Valid at gyms below.

Manhattan Beach (310) 796-1300 Redondo Beach (310) 318-2288 www.mygym.com

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Healthy Families Building Positive Body Image We can all pretty much agree we want our kids to be healthy and take care of their bodies. The question we want to know whether you’ve asked yourself is why do you want them to be healthy? What is your motivation for wanting your child to eat well and exercise?

We can also probably agree this is not about looking like a magazine cover, not about being skinny, or about comparing our kids to others. We feel it’s really about keeping them out of the health care system, giving them the tools for feeling strong and empowered, and showing them how to make good choices for themselves. Choices that reflect a positive regard for themselves, rather than wanting approval from the outside world will create an internal motivation and focus. We want our kids to be strong and healthy vs. skinny and selfobsessed. We want to teach our kids self-love.

Here are some ways to assist your kids to approach their health from a place of self-love and enable them to build self-confidence: 1. Be aware of your own self-talk as well as what you say in front of your kids. What is your self-talk? Do you put yourself down and make disparaging remarks about your own body? What do you say in front of the mirror when getting dressed? Do you ask your partner or others questions such as “do I look fat in this?”

2. Teach your kids how to view themselves. Let them know how strong you think they are and help them reframe their own negative self-talk, i.e. if they complain of a part of their body they don’t like guide them to notice how it works for them and is a positive asset, or how to focus on the things they really like about themselves. Self-acceptance is key. We are all naturally built differently and appreciating our uniqueness is self-loving. Teach them how to use affirmations such as “my body is beautiful and strong.”

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3. Avail them of various activities and help them find the physical activities that they love and encourage them to do more of that.

4. Educate yourselves and them about why eating healthy and being active are important for a happy life. For example, a healthy, balanced diet wards off common diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

5. Teach them how to affirm themselves. Point out their accomplishments or successes. What are they grateful for? Help them be proud of what they do rather than how they look.

We are bombarded with a billion different messages through the media and the world around us. It is vital that we equip our kids with the understanding and knowledge of the real and valuable reasons to be healthy and fit, none of which have to do with body comparison or body shame. Remember, we can be our children’s best teacher!

Commit to 5K is a 10-week program that combines life coaching with run coaching to ensure that participants reach their goal--Crossing the finish line at their first 5K race and establishing healthy, positive internal and external habits. More information can be found at www.facebook.com/committi5K Khatija Dadabhoy leads the life coaching portion of the program. She is a transformational counselor and coach who holds a MA in counseling. She specifically works with women who are ready to experience their inner revolution!!

Kirsten Bell leads the running and physical fitness portion of the program. She is a certified running and triathlon coach. She’s been helping women kickstart and reach their fitness goals since 2010.

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TO LEARN MORE, VISIT: INFO.CULTURALCARE.COM/WHATSUPFORKIDS

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Spotlight IN THE

Canvas & Clay Summer vacation is winding down for many South Bay kids, and parents are probably scrambling for ideas to keep their kids busy and having fun afterschool and weekends. During the school year when the focus is on academics, it might be the perfect time for your child to explore their creativity afterschool and/or Saturdays with opportunities for drawing, painting and clay. We recently asked the director and president of Canvas & Clay, Anjalé Perrault, to share a little bit about the many programs they offer.

Tell us a little about your programs: Canvas & Clay offers drawing, painting and clay classes to students ages 4 to adult. Students attend class once a week either after school, on weekends, or during the daytime if they are part of a home school program. During summer, we offer 8 different super fun multimedia art camps. We also host birthday parties in both the drawing and the clay studio, so there’s something for everyone here!

What do kids love most about your programs?

What kids love about Canvas & Clay is exactly what parents love about our program too! It’s an inspiring space where kids develop creative confidence with the guidance of our professional and nurturing teachers.

While our staff teaches in-depth fine art methods, kids feel as though they are simply having “fun”. Learning is not a chore when creativity is involved!

What is unique about your program?

The most exceptional feature of our program is the individualization of our curriculum. Every student at Canvas & Clay is on a unique and personalized program depending on their age, interests, goals, and prior

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experience. Based upon years of teaching research, our curriculum was developed taking child development into account in conjunction with traditional fine art methods.

All of this programming goes on behind the scenes to keep our kids happy, engaged, and inspired as they explore their creativity within the safety and support of our studios!

How can parents find out more?

The best way to get a taste of what we do in the studio is to schedule a free introductory class for your child by calling us at (310) 3169331, or e-mailing info@canvasclay.com. All class and camp schedules can be found online at www.canvasclay.com. We would love to give you a tour of the studios and see how we can help your child’s creativity grow!

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Family Friendly Travel A Monkey’s Roar In Ecuador If you are primed for a vacation off the beaten path, venture down to South America for an unforgettable trip deep into the Amazon jungle. Children love animals and that is why we visit the zoo and take them on African Safaris.

However, for a fraction of the time and cost of Africa, families can travel to the intense bio-diverse South American jungles where the mysteries and wonders of jungle life inspire visitors of all ages.

This summer, my husband and I took our youngest boy, 13, to the Ecuadorian rainforest along the Napo River, a tributary of the Amazon. A half-hour flight connects you to the jungle from Quito, followed by a boat ride along the Napo to the hidden entrance of the lodge.

Nestled in the thickness of the jungle are comfortable deluxe cabins with inviting hammocks at Sacha Lodge. First-class guides and naturalists await your arrival with contagious enthusiasm, ready to share their knowledge of and concern for the magical yet dissipating jungle.

A rainforest safari is an active experience where wildlife is viewed while canoeing, jungle trekking, boating or climbing (up towers for bird’s eye views!). Our guides delighted us in spotting exotic birds, four species of monkeys, sloths, unusual insects, caiman alligators and more. We were mesmerized, while perched on top of a viewing tower, by an unforgettable haunting screech of the howler monkey, who makes the second loudest animal noise in the world. We made a list of more than 30 different animals viewed during our four days there.

The Amazon is a great place to expose children to biodiversity and the global climate, as it is the planet’s largest remaining rainforest, teeming with more wildlife than anywhere else on Earth. It is also the ancestral home to one million Indians, so a visit to a local community provides some indelible first hand experiences. We were guided through a local settled village, including

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their school, by an indigenous woman with machete in hand. The villagers presented us with a spread of their local delicacies on banana leaves which we all enjoyed sampling (warning: not for the squeamish!).

This trip was an experience of a lifetime and my son will never forget the leafcutting ants, parrot clay-licks, howler monkeys and sloths, fishing for piranha and star gazing at the southern constellation during our quiet evening canoe rides while searching for caimans. In September, while back at school, he will have a lot to share when his middle school teacher asks him “What Did You Do This Summer?!”

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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From The Artbox The Art Of Discovery As we all head back to school, I think one thing we can all agree on is that summer brings a sense of discovery, change in routine, and an opportunity to try new things and visit new places. From beaches, to friends, to food, to culture, to museums and travel, discovering something new is fantastic for our children.

It opens doors to new thinking and let’s our children create and see the world through a different perspective.

My boys love routine as all children do, but I want to make an effort this year to continue to expose them to new things. It’s tough as the demands of homework, sports, family and more vie for their attention, but I honestly think we all can make this effort.

A few ways I for see adding a sense of discovery to this coming school year is to first, not be so rushed. When a person has time to look, really ponder and think, much can happen. Questions can be asked and conversations are created.

Even going to the market, having friends over for dinner, or just playing without so much attention to the time, allowed my boys to really think and make incredible observations.

Another way I plan to allow more discovery time is to not organize so much of their time for them. This is something we all do and all come from a good place to set up those activities! Yet, allowing them to figure out on their own, what they can do with their time really let’s a child create, discover and be in charge of their own life learning habits.

I truly believe curiosity and discovery go hand in hand and becomes a habit on how one approaches life. There is nothing better than hearing our children say, “look at this!” or “can I show you this mom?” with incredible enthusiasm and spirit.

Let’s all try to give a little discovery time this fall to our kids as we get into the full routine of back to school. They will love us for it!

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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“Success requires BIG decisions and BOLD actions!”

Get Your FREE 30 Days of Inspiraaonal Support Now! www.GetYourYesOn.com

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Fibre-Craft Kits Summer Doesn’t Have to End…

With all the talk of educating kids with a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), parents, teachers and policy makers are realizing it actually takes STEAM to make the world go round. The added “A” is for ART. Fibre-Craft, makers of arts and crafts supplies since the ‘50s, introduces three $12.99 kits – Zoo 2 Do, Creative Fun Tote and Paper Pals -- that spur imaginations beyond math problems and coding. We put our testers to the challenge – and the fun began!

Kids ages 6 and up still enjoy being kids and working with old-fashioned glue and scissors to make their own creations. Even at age 50, I enjoy a craft session once in a while! Each tote-able kit from Fibre-Craft’s Creative Hands label opens up a world of let’s-build-this, without instructions or rules. These crafts can be made at the kitchen table, outdoors at a picnic, or with best friends at a slumber party. Best of all, it’s educational; so says prestigious Education Week.

Here is what we played with…

Zoo 2 Do • $12.99 • Ages 6+ All the animals in the zoo are jumping up and down for you! Available at retailers Fred Meyer, Meijer and Kroger, this Zoo 2 Do kit with the tote-able handle, features monkey, giraffe, lion, zebra and others for a total of 25 zoo-themed projects.

Creative Fun Tote • $12.99 • Ages 6+ Rainy days and Sundays are ideal for this overflowing box of craft pieces that can be transformed into animals, cupcakes, bugs, pencil toppers and whatever the imagination can conjure. This fun tote is available at Fred Meyer, Meijer and Kroger stores. Kids can follow the enclosed project sheet or personalize with their own wacky ideas. Art is in the eye of the beholder!

Paper Pals Bugs & Flowers • $12.99 • Ages 6+ Even kids will allergies will adore these pretty flowers and friendly bugs that are tucked inside. Paper Pals – a kit that starts with paper plates and paper cups!

Available at Zulily and Meijers retailers coast to coast, this tote-able kit makes 12 big projects. A project sheet is included to start kids off. The final results are totally up to them!

While summer is over and we are back to school, these fun crafts are perfect for a little afternoon or weekend fun! They can be found in various stores including craft stores such as Joanns and Michaels!

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Are you ready to make BIG money in your business while having BOLD fun in your life?

Say YES and Join Us! November 5, 2015 8am - 4pm, Double Tree - Torrance Breakout Sessions Include...

Get Ready, Set...SELL Two Sides to Social Media Enough is Enough You Can't Do It Alone The Mindset, Mantra & Motivation for Success AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

Get All the Details at

www.YesICanConference.com www.WhatsUpForKids.com 27

Calendar September TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30pm. 310-3717546.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 782-3989.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 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.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts Art Corner. Have fun doing arts and crafts the first Saturday of the month.

Each Cabrillo Art Corner will feature a unique ocean-themed project that jump starts your creativity, engages your senses and relaxes your mind. Focus on the task at hand and forget about life’s craziness for awhile. 310-548-7562.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com

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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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 MOMS Club of San Pedro meets the second Wednesday of every month at Peck Park Recreational Center, meeting room ABC, San Pedro. 10:30am. Call Marcia at 310-514-9825 or sanpedromomsclub@yahoo.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Happy 21st birthday to my middle daughter, Lynnie!!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium hosts a Salt Marsh Open House. 11am-1pm. Join CMA Educators to learn about the Salinas de San Pedro wetlands habitat at Cabrillo Beach by using binoculars and microscopes to observe live animals. Visitors can view the birds of the marsh, learn about native plants and observe the changes in the tides. Fee: FREE; open to all ages. 310-548-7562.

Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a Grandparents Stroll! Enjoy a docent led tour on the Preserve followed by light refreshments. All ages welcome. Free! 310-7823989.

Peninsula School of Performing Arts presents Auditions for “The Nutcracker” for ages 5-adult.

Performance dates November 20, 21, 28 & 29.

Contact PSPA for audition times and further details at (310) 375-1398.

September 2015

of events THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Plaza El Segundo Shopping Center presents The Mommy & Me Free Kid’s Club the Third Thursday of each month April 2015 - October 2015 from 10:00am- 12noon, meet in front the Counter restaurant. www.plazaelsegundo.com FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 South Coast Botanic Gardens, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes, hosts movie night and Frozen sing-a-long. Bring a blanket and chairs to enjoy a family-friendly evening of fun and music. Children and adults can enjoy singing along to the words of the AcademyAward winning film, Disney’s blockbuster hit, “Frozen”. Gates open at 7:00 pm. Grab a spot on the Meadow and some food, which will be available for purchase. 310-544-1948.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts origami. Are you fascinated by origami and want to learn about this captivating art form? Whether you’re a beginner and just want to sharpen already acquired skills, then this is the perfect occasion to spend an enjoyable afternoon with Richard Ruan at the Madrona Marsh. Ages 9+. Free! To register, call 310-782-3989.

Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a Night Walk. Do you know what’s visible in the Autumn sky? Learn to recognize the constellations with Paul Livio and the Riverside Astronomical Society. View Saturn, the earth’s moon and of course the early evening stars. Free! For more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at 310-782-3989.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts Coastal Clean Up! Spend Saturday morning enjoying the coast while helping the environment. Join the international effort to “Adopt a Beach”. Hosted

by Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in collaboration with the California Coastal Commission, this

event will be the 29th annual Coastal Clean-up Day. Every U.S. state and over 90 countries are engaging in the clean-up. Participants will meet on outer Cabrillo Beach at 9 am.

Aquarium staff will provide bags, instructions and light refreshments. 310-548-7562.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 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 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Happy 19th Birthday to my youngest, Chris!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 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 Curious George.

1pm. 310-370-5552.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free.

310-782-3989.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro hosts a Tidepool Walk.

CMA’s Educators conduct tours of the Point Fermin tidepools. Attend an informative slide show in the John M. Olguin Auditorium, then come along on the naturalist-led ramble on the rocks to see animals in their natural habitat. Outdoor clothing and sneakers advised. Young children must be accompanied by adults. 310-548-7562. FREE. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 10:30Am. 310371-7546.

More ideas at www.WhatsUpForKids.com

www.WhatsUpForKids.com 29

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

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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!

Submit your event on our website!

www.whatsupforkids.com

September 2015

Family Resource

DIRECTORY

CLASSES The Dance Factory School of Performing Arts Where kids grow up and make memories to last a lifetime. Ages 2 and up. University trained teachers, limited class size.

(310) 519-3600, 28901 S. Western Ave. #113, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA www.Dance-Factory.com

 Peninsula School of Performing Arts Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz and More!

Tita Boulger, director.

Please check our website: www.pspadance.com, for class information, teacher bios, calendar and fees.

(310) 375-1398 2325 Palos Verdes Drive West, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 700 Silver Spur Rd, Rolling Hills Estates, CA Â

Do you offer classes or services to South Bay families?

Listings start at only $75/issue. Call us today!

THE BEST OF FALL at the Garden SEPTEMBER

Family Picnic Day Visiting the Dahlia Garden Sundays, September 13 and 27 9:00am to 5:00pm

Scholar’s Edition: Shop & Learn Pollinator-Friendly Gardens Sunday, September 27 12:00pm to 2:00pm

NOVEMBER Shop & Learn - Plant Clinic Sunday, November 15 12:00pm to 2:00pm

MULTI-MONTH EVENTS

OCTOBER

Walker and Bowes Glass Pumpkin Patch* Sat. and Sun., October 3 and 4 11:00am to 4:00pm

Propagation Workshop Fall Plant Sale Saturday, October 3 9:00am to 4:00pm

Movie Night Under the Stars* Friday, October 16 5:30pm to 9:00pm

23rd Annual Model Train Show

and Sun., Navigating Our California Drought Series* Sat. October 24 and 25

Thursdays, September 24 - October 15 10:00am to 5:00pm 6:00pm to 7:30pm

The Great Pumpkin Hunt October 3 - November 15 9:00am to 5:00pm

Harvest Stroll in the Garden

Sunday, October 25 12:00pm to 4:00pm

* Costs associated with this course. Please visit www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org for details.

15% Off One Item at:

The Gift Shop at SCBG

Must present this ad for discount on one item purchased in The Gift Shop. Does not apply to Membership, Class Registration, and Events.

Not valid with any other discount. Expires 10/31/15

(310) 544-1948 26300 Crenshaw Blvd.

Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 See SouthCoastBotanicGarden.org for details and more events.

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