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What’s up for kids tm
Vol. 17—September/October 2013
Courteous & Cool Cool This Thing Called Conversation Cooking Corner Building a Perfect Lunchbox
PLUS …. Organizing Tips, Products for the Family, Our Daily Calendar of Things to Do Around Town AND SO MUCH MORE!!
Cover Photo Courtesy of Fleur De Lis Photography
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In this issue…. 11 Cool Products for Your Family
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Reviews 14 Walking with the Dinosaurs 16 Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition 20 Family Movie Night 21 TOTEM: Cirque Du Soleil in the South Bay
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26 The Single Mom’s Guide
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21 In every issue…. 6 Cookin’ Corner
Reinventing the Waffle 8 Courteous and Cool
Attitude and Gratitude
18 Health & Wellness
10 Tips to Stay Trim During the Holidays 22 On Dad’s Watch
12 Family Friendly Travel
Costa Rica 24 Quick Tips for Organizing
A Fun and Successful Yard/ Garage Sale
Je t’adore 27 Calendar
Find all the latest things to do around town! As events change, be sure to call ahead!
COVER PHOTO AND STYLING COURTESY OF All Accessories by: Peppercorn Kids Tights : TicTacToe Stylist: Christie Richards Photo: Cynthia Olkie, Fleur de Lis Photography
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Letter From The Publisher: Publisher Tis the season… for turkey and pumpkin pie, for Christmas trees and Menorahs, for family, friends and celebrations. What are your holiday traditions? I remember my childhood traditions and we established many of them when my own kids came along. We celebrate Christmas and as long as she was alive, my grandmother would send me an Advent calendar. I loved getting that in the mail and opening each “door” every morning. When my kids were younger, we started the same tradition with them—though I had purchased the advent calendar from Pottery Barn with doors and boxes big enough for little treats. Food is another tradition—holiday cookie baking, a seafood feast on Christmas eve, prime rib on Christmas and a New Year’s Eve celebration with close family friends. What are your family traditions? And what do you want to pass down to your kids? No matter what your “beliefs”, ‘tis the season for family and friends and creating “traditions” that will last a life time! I’d love to hear about yours!
Wishing you and your family a magical season!
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Cookin’ Corner Reinventing the Waffle By Phoebe Schilla
We now have 3 kids –7 months, 21 months and 4 ½ running around the house and it’s nuts. I still love to cook and have people over, but my challenge has been to fine tune the easy recipes that we love and re format them so that they can do double duty. We love waffles, and I make them several mornings a week. I will use the same recipe this holiday season to make, thin, crispy style waffles that will double as a canapé base. I double the butter in the batter to make them rich, ethereal and melt in your mouth. When the waffle is done, cut each quarter into 4 pieces, I love to top them with smoked salmon, crème fraiche and chives or crème fraiche and caviar. It’s simple, but delicious and do-able, even for this busy mom. And if you want to bring a homemade hostess gift this holiday season, I can think of nothing better than homemade Dulce de Leche. Got a leftover can of sweetened condensed milk in your pantry? Have an oven? Then you too can make this delicious, yummy caramel sauce. Canapé Waffle Batter 1 cup of Buttermilk 1 Egg 1 cup of all purpose flour 1 Tablespoon of Baking Powder 1 teaspoon of salt 4 Tablespoons of butter, melted
1. 2. 3. 4.
Combine the buttermilk and egg. Add the flour, baking powder and salt. Whisk to combine. Fold in the melted butter. Cook in your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Waffles may be made ahead of time and re-crisped in the oven.
Homemade Dulce de Leche • Empty the contents of a can of sweetened condensed milk into an oven-proof dish; and cover it with foil. • Place the covered dish in a water bath. Bake at 425 degrees F for 60-90 minutes. Set a timer and stir every 20 minutes to assure that it browns evenly. Editor’s Note: Chef Phoebe loved cooking from an early age growing up outside of Portland, Maine. Her mother and aunt were accomplished self-taught cooks who welcomed curious Phoebe into their kitchens. From tapping her own maple syrup from trees in the yard to baking homemade bread, Phoebe learned at an early age about the delicious benefits of whole, natural, seasonal foods. Phoebe lives in San Francisco with her husband and their daughter. In her spare time she enjoys reading cookbooks, traveling, studying yoga practices and, of course, learning about all the latest culinary happenings from around the globe. To learn more about Chef Phoebe, visit www.studioofgoodliving.com.
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Courteous & Cool Courteous & Cool Attitude and Gratitude! By Kari Doody All kids want to make friends and the best way for them to do that is to adopt an appreciative attitude and learn how to express gratitude. This not only helps us make and keep friends, but in doing so it also makes us happier people. As we know, kids have the natural tendency to take things for granted, so it’s important to help them incorporate gratitude into everyday life. Teach your kids to recognize other peoples efforts. Whether it is something someone did for them or simply what another person said to them. One of the hardest things for kids to do is knowing how to accept a compliment. Instead of thanking the person who complimented them, they usually say nothing. Tell your kids that it is important to acknowledge a person when they pay you a compliment with a simple “thank you.” When we thank people for things that they say or that they have done for us, it makes other people feel good about themselves. Just as important is how we say thank you. Instead of saying “thanks” use “thank you” and make sure they are sincere about it. For example if a kid says, “you played really well today in the game,” don’t respond with “I’ve played better.” Say thank you even if they might not agree that they’ve played well. At home, find time to share with your family the things that you are appreciative of. If children hear their parents sharing their gratitude, they will be more likely to share with you and others as well. Kari Doody is Founder of the Courteous and Cool Etiquette School. After having three children and sharing stories with other mom’s, she realized that many role models that our children look up to were in the news – and not in a good way. We aren’t born with good manners, they need to be cultivated at a young age and reinforced throughout young adulthood. Whatever level your child is at, she can help them improve their skills and confidence – and they can have fun doing it with my age appropriate games and activities. For more tips and classes in your area, visit www.courteousandcool.com.
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The Christmas Visitors It is Christmas at the cottage by the lake and the bears are busy preparing to celebrate. The human owners of the cottage, however, are in the city feeling glum. Until the idea comes to them to spend the holidays at their cottage. What follows is a set of misadventures as the family arrives without the usual holiday accouterments-the Christmas trees and turkeys are all sold out. But they are in for a treat as the cottage has been decorated by their unseen friends. So the bears unwittingly save Christmas for their human hosts, yet are still able to enjoy their own fine celebration. And, as with the other books, the bears do so all while cleverly avoiding confrontation with their human friends. The Christmas Visitors is beautifully written and illustrated by artist Karel Hayes. Grab a cup of cocoa, sit down with the little ones in your life, and enjoy exploring the pages of this book together. For ages 4 and up, available September 2013 from Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, $16.95. It’s getting cold outside! But we’re staying toasty warm making fun Christmas characters out of PLAY-DOH! Join your guide, Holiday Hound, for some Christmas-inspired PLAY-DOH sculpting tutorials. In no time you’ll be molding your own candy canes, bows, drums, and even your very own snowman. Plus, a Christmas-themed story unfolds as each cheerful element is added to the scene. And, the best part is . . . four cans of PLAYDOH and two sculpting tools are included! Recommended for ages three and up, PLAY-DOH: Christmas Craft Fun is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. This set has everything your child needs to learn how to make 15 cool projects. The book is a story, but every page has a Play-Doh project to do with illustrated step by step instructions. They can re-use the Play-Doh provided as they go along in the book. Play-Doh Christmas Craft Fun by Susan Amerikaner, retails for $14.95.
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Family Friendly Travel Costa Rica—A Family Adventure! Imagine you and your family experiencing the wonders of this untouched paradise. Costa Rica is located between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea just north of the equator. It’s filled with lush rainforests and exotic wildlife. Visit the active Arenal Volcano located in the center of the country and is known as one of the top ten most active volcanos. A visit to Totuguero is also a must see where you can witness the wonders of life as the green turtles emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs. (July to September). Traveling to Costa Rica has never been easier with many travel companies designing vacation packages for families of all ages. Beautiful accommodations and planned meals that will fit any budget are included is some of the packages. Guided tours with local guides are also available. If you would like to experience something new and exciting, visit Costa Rica! Please contact me for further information and pricing so that you can begin your families adventure! Travel Consultant Karen Murphy works with TravelStore. She is a family friendly travel specialist who would love to help you plan your next family vacation! Karen can be reached at Karen.mu@travelstore.com or call her at 310 922 6902.
Connect With Us online! Get updates and the latest things to do!
www.Facebook.com/WhatsUpForKids Twitter: @WhatsUpForKids
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Art Enrichment Programs! We bring Art Programs to Preschools, Public and Private Elementary Schools, City Park and Recreational Services, Corporate Day Care, Non-Profits and More! From Leonardo da Vinci to Monet to Frank Lloyd Wright, our Great Masters Programs will:
Sharpen Critical Thinking Skills Increase the Ability to Think Independently and Innovate Build Self-Esteem and Increase Self-Confidence Let the Imagination Soar!
Programs include: Highly Trained Art Instructors, All Supplies, Educational Art Books, Prints and Props, Accompaniment of Classical Music/ Composers, Manipulatives, and More.
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Are You Ready for Walking With Dinosaurs? By Cindy Donnelly In anticipation of the upcoming release of the movie Walking With Dinosaurs, I recently I had the opportunity to interview one of the film’s consulting paleontologists, Steve Brusatte. Steve has been involved in consulting during the editing process of the film, adding feedback and ensuring the science portrayed is accurate. He is also involved in the Walking With Dinosaurs spin-offs such as the website, children’s encyclopedia, toys and interactive video games that parents will be looking for in time for the Holidays. In fact he wrote the Walking With Dinosaurs Encyclopedia which will be available from Harper Collins in November and profiles all of the dinosaurs in the film. I asked Steve to tell us a little about Walking with Dinosaurs. He explained the film tells the story about a heard of dinosaurs coping with a changing world. Due out at the end of the year, the film is poised to be the next big thing in dinosaurs and makes use of amazing CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) and 3D to bring the story to life. He indicated that he has noticed that in the last few years dinosaurs seem to have been less in the public eye. He believes this film will change that. He acknowledges that the film is entertainment and not a scientific documentary, but is pleased that the very latest science in this field has been incorporated into
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the film. Every dinosaur character is based on a real dinosaur known to have existed, and all the landscapes and settings are based on current scientific research. The dinosaur movements and behaviors shown are based on current scientific understanding. Each dinosaur portrayed in the film had a consultant who was a specialist on that species, adding authenticity to the portrayal of how the dinosaur actually would have moved and how they would have interacted with each other. As a scientist he is pleased with the film as a well-informed story. I was curious if there were some story elements in the film that might seem like just Hollywood magic and make believe, but were really based on fact. Steve pointed out one of the creatures in the film that would be easy to dismiss as fiction would be the pterosaur, which was based on a flying creature with a wing span of 30 feet. Steve says we know there were real flying animals that existed that were actually that big! It has been almost 20 years since Jurassic Park hit theaters, and in that period many new things have been discovered about dinosaurs. He thinks something parents and kids will also be surprised about is the feathers on the dinosaurs. Steve mentions that tens of thousands of fossils of dinosaurs covered in feathers have come to light since 1996. This will be the first major film to show dinosaurs covered in feathers. Talking with Steve, you could not help getting excited about dinosaurs. We talked about how most kids go through a “Dino” phase sometime in preschool or elementary school. He said he had a younger brother that went through an intense “Dino” phase. However, for Steve, it was not until he was 15 and his little brother asked for help with a science project that he became hooked on fossils and discovering that this line of study was a great way to understand how the earth has changed over time. I asked him for any suggestions he had for parents looking to encourage scientific discovery to compliment the imaginary dinosaur play. He fondly remembered how his parents encouraged him and his brother to ask questions, and be curious. He recalls trips to the museum to see not only dinosaurs but mummies, ancient artifacts, submarines, all of which he believes attributed to his natural curiosity. He says today’s parents have so many tools for them on the internet in the way of scientific news, blogs and videos. He noted that you can easily find videos showing paleontologists in the field digging up bones and making new discoveries. So if Walking with Dinosaurs sparks your kids to want to know more, these are great ways to channel your kid’s curiosity! Walking With Dinosaurs hits theaters on December 20th and will be in 3D.
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The Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition By Cindy Donnelly Yes, you have read correctly, The Elf On the Shelf® has been granted permission by Santa to help children everywhere celebrate their birthday!! I had the pleasure of talking to Carol Aebersold, co-author of the The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition and The Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition and she filled me in on all the fun. Carol, who has a direct line to Santa, explained parents had been asking if the Elf on the Shelf® could come back for their child’s birthday celebrations, and so she asked for Santa’s permission. Santa is a giver, so he allowed the Elf to go out into the world to help children celebrate their birthdays the way they do at the North Pole! The book comes with an Elf cupcake suit and hat so he can be decked out for your child’s special day, and can help parents set a new family tradition your child will treasure over the years. Carol also explained that since “birthdays are for giving”, The Elf on the Shelf® has teamed up with the non-profit organization charity: water to donate $1 for every copy of The Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition sold this year to help bring clean water to some of the 800 million people worldwide that do not have access to this basic necessity. It has been a whirlwind for Carol and her family since The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition was first published in 2005. Over the past eight years more than 6 million copies have been sold. I asked her what it felt like to become part of the holiday tradition of so many families. She said it was an “indescribably wonderful feeling” to know she has the legacy of leaving her own grandchildren and the grandchildren of so many other people this holiday tradition. She has always believed family traditions serve an important role of giving children a feeling of security through the upheaval and uncertainty around them. The tradition of the Elf goes back much longer than the book, having been a tradition both for Carol as a child and for her daughters growing up. Now this tradition is shared with so many children. The Elf on the Shelf® now has a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and families can gather around and watch The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf’s Story animated feature which will air this December on CBS-TV for the 3rd year in a row. Carol will be coming to the Los Angeles area November 30 for story times and book signings at Barnes and Noble in Huntington Beach at 10am, Kitson Fashion Island at 2pm, and Kitson Santa Monica at 6:30pm. She will also appear with the Elf in the Hollywood Christmas Parade on December 1st. For more information about The Elf on the Shelf® and for fun activities for children, visit www.elfontheshelf.com. The Elf on the Shelf®: A Birthday Tradition by Carol V. Aebersold and Chanda A. Bell with illustrations by Coë Steinwart Release date: October 22, 2013 (Creatively Classic Activities and Books/CCA and B; ISBN 978-0-9843651-9-7; $19.95)
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Health & Wellness Health & Wellness 10 Tips to Stay Trim During the Holidays 1. Family time does not have to mean sit and eat. Try quality time together doing other activities like games, hikes, or doing a project. 2. Traditional meals contain high calorie ingredients. Be creative and substitute options that will cut several hundred calories per dish. 3. Add new dishes to the dinner table of salads, vegetable, fruits and broth-based soups. These are generally healthier choices so you can fill up on these and eat less "empty calories”. 4. Schedule in your exercise in the mornings. Ask a friend or family member to join, it will help with accountability. 5. Learn to say "No Thank You". You do not have to try every dish prepared or eat all that you take. 6. While in preparation, only sample the food that is necessary. You could potentially eat 500-800 calories in sampling before you sit down to eat. 7. Eat ONLY until satisfied, NOT full. If you sit at the dinner table for more than 2 hours, you are probably going to eat more then you need to because it's there. 8. Tracking your food and exercise allows you to see how you can counter balance the day by eating a light breakfast and lunch. Tracking exercise helped me to see that I burned over 500 calories while preparing and cleaning the house! 9. Create a 15 min exercise routine that you can do even during the busy times. Add things like jumping jacks, jump rope, bridge, and squats. You want to have tools outside of the gym! 10. Holidays can be stressful and depressing for some. Exercise boosts your body's production of serotonin, the body's "happy drug". If you need some support hire a trainer or a coach. You will be ahead of the game for the New Year! JJ Flizanes is the Director of Invisible Fitness. An Amazon best-selling author of Fit 2 Love: How to Get Physically, Emotionally, and Spiritually Fit to Attract the Love of Your Life, and author of Knack Absolute Abs: Routines for a Fit and Firm Core, JJ was named Best Personal Trainer in Los Angeles for 2007 by Elite Traveler Magazine. She was a finalist for IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year 2011 and has been featured in many national magazines such as Shape, Fitness, Muscle and Fitness HERS, Elegant Bride, and Women’s Health as well as NBC, CBS, KTLA and Fox 11. JJ’s passion is transforming men and women’s bodies and relationships through their fitness and self care routines. Find her at invisiblefitness.com or 800 571 5722.
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The Circus Is Coming to Town! CIRCUS VARGAS CONJURES UP A FANTASTICAL MAGICAL EXPERIENCE FOR TORRANCE WITH ALL NEW PRODUCTION! Circus Vargas presents an astonishing array of artists in its newest, most exciting spectacular! “Magikaria,” casts its spell on Torrance November 14-25. An amazing production bursting with mystery, magic, music, and more, Magikaria entertains and amazes audiences with elaborate illusions, death-defying daredevilry and unbelievable feats of acrobatic and aerial artistry! See Circus Vargas’ Magikaria at Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance November 14-25. Travel to a realm of fantasy as far as magic will allow, to a world where anything is possible, a world of magic …under the big top. Behold the extraordinary, the unexplainable! Unleash your imagination and discover the secret to Magikaria! Meet and mingle with the cast of Magikaria! Arrive 30 minutes early for an exciting, interactive pre-show where children (of all ages) can create their own magic under the big top! For more information about Circus Vargas and to purchase tickets visit www.circusvargas.com, by phone at 877-GOTFUN-1 (877 -468-3861) or at the circus box office which opens one day prior to the first show.
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Family MOVIE NIGHT Whether you are looking for holiday gifts for the kids, or family entertainment to enjoy during winter vacation, you will want to check out the Fox Home Entertainment Holiday Collection. Just a few of the selections are highlighted below, with many more being featured on our website as the holidays approach. The CROODS: When their cave is destroyed, the Croods set out to explore a spectacular landscape filled with fantastic creatures, strange surprises…and a whole new world of adventure! As they begin to conquer their fear of the outside world, they discover that they have exactly what it takes to survive – each other. The Blu-ray™ and DVD are chock full of fun bonus material that will bring the vibrant, amazing world of THE CROODS home for the whole family to enjoy. The perfect treat for kids of all ages, THE CROODS Blu-ray™ and DVD comes with a lovable Belt plush toy for a limited time only. THE CROODS promises to bring the whole family together “from 4 to 104” (Sam Rubin, KTLA) TURBO: Laugh it up with the visually stunning, heartfelt comedy-adventure for fans of all ages this holiday season! “Fresh, fast and funny” (Lou Lumenick, New York Post) and garnering four stars from Shawn Edwards with Fox TV, DreamWorks Animation’s TURBO has been hailed by critics as “pure family fun” (Jeff Craig, Sixty Second Preview) receiving outstanding audience reaction and a coveted “A” CinemaScore. Taking the fun-filled spirited adventure of the film, the Blu-ray™ and DVD are packaged with a TURBO pullback toy racer, while supplies last, making it a great gift for the holidays! Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Bitty Mysteries: Get ready for mischief, mystery and marvelous good times in Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Bitty Mysteries. You’ll follow the clues to fun and adventure as Strawberry and her pals learn to face their fears, become real-life heroines and find some missing VIP’s (Very Important Pets)! It’s glimmery girl power to the rescue in these stories of friendship! Special Features Include printable coloring pages!! Remember to check out our website for details of other Fox Home Entertainment Holiday Collection titles including EPIC, Shrek the Musical, Dragons and more!
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If you’ve been in San Pedro recently, you may have noticed the large colorful tents on Miner Street. Cirque du Soleil has come to town with TOTEM—a wonderful show full of fabulous, unbelievable performers! Since its World Premiere in 2010, more than 2 million people worldwide have been mesmerized by the intimacy and beauty of TOTEM. Featuring a cast of 46 acrobats, actors, musicians and singers, TOTEM is an uplifting array of athleticism, comedy, heartfelt emotions and surprising visual effects. We had front and center seats to catch it all – from the aerial acts to the unicycles to the entertaining beach goers, the show never stops (except for a short intermission) and is full of excitement and break taking acts. After the show, we were treated to a rare behind the scenes tour where we had the opportunity to meet and speak with some of the performers. As you can see in one of the pictures, there is a full gym behind us for practice, a full costume shop (all costumes are handmade) and more. These performers are from around the world and many have been with Cirque du Soleil for years. If you have never experienced a Cirque du Solei show, NOW is the time! It’s in our south bay “backyard” until November 10th. After the Port of Los Angeles tour stop, it moves to Orange County November 21 - and then travels on to the Santa Monica Pier opening January 17th. The show is kid-friendly—I sat next to a 6 year old who was in awe, her favorite act being the women on unicycles! Tickets for all TOTEM performances www.cirquedusoleil.com/totem.
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On Dad’ On Dad’s Watch s Watch Je t’adore By Michael Malgeri I know enough Spanish to be dangerous, generally to myself. On one occasion, I nearly got out of a Mexican restaurant alive after yelling, "Camarone, por favor" instead of "Camarero, …." You basically don't want to call a "waiter" a "shrimp," especially in the hood. I've since improved in this beautiful language and will often attempt to translate something my kids say. "Dad, my new teacher had Michael as a student, but I don't think she knows me." "Ella no te conoce?" I confirmed on Google translate that this indeed means, "She doesn't know you?" I told you I was getting better. "What does that mean?" asked my daughter. "Ella, means 'she.' 'No,' means 'doesn't' and 'te conoce' translates as 'you know.' You see in Spanish, they sometimes put the object pronoun before the verb. It sounds strange in English because to us it says, 'She doesn't you know?' It's just something your brain has to get used to." "Oh!" she said. "That's weird! Why do they do THAT!?" "I don't know but the French do it too. If I want to say, 'I adore you' in French, I'd say, 'Je t'adore,' which actually sounds like you're saying, 'Shut the door'". That got a chuckle "Really!" "Yes, really." By this time, we'd arrived at her friend's house… oh yeah, we were in the car. True to form, she says, "BYE DADDY!" and scampers out forgetting, you guessed it, to SHUT THE DOOR! "JE T'ADORE!" I yelled. She stopped, turned, pushed the door shut, then smiled and said, "I love you too!" Such a cool kid! Editor’s Note: 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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Kindergym, Recreational Classes U.S.A.G. Competitive Teams Cheerleading Classes, Birthday Parties Winter, Spring and Summer Camps 20,000 Sq. Ft. Facility Call Today For Our Schedule of Classes! 3051 Fujita St., Torrance (310) 326-1818 www.studiowestgymnastics.com
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QUICK TIPS FOR ORGANIZING QUICK TIPS FOR ORGANIZING A Fun & Successful Gargage/Yard Sale 1. Get the word out. Publicity is key, especially if you hold the sale in an area with little traffic. Signs posted everywhere (without becoming a nuisance!) can include; on your lawn and the lawns of other participants, local grocery stores, groups where you participate (PTA, MOPS, networking groups, church.), etc. Street signage should be easily readable. Many are in such small print, they are missed by drivers. A huge arrow pointing toward the location is best. 2. Display is important. Clothes in piles are discouraging, except for a few who love digging in. Many will pass up just such a pile. Hanging nicer clothing items on a rack will encourage lookers and buyers. 3. Box or display like items together on tables: glassware, toys, household & kitchen items, books, etc. 4. Identify each seller’s items with different color stickers or tags, making dividing the profits easier during the day and at the end of the sale. 5. Set up a “Cashier or Payment” table with a money box with small bills and coins for change. Make a list of the sellers names at the top of each column. As an item is sold the price is listed under their name, making it easy for payment at the day’s end. Either someone volunteers to act as cashier for the event, or sellers take shifts. Also decide ahead of time if you will take checks or cash only. Post a sign on the table. 6. About one hour before the end of the sale day, post a large sign at the curb or edge of the yard, reading, “All items half price” Or “One bag for $1.00.” Have plastic or paper grocery bags available. 7. When the sale closes, bag up all the leftover items and have a plan for donating the items. Someone volunteers to drop them off at the charity location or have a pre-planned day for your favorite charity to pick them up. 8. Total the profits for each seller and enjoy your less-cluttered environment. © Quick Tips For Closets Ann Gambrell 2013 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 request her for FREE monthly email tips email gambrellann@aol.com. You will be glad you did.
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The Single Mom’s Guide Single Moms: How to Survive Your First Thanksgiving By Kerri Zane Facing the most important family holiday of the year, Thanksgiving, as a newly minted single mom can be emotionally challenging. Here are a few options to make the day more enjoyable for you, your children and your former spouse. 1. Have the kids spend the first half of the weekend with you and the other half with your ex, splitting the day of Thanksgiving down the middle. Just be sure you are in sync with your former spouse and the kids don’t eat too much at the first meal. Or have them enjoy the food in one place and the football games and family activities at the other house. 2. Another option is to celebrate Thanksgiving before the traditional Thursday Thanksgiving. We celebrate on the Tuesday before the Thursday. That way we avoid all the horrific travel snafu’s and the trauma and drama of dealing with persnickety exes. 3. If you don’t have family nearby connect with the other single moms in your area. You can create a new Thanksgiving tradition with them. After all, everyone's gotta eat! If you don’t have a tribe in place, check out mommeetmom.com. It’s a new website for moms to meet other likeminded moms in their neighborhood. It’s like a dating service for moms. The essence of Thanksgiving is about taking time to reflect and be grateful for what we DO have in our lives. You have your health, your beautiful children, and many many days ahead to create new traditions as a family. Enjoy! For more great single mom information on how to live your happily even after, visit www.kerrizane.com. Sign-up for my free call, and you’ll be automatically entered to win a FREE spring break getaway. Kerri Zane is an Emmy award winning television executive producer, healthy living expert, single mom advisor, speaker, and author of “It Takes All 5: A Single Mom’s Guide to Finding the REAL One.” published by Morgan James, (November 2012). She is the family travel expert for Peter Greenberg Online, a regular contributor to What’s Up For Kids as well as various mommy blogs.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Ongoing Weekly Activities As Events Details May Change, Please Call Ahead. MONDAY Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., R.H.E., hosts Babies in the Library, a storytime 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 storytime for ages 2-5 year olds. 10:30am. 310-377-9584, ext. 551. TUESDAY Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime Ages 2-5. No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am. 377 -9584, ext. 601. Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts storytime for ages 6-24months. 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 storytime for ages 2-5. Free. 11:30am 377-9584. Lomita Library, 24200 Narbonne Ave., Lomita, hosts preschool storytime at 10am. 539-4515. Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 205. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. THURSDAY Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 205. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. Redondo Beach Library North branch, 2000 Artesia Blvd., hosts storytime for 1-5 year olds. 1pm. 318-0675 .
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 storytime 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, 1800 W. Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts Children’s Storytime. 11am. 310-725-7025. SUNDAY Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier offers storytime 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.
Information about many activities come to us after our print deadline! Visit the website for more exciting things to do with your family!
www.whatsupforkids.com Print deadline for the January/February 2014 issue is December 1, 2013. Submit your event on our website!
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS November/December 2013 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts a tidepool walk. 2-3:30pm. Free. (310) 548-7562. TUESDAY,, NOVEMBER 5 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30Pm. 310-371-7546. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/child CPR). 6PM—9PM. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618 -6659. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7 La Leche League hosts a Palos Verdes meeting the FIRST Thursday of each month at 10am at St. Frances at 2200 Via Rosa, PVE 90274 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8 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, NOVEMBER 9 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR/Heartsaver. 9am-3pm. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618 -6659. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts 2nd Sunday Science, 2-4pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 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 310-514-9825or sanpedromomsclub@yahoo.com. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts storytime and nature crafts for kids. 10-noon. $5/person. (310) 782-3989. South Bay Galleria welcome Santa! Get the details at www.SouthBayGalleria.com or call 310-371-7546. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts a tidepool walk. 1-2:30pm. Free. (310) 548-7562.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18 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, NOVEMBER 21 MOMS Club of Torrance NW hosts a meeting every month at El Nido Park (18301 Kingsdale Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90278). We are a support group for moms, learn more about us at http:// momsclubtorrancenw.weebly.com. Please contact us at MOMSClubTorranceNW.mvp@gmail.com if you would like to attend our meeting and check us out. Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/child CPR).
www.WhatsUpForKids.com (Continued from page 28) 6PM—9PM. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Plaza El Segundo located at the NE corner of Rosecrans and Sepulveda welcomes the holiday season with a special tree lighting ceremony and community celebration. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. in the Kid’s Zone, including the Radio Disney Road Show from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, The Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt, live entertainment, stilt walkers, balloons, face painting and free treats. Families may also visit with Santa and take photos on the Whole Foods patio for $10 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Free hayrides will be available from 6pm-9pm to transport guests between the three activity areas. www.plazaelsegundo.com Norris Center , 27570 Norris Center Drive, RHE. Peninsula School of Performing Arts presents The Nutcracker, a holiday classic. Tickets $30 for Adults and $20 for Children. Norris Box Office (310) 544-0304. Performances also Saturday and Sunday, November 23 & 24! South Bay Conservatory presents Annie in the James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance. $22.50. For tickets, call (310) 781-7171. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. Providence Little Company of Mary hosts a Supersitter Class for kids ages 11-15. This 2 session class is $30. To register, go to www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989
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WEDNESDAY, NOIVEMBER 27 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 10:30Am. 310-371-7546.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30pm. 310-371-7546. WEDNESDAY, DECEBER 4 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/child CPR). 6-9. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 782-3989. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR/Heartsaver. 9am-3pm. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a Star Party. View the moon, mercury and venus! FREE. 7-9pm. (310) 782-3989 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts 2nd Sunday Science, Nature’s Treasures. 2-4pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. (Continued on page 30)
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(Continued from page 29) For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com
contact us at MOMSClubTorranceNW.mvp@gmail.com if you would like to attend our meeting and check us out.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 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 310-514-9825or saNpedromomsclub@yahoo.com.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts Tidepooling for Tots. 10:30-12noon. (310) 548-7562
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 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, DECEMBER 14 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts a tidepool walk TODAY AND TOMORROW, 3-4:30. Free, all ages. 310-548-7562. Centinela Valley Center for the Arts, 14901 South Inglewood Avenue Lawndale. Pacific Dance Center presents a beautiful production of The Nutcracker. This is a child friendly production and is the perfect introduction to classical ballet. Tickets $20. For more information 310 406-1431. MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 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, DECEMBER 17 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, DECEMBER 19 MOMS Club of Torrance NW hosts a meeting every month at El Nido Park (18301 Kingsdale Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90278). We are a support group for moms, learn more about us at http:// momsclubtorrancenw.weebly.com. Please
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989.
Wishing You and Your Family A Magical Holiday Season! And a Happy New Year!!! As event dates and times change, please call ahead! LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO? Our website has 100’s of things! We just can list them all here! Visit www.WhatsUpForKids.com And click on the calendar for all the latest things going on in the South Bay!
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FAMILY RESOURCE DIRECTORY CLASSES Classes— Classes—Dance
Founder/President/Publisher
The Dance Factory School of Performing Arts (310) 519-3600 28901 S. Western Ave., #113, Rancho Palos Verdes www.Dance-Factory.com Where kids grow up and make memories to last a lifetime. Ages 2 and up. University trained teachers—limited class size.
Cathy Alessandra
Peninsula School of Performing Arts (310) 375-1398 2325 PV Drive West, PVE 700 Silver Spur Rd, RHE Please check our website: pspadance.com, for class information, teacher bios, calendar and fees. Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz and More! Tita Boulger, director.
Classes— Classes—Music Piano & Violin Instruction (310) 245-9193 Patient, caring teacher. Beginning thru advanced levels. 15 years experience. First lesson free. Call Angela.
HEALTHCARE Dr. Tiffany Becker 827 Deep Valley Drive, Suite 201 | Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 310.541.5400 www.beckerpeds.com Services offered include: Well child exams, Same day sick visits, Sports and camp physicals, Prenatal consultations
cathy@whatsupforkids.com P.O. Box 3893 Palos Verdes, CA 90274 Phone & Fax: (888) 544-1042 Publisher/Editor: Cathy Alessandra cathy@whatsupforkids.com, ext 701 Sales: Cindy Donnelly cindy@whatsupforkids.com, ext 702 Photographer: Cynthia Olkie, Fleur De LIs Photography www.fleurphoto.com
www.WhatsUpForKids.com To place a listing or advertisement, call our office at (310) 544-1042 or email the listing to: cathy@whatsupforkids.com. Deadline for the January/ February Edition is December 1, 2013.
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Disclaimer: What’s Up For Kids is published bi-monthly by What’s Up For Kids LLC. What’s Up For Kids expressly disclaims all warranties as to the contents of this publication and assumes no liability for the contents, including but not limited to any credentials stated or claims made by persons or establishments included in this publication. All rights reserved. What’s Up For Kids copyright 2013. Reproduction in whole in part without written permission is prohibited.
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