Wednesday, July 21, 2010

The ABC's of Starting School

The ABC's of Starting School


Grasshopper Preschool Prep Kits


Your kids will find out soon enough that learning’s not all fun and games (thank you, standardized tests). But for now it’s exactly that.


Which is why we’re hopping on board with Grasshopper Preschool Prep Kits. The latest in edutainment for tots, the company was founded by Rachel Rudman, an occupational therapist with a specialty in early intervention. After years of helping families get ready for preschool in creative, low-stress ways, she’s packaged her know-how into easy-to-use kits for parents and kids.



Each one focuses on a different developmental pursuit such as following directions, ABC’s and shapes, and the hand-eye coordination necessary to master scissors and glue. It’s good old-fashioned play-based learning — no assignments or workbooks.



All of the instructions allow for adjustments (easier or harder) based on your child’s abilities. So unlike other early learner products you, er, your child, won’t feel pressure to get it right the first time.



Available online at grasshopperkits.com.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Groove to the Music!

ROCK

Brian Vogan Concert

What: Quirky tunes for cool kids and their parents.

Why: Geekdad named Vogan’s Little Songs one of the best kids’ CDs of the decade.

When: Wed., 7 p.m.

Where: The Levitt Pavilion Pasadena, Raymond Ave., b/t Holly & Walnut Sts. Info at 626-683-3230. Admission is free.



POP

Pasta Puppet Musical

What: Kiddie rockers The Pop Ups lead an adventure through Brooklyn in search of pasta sauce ingredients.

Why: A pasta factory, a Big Wheel race, and tunes from the band’s new album, Outside Voices, make for one epic journey.

When: Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 1 & 3 p.m.

Where: The Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Ave., b/t California & Milwood Aves. Tickets online at brownpapertickets.com. Adults and children, $10.



SHOP

Momologie and 1969 Kids Summer Saturdays

What: The Gap pop-up shop delights with vintage sweets, a photo booth, and free frosty treats.

Why: Kiddos customize their own tees with on-site screen-printing while mom saves 20 percent.

When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.

Where: 1969 Kids, 107 S. Robertson Blvd., at Alden Dr

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Gigi's Farmers Market

Saturday, July 17, 10am - 2pm



Discover fresh and exotic produce, florals and deliciously prepared foods, plus an array of family fun and entertainment at Gigi's Farmers Market at The Americana at Brand. Additionally, enjoy food from a different gourmet food truck every week. This week, The Grilled Cheese Truck visits! For more information, click here.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Listen, Learn & Make Family Workshop

RECYCLE


Listen, Learn & Make Family Workshop

What: Recycle everyday stuff into creative sculptures with artist Aaron Kramer.

Why: Trashy fun for little ones.

When: Sat., 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Craft and Folk Art Museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd., at Curson Ave. R.S.V.P. (required) to 323-937-4230 ext. 50 or workshops@cafam.org. Children, $6.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Monday Morning Mommy Movies at Pacific Theatres--Americana on Brand

Monday Morning Mommy Movies at Pacific Theatres


Mondays, 11am



Come see a first-run movie...with your baby!



This month's line up: Despicable Me (7/12), The Sorcerer's Apprentice (7/19) and Ramona and Beezus (7/26).

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Musical Circus July 11th

Musical Circus

July 11
2-3:30pm
The Americana at Brand



The Pasadena Symphony Association’s Musical Circus is a perennial favorite for kids 3 - 8 years of age. Youngsters can toot flutes, blow trumpets, pluck violins and bang on percussion instruments. FREE ADMISSION!