Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in west la, CA

Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of July

by Susan Choi

July 23, 2009

There is so much to do this weekend around the LA area, so let's get right to it...

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre has begun this month at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! This week's performers are the Masanga Marimba. This ensemble music group performs music from Latin America and Africa on Zimbabwean marimbas. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's preshow activity is entitled, Junior Scientist Workshop--Air: Butterfly and Bugs. Your child can draw different wings of bugs based on the many specimens that will be available for viewing. Workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Santa Monica Playhouse is hosting a Cinderella Gala Grand Masquerade Ball on Saturday at 6:30 pm. Come dressed up in costumes (or your own idea of grand ball attire), and prepare to be royally entertained! With dinner, dancing with a prince, face painting and more, this is sure to be an evening your little prince or princess will not forget. Proceeds from this evening the Santa Monica Playhouse Diversity-in-Education Family Theatre Program.

On Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is hosting Sizzlin' Summer Sandcastle Day. Bring your own supplies and help your kids build something fun in the sand.

The Wiggles Go Bananas at the Gibson Amphitheatre this Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 pm and 5 pm. Kids of all ages love the Wiggles and seeing them live is a real treat!

Ellen Switkes will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am.

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting Contra-Tiempo on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. The urban Latino dance theater troupe performs salsa-inspired dances. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, you can listen to the Karen Golden tell stories from around the world, accompanied by her saxophone.

The Skirball is also hosting a family event called The Science of Super Heroes on Sunday at 10 am and 1 pm. Join the Scarlet Scientist and investigate the secrets behind some of comic books' greatest heroes! Through hands-on experiments, expose the truth behind various super powers such as flight, x-ray vision, and lightning speed. Tickets to this event also grants you entrance to Noah's Ark.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, it is youth talent night. Youth from Westlake and surrounding communities will be the stars.

The Fowler Museum at UCLA is hosting a Kids in the Courtyard art session on Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Make a kangaroo mask and then compete in a leaping contest! The Summer Sunset concert featuring Dave's Aussie Bush Band begins at 4 pm. The native Australian music group will perform folk and pop songs from Down Under.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's theme will be Korean kites.

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Weekend Warrior: Farmers Market 75th Anniversary

by Susan Choi

July 16, 2009

Another gorgeous weekend with options galore for us Angelenos. Be adventurous! Do something different! There is so much to do, just a short car ride away.

The Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax (next to the Grove) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this week! They are hosting a big event all weekend long for families. On Saturday from 11 am to 3:00 pm, Radio Disney Street team, face painting and marionettes will be featured. On Sunday from 11 am to 5:30 pm, magicians, masamba marimba music, face painting and rain stick making workshop will be available. For more information on the specific schedule, please click here.

The Skirball Cultural Center continues its Family Amphitheater Performance series this weekend. On Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Wildlife on Wheels invites families to interact with a variety of exotic animals-from the scaly to the furry-and discuss the role these creatures play in their habitats. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Chinese Lion Dance will perform with intricate costumes and powerful drums. Watch and learn as the dynamic choreography tells a story about a wild Chinese lion that is tamed and taught to dance.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, Bob Baker and his famous marionettes will be performing.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. In Mexico, artists make bright painted tin pictures of fish, lizards, hearts and stars. Paint your own tin while learning more about this beautiful work.






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Weekend Warrior: The Circus and Ford Family Saturdays

by Susan Choi

July 09, 2009

The weekend is upon us soon! There are a plethora of options for you and your child. With the weather so warm these days, you may want to skip all the special events and just head to the beach. You just might spot our family there too!

Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus is in town! Click here to find out more details on the circus, including a special ticket offering for Savvy readers!

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre has begun this month at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! This week's performers are the On Ensemble. This group of drummers infuse traditional taiko Japanese drumming with musical influences from hip-hop, rock and electronica. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. Science-based arts and crafts session begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting the Taiko Center of Los Angeles on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. Come listen to the ancient Japanese drumming style. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, you can listen to the LA Outback play Australia' most popular instrument, the didgeridoo.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum is holding a "Listen, Learn and Make Family Workshop" on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. You and your child can make your own shadow-boxes using the images of birds and other items, inspired by artist Joseph Cornell. RSVP required. $6 per child.

Critter Club is for three to five years olds at the Natural History Museum. This Saturday at 10 am, the museum is celebrating the slimy and the scaly critters that call the Discovery Center home as well as their cousins from around the world. Listen to stories, play games, and make a scaly craft to take home. With special guests, the California Herpetological Association! Free with museum admission. From 12 noon to 5 pm, the celebration continues with Reptile and Amphibian Appreciation Day. Come to the Discovery Center in the museum to meet radical reptiles and fabulous frogs. Meet reptiles and take a picture with them too! There will also be crafts and activities and reptile story times.

The Japanese American National Museum is hosting a family day on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. You and your child can explore the colorful world of Asian-American books. Admission is free all day with special activities such as book readings and crafts. From 1 pm to 4 pm, you can make your own maple granola fruit parfaits with Kidding around the Kitchen. At 2 pm, Nathaniel Lachenmeyer will read and sign his book, "The Origami Master" with a special activity to follow.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. This week's theme is the Lion of Judah. Make a lion mask and learn about Ethiopia.


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Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of June

by Susan Choi

June 25, 2009

It is the last weekend of June and school is officially out for most kids. What to do to kick off the summer break? Take your pick...

Kidspace Museum in Pasadena is turning thirty! On Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, there will be a celebration with party games, music, balloons, and more all weekend long. Families can share their favorite Kidspace memory on an anniversary mural, make a party hat and more! And on Saturday, yummy birthday cake will be served!

Join the Musical Coopers for a musical sea-faring adventure at the Mark Taper Auditorium in the Central Library on Saturday from 2 pm to 3 pm. A pirate or two will be making an appearance!

Another chance to visit the open house of the bureau of sanitation. This Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm, visit the West Los Angeles District Yard for truck demonstration and tours, free food and games, 15 gallon citrus tree adoptions and free mulch. What a great way to teach children about recycling!

The Fowler Museum at UCLA is hosting a Summer Sunset concert featuring Mamifero on Sunday at 4 pm. The local musicians present an eclectic mix of musical styles incorporating the didgeridoo and more.

The Autry National Center at Griffith Park is hosting a family playhouse program on Sunday from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. This Sunday theme will be Dragon boat racing. Check out the Family Discovery Gallery to learn more about one of China's most ancient traditions and make dragon boat puppets to race at home.

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting a Family Weekend Workshop on Sunday. The second session is already sold out so act quickly to reserve space for the 11:30 am session that is still available. Tour the Zap! Pow! Bam! The Superhero: The Golden Age of Comic Books: 1938-1950 exhibit and then join comic book artist Crystal Webb to create your own comic book hero. Tickets for the 11:30 am workshop includes a 10 am entrance to Noah's Ark exhibit.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. This week's theme is Messy Science featuring squishy, slimy, and unusual science experiments made from household items.  Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Father's Day

by Susan Choi

June 18, 2009

This weekend is Father's Day! Celebrate the dads in your life with some homemade pancakes (courtesy of the kids), neckties (courtesy of Bloomie's), and a special activity to honor the superhero in your life.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum is holding a "Listen, Learn and Make Family Workshop" on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. to create a unique gift for dad while reusing recycled materials. Bring in small objects and other forgotten treasures, and make something special for dad. A selection of materials with also be provided. RSVP required.

Lakeshore Learning Stores are hosting a free crafts for kids event on Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm. Your kids can make, what else, a tie for dad.

Come celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Santa Monica Pier with the School's Out Event on Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. They will feature a variety of top-notch activities and performances for families and kids of all ages including the Cirque du Soleil "Circus Play Area," a lot of different interactive dance activities and performances, a puppet show, and fitness and art activities. Also, check out a new interactive kid's guide of the pier.

The Rogue Artists Ensemble is performing The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone on Saturday at 10 am and 2 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm. The story is brought to life by using music, puppetry and projections. "Pay what you can" for admission.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Your kids can make, what else, a tie for dad. Free admission for dads.

Kathleen Zundell will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am. With her puppet pal, Philbert, Kathleen engages children with silly jokes, tales, and poems. Free to the public.

Kim Wayans and Kevin Knotts, author of Amy Hodgepodge will be at the Central Library on Sunday at 2 pm. Amy Hodgepodge is a story of a multi-ethnic fourth grade girl and her adventures in a new city.

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An Annual Treat: Hollywood Bowl SummerSounds Kids Concerts

by Susan Choi

May 13, 2009

Every year, the Hollywood Bowl hosts a special kids concert series called SummerSounds. It features great concerts created especially for kids and a Fine Arts Outdoor Studio. The program is held each weekday from July 6th to August 14th and is geared for three to nine year olds. Every two weeks, they focus on a different location and the music and arts from there. This year they are focusing on Brazil, Mexico and India. Local artists perform and the kids truly enjoy the program. The ticket prices are reasonable ($7 for the concert and $5 for the art program). I intend on attending with friends this summer. Hope to see you there!

Weeks 1 and 2 Jul 6 - 10 Jul 13 - 17	Brazil on the Westside Music: From its base on the Westside, the Swing Brazil Dance Company and their director Vida Vierra invite you to join them in celebrating the spirit of Carnaval with congas, percussion, keyboards and samba whistle. The rich cultural heritage of Brazil thrives in our own backyard — come learn how to dance orixa with your neighbors! Art: Get into the spirit of Carnaval at the Art Workshop — paint pictures, make a beaded necklace, and much more.
Weeks 3 and 4 Jul 20 - 24 Jul 27 - Jul 31	Mexico in East Los Angeles Music: Musician, teacher, instrument-maker and more, Cesar Castro brings to life the spirit of his beloved East Los Angeles by leading a fandango — the colorful celebration where musicians, dancers, poets and the community gather around the platform (tarima) to sing and dance. Come learn about the hidden treasure that is East Los Angeles, now a thriving home to the musical style called son jarocho. Art: °Viva la arte! Come to the Art Workshop and make a beaded painting, sculpt a Day of the Dead mask, and much more.
Weeks 5 and 6 Aug 3 - 7 Aug 10 - 14	India — Little India in Artesia Music: Shakti Dance Ensemble, led by Viji Prakash, brings the spice-laden neighborhood of Artesia's Little India to the Bowl to share the traditional roots of Bharata natyam, with its complex foot patterns, striking facial expressions and vivid story telling. Dance and music are inseparable as the performers bring you into their magical circle, dancing and acting out Indian folk tales and other touching stories. Art: Celebrate vibrant Indian art at the Art Workshop — create a sculpture, make a sand painting, and much more.

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Weekend Warrior: Mother's Day

by Susan Choi

May 07, 2009

Mother's Day is here! Or as I like to call it "a day to shirk my daily duties and do stuff for myself." In other words, nothing involving my three lovely children--spa time, a sophisticated meal, and sleep. But I suppose I would be willing to sneak in a few hours of family time to partake in one of the following activities:

The Hidden Garden Floral Designs on Pico Blvd near Sepulveda is hosting a Mother's Day special. Your children (supervised by an adult) can design a beautiful arrangement for Mom for $65 per arrangement. Stop by on Saturday at 11 am, 1 pm, or 3 pm and create a personalized floral arrangement, lovingly made by your children.

All the fire stations in the city of Los Angeles will be hosting open houses on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Stop by, take a tour of the station, and say thanks to these brave men and women for their services.

The first of a monthly series called Drum Downtown is starting at the Music Center. Come this Saturday from 10 am to 11:30 am and enjoy this free event (first come, first served). Hand drums, shakers, tambourines, and other percussion instruments will be provided for you and your children to rock out. Bring non-perishable food or personal care items to donate to the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

The Japanese American National Museum is sponsoring a free family day on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. This month's theme is Hawai'i. All-day craft activities such as making an origami Aloha shirt, creating a lei, "shaved ice" tissue paper artwork and making Mother's Day cards.

Baby Loves Disco is on again this Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm at the Cinespace in Hollywood. $15 in advance, $18 at door.

Love You Forever by Robert N. Munsch is one of our favorite books. He will be at Zimmer Museum to read his book on Saturday from 2 pm to 4 pm. In honor of Mother's day, all women are admitted free to the museum. Children will celebrate Mother's Day at the Museum by making special Mother's day cards.

Critter Club is for three to five years olds at the Natural History Museum . This Sunday at 10:15 am, you can visit the gardens where you can meet and release helpful bug friends. Take home your very own seedling! Free with museum admission.

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Weekend Warrior: Cinco de Mayo

by Susan Choi

April 30, 2009

May is here and as usual, there are a lot of things going on this weekend. I will be sharing more about the Swine Flu epidemic on Monday. Until then, please be sure to be more vigilant with hand washing, but do not let this put a damper on your weekend fun. As far as is known, it is contracted like any other flu virus. Thorough hand washing and general hygiene is your best protection.

Are there any kids out there who don't love Bert and Ernie? On Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm, these Sesame Street characters will be at the Los Angeles Zoo.

And speaking of puppets, Bob Baker and his marionettes will be at Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena on Saturday at 2 pm. If you haven't seen this LA legend in action, it is worth the drive. His show is free with admission to the museum.

Cinco de Mayo is coming next week. To celebrate the "Batalla de Puebla," go to historic Olvera Street from 11 am to 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The usual ethnic food and merchant vendors will be present, as well as a variety of educational workshops and classes on piñata and Mexican-flag making.

The Autry National Center is also celebrating Cinco de Mayo with their annual Viva El Cinco family festival. Mariachis, lively ballet folklorico, and skillful charros will be performed. Puppet performances and yummy Mexican tacos and salsa round out the celebration.

If you wish to spend the day celebrating Yoga, YogaBuddies is hosting a party at Virginia Avenue Park in Santa Monica to commemorate their five-year anniversary . Come on Saturday at 1 pm to 3:30 pm. They will host a free kids' yoga class, have crafts, games, and raffle prizes.

On Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm, head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art (LA MOCA) for Big Family Day. Enjoy free admission to look at the exhibits, hear live music, watch dance performances. There will also be an opportunity to creat your own family art.

Grammy-nominated Zak Morgan will be performing at McCabe's in Santa Monica on Sunday at 11 am. His motto, "I can do it," is wonderfully conveyed through his musical performance. Tickets are $8.

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Weekend Warrior: Earth Day Edition and a Chance to Win $5,000!

by Susan Choi

April 16, 2009

Earth Day is April 21st. One thing I love about this city is how green it is, and I am not talking about our giant palm trees and perfectly manicured lawns. Did you know that we have one of the lowest rates of daily water use per person in the country? The city also provides recycling bins for its residents, and I believe environmental awareness in our community is generally greater than in many other communities. Way to go! I wanted to highlight local programs that are celebrating Earth Day this weekend. It is supposed to be warm and wonderful this weekend, so go out, enjoy, and honor our planet!

On Saturday and Sunday, the Los Angeles Zoo is hosting its annual Earth Day Expo. From 10 am to 5 pm, the zoo will highlight special California wildlife, such as harbor seals and California condors, as well as have special activities such as recycled materials art.

Kidspace Museum in Pasadena is hosting two cool events this weekend. On Saturday, witness the release of hundreds of butterflies at 2 pm. There will be games and activities preceding the 13th annual butterfly release. On Sunday at 11 am, 1 pm and 2 pm, kids can learn how to create organic tie-dye and see the difference between natural and artificial colors while dying a bandanna. $5 per child. Register in advance by clicking on this link.
 
Celebrate Earth Day with Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro on Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm. Begin with a volunteer beach cleanup and then head back to the aquarium to take part in environmental activities and create projects you can take home. Information booths of local environmental organizations will distribute helpful information and materials.

Want to support a different but equally important cause? Check out The Wonder of Reading's Explore-A-Story: Celebration of Books on Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm at the Hollywood ArcLight Cinemas. This event features celebrity readers: Shia LaBeouf, Jesse McCartney, Jane Kaczmarek, Madison Pettis and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. There will also be readings and book signings by authors, a California Pizza Kitchen lunch, and a goody bag to take home with DVDs. There will be crafts and music performances as well. $75 per person or $200 for a family of four (partially tax deductable).

Finally, want to win $5,000 and free paint? Then enter a contest called My House Stinks. Submit a picture and description of your stinky room. The contest is sponsored by Dutch Boy that just released a new line of paints called Refresh. It is specially formulated to help fight common household smells like pet odors and is GreenGuard and Green Cert certified for its zero VOC.
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Community Classes: Great Alternative to Expensive Enrichment Classes

by Susan Choi

March 31, 2009

Has the economy has affected your family personally? Maybe you or your spouse have not lost your job but still need to cut back spending. As parents, it is hard to force our children to make sacrifices when it comes to their education, especially when they love art or gym. Never fear, your local community recreation classes are here! I was looking into classes for my kids but I thought it would be good information to share. We took a couple art classes and a gym class through both the Mar Vista recreation center and the Santa Monica community class program. There are obvious differences between the professional classes and the community classes such as facilities and supplies. However, the prices are hard to beat. If you are looking to cut costs but still want to provide great classes to your kids, consider looking into your local programs. All of the following community classes have online registration and are already taking registration for the Spring classes. Don't miss out!

Santa Monica--Classes are held at the local parks around Santa Monica and range from soccer camps to art classes. They also have a princess dance class and preschool programs as well.

Mar Vista--Classes are generally held at the Mar Vista Recreation Center and range from jewelry making to inline skating classes. They also have parent & me classes as well as soccer and basketball leagues.

Cheviot Hills--Classes are generally held at the Cheviot Hills Recreation Center and range from Chinese classes to cooking classes. They also have toddler programs and host great vacation camps.

Culver City--Classes are generally held at the local parks around Culver City and range from Taekwondo to piano lessons. They also have interesting cultural dances for adults and an ongoing preschool program.

So what if the classes are not held in a world class facility or the art classes uses way too much glitter? Your kids will love the classes and your wallet will too!


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Weekend Warrior: Spring Equinox and Special Discount for Savvy Readers at Three Cheeky Monkeys

by Susan Choi

March 19, 2009

The weekend is here and Spring is in the air! There are a couple events in LA that are celebrating the advent of Spring. Even though it is still a little chilly, go out and enjoy the fresh air!

Super Spring Show at the Crystal Springs Picnic Area at Griffith Park in LA. On Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm, go to Griffith Park for a family friendly art show and festival. There will be arts and crafts, African dance performances, and a children's film festival. This event is free and sponsored by the 2012 Art Collective.

Spring Art Thing at the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday from 6 am to 6 pm. Artists, young and old, will be at the pier, creating new works of art to celebrate the beginning of spring. So let your children bring their art smocks and easels to paint among the masses, or enjoy watching artists working live.

Preschool story time at the Palms-Rancho Park Library on Saturday from 10:30 am to 11 am. Stories will be read to promote early literacy. There is a great playground right next to the library too!

Make a kite! Every Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm, Lakeshore Learning Stores sponsor free craft activities. This Saturday, in honor of Spring, your children can make a kite.

Kids in the Courtyard series at Fowler Museum at UCLA . Make a hammered foil picture frame inspired by Senegalese artist Moussa Tine on Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm.

 

Like a lot of West LA moms, I spend too much time at Westside Pavilion with music classes, Gymboree, Barnes and Noble's, etc. I recently rediscovered Three Cheeky Monkeys toy store since the birth of my son. The toy selection here is different from Target or other discount stores, but also very reasonably priced. Three Cheeky Monkeys is moving to the North side of the mall still on the second floor, on the Nordstrom's side with an expanded reading section and more toys to purchase as well as play with onsite. In celebration of the expansion, Three Cheeky Monkeys is offering a 10% discount to Savvy readers over the weekend (from 3/20 to 3/22). Just let them know you are a Savvy reader and they will honor the 10% discount.

Happy shopping and happy Spring!

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Weekend Warrior: The First Weekend of March

by Susan Choi

March 05, 2009

When I collect the weekend activities for our Savvy readers, I try to stay within a 10 mile radius. There is so much to do in our neck of the woods that I don't feel it is necessary to venture out further. However, this time, I am including a few more activities a little further away because they seem worthwhile (Debi Derryberry, whale-watching and tide pools, anyone?).

There are a lot of beach related activities this weekend. Unfortunately, rain is in the forecast for the weekend. But if the weather holds out, check out the following:

Every first Saturday of March marks the annual "Whale of a Day" event held at Point Vicente Interpretive Center in Rancho Palos Verdes. This festival celebrates the migration of Pacific Gray whales. The event is free to the public and features many activities for children including crafts and face painting. There will also be food and gift vendors. Hopefully, you will also catch a glimpse of the migrating whales too! From 10 am to 4 pm.

Want to teach your children about volunteering and caring for the earth? Join the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on their Native Garden Workday/Beach Cleanup day from 8 am to 10 am on Saturday. You and your kids will work with the staff and other volunteers to help maintain the Cabrillo Coastal Native Plant Garden as well as help clean up the beach. Registration is required by today (Thursday). Can't make it this Saturday? Join them any first Saturday of the month.

Also at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on Sunday is the Weekend Tide Pool Walk . March is the last month to take part in this free activity. Expose your kids to sea anemones, sea stars, crabs and tide pool fishes. Just be sure to wear warm clothes and shoes with good traction.

If it does rain, here are some other indoor activities:

Wow! Massages for parents, and princess dress-up, face painting and food, while being serenaded by Debi Derryberry? Sounds awesome! Come check out the Royal Dance Party show at the Stardancers Horizon in Glendale from 1 pm to 4 pm on Saturday. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

LA Doll-maker Dorothy Elliott-Taylor will be visiting the Craft and Folk Art Museum on Saturday between 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm to demonstrate how to make a fashionable paper doll . Simple stitching and sewing may be involved, so be prepared to help out your kids. Reservations are required and it is $6 per child.

LA storyteller Karen Golden helps you get into the Purim spirit at the Jewish Community Library of LA on Sunday from 3 pm to 4 pm. This event is free.  Read more...

99 Things to Do with Your Preschooler

by Susan Choi

February 24, 2009

We are very fortunate that here in LA, there are probably a gabazillion things to do (my daughters are into making up numbers to one up each other and it is rubbing off on me).  There will never be a shortage of activities thanks to beautiful weather year-round, great playgrounds, innovative businesses that cater to kids, and awesome nature just a few steps or short car drive away.  Of course we are paying an enormously high cost of living to be here, but the perks make up for it, right?  Believe it or not, I really had to limit myself to 99.  Maybe one day, I will post 999 things to do...you know...when I have all this extra time on my hands.   

I included hyperlinks for each activity/location for addresses, directions, and more information.

Here are just 99 things to do, in no particular order, broken down by categories:

Neighborhood Parks--These are my kids' favorites and each are unique in their own way. (9)
Douglas Park in Santa Monica
Aidan's Place in West LA
Holmby Park in Westwood
Virginia Avenue Park in Santa Monica
Burton Chace Park in Marina Del Rey
Griffith Park in Los Feliz
Veteran's Park in Culver City
Roxbury Park in Beverly Hills
Stoner Park Pool in West LA

Hiking Trails--We've hiked most of these trails with the kids, some with a stroller. (6)
Solstice Canyon in Malibu
Franklin Canyon Park in Beverly Hills
Point Dume in Malibu
Temescal Canyon Gateway Park in Pacific Palisades
Coldwater Canyon Park in Beverly Hills
Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades 

Amusement Parks--Do I need to say more? (6)
Disneyland in Anaheim
Knotts Berry Farm in Buena Park
Adventure City in Anaheim
Knott's Soak City in Buena Park
Universal Studios in Universal City
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia

Indoor Play Area--These are our favorites and all of them can be rented out for birthday parties. (6)
Under the Sea (many locations)
Giggles n Hugs in West LA
Treehouse Social Club in Los Angeles (Robertson Blvd)
Adventure Plex in Manhattan Beach
Child's Play in Westwood
Play in Mid-Wilshire
Naya's Garden in Silverlake

Beaches--I included the beaches that were more kid-friendly (bathrooms, nearby food vendors in the summer). (10)
Santa Monica Beach
Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Zuma Beach in Malibu
Venice Beach
Leo Carillo State Beach in Malibu (tidepools)
Redondo Beach
Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach
Paradise Beach in Malibu
Jalama Beach in Lompoc (beach camping)
Marina "Mother's" Beach in Marina Del Rey

Mountain Resorts--Most of these resorts have recreational activities all year long. (7)
Mt Baldy
Mt High
Lake Arrowhead
Big Bear Lake
El Capitan Canyon
Mammoth Mountain
Yosemite National Park

Theatres--El Capitan and Santa Monica Playhouse are geared more for children.  The others occasionally have programs that preschoolers would be interested in.  Check the schedule for upcoming shows. (5)
El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood
Santa Monica Playhouse in Santa Monica
Mark Taper Forum in Downtown LA
Pantages Theatre in Hollywood
Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown LA

Sports Teams--My husband and I are big sports fan.  We've taken the kids to Dodgers games a couple times and they had a great time. (5)
LA Galaxy at Home Depot Center in Carson
Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodgers Stadium in LA
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Angel Stadium in Anaheim
Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center in Downtown LA
Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center in Downtown LA

Gardens--All of these gardens are a bit of a drive but absolutely worth it. (3)
The Huntington in San Marino
Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge
LA County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcardia

Aquariums--Big and small, all lots of fun! (3)
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro

Local Attractions--An array of local venues that the kids are sure to love. (11)
The Grove in Mid-Wilshire
Santa Monica Airport
Los Angeles Zoo
Santa Monica Pier/Carousel/Paradise Park
3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica
Griffith Park--Travel town
Star Eco in Culver City
Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana
Culver Ice Arena in Culver City

Museums--All of these museums are kid-friendly and even have programs/exhibits specifically for kids! (11)
Getty Center in Bel Air
LA County Museum of Art in Mid-Wilshire
Museum of Contemporary Art in Downtown LA
Autry National Center of the American West (across from the LA Zoo)
Zimmer Children's Museum in Mid-Wilshire
Page Museum at La Brea Tar Pits in Mid-Wilshire
Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena
Skirball Cultural Center in Bel Air
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County near USC
California Science Center near USC
Petersen Automotive Museum in Mid-Wilshire

Historic LA--Make it a really fun day trip and take the Metro!  You can take a bus to a station, or drive into Koreatown and park at the Denny's off Western. (6)
Olvera Street
Chinatown
Union Station
Grauman's Chinese Theater
Venice Canals
Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels


Farmer's Markets--These are my favorites.  We have a ton in the LA area but these farmer's markets really stand out. (5)
Culver City (Main Street, Tuesdays, 3 pm to 7 pm)
Brentwood (Gretna Green Way, Sundays, 9 am to 2 pm)
Santa Monica (three locations, four days, check schedule)
The Original Farmer's Market at Third Street and Fairfax (adjacent to the Grove, everyday, all day)
Larchmont Village (Larchmont Blvd, Sundays, 10 am to 2 pm)

Farms--Most of these farms have seasonal activities year round. (3)
Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark
Willowbrook Apple Farm in Oak Glen
Greenspot Farms in Mentone

Weekend Excursions--Just an hour or two away by car, a great family vacation awaits! (3)
San Diego

Legoland/Sea Life Park Aquarium
Sea World
San Diego Zoo/Wild Animal Park

Santa Barbara

Consider taking Amtrak Train
Santa Barbara Zoo
Solvang

Catalina Island

Feel free to leave a comment to add to this list!

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Weekend Warrior: Black History Month

by Susan Choi

February 19, 2009

There is a lot to do this weekend all around LA.  Singers singing, artists creating, and people celebrating.  Let's get right to it--  

On Saturday and Sunday, the LA Zoo will be celebrating Black History Month from 10 am to 5 pm.  Listen to gospel, blues and jazz performances and try out different foods.  They will also have special arts and crafts available for young children.  

At the Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire near the Grove, there will be a special presentation of traditional Persian music.  Enjoy a magic carpet ride (a la Aladdin) for an interactive carpet concert with Rowan Storm and Friends.  RSVP required and can be made by calling 323.937.4230 x50 or emailing workshops@cafam.org.  Performances at 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm.  

The Fowler Museum at UCLA, which "explore art and material culture primarily from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, and the Americas, past and present," is hosting its monthly Kids in the Courtyard family drop-in program from 1 pm to 4 pm.  The theme this month is Pop Art and children can use soda tabs and bottle caps to create works of art inspired by El Anatsui's sculptures.  

Bay Area local David Alexandrou (AKA Mr. David) will be performing his folk and blues-infused rock tunes at Children's Book World.  This free event begins at 10 am on Saturday.  

LA local Melissa Green will be performing her folky-pop music at McCabe's in Santa Monica on Sunday at 11 am.  She teaches music for various local preschools and teaches music workshops inspired by the Reggio-Emilia philosophy.  Tickets are $8.  

The Zimmer Museum is celebrating Chinese New Year during its Sunday Family Program: Passport Day.  This drop-in program is from 2 pm to 4 pm and will have art and music projects prepared by the museum and the Friends of Families with Children from China-SoCal.

If you are willing to make the trek...The Los Angeles Kids Expo is going on this weekend from 10 am to 5 pm at the Pomona Fairplex.  There will be plenty of things for the kids to see and do--magic shows, puppet shows, face painting and bounce house (a very short list of activities available).  Plus, there will be door prizes given away throughout the day (shopping sprees, Nintendo Wii and family vacations).

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Mozart, Moby and Miles: Free Performances at the downtown Music Center

by Susan Choi

January 22, 2009

In my previous life, I used to commute from San Francisco to my job at Stanford University every weekday. I actually enjoyed the drive up the 280 freeway while listening to NPR, and even had the energy afterward to go running to Ocean Beach from my rented room in the Sunset district. Of course, back then, I didn't have three kids in my backseat asking me questions every 30 seconds. So now,  Read more...

Inauguration Day: Yes You Can Enjoy this Day with your child

by Susan Choi

January 20, 2009

This past election, my older daughter was asking a lot of questions. I won't tell you whom she would have voted for if she was old enough, but it is funny to me that she had a firm opinion about the up-for-grabs presidency post. With the inauguration underway today, this past Sunday's NBC Dateline special on Michelle Obama caught my daughter's attention, and my husband was forced to forego  Read more...

Peace though the Eyes of a Child

by Susan Choi

January 15, 2009

On Sunday from 2-4pm, the Zimmer Children's Museum is hosting a family program called "Peace through the Eyes of Children." Children can help make the annual Martin Luther King Jr. mural for the museum. I love the idea of a diverse group of children from around the LA area coming together and painting this massive piece of art to symbolize the world of which Martin Luther  Read more...

Ring in the New Year with Craft Ideas

by Susan Choi

December 31, 2008

For most New Year�??s eves, my family has been very low-key. Being Korean, New Year�??s Day is a bigger celebration with my whole extended family getting together to eat rice cake soup, play games, and enjoy each other�??s company. Plus, my husband and I figure that it is impossible to get a babysitter for this night anyhow, so we don�??t mind just staying home with the  Read more...

Looking back at 2008

by Susan Choi

December 30, 2008

What an amazing year it has been at Savvy Source West LA! The site officially launched in May with Nina Moon and she filled the treasure troves with tons of toddler-friendly times. Savvy source West LA has advice on what to do with your kiddies during sunny days , rainy days , weekend days , and special days . Interested in art ? music ? books ? No problem. We've got it covered. Want  Read more...

Support an LA landmark this Christmas season - Bob Baker's Nutcracker

by Nina Moon

December 19, 2008

Susan is right - you can't miss a performance of the Nutcracker during the holidays . Christmas just isn't Christmas without it. But what to do for the ballet-adverse? Or those who can't get enough of the Nutcracker? Bob Baker's Marionette Theater's production of the Nutcracker is just the thing. Not only does the reliable landmark of an Angeleno offer an interactive show with a fresh twist on  Read more...

Holiday Performances We Love: Nutcracker

by Susan Choi

December 18, 2008

What holiday season would be complete without a viewing of the Nutcracker? It is the perfect opportunity to expose your child to a little bit of culture, without worrying about disturbing other patrons (most likely their legs are dangling two feet off the ground too)! It's also a perfect opportunity to forego the usual t-shirt/jeans attire and get a little dressed up. Matinee performances  Read more...

Picture Book Classics - Old and New

by Nina Moon

November 06, 2008

Just because a book is old doesn't make it a classic and just because a book is new doesn't mean it's not a classic either. The test of time just takes too long in the brief interim of childhood. So here are a few of our family's classics, both old and new. Now that winter's here, my son and I have been re-reading The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats with Peter's bright red snowsuit and  Read more...

Halloween Events for Preschoolers in Los Angeles

by Nina Moon

October 21, 2008

When you're a kid, one day of Halloween is simply not enough. And we here at The Savvy Source are trying to help you sort through the deluge of pre-Halloween festivities. So maybe you've already shopped for a costume and you've got your Halloween craft thing going on, but here are some fab parties coming up in Los Angeles between now and Halloween. Scribble Press - Just drop in the  Read more...

Pumpkin Activities for Preschoolers

by Nina Moon

October 17, 2008

This is the first year my son is old enough to actually, sort of "get" Halloween. Or at least the pumpkin-loving, candy-eating, door-to-door-knocking, costume-wearing part of Halloween. His first Halloween I dressed him up as a bumble bee and let him waddle around my friend's neighborhood. Last year, I was too pregnant with my now infant to even make an effort. But this year we're going all out,  Read more...

5 Places to Spark Your Preschooler's Imagination

by Nina Moon

October 14, 2008

If summer means ample opportunities to explore the world outside, the coming of fall - yes, even in Los Angeles - ushers in a cornucopia, if you will, of the arts and crafts. What it's too cold to play outside, what better than to experiment with paint and clay or curl up in a comfy corner and read a beautifully illusrated picture book? Or even write one? Here are five Los Angeles locations that  Read more...

Flashback - 5 favorite posts from September

by Nina Moon

September 30, 2008

My husband has been working long hours all this month so I've basically been flying solo around here for a month. Needless to say, I welcome October with open, grateful arms. Still, September wasn't a total wash. In case you missed it, here are five of the best posts from September. 1. Bistro de l'Hermitage - friendly French food for four-year-olds - Because excessive alliteration aside, it  Read more...

The Getty Museum - A Preschooler's Guide Part 1

by Nina Moon

September 24, 2008

You exit the 405 at Getty Center Drive and make your way to the parking entrance where you fork over $10(!!!!) for parking. You enter the underground parking lot and pass several large school buses and your heart sinks as you anticipate large hordes of elementary school students ready to trample on your tiny preschooler. But you continue on (since you already paid the ten bucks, there's no  Read more...

It Takes Two - 5 activities that are more fun with a pal

by Nina Moon

September 23, 2008

Sometimes planning a playdate seems like more effort than it's worth. After all, it's hard enough to watch your own kid, let alone their friend too. But preschoolers are at that magical age where they're just learning to play with and not just alongside other children, and it's worth it to give them time with other children even outside of preschool. Here are a few better-with-two fun  Read more...

Boxers and Ballerinas

by Nina Moon

September 17, 2008

When I was growing up I took ballet and in the adjoining studio, my brothers took Tae Kwon Do. In the midst of our plies and pirouettes we would hear the unmistakable sound of kicking feet meeting (albeit heavily padded) chests, not to mention the distinctive yells that punctuated every punch and kick. Fast forward a few years and I was still dancing, but I also found myself joining the boys  Read more...

Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Center

by Nina Moon

September 15, 2008

Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Museum, nestled just off the 405 freeway north of the Getty Museum, is a whimsical, imaginative, non-stop fun destination for young children. Maybe because I'm so desperate for a children's museum here in Los Angeles (because the old one has moved far, far away - or at least too far to visit before naptime) the entire two hours I was there I couldn't stop  Read more...

Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Center - Teaser

by Nina Moon

September 11, 2008

I finally made it out to the raved-about Noah's Ark exhibit at the Skirball Center today. I've been procrastinating, probably because I'm bad at doing anything that involves advance tickets (you must order tickets in advance, which can be done online ). After today, however, I'm hitting myself over the head - how could I have waited so long? My son loved every minute of our two-hour visit. We  Read more...

5 perfect preschool playdates

by Nina Moon

September 09, 2008

Preschool may make it a tad bit easier to set up playdates (no more desperately hoping that another lonely parent will send a friendly smile your way), but there always remains that question - where to go? Here are five perfect places for your kids to play and for grown-ups to bond. Play - I love that Play is set up to facilitate both playdates and one-on-one bonding between parent and child.  Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

September 05, 2008

As you already know (because you've already entered our giveaway), the LA County Fair starts TODAY. My family is planning on making the trip this weekend for the first time ever and, from what I gather, there's more to do (and, more importantly, eat) than one can possibly imagine. So, get thee to the fair! LA Greek Fest is also taking place this weekend with Greek music, dance, art, food and  Read more...

Art and culture for the cost of parking

by Nina Moon

September 04, 2008

One of the best things about living in a big city like Los Angeles is the sheer amount of options you have when it comes to museums. You can take a stroll through a world-class sculpture garden, immerse yourself in ancient Egypt or spend a morning on playing with the animals in Noah's Ark. And if you plan it right, you can do it all for free. Okay, you'll probably have to pay something for  Read more...

Play - A place both kids and their parents will love

by Nina Moon

September 01, 2008

Indoor play spaces and I have a complicated relationship. I appreciate the idea of a contained, stimulating area for my son to play in, but it's not worth it to me to pay a lot of money for entry when I could simply take my son to the park for free. And yet, again and again, I shell out to spend a couple of hours at one of these places because maybe, just maybe, this one might be the one. The  Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

August 29, 2008

It seems like just a few weeks ago when I was heralding in the first day of summer, the longest day of the year and the end of the school year. And now suddenly you want to tell me that summer is nearly over? That this is Labor Day weekend? No! Okay, okay, so denial is not the most effective tactic against the onslaught of autumn. Perhaps I should just try and take advantage of what's left of  Read more...

Scribble Press - for the pint sized author/illustrator

by Nina Moon

August 25, 2008

A couple of weeks ago my son and I visited Scribble Press, an entirely new kind of publishing powerhouse. Located in Westside Pavilion, Scribble Press aims to make authors and illustrators out of us all, particularly our little ones. Armed with Developmental Curprints fill-in-the-blank type stories that help children process difficult events and transitions or memorialize everything from  Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

August 22, 2008

My son and I are big Elizabeth Mitchell fans her children's folk tunes are just the thing for sunny afternoons, both playful and calming. So I'm absolutely psyched to go see her and her family perform at the Getty Center Central Garden this weekend. Pack a picnic and go see this free family concert on Saturday or Sunday at 4 and 5pm. Starting tonight, check out the Fiesta La Ballona festival  Read more...

Weekend Warriors -- Fines, Fire Trucks and Festivals

by Nina Moon

August 15, 2008

All of us, I'm sure, have had an overdue library book here or there. But what about those embarrassingly overdue books? Several months, even years, overdue? It's almost easier to just stop going to the library under the weight of that fine, right? Instead, you take advantage of the Los Angeles Public Library's Fine Free Week , which ends this Sunday. And it's still not too late to take  Read more...

Weekend Warriors: Olympic Edition

by Nina Moon

August 08, 2008

So I don't know about you all, but this weekend I'm going to try and spend as much time in front of the television as possible. My son's preschool is having an Olympic-themed week starting Monday so I figure a little preparation won't hurt him, right? For those of you who plan on seeing the light of day, there does happen to be some great events going on in Los Angeles this weekend. For  Read more...

Children's Book World -- Why I want to live there

by Nina Moon

August 07, 2008

No, really. I want to live in this bookshop, lie down on the carpet and inhale that musty new book smell in my sleep. Children's Book World , located on Pico Boulevard just a hop, skip and jump away from Westside Pavilion, is unassuming enough. In fact, I passed by it probably 100 times before even noticing it was there. No matter, I've found it now. After parking in the back lot (there's  Read more...

Weekend Warriors - Disco anyone?

by Nina Moon

July 18, 2008

This is a weekend where you're not going to want to stay at home. With everything from disco for babies to circus performances to those uber-celebrities of the preschool set (I'm talking about Diego and Dora, don't you know) coming to town, you're preschooler is bound to have fun. On Saturday morning at 11, head down to Topanga Canyon's Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum for Creative Playground 's  Read more...

Summer Read Alouds

by Nina Moon

July 15, 2008

My husband and I are always on the look-out for new picture books. We have many of the classics, but there are so many talented writers and illustrators out there that many of the newer books have become just as beloved as the tried-and-true classics, if not more so. Here are a few of my son's current favorites, full of the excitement, adventure and anticipation of summer: The OK Book My  Read more...

Three Days In and Around Los Angeles -- Mid-Wilshire

by Nina Moon

July 09, 2008

Even though I don't live in the area, I spend about half my time in the Mid-Wilshire area. Comprising everything from Museum Row to Larchmont Village to the Farmer's Market and the trendy shops on 3rd Street to Koreatown, Mid-Wilshire is where I tend to fall back on whether I'm looking for a fun, enriching place to take my son or I want a great pair of shoes or some really excellent eats. And  Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

June 27, 2008

Help your children learn about going green at Venice Eco-Fest this Saturday from 10am-7pm at Windward Avenue and Ocean Front Walk. They will have a special Kid's Explor-o-rama featuring animals, stories and music. It's also a great opportunity to safely dump everything from old computers to defunct cell phones. For those who can't manage to wait for Fourth of July of fireworks, Santa Monica  Read more...

5 Ways to Get to Know Los Angeles with Your Preschooler

by Nina Moon

June 24, 2008

Los Angeles, unlike most major metropolitan cities, is sprawling. Taking stock of the city as a whole can be daunting, even more so when you have a preschooler in tow. And while so many Angelenos spend most, if not all, of their lives in their respective neighborhoods, that really is a shame. So why not play tourist (albeit a far cooler, in-the-know tourist) this summer and explore the City of  Read more...

Let's Date: The Treehouse Social Club

by Nina Moon

June 23, 2008

As indoor play spaces go, The Treehouse Social Club on Robertson Boulevard has a leg up on the competition. They don't have a lot of toys per se (they do have a few, but if that's what you're looking for, go elsewhere). Neither do they have piles of primary colored foam blocks or children's gym equipment. Instead, the main room is dominated by a fantastic treehouse (complete with a tree, of  Read more...

Weekend Warriors: Summer Solstice Edition

by Nina Moon

June 20, 2008

Today is officially the longest day of the year. Even better, LAUSD closed its magnificent doors on our children yesterday and today is the official first day of summer. That means that this weekend is going to be a very, very long weekend, which is a good thing right!?! But what are you going to do with all that extra time? This Saturday from 1-3pm, kick off the summer by celebrating the  Read more...

Weekend Warriors: Father's Day edition

by Nina Moon

June 13, 2008

When our weekends aren't already filled with kids' birthday parties or visits to the grandparents' house, my husband and I quite often look at each other dumbly, wondering what in the world we're going to do to fill the time. Half the time we just end up puttering around the house or maybe spending a few hours at the park. Sound familiar? Well, hopefully we'll be able to overcome our seemingly  Read more...

Mozart, Moby and Miles -- SummerSounds at the Hollywood Bowl

by Nina Moon

June 04, 2008

There's nothing quite so romantic or fun as an evening at the Bowl, listening to music under the stars. Kids love the outdoor setting and the endless flights of stairs. And who wouldn't love eating a picnic dinner with hundreds of other Angelenos? Unfortunately, sometimes the evening concerts are just a little too late for our littlest ones. Luckily, every summer the Hollywood Bowl holds  Read more...

Budding Art Critic -- Boone Children's Gallery at the LACMA

by Nina Moon

June 02, 2008

LACMA is enormous, overwhelming even. Where do you start with a preschooler? Why, Boone Children's Gallery of course! There really isn't much not to love here. The gallery is really more like a gigantic warehouse separated into different art and activity stations by towering shelving units displaying children's artwork. The room's theme, construct, carries throughout each station children can  Read more...

10 Things you must do with your child in Los Angeles before they grow up

by Nina Moon

May 29, 2008

When Caius was born I had trouble imagining as one of those talkative, mobile toddlers I saw my friends running after, but here he is now about to start preschool. So even though it's impossible for me to picture my children as adults, I know that it will happen eventually. I may always be their mommy, but my time as their guide to the city is limited. Here are ten things I must do with them  Read more...

Room to Run - 5 Places to Tire Out Your Preschooler

by Nina Moon

May 28, 2008

The hours between 2 and 4 in the afternoon are holy in our home. Mess with them and you have to deal with a burnt-out mommy in all her fury. Routine may be naptime's best bud, but a good run around outdoors never hurts either. Here are the five places I turn to when I need to ensure a good afternoon nap. 1. Palms Recreation Center This neighborhood park has a small playground perfect for young  Read more...

5 Book Nooks for Tots

by Nina Moon

May 22, 2008

Some parents want to pass on to their children a love of music. Others long for their children to appreciate art. Others hope their children will love to cook. For me, it's literature. I want my children to delve enthusiastically into an afternoon spent reading, to get lost in an imaginary world (even to mourn a bit when it's over on the last page), to relish the smell of a new book. So  Read more...

Princess for a Day -- So you want to be the Greatest Mom on Earth?

by Nina Moon

May 19, 2008

Sometimes, girls just wanna have fun. I don't have a daughter (yet!), but I did have The Greatest Mom on Earth who made sure to plan special mother-daughter days where I was basically pampered silly. And although there are tons of places to have fun on a much more modest scale, why not splurge a little? After all, Los Angeles is such a great place to be pampered. Start your day at the Grove  Read more...

The Littlest Picasso - Lakeshore Learning Store

by Nina Moon

May 14, 2008

There are countless stores around Los Angeles to buy top-quality professional art supplies (for top dollar, of course). There also countless toy stores with an aisle or so devoted to paints and play-doh and Crayola crayons. But I've found no better place to buy kids' arts and craft supplies and educational toys of all kinds, than Lakeshore Learning Store . Located on Venice Boulevard near the  Read more...

5 Things To Do When the Sun's Shining

by Nina Moon

May 13, 2008

This list is nowhere near comprehensive since the sun shines here, well, a lot. LA has been designed with the sun in mind so you'd be hard-pressed to find places that aren't good for sunny day visits. Here are a few of my favorites nonetheless: 1. Redondo Beach and Pier After splashing around in the waves, head up to the pier and eat lunch at Pacific Fish Center where you're giant crabs and  Read more...