What's Up For KIds, May/June 2011

www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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What’s up for kids Vol. 16— may/june 2011

Organize Tips for Busy Families Family Friendly Travel Washington DC 5th Annual

Got Summer Camp Directory PLUS FIND OUR Daily Calendar of Things to Do Around Town! www.GotSummerCamp.com www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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TS N E T N O C TABLE O…F………….. Page 22

……… ge 10 Calendar ner……………..Pa e 30 ag or Cookin’ C urce Directory.. P e 26 so ag Family Re dly Travel……..P ge 31 ien a r P F . . y . l i s r m e a n F Ms. Man y a D Page 25 . n r … e … …

Mod Watch…… zing….. Page 6 s ’ d a D n O 3 r Organi o f s p i ry.Page 1 T o t k c e r i Quic D INE. er Camp m or Kids EZ m m F u p U S s t’ t a Wh Go ids.co EW weekly hatsupfork e ALL N t www.w Receiv e th bscribe for FREE a u S

Letter From The Publisher: Well, things might look a little different to you?! Our cover has a bit of a new look to it, we have some new regular column writers and our website has been given a huge facelift!!

Here at What’s Up For Kids, I am committed to a print magazine serving South Bay families. The idea is for you to have this in your car, your purse, your diaper bag—wherever you can grab it for the latest resources you need! Plus, have it available online!

Our website will be easier to navigate—with new easy to read articles, calendar, access to the magazine online and so much more.

I welcome our newest writers—Melanie Barsuk of Simple Gourmet, Karen Murphy of the Travelstore and Constance Hoffman of Learn Social Graces. We have lots of great information to help support you in all your parenting efforts!

Enjoy the final days of the school year—and stop on over at www.GotSummerCamp.com to find that perfect summer activity for your kids!

Until next time,

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QUICK TIPS FOR ORGANIZING Maintenance Tips for Busy Families So your home is looking pretty good? Not too cluttered? You can easily maneuver through your home, you can usually find things in closets and drawers (even if it takes a bit some times), you manage to get an acceptable meal on the table and deal with the daily busy family schedule of homework, sports, and other family activities? Great!! Remember, we are not aiming for perfectionism here…just organized enough for you and your family to feel comfortable in your home. To help to maintain this chaos-free environment, maintenance strategies are necessary.

Here are a few easy tips to help maintain those areas in your home that sometimes cause clutter to accumulate.

1. Return items ASAP after use and take them to their “home”. If that is not practical for you…Practice the Move 3…Toss 3 method (borrowed from a client). Daily: Move 3 things to where they belong and Toss 3 things you no longer need. Results: a tidy home. Yes! 2. Practice using “routines: (the things you do daily, weekly, etc.) Before you leave a room take something with you that doesn’t belong there and return it to it’s home. At bedtime pick up the dishes, toys, etc. from the TV/play areas to return to where they belong…it’s home.

3. Place the incoming mail in the same place daily.

4. Return house or car keys to their home immediately upon entering the house. (purse, hook or table near the door) 5. Daily….”5 minute pick up” exercise…use a timer. Set the timer for 5 minutes or more and see what you can pick up/toss in that time. Do one room a day.

Quit when the bell rings.

6. Weekly….”Supermarket Sweep” system: Using a laundry or wicker Basket go to room and fill the basket with things that do not belong in that room.

Take them to their home.

Involve the family in practicing some of these tips. It will not only help to reduce clutter, nagging and frustration, but it can incorporate healthy living “routines” for the entire family. Enjoy your comfortable home.

Editor’s Note: 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.

www.WhatsUpForKids.com Parents, PTA’s, Preschool Directors and Principals!

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SERVING THE SOUTH BAY SINCE 1985

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Cookin’ corner Spring Peas for Kids Nothing says “Spring is here!” like the arrival of fresh peas at the Farmer’s Markets. Peas are such a kid-friendly vegetable. Our favorite pea of the season is Sugar Snap Peas. True to their name, they are full of natural sweetness that kids will love. Here’s what we love about these seasonal superstars: TASTE & TEXTURE – Sugar Snap Peas pack a punch in both categories. They are super sweet and have a fantastic crunchy texture, especially when eaten raw. They also hold up well for packing in lunches.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS – One cup of chopped sugar snap peas has 98% of your daily dose of Vitamin C. Like all vegetables, they are also a great source of dietary fiber.

CULINARY TIPS - Our favorite way to enjoy Sugar Snap Peas is raw. Just break off the stem and pull away the string on the side of the pod and they are ready to eat! Try them instead of bread or chips with some hummus or your favorite dip. They are also delicious chopped up and tossed in a green salad – a great way to add another serving of vegetables to the dinner table.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to our new Cookin’ Corner writer, Melanie Barsuk from Simple Gourmet. For more information about cooking classes, private parties and Kids Summer Cooking Camps with Simple Gourmet, go to www.simple-gourmet.com or call 310.318.6484.

www.WhatsUpForKids.com

Geoffrey A. Groat, D.D.S. Dentistry for Children and Adolescents

1350 West Seventh Street

San Pedro

(310) 832-5133

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What’s up for kids Announces our new “Deals for Families” Program!

Sign Up on Our Website to Receive BIG Weekly Deals from Your Favorite Family-Friendly Businesses! www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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At our music camps, kids don’t just play instruments.

They get to make their very own. A priceless experience that, for 26 years has made Music Rhapsody camps unlike any other.

Two-week Camp July 11-22 AND One-week Mini Camp Aug 1-5 Weekly Classes Too! Babies—Teens

Call 310-376-8646 or visit musicrhapsody.com to schedule a Free Class.

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Search NOW for the perfect summer experience for your kids!

www.GotSummerCamp.com

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South Bay Tennis Center Summer Camp Full Week Day Camp only $225/week Monday—Friday 9am—6pm Ages 5-18, Beginner thru Advanced Tennis, Water Fun & Other Activities!

For more details, call Courtney at (310) 415-1969

**NEW** Adventure Camp Full Week Adventure Camp only $325/week

Monday—Friday, 9am—6pm Includes Tennis, Swimming, Horseback Riding and loads of special activities!

Pre-Registration Required!

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ns to ulatio ts! t a r g s Con Finali t he 5

Visit Our Website at www.WhatsUpForKids.com to cast your vote! Voting ends May 31st.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Ongoing Weekly 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.

Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts storytime for ages 2-5. Free. 11:30am. 377-9584.

WEDNESDAY Barnes & Noble, 1800 W. Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts Children’s Storytime. 10:30am. 310-725-7025.

Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts storytime for ages 2-5. Free. 3pm. 377-9584.

Lomita Library, 24200 Narbonne Ave., Lomita, hosts preschool storytime at 10am. 539-4515.

Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina, PVE., hosts a storytime for ages 25 year olds. 10:30am. 310-377-9584, ext.

551.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts Discovery Sea Lab, a hands-on project to explore local marine life. The marine lab is open EVERY DAY, from 3-5pm, with a different theme each week. Free. For info., call 548-7562.

Barnes & Noble, 1800 W. Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts Children’s Storytime. 10:30am. 310-725-7025.

Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 205. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601.

North Torrance Library, 3604 Artesia Blvd., Torrance, hosts pajamarama storytime. 6:30pm. 310-323-7200.

THURSDAY Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 205. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601.

TUESDAY Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime Ages 2-5.

No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am.

377-9584, ext. 601.

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. 1012noon. $5. (310) 519-6115.

Kids Music N Motion hosts classes for various age levels at 4 South Bay locations. Call for the details. 373-0280.

Barnes and Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts toddler storytime every Friday at 10am. 310-370-5552.

North Torrance Library, 3604 Artesia Blvd., Torrance, hosts family storytime every Tuesday. Free. No registration required. 10:30am. 323-7200.

Visit www.whatsupforkids.com for more calendar events!

www.WhatsUpForKids.com Kid Concepts, 22844 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, presents a special program every Friday night. 6pm. Free with paid admission to the center. 465-0075.

Kids Music N Motion hosts classes for various age levels in Rancho Palos Verdes and Torrance and San Pedro. Call for times and details. 373-0280.

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. 310377-9584, ext. 551.

SATURDAY Barnes & Noble, 1800 W. Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts Children’s Storytime. 11am. 310-725-7025.

Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier has a shark feeding every Saturday. 12:30pm. 379-8117.

Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts habitat restoration every Sat. 9am-12noon. 782-3989.

SUNDAY Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier offers storytime every Sunday at 11am. 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.

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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 Do you have an event that you are planning?

Have it listed for free in our print magazine or online at www.whatsupforkids.com Print deadline for the July/August issue is June 15, 2011.

Online calendar listings can be submitted anytime!

Email them to calendar@whatsupforkids.com

www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May/June THURSDAY, MAY 5 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 782-3989.

Del Amo Fashion Center, Hawthorne Bl. and Carson Blvd., Torrance, JoAnn’s Court, presents Kids Club the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 10:30am. All ages welcome.

Manhattan Village, 3200 N. Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, hosts a special kids event with Wonder Tree. Get the details at www.shopmanhattanvillage.com SATURDAY, MAY 7 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Water Colors for Kids Workshop. Pre-registration required. 10a12noon. $10 310-782-3989.

TUESDAY, MAY 10 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month.

For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com THURSDAY, MAY 12 Providence Little Company of Mary Hospital hosts a SuperSitter class for kids ages 12—14 to learn how to babysit. See ad on page 7 for all the details.

FRIDAY, MAY 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 SUNDAY, MAY 15 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts 2nd Sunday Science,

Rock Mineral Fossil. 2-4pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts Sunday story studio. 1:45. (310) 548-7562 TUESDAY, MAY 17 The South Bay evening group of LaLeche meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Beach Cities Health District.

7:00pm. Free. krislaleche@yahoo.com Redondo Beach Library (main) hosts baby and toddler storytimes on Tuesdays through June 2nd. 11am 0-18mos, 11:20 am 18-36mos. (310) 318-0675 WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 Mom’s Club of Palos Verdes in a nonprofit support group for moms. They meet the 3rd Wednesday of every month at St. Luke’s Church in Rolling Hills Estates at 10am. For more information, email Susan at susan@pvmomsclub.com THURSDAY, MAY 19 Del Amo Fashion Center, Hawthorne Bl. and Carson Blvd., Torrance, JoAnn’s Court, presents Kids Club the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 10:30am. All ages welcome.

Peninsula School of the Performing Arts presents “La Bayadere” at the Norris Theater, 27570 Crossfield Rd., RHE. May 19 & 20th, 7pm. $18 (310) 544-0403.

SATURDAY, MAY 21 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a night hike. 6:308:30pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989 (Continued on page 27)

Visit www.whatsupforkids.com for more calendar events!

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On dad’s watch HIM!!!!!

Not long ago, our kids discovered the collection of "On Dad's Watch" stories which I began writing when our daughter was 3 and our son was 5. They enjoy reading about themselves, oblivious to the image of me following them for seven years with pad and pencil in hand. "Dad, stop scribbling and get me a coke!"

On one occasion after a routine day at the office, I happened by our son's room where he, his sister and a few of the neighbor kids were sitting in a circle, cackling and laughing. The were passing the book around, taking turns reading a story. I was flattered.

While most of the stories are about the kids, I sometimes can't help tossing in a personal tale, particularly if it's parentally related and MY friends let me read it to them in a circle.

So as I listened incognito to the banter and belly laughs, I wondered if they'd happen upon one of my own adventures and how they'd react. The answer came quickly.

"My wife is not a nag...really!" Our son had just begun a story, which at the time I hadn't recognized.

"STOP!" Screamed my daughter.

"Why!" My son was annoyed at the interruption.

"Go on to the next one!" Came the abrupt order.

"But why?! This IS the next one!" He's very sequential and needs a reason for everything.

"I mean the NEXT, next one."

"BUT WHY!!!!!"

A brief pause ensued... "'Cause it's about HIMMMMM!!!!"

"Oh..." and he flipped the page.

Editor’s Note: Michael is a local dad sharing stories from a dad’s perspective. Michael is working to “Stop Economic Child Abuse” by teaching kids about honest profit making. Visit http:// Www.kids4biz.com

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Family friendly travel Washington DC—A Family Destination Once a year for two weeks in April our Nations Capital becomes alive with the sight and smells of the beautiful Cherry Blossoms –just amazing. As quick as they arrive that is how quick they leave but the memories from this trip will always be with us.

My name is Karen Murphy and I work for Travelstore in Palos Verdes, and Washington in the spring is a wonderful experience for families. Ages of the children are important however, our youngest is 12 and he was very impressed and engaged with our American History. The city is very welcoming and there is a great sense of pride that is really evident. My family experienced a tour of the White House, The Capital Building, Senate Galleries, and the Library of Congress. Advance planning is important for these guided tours and has to be made through your local congressman, but with ample notice you should be able to see all that you want. I recommend at least six months prior to traveling to make your plans. The memorials and museums are wonderful, they are free and open to everyone. Our favorite was the Lincoln Memorial but there is the Vietnam, Korean War, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin Roosevelt, Iwo Jima, George Washington and the new WWII memorial completed in 2004, all of which are impressive in their own right. Museums like the Smithsonian, Air and Space, American History, Natural History, and Portrait Galleries are only a few of the many that are close to the mall.In addition there is now a Spy Museum and the Newseum which charge an entry fee and both fascinating .

Getting to and around DC is very easy. Non- Stop flights from LAX into Reagan or Dulles International airports. There is a wide range of hotels to accommodate family’s needs as well as a very efficient metro train system.

We did however enjoy walking in the city, one day from The Capital Building to Georgetown, so bring your tennis shoes! So many really great restaurants to choose from, fine dining or local grown organic food trucks! DC has so much to offer.

The next time you are looking to make some lasting memories and not just a suntan, consider Washington DC. You will be very happy you did.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to our new Family Friendly Travel writer, Karen Murphy. You can read all about Karen on our new website. Or reach out to her by phone and plan your summer trip! Karen can be reached at the Travelstore in Palos Verdes, 310-750-9413 Work 310-922-6902 Cell.

www.WhatsUpForKids.com (Continued from page 24) WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 MOMS Club of San Pedro meets the last Wednesday of every month at Peck Park Recreational Center, meeting room B, San Pedro. 10:30am. Call Shannon at 310-8091886 or sanpedromomsclub@yahoo.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 27 MOMS Club of Torrance NW hosts monthly meetings the last Friday of every month at New Hope Church, 4040 Spencer St., Torrance. 10am. Questions? Email sonata1016@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 28 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free.

310-782-3989.

SUNDAY, MAY 29 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free.

310-782-3989.

THURSDAY, JUNE 2 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 782-3989.

Del Amo Fashion Center, Hawthorne Bl. and Carson Blvd., Torrance, JoAnn’s Court, presents Kids Club the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 10:30am. All ages welcome.

Manhattan Village, 3200 N. Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, hosts a special kids event with Wonder Tree. Get the details at www.shopmanhattanvillage.com SATURDAY, JUNE 4 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a Star Party. 8:30pm. Explore the night sky! (310) 782-3989.

South Bay Ballet presents Coppelia at the James Armstrong Theater, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance. 2&6pm and tomorrowat 3pm. $22. 562-754-6476

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TUESDAY, JUNE 7 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.

FRIDAY, JUNE 10 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, JUNE 11 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Water Colors for Kids at 10am. AND hosts a night hike. 6:308:30pm. (310) 782-3989.

TUESDAY, JUNE 14 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month.

For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com

www.WhatsUpForKids.com FRIDAY, JUNE 17 Peninsula School or Performing Arts presents On a Cruise or Dancin on Deck, June 17 & 18 at Norris Center for the Performing Arts, 27570 Crossfield Drive, RHE. 2:30 & 7:30pm. $18. Call the box office at 310-544-0403.

TUESDAY, JUNE 21 La Leche League of Redondo Beach hosts a breastfeeding support group the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Beach Cities Health District. 7pm. (424) 6342660.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22 Mom’s Club of Palos Verdes in a nonprofit support group for moms. They meet the 3rd Wednesday of every month at St. Luke’s Church in Rolling Hills Estates at 10am. For more information, email Susan at susan@pvmomsclub.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 23 Del Amo Fashion Center, Hawthorne Bl. and Carson Blvd., Torrance, JoAnn’s Court, presents Kids Club the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 10:30am. All ages welcome.

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For ALL the Latest Things To Do in the South Bay, Log On To www.whatsupforkids.com What’s Up For Kids receives many press releases about upcoming activities after we have gone to print.

We try to post all of them on our website—so be sure to check the website frequently for updates!

Are you on Facebook & Twitter?

Friend us and get Up to the minue, Latest things to do! www.Facebook.com/ WhatsUpForKids Twitter—@whatsupforkids

SATURDAY, JUNE 25 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am.

Free. 310-782-3989.

Redondo Beach Library (main) hosts PAWS to Read, an independent reader program. 10:30—12noon. Limited space, register in person on the day of the session. (310) 318-0675.

SUNDAY, JUNE 26 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am.

Free. 310-782-3989.

Valid 5/1—6/18/11

www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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Pursue Your Passion.

Balance Your Life.

Are you more then a mommy with a hobby?

Are you a smart, dynamic, powerful woman who wants to pursue her passion and fulfill her soul?

At NAOEM, we understand that you are also a mom—and that by achieving balance between those you love and what you love doing is the key to success in all areas of your life!

The National Association of Entrepreneur Moms will connect you with the tools and resources you need for both!

Access to 2 monthly training calls with top business experts, THE MOM FACTOR ezine with tip, tools and resources, networking through our website and Invitation only secret Facebook group, access to resources and free publicity, ...and so much more!

Visit our Site Today To Get All the Details Including a FREE Membership!

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Family Resource Directory BABYPROOFING Family First (310) 215-3997 6505 S. Sepulveda Blvd.., Los Angeles, CA 90045 Baby proofing and earthquake-securing store and service. Custom Plexiglas, pool fencing, gifts, books and gift certificates. Call for in-home estimate. Licensed and bonded. Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 11-4 and Saturday 12-4.

BIRTHDAY

HEALTHCARE

Healthcare - Dentistry/ Orthodontics Mitra Evans, D.D.S. (310) 375-3939 23326 Hawthorne Blvd., #350, Torrance, 90505 Family and cosmetic dentistry for adults and children.

Warm and friendly atmosphere.

SAFETY

Birthday - Parties Giggles & Glamour

POISON CONTROL (800) 876-4766

(310) 679-8610

www.gigglesandglamour.com,, Email—giglnglamr@aol.com

The original #1 party choice for girls ages 3-12. Dress up fun for all occasions. Check out our website and call today!

CLASSES The Advantage Program (310) 920- 1036 3987 Pacific Coast Hwy, Torrance www.advantageprogram.org Tumbling, cheer, jazz, hip- hop, hula, Latin dance, voice, piano, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, math, Adult Pilates, tumbling, and Zumba, home school, and mommy and me classes. We also throw amazing theme parties for girls and boys!

Classes—Art KidsArt-Redondo Beach (310) 316-9331 1802 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach www.kidsartredondobeach.com Email: karedondobeach@verizon.com Fine art classes for students ages 4 and up. Students are taught according to their individual skills and abilities. Call today for FREE class.

Classes—Dance 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.

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.

SERVICES FOR THE FAMILY Financial Services Alessandra Capital Management Greg Alessandra (310) 377-9220 501 Deep Valley Dr., Ste. 202, Palos Verdes An investment advisory team with over four decades of combined experience. Personalized, confidential service offering objective advice.

Travel Travel Store, Gail Woloz (310) 545-3085 24 Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 Vacation planning expertise for families including Club Med, family villages, cruises, Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, Mexico, Caribbean and Disney World. Email: gw.travel@verizon.net.

The Family Resource Directory is published within the What’s Up For Kids magazine. Many category headings are available—JUST ASK! The Family Resource Directory contract is only $75 per issue. To place a listing, call our office at (310) 544-1042 or email the listing to: cathy@whatsupforkids.com.

Deadline for the July/August Edition is June 15th.

www.WhatsUpForKids.com

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Modern day ms. manners Children’s Birthday Party Tips & Tricks I recently received a question from a parent who threw a birthday party for her seven year old daughter at a local pizza parlor. Invitations were sent out to the classmates of her daughter, however the day of the party several parents also brought along the siblings. The frustrated parent inquired how to avoid this situation in the future since on this occasion she just paid the extra cost for the siblings.

My advice is to write “No siblings please” on the invitations. Should siblings show up, please speak with the parent away from the group and the children and let her know that you have purchased food, game tokens, tickets, etc., just for the party members. If the facility is opened to the public, suggest they make their own arrangements to pay admission, if applicable, and other dining choices as the party room is for RSVP guest only.

Below are a few additional birthday party tips and suggestions regarding children’s parties: * Keep the guest list to a reasonable number. My general recommendation is one guest for each year of your child’s age plus one. * Don’t distribute birthday party invitations at school unless everyone gets one. Prevent hurt feelings by mailing invitations or call parents instead. * The time of your birthday party should also be determined by whether or not you will be serving a meal (not including cake and ice cream). Morning parties should end by 11:30 am, afternoon parties should begin about 1 pm, and evening parties should end around 5:30 pm. Nothing could distract a partygoer more than a growling tummy! * Have plenty of adult help on hand. * Make sure your child greets each guest. They should also be available to say “good-bye”. * Follow up with hand written thank you notes. As a part of good manners, be sure to have your child send out thank you notes 1-2 weeks after the party.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to Constance Hoffman of Learn Social Graces, our new column writer. Get more information about Constance at www.LearnSocialGraces.com or call (310) 210-6103.

WHAT’S UP FOR KIDS, LLC P.O. BOX 3893 PALOS VERDES, CA 90274

Cathy Alessandra, Editor/Publisher Cindy Donnelly, Sales Associate (310)

544-1042, Fax (310) 265-0809 E-Mail Address: cathy@whatsupforkids.com Web Site: www.whatsupforkids.com www.GotSummerCamp.com

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