July Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 1)

July

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 1)

To see a world in a grain of sand, And a heaven in a wild flower, Hold infinity in the palm of your hand, An eternity in an hour. – William Blake | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Ahhhh! Summer is in full swing!

Now, the times may call for you to cut back on the summer travel plans but that just means more time for enjoying the abundant nature opportunities Los Angeles provides. You can create a “staycation” with outdoor concerts, festivals, nature walks, or even a local camping trip in the Angeles Forest or the Santa Monica Mountains and Beaches. Los Angeles is your oyster this summer!

LAUSD has cut summer school this year so please check out the LA Department of Parks and Recreation for alternate childcare and summer activities.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 7/4 Kidspace is celebrating Independence day with insects, arts and crafts, science discovery and more from 10am-3pm! So, before you head out to watch the explosions in the sky take the family to the museum for some low-to-the-ground bug action. Free with museum admission.

Or you could celebrate by taking the family on a summertime “Family Nature Walk”. Every Saturday Eaton Canyon offer one from 9-11am. Placerita Canyon, which just re-opened their newly remodeled nature center, offers a walk from 11am-12pm then an “Animal Presentation” from 1pm-2pm on Saturdays as well. *

Sunday 7/5 your family can help in a “Special Beach Cleanup” at Cabrillo Beach the day after July 4th festivities! From 8-10:30 am help remove litter to protect our coastal habitats. Call (310) 548-7562 for reservations.* (And if your family really enjoys beach clean-ups I would check out Heal the Bay’s list of on-going “Nothin’ But Sand” clean-ups!)

Then you can stretch those generous but sore muscles with a “Mommy and Me Yoga” class at Franklin Canyon Park from 1-2pm. It’s a beginning level class for children 3-8 years and their families. Bring a pillow, towel, and light blanket.*

Week of Monday 7/6 through Friday 7/10

Suggestions for your week:

On Tuesday 7/7 it is “Family Fun Night” from 7-8:30pm at King Gillette Ranch! Join naturalists for songs, stories, and a nature program. Bring a blanket/chair. Marshmallows, skewers, and weather permitting, a campfire will be provided. Meet at parking lot to left of bridge.*

On Wednesday 7/8 Vista Hermosa park is kicking-off their summer programming with a “Family Campfire Program” from 7-8pm. Go listen to stories and sing songs around the crackling flames in this beautiful park just outside the bustle of downtown.*

On Thursday 7/9 at the South Coast Botanical Garden your child can learn to “Make a Salad” (and eat it too) in the Children’s Discovery Garden from 10am-12pm.*

Weekend

Saturday 7/11 it’s all about “Slime and Scales” for your 3-5 year-old at the Natural History Museum from 10:15-11:15 am. They’ll hear stories, play games, and make a scaly craft to take home in celebration of the slimy and the scaly critters that call the Discovery Center home.*

If it is an 8-12 year-old you are looking to entertain, then take them to Malibu Lagoon State Beach for “Family Field Trip” from 9:30am-12:30pm. They will discover why Malibu Lagoon is home to many living things and why the Malibu Creek watershed is important. There is a fee and pre-registration required: 818-591-1701 x181.

Sunday 7/12 the Friends of the Ballona Wetlands are offering their once-a-month “Salt Water Marsh Tour” from 1-3pm. “Learn about our coastal ecosystem and explore the wonders of nature right in the middle of urban Los Angeles.” Meet in the parking lot behind Gordon’s Market at 303 Culver Blvd, Playa del Rey.*

On Sunday you could also head to the Satwiwa Cultural Center to listen to the stories and soothing flute music from Bill “Elk Whistle” Neal under the stars from 7:30-9pm. Bring a flashlight.*

Week of Monday 7/13  through Friday 7/17

Suggestions for your week:

On Thursday 7/16 you can listen to some swing jazz while surrounded by the beautiful Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens from 7-9pm. $8 adults; $6 students & seniors (65+); $4 children (3-12 yrs.) Garden Members and children under 3yrs., admitted free – so, become a member!

On Friday 7/17 it’s “Twilight Night: Dino Night” at Kidspace! “Kids and families go back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Kids can make a fossil and go on a fossil hunt, also make a cool dinosaur mask. Play the Stegosaurs Stomp, get a dino tattoo and have a roaring good time! BBQ dinners will be available for purchase.” Admission to event $5.

(Part 2 on its way!)

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

May Nature P.L.A.Y. Calendar of Events

*********************************************************************************************************

Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

*********************************************************************************************************

May

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

"It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know of wonder and humility." - Rachel Carson | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

This month’s calendar may be a week late (sorry folks) but it is certainly filled with more outdoor activities than there are lizards on a hot dirt trail! Mother’s Day you have your choice of two concerts, two brunches, and plenty of nature, and Children’s Nature Institute’s  proves that “Kid’s Rock”  just as much as their moms with their music and nature festival. So, whether you’re a kid, a mom, or just someone who loves them, there is plenty to do outside with the family – so, stop reading this and – GO PLAY!

Weekend

Friday 5/8 you can take your toddler on a night walk with the Children’s Nature Institute from 7:30 – 9:00pm. This “Tykes on Trails Moonlight Hike” is geared toward young “naturalists” who still know how to engage their senses to notice the tiniest sound, smell or sight that one might encounter along the Temescal Canyon Trail. Strollers are okay and remember to dress for the cooler evening temps. $20 – Make your reservation on-line.

Saturday 5/9 you can learn all about trees at Sooky Goldman Amphitheater in Franklin Canyon Park with the delightful and informative “Speak for the Trees!” program from 2-4pm. For all ages!

**See Sunday’s listings for more Saturday fun.

Sunday 5/10 is Mother’s Day! There are so many ways to celebrate being a mom and spend some time in nature with the kids this weekend:

What a better way to remember this day than by planting a tree you can visit in years to come? Treepeople is hosting a “Mother’s Day Park Planting” in Sylmar from 9am – 12pm. Reserve a space on-line.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is having a “Mother’s Day Garden Luncheon” from 11am – 3pm. Call 310-456-8432 to make a reservation. There is a fee.

South Coast Botanical Garden is having a “Mother’s Day Concert” from 2 – 4pm. Take a picnic and enjoy being serenaded by the Palos Verdes Symphony while surrounded by your family.

**Kidspace knows how to combine what a Mother wants and what will keep a child entertained with their “Mother’s Day Festival”. Your little elf can create natural facial scrubs, masks and soaps, cards and frames just for you! There will also offer chair massages for those worn out mama muscles. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal on the lawn! From 10am – 3pm on BOTH Saturday and Sunday.

** For a bit pricier option ($45/person, $38/members, $15/child) you can enjoy a “Mother’s Day Brunch” right in the middle of a rose garden at the beautiful Descanso Gardens. Make your reservation by calling 818-790-3663. You can also enjoy a concert for the price of admission, with or without purchasing the brunch at 1pm. This event is on BOTH Saturday and Sunday.

Week of Monday 5/11 through Friday 5/15

Suggestion for your week:

The passionate and knowledgeable docents at Whittier Narrows Natural Area offer school tours of their beautiful native gardens on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9am – 12pm. You have to make a reservation ahead of time though by calling 626-525-5523. So, if you are a teacher – take your class! If you are a parent – tell your child’s school! See why the Friends of Whittier Narrows are fighting to protect this oasis of native wildlife for yourself!

Weekend

Saturday 5/16 learn how Runyon Canyon was formed, moved, and changed on a “Geology Walk” from 9:30 – 11:30am. Meet at the Mullholland and Desmond Estates entrance. *

Sunday 5/17 “Kid’s Rock” in Griffith Park with the Children’s Nature Institute’s fun-filled concert and nature fair that will make your kids boogie under the trees! At the Old Zoo in Griffith Park from 3:30 – 7pm. $15/person or you can purchase a $50 family package, good for 2 adults and 2 children.

On Sunday you could also rock out with some “Bugs, Lizards, Etc” as the docents of Charmlee Wilderness Area lead you on walk where your child just might encounter a few carabidae or a southern alligator lizard! From 12 – 2pm, $4 parking.

Week of Monday 5/18  through Friday 5/22

Suggestion for your week:

Do you feel like you want to be adventurous with your child but either you don’t know where to go (although that’s impossible if you’re reading this blog!) or you have no other parents with whom you can share the adventure? Well, check out the Mommy Adventure Club! They have a weekly newsletter with various group outings in the city to take yourself – and your little one and siblings, grandparents, nannies, and all are invited to join along. They offer a Green Adventure Guide for outdoor outings as well as trips to museums, the farmer’s market, eateries, city tours, and more. Sign up for their newsletter and meet some other adventurous moms and kids!

Weekend

Saturday 5/23 spend the day at the historic and beautiful Placerita Canyon! From 11am – 12pm you can explore the grounds on a “Family Nature Walk”, bring a picnic and chow down under the oaks from 12 – 1pm, then head over to the nature center for the “Animal Presentation” from 1 – 2pm where you’ll meet some pretty awesome creatures!

Sunday 5/24 Malibu Lagoon State Beach will be hosting their regularly scheduled “Birdwatching for Young Children and Parents” from 10 – 11am. They are cool as sea cucumbers and provide binoculars for those of you who don’t have them!

Week of Monday 5/25 through Friday 5/29

Suggestion for your week:

Well, Monday is Memorial Day and you may be wondering how to keep your vacationing child entertained but avoid the crowds. While all of Los Angeles heads to the beach I suggest you take your children the opposite direction and head East into the Angeles National Forest. It will be less crowded and you can still enjoy a picnic or stroll along one of the many stunning trails and you won’t have to clean the sand out of the most unlikely places when you’re done! You’ll need to display an Adventure Pass so either purchase one for the day or the year. You can do so online or at a ranger station.

Weekend

Saturday 5/30 get to know the arroyo a little better and head to Eaton Canyon for their weekly occurring “Family Nature Walk” from 9 – 11am.*

Sunday 5/31 head to the Conejo Valley Botanical Gardens! Every Sunday they offer activities, lessons, and fun at their “Kid’s Adventure Garden” from 11am – 3pm.*

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

April Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

*********************************************************************************************************

Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

*********************************************************************************************************

April

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

"We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." -Native American Proverb

Earth day is on April 22nd and it is a chance to connect your children to the idea of stewardship of the planet. Children, I believe, have a natural affinity toward the outdoors but they must be shown by the example of adults how to care for it. There are plenty of opportunities to share the wonder and the fragility of our Earth with your children this month, from a Whale Fesitval to park restoration. Have a beautiful Earth Day!

Weekend

Saturday 4/18 is the beginning of National Park Week (4/18 – 4/26). Now, I know this is not L.A. specific, but I think our National Parks have the invaluable ability to turn anyone into a nature-lover upon fist sight. The highlight of the week is Jr. Ranger Day on 4/25 at National Parks across the State of California. Plan a school or community or family trip!

Local fun is abundant on Saturday as well:

Kidspace is celebrating the culmination of their 13th annual caterpillar adoption with a Butterfly Release! There will be games, activities and live music. The museum opens at 10am the release happens at 2pm.

Malibu Creek State Park is having their regularly scheduled Fun With Nature from 12:30 – 2:30pm with games, crafts and exhibits at the nature center. Parking fee.

Sunday 4/19 join the Sierra Club as they celebrate John Muir’s birthday with a hike in Topanga State Park. There are several hikes that will converge at Trippet Ranch for a picnic party from 12 – 1pm in celebration of this important naturalist. A family hike takes off from Dead Horse at 10am and is 3 hours round trip. Bring water, lunch, and your best birthday hat! Information 310-559-3126.*

There is another celebration happening on Sunday.  In honor of our beloved cetacean friends, the 13th annual Whale Festival will take place at beautiful Leo Carillo State Park in northern Malibu from 10am – 4pm.  Live entertainment, whale-watching stations, arts and crafts, music and food are all a part of the day’s events.  Experienced naturalists will be on hand to help participants spot and identify gray whales and bottlenose dolphin right from the beach!  Parking $10 or free for schools with pre-arranged reservations. For more information contact: (805) 488-1827 x106 or malibuinterp@gmail.com or visit the website http://www.malibuinterp.com.

Week of Monday 4/20 through Friday 4/24

Suggestion for your week:

On 4/23 Children’s Nature Institute is having a Garden Planting and Watering Party at Fern Canyon Trail in Griffith Park from 10am – 12pm. Come celebrate Earth Day by caring for this very special garden that was created by children with CNI in the fall to help restore the fire-destroyed trail.  There is a $10 suggested donation. All ages are welcome.

On 4/24 share the splendor of the spring night sky with your child at Charmlee Wilderness Park from 7:30 – 9:30pm.

Weekend

Saturday 4/25 the California State Parks Foundation is celebrating Earth Day by offering opportunities to clean and restore some local parks. Ballona Wetlands, Rio De Los Angeles State Historic Park, and Malibu Creek State Park are some of the beautiful places where your family can offer some helping hands from 9am – 1pm.*

Sunday 4/26 there is yet another chance to celebrate Earth Day! Star Eco Station in Culver City will be having a celebration especially designed for children with music, games, environmental heroes, and more in honor of the Earth from 10am -4pm.

On Sunday you could also celebrate our beautiful Earth by admiring it’s feathered friends. There will be Birdwatching for Young Children and Parents at Malibu Lagoon State Park from 10- 11am. They provide the binoculars!

Week of Monday 4/27  through Friday 5/1

Suggestion for your week:

Descanso Gardens is in full Spring gear! Wisteria, lilacs, irises, and tulips are just some of the flowers now making a showing. There is always something to do at Descanso from “fossil” digs to nature strolls to train rides. You can also enjoy a cup of tea as you watch the Koi swim merrily through the pond in the Japanese garden. Or you can take in the soothing smells of the blooming lilac garden. There is a lot to do so plan to make a day of it!

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

April Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 1)

*********************************************************************************************************

Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

*********************************************************************************************************

April

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 1)

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything. - William Shakespeare | Photo by Chandra Renee Walker

This month is full of opportunities to celebrate the gregarious Spring! Subtlety is left behind with the memories of winter and in it’s place we find the vibrant colors and busy activity of flowers in full bloom, birds noisily singing, and bugs and reptiles basking in the warmer weather. Children too are brimming with excitement at all the energy of Spring! Take your child outside and let them rejoice along with the flora and fauna!

Weekend

Saturday 4/4 is a wonderful opportunity to spend the day at the 419-acre urban natural wonderland that is Whittier Narrows. The caring docents are presenting “Spring Fling” at the nature center from 10am – 2pm, with crafts, live animal presentations, nature walks, and an adventure hunt. For more info please call (626) 575-5523.*

Sunday 4/5 you can get your fill of the blossoms the season has to offer with your choice of two Spring walks:

“Charming” Charmlee Wilderness Park (see feature) offers a “Wildflower Hike” from 10am – 12pm. Make a reservation by calling 310-317-1364; $4 parking fee.

… And a Topanga State Park naturalist will show you the “Springtime Splendor” from 1-3pm.*

Go to one… or both!

Week of Monday 4/6 through Friday 4/10

Suggestion for your week:

There is a place you can take your child  that  features walking trails, streams, meadows, oak savannahs, picnic grounds, and a nature-themed playground amidst native Mediterranean vegetation. Oh, but you don’t have the time to travel very far? Well, no problem Angelenos. Vista Hermosa Park is practically located in your back yard! Visit this Downtown oasis and let your child explore the wonders of nature just outside the shadow of skyscrapers.*

Weekend

Saturday 4/11 there are two egg hunts in two beautiful natural settings to choose from. Give your children a chance to apply that investigative eye necessary for the development of a future scientist and have  great fun while they’re at it!

Descanso Gardens‘ “Egg Hunt’ begins at 9:30 a.m. and is repeated every 45 minutes until 2 p.m. $5 – includes basket and treats.

The Los Angeles County Arboretum will also have, what they call, “The Great Easter Egg Hunt” from 10am – 2pm, with games, crafts, and photo opportunities. Free with park admission.

Sunday 4/12 wake up with the “Morning Birds” at King Gillette Ranch on a docent-led walk from 8am – 10am.*

Week of Monday 4/13 through Friday 4/17

Suggestion for your week:

If last week’s visit to Downtown’s Vista Hermosa Park made you say, “Hey! Why aren’t there more places like this in the middle of L.A.?”,  then you might be interested in Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. This park, located just off of La Cienega Blvd.,  features 5 miles of trails through coastal sage scrub habitat as well as a lotus pond, a lake, and picnic sites.*

(Part 2 of our April Calendar of Events coming soon)

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

Name Change

Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

Ballona Wetlands

Our name may be different, but our mission remains the same:

The purpose of Nature p.L.A.y. is to address a condition coined by Richard Louv, “Nature Deficit Disorder”, in Los Angeles children. Children are increasingly spending less time outdoors and many believe that this is linked to several health issues in our youth. We aim to open up a dialog about this condition and to serve as a resource for our community of Los Angelenos toward finding and building solutions. We can transform the image of Los Angeles from that of urban sprawl to a city that offers an abundance of natural resources for it’s children.

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

WDCP Best of L.A. March Calendar of Events 3/14 – 4/3

March

WDCP Best of L.A.

Calendar of Events

Spring is sooner recognized by plants than by men. -Chinese Proverb |Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Spring Equinox sets to take the stage on the 20th but the flowers have already begun to preview the upcoming show! This month there are nearly as many Spring-themed events as there are varieties of flowers. You can chase butterflies in Deb’s Park or Towsley Canyon, identify flowers in the Santa Monica Mountains, and get an early start on next month’s Earth Day with an Environmental Education Fair at the LA County Arboretum. Kick off those shoes, run in the grass –  Spring is here!

Weekend

Saturday 3/14 the Los Angeles Environmental Education Fair at The L.A. County Arboretum is an all day event (9am – 4pm) that aims to entertain while educating children and parents about the environment. Spend the day on the beautiful arboretum grounds with live entertainment , crafts, hands-on activities, and storytelling. Free with arboretum admission.

*LA COUNTY ARBORETUM is also asking parents to sign their children up early for their “Summer Nature Camp”.

NOTE: DEB’S BUTTERFLY CENSUS EVENT (below) HAS BEEN CHANGED TO SATURDAY 3/21

Deb’s Park needs your help completing a “Butterfly Census” on Saturday from 9am – 4pm. It’s not all work, of course! Not only will your child get to wander the trails looking for Monarchs and Swallowtails but they will also be able to enjoy butterfly-themed story time at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm as well as arts and crafts all day.

Sunday 3/15 there are two early spring walks to chose from in the Santa Monica Mountains!

Cold Creek Preserve will show you the “Burgeoning Spring” on a gentle walk from 9:30am -11am. Meet at the lower gate.

… And Topanga State Park will be the setting for another “Early Spring Walk” from 1-3pm. Meet at the kiosk. *

Go to one… or both!

Week of Monday 3/16 through Friday 3/20

“Butterfly Adoption” has begun at Kidspace! Starting March 12th your child can adopt a Painted Lady caterpillar and spend the next six-weeks witnessing the incredible metamorphosis take place. There will be on-going butterfly-themed activities and lessons, including an interactive website, all  leading up to a grand finale on April 18th – The “Butterfly Release”!

I also suggest heading to Augustus F. Hawkins Park in South L.A.. It is a true oasis tucked behind ornate iron gates on Slauson and Compton Avenues complete with a native garden,  trails that circle a wetland marsh, and a discovery center that offers a variety of children’s programs.  On my brief visit last summer I spotted a Great Blue Heron! See what wild flora and fauna you uncover with your child. Read more about this incredible place at my previous feature article. *

Weekend

Saturday 3/21 there is a lot to choose from! It is the start of a four-week “Beginning Birders” class for ages 10 and up at Placerita Canyon from 9am- 11am every Saturday until April 11th. Call Frank Hoffman at 661-259-7721 to reserve a space for your feather-friendly child! *

If it’s a younger nature-lover you have on your hands then take them on a docent-led “Family Nature Walk” at Pasadena’s  Eaton Canyon from 9am-11am. *

Lastly, if it is a budding entomologist you want to please then take them to the enchanting Charmlee Wilderness Park for a “Buggy Night” from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. Reserve a spot by calling 310-317-1364. Parking $4.

Or you could head over to Deb’s Park. They need your help completing a “Butterfly Census” on Saturday from 9am – 4pm. It’s not all work, of course! Not only will your child get to wander the trails looking for Monarchs and Swallowtails but they will also be able to enjoy butterfly-themed story time at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm as well as arts and crafts all day. NOTE: RE-SCHEDULED FROM 3/14.

Sunday 3/22 there is birdwatching fun to be had at Malibu Lagoon with their “Birdwatching for Young Children” from 10-11am. They will generously provide binoculars! *

Week of Monday 3/23 through Friday 3/27

Now that the Spring flowers are showing, so are the butterflies! Head to Towsley Canyon and see how many butterflies you can find with the aid of their printable guide. Bring a camera and “capture” the butterflies you discover! *

Weekend

Saturday 3/28 have “Fun With Nature”  and head to Malibu Creek State Park visitor’s center for games, crafts and exhibits from 12:30pm – 2pm. *

Sunday 3/29 if you want to meet some farm animals why not meet the happiest of them all – rescued farm animals! Head to Animal Acres Farm Sanctuary for their “Open House” from 11am – 3pm where your child can pet, feed, and play with the animals and meet their good-hearted care-takers as well. $5 admission.

Week of Monday 3/30 through Friday 4/3

I suggest you and your family spend a little time at Marsh Park in the Elysian Valley area of Los Angeles.  You can learn more about the natural infiltration systems of the LA River Greenway as your child enjoys the nature-themed children’s play area.*

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

February WDCP Best of L.A. Calendar

February

WDCP Best of L.A.

Calendar of Events

Nature will bear the closest inspection. She invites us to lay our eye level with her smallest leaf, and take an insect view of its plain - Henry David Thoreau / Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

As the winter takes her final bow and the spring flowers  begin to peek through the earth so does the  nature programming begin to blossom! This month you will find plenty of outdoor revelry, from a “faery hunt” in Griffith Park to a nation-wide event dedicated to the birds. The Great Backyard Birdcount begins on Friday the 13th so get those binoculars ready! We wish your family a happy transition out of the winter hibernation with plenty of choices below to help you on your way.

Weekend

Saturday 2/7 Franklin Canyon Nature Center will be hosting their on-going series “Speak for the Trees” from 3pm – 5pm.  This is a fun, interactive program where your child can learn what trees need and why we need trees. “Build a tree and learn teamwork and trace the history of Franklin Canyon as told by its arboreal silent giants.” Ages 8 and up.

Sunday 2/8 your family can help celebrate the Jewish holiday, Tu B’Shvat, referred to as the “New Year for Trees”, by planting seedlings in a Sylmar park with the Treepeople from 9am – 12pm. REGISTER BEFORE THURSDAY by contacting Lisa Sotelo at lsotelo@treepeople.org or (818) 623-4879.

Later, from 5pm – 6:30pm, bring your instrument of choice and continue the celebrating with a little “Music in the Mountains” at the Sooky Goldman Nature Center.

Week of Monday 2/9 through Friday 2/13

Tuesday 2/10 Tykes will be taking over the trails in Calabasas! Your 2-4 year-old can join the other “Tykes on Trails” at Headwaters Corner from 9:30am – 11:30am, but you have to register him or her first by calling 818-591-1701 x181. There is a fee.

On Friday the 13th even the Munsters can be found counting birds in their backyard. This typically spooky day marks the beginning of the four day-long Great Backyard Birdcount! From 2/13 – 2/16 the Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology need your help tracking the birds in your neighborhood. Every one can participate as much or as little as one likes with as much or little birdwatching experience as one may have. You can find birdwatching tips for adults and children and instructions on how to register your findings at http://www.birdsource.org/gbbc . You can also check our weekend events for public bird-counting opportunities.

Weekend

Saturday 2/14 your toddler (ages 3-5) can join the Critter Club at the Natural History Museum and explore this week’s topic of animal babies with crafts and games. From 10:15 -11:15am, free with museum admission.

Don’t worry, if it is a pre-teen (ages 8-12) you have on your hands you can saunter them on over to Headwater’s Corner where they can take part in this month’s Youth Naturalist Program. The topic will be Threatened and Endangered Species. You must register them ahead of time by calling (818)591-1701 x181. From 9:30am – 12:30pm.

And for all of our other Valentine cherubs out there, head over to the L.A. County Arboretum from 1 -3pm where your family can learn to make Valentine’s Day cards, starting with making the paper itself out of plant materials! Register by contacting Colleen Biles at 616-821-4623 or emailing colleen.biles@arboretum.org . There is a fee. Afterward you can go check out the Root’s and Shoot’s Children’s Discovery Node in their gardens!

Sunday 2/15 the Great Backyard Birdcount will be in full swing at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens! Adults and three to twelve year-old children can come participate in their “Winter Birdfest” from 10am – 4pm. Fee.

Headwater’s Corner will also be hosting a Great Backyard Birdcount event from 8am-10am. Pre-registration is required; 818-591-1701.

Week of Monday 2/16 through Friday 2/20

I offer two suggestions of places to take your family this week.

First, Chavez Ravine Arboretum in Elysian park is an informal arboretum of sorts. Lacking a clear boundary this arboretum founded in 1893 by the Los Angeles Horticultural Society is set between the Grace E. Simmons Lodge and picnic areas. Don’t worry, with the help of a tree identification map (found at the above link), you and your child will know where to uncover over a thousand species of trees planted in this arbor oasis.*

Second, there is a little known place called the Devil’s Punchbowl, set along the San Andreas Fault just on the outskirts of Los Angeles. The “punchbowl” consists of a range of elevations from a canyon floor set at only 300 feet above sea level to peak reaching the great height of 8,000 feet. Along with much geological wonder there is also a nature center, open Monday through Saturday from 8am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm, hiking trails, rock climbing, flora and fauna galore, telescope programs, meteor shower viewing parties, fault tours, school programs, and more, all set on over 1,300 acres in Pearblossom, California. Have you ever been there? Well then, it’s time you go!*

Weekend

Saturday 2/21 your child can put on those wings and let their imagination soar through the lush canyon known as Ferndell in Griffith park as they search for the Faery Queen. It is time for another Griffith Park Faery Hunt from 10am – 2pm! You can finish the day off with a slice of incredible home-made pie or a vegan tart at (my absolute favorite cafe in Los Angeles) Trails Cafe set at the northern edge of Ferndell.*

For those with older children (ages 10 and up) there is Cause for Creativity at the Santa Monica Museum of Art. This installation of their on-going series linking arts and activism will be an exploration water color techniques with professional artists as they also learn more about what they can do to help with the global water crisis. $15; $10 SMMoA members. For more information: asuka.hisa@smmoa.org or 310-586-6488 x 118. Tickets available at http://www.smmoa.org

Sunday 2/22 your child can learn to create a traditional Native American dream-catcher and prayer stick at the Satwiwa Cultural Center. This fun program is offered both at 10am and 1pm. *

Week of Monday 2/23 through Friday 2/27

UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens and The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve are two mid-city gems I suggest for your week. The Botanical Gardens are open from 8am – 4pm daily. The Wildlife Preserve is open from sunrise to sunset. On my last visit to the Sepulveda basin I caught sight of several ducks, geese, a red-winged black-bird, a snowy egret, rabbits, and much more! Go see what flora and fauna your child can find!*

Weekend

Saturday 2/28 have “Fun with Nature” at the Malibu Creek State Park from 12:30- 2:30pm. Spend the afternoon creating crafts and playing games while enjoying the surrounding beauty of the park. *

Sunday 3/1 your family can celebrate the on-coming spring with your choice of two equinox-themed nature walks. There is a “Wildflower Hike” in Charmlee Wilderness Park from 10am – 12pm. Reserve a spot by calling 310-317-1364. $4parking fee. Meet at upper parking lot. Or you can enjoy an “Early Spring Walk” in Topanga State Park from 1pm – 3pm. Meet at the kiosk.*

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

January WDCP Best of L.A.

JANUARY

WDCP Best of L.A.

Calendar of Events

Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar. - Bradley Millar / Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

So, as we all embark on this new year together we may find ourselves standing in front of a door wide open to new opportunities. We set our resolutions. We dream. We plan.  For many people this includes ways to better our relationships with our children, our partner, our parents. One relationship we can improve upon that will directly enrich our experiences with our loved ones is our connection to nature. Let’s share more moments in nature with those we love in 2009! I think we will all be better for it!

NOTE: L.A. Zoo has wonderful nature classes for children of all ages, but you have to register ONE MONTH PRIOR to the start of the class in order to reserve a space. Get a spot for your child in the upcoming February classes before it’s too late!

Weekend

Saturday 1/10 your 8-12 year-old can learn about the importance and  intrigue of the wetlands of the Sepulveda Wildife Preserve with the Young Naturalist meeting from 9:30am – 12:30pm. Bring binoculars (if you have them), sturdy shoes, lunch, water and your curiosity! There is a fee and pre-registration is required. (818) 591-1701 x 181

Just Added! In the evening head over to the beautiful Whittier Narrows for their monthly Night Hike at 5:30 pm, suitable for all ages. This park has native gardens, ponds, lakes, birds galore, and other natural beauty that can only be appreciated if seen in person. Get there early to see their Nature Center Museum open from 9am – 5pm daily.*

Sunday 1/11 explore the wondrous tide pools of Leo Carillo State Park with a park ranger on an easy one hour hike from 2pm – 3pm.*

Week of Monday 1/12 through Friday 1/16

Tuesday 1/13 toddlers age 2-4 are invited to participate in Tykes on Trails at Headwaters Corner in Calabassas. Creek side, they will explore nature, make crafts, and listen to stories from 9:30 am – 11:30 am. There is a fee and pre-registration is required.  (818) 591-1701 x 181

The rest of the week – Visit a park! Go to a museum! We have a list of places to see on the right. Pick one and see what natural wonders you and your child discover!*

Weekend

Saturday 1/17 Deb’s Park is hosting their monthly Family Nature Hike from 9:30 am – 11am. Your family will be astonished at the beauty hiding in these urban hills.*

In the afternoon you can head over to the Sooky Goldman Nature Center in Franklin Canyon Park where your family can learn to “Speak for the Trees!” from 3pm to 5pm. It is a “fun, interactive program” devoted to everything “woody”. For ages 8 and up.*

Sunday 1/18 learn from a naturalist how the winter solstice has transformed our mountains with a Winter Nature Walk at Charmlee Wilderness Park from 10am -12pm. Reservations required (310) 317-1364. There is a $4 parking fee.

Week of Monday, 1/19 through Friday, 1/23

This winter week is another chance to explore what nature our city has to offer! May I suggest a visit to the mountains of the Angeles National Forest? Yes I may! Every season these majestic beauties have a new treat, be it swimming holes in early spring along the Switzer trail, wildflowers on the Gabrielino Trail in the spring, rust-colored Sycamore leaves bustling across the road in the fall, or snow at Mt. Waterman in the winter! There is always a reason to escape to our local paradise.*

Weekend

Saturday 1/24 Deb’s park is having another adventure, this time in Spanish.

“Para familias con niños de 4 años en adelante. Venga y acompañe a un
naturalista de Audubon en la búsqueda de aves en el parque Debs.
Esta caminata le enseñará como identificar aves que viven aquí. Traiga
sus binoculares o use unos de los nuestros. Se servirá café y pan dulce
a las 8:30 am; la caminata empieza a las 9:00 am. Este programa será
presentado en español.” *

Sunday 1/25 your budding birdwatcher can join in a Birdwatching for Young Children and Parents at Malibu Lagoon State Beach from 10am -11am. They will generously provide the binoculars!*

Week of Monday, 1/26 through Friday, 1/30

Vista Hermosa Park is a new kid on the block and the first park built in it’s downtown neighborhood in over 100 years! Go see this much needed natural playground and celebrate it’s existence!*

Weekend

Saturday 1/31 spend “Saturday in the Forest” at the Mount Baldy Environmental Education Center from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm.

“Learn about the Curve and Williams Fires of 2002. See the location of Eldoradoville, an 1870’s gold mining camp. Look for birds and other wildlife along the San Gabriel River and surrounding canyon, study the geology of the San Gabriel Mountains Range. A new and different program will be offered every month.”

There is a $5 fee and they ask you to wear sturdy shoes, dress in layers, bring binoculars, sunscreen, a camera, and your lunch.

Sunday 2/1 what could be a better than a combination of hiking and creating? Well, if this sounds like the right match for your artsy, outdoorsy 3-8 year-old, head over to Sooky Goldman Nature Center in Franklin Canyon from 10am – 12pm for their “Hike and Craft” adventure.*

*FREE/GRATIS

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

WDCP Best of L.A. December Weekend Guide Part 2

WDCP Best of L.A.

Mount Waterman in the Angeles National Forest has skiing

Two Week December Weekend Guide Part 2

December 20th – 31st

There is all kinds of wintery fun to be had in Los Angeles this time of year! In addition to the calendar below you and your children can also…

Ski or take lessons at Mt Waterman . Where is it? Well, right here in our Angeles National Forest! About a 45 minute drive up Highway 2.

and

Ice Skate on Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles!

See links for more information

Saturday 12/20

Malibu Creek State Park is offering a little “Fun With Nature” in the form of crafts, exhibits, and games on the beautiful grounds of their visitor’s center from 12:30pm – 2:30pm.*

Sunday 12/21

The Conejo Valley Botanical Garden will have the usual Sunday fun at their “Kid’s Adventure Garden” from 11am – 3pm where your children can play in the treehouse, wander the “zoo garden”, and there is usually a fun craft or two!*

SPECIAL EVENT 12/26 – 12/31

Snowdays at Kidspace!

Every day there is a different fun-filled activity! Dancing, cooking, sculpting,  crafts and more. See the calendar below and just try to chose a day – you may have to go to them all. They even have a special “Noon Years Eve” celebration just for the little mortals!

Friday, December 26
Holiday Day Camp

Kids ages 4-7 will enjoy a half-day of Kidspace Day Camp from 9am – 1pm, participating in arts and crafts, games, Museum exploration and more. Registration is online at kidspacemuseum.org

Saturday, December 27
Ice Sculpting from 11am – 1pm

Free with Museum admission!  Watch a professional artist melt and carve a block of ice into a beautiful ice sculpture in the Kidspace Courtyard.

Sunday, December 28
Radio Disney from 11am – 1pm

Free with Museum admission! Jam with the Radio Disney 1110 AM Road Crew as they deejay a dance party at Kidspace.  Play games, win prizes, and hang out listening to your favorite music.

Monday, December 29
Puck’s Apprentice at 10am and 2pm

Mix, bake and decorate holiday cookies alongside professional chefs from Wolfgang Puck. Morning session is for ages 3-5, afternoon session is for ages 6-10. Must be accompanied by an adult; registration is online at kidspacemuseum.org.

Wednesday, December 31
Noon Year’s Eve at 12pm

A Kidspace tradition! Celebrate the “noon” year with your little ones with a countdown celebration in the amphitheater at 12pm that includes streamers, music and sparkling cider. Free with Museum admission.

Sunday 12/28

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is having a special hour-long “Beach and Wetlands Birdwatching” excursion just for young children and their parents from 10am -11am. It’s never too early to develop a passion for the creatures of these important local ecosystems and have some fun too!*

May your holidays be filled with many moments of joy and peace for your family! We’ll see you in the new year!

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

WDCP Best of L.A. December Weekend Guide (part 1)

WDCP Best of LA

Los Angeles in Winter

Two Week December Weekend Guide

Saturday 12/6

There is plenty to do under the stars this evening. Vista Hermosa in Downtown is having their Family Campfire Night! Hear stories, sing songs, roast marshmallows, and enjoy a chilly evening  with fellow community families from 5pm – 6:30pm. *

It’s all about starts at Malibu Creek’s Young Naturalist meeting too! Bring a shoebox and a flashlight along and explore the wonders of Astronomy with experts equipped with telescopes. Pre-registration is required. Call (818) 591-1701 x 181. For ages 8 – 12, from 6pm – 9pm.

If you can’t make it out to Malibu to show your children the night sky,and you don’t want the camfire at Vista Hermosa to obstruct your view you can take them over to Griffith Observatory for their monthly “Star Party” from 2pm-9:45pm. *

Sunday 12/7

Satwiwa Cultural Center is celebrating the coming Winter Solstice with an artist show and sale, Native American storytelling, and music from 10am – 3pm. *

Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens in neighboring Claremont is offering a chance for children to make Native American toys using natural materials in their “Toys Grow on Trees” workshop. $18 for children, accompanying adult free.

Saturday 12/13

Franklin Canyon’s Sooky Goldman Nature Center is hosting their monthly “Speak for the Trees!” interactive and entertaining class all about… you guessed it… trees, from 2pm – 4pm, for kids ages “8-88”. *

What happens in the L.A. Zoo at night? Well, children 7 and up can find out for themselves by taking part in the “Zoopendous Night” from 6pm Saturday to 9am Sunday. For a fee of $45 – $55 children will get food, fun, games, animal trivia, and a chance to have the zoo all to themselves. How often do you get the chance to wake up to a howler monkey in Los Angeles? I can say I never have – not even once.

Sunday 12/14

Descanso Gardens is kicking into the holiday spirit with their “Winter Weekend”. Children can meet santa, ride the train, listen to music, make crafts, all while they stroll the beautiful wintery gardens! From open to close. (On Saturday also)

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner