ML Interest Tag: reading-programs

FREE Fall Library Story Times for Kids

by rtbrynwied

The summer reading programs may have ended, but that’s no excuse to stop visiting your local library! Get ready to dive back into books with your kids. The whole family can curl up and enjoy story time together for free at these San Diego libraries. Kids don’t have to be school-age to enjoy reading, either. Click through the slideshow to check out these spots that have a variety of programs for kids of all ages, infant to teen!

Escondido Public Library

The Escondido Public Library has different storytime programs for kids of all ages offered on nearly every day of the week. Times and schedules for the programs are subject to change, so be sure to check the library’s website or call for the full storytime schedule.

For infants ages 0-24 months: The Wee Wigglers Storytime engages both parents and their babies. The story time includes songs and books as well as some play time. The focus of the program is on developing language as well as social skills.

For ages 3-5: The Rhymes and Reading program combines music and books into a fun atmosphere that helps make books approachable for kids who aren’t yet reading. Kids and adults can clap along, sing, and answer questions as the storyteller reads through books and nursery rhymes.

For all ages: The Library also provides a bilingual storytime to help with Spanish and English language development. The program is open for kids and families of all ages, and includes stories as well as popular songs.

239 S Kalmia St.
Escondido, Ca 92026
760-839-4683
Online: library.escondido.org

Photo Credit: Aaron Muderick via Flickr Creative Commons

Where are your favorite storytime programs? Do you have a favorite San Diego library storytime?

— Bryn Wied

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Totally Booked: The Best Story Times In Town

by Judy Park

Once upon a time, story time took place at night, right before little bookworms drifted off to sleep. Nowadays, there are story times each and every day of the week in local libraries, bookstores and museums, with enough of a variety and age range to keep their love of reading going strong for years. From Beverly Hills to Manhattan Beach, these are our favorite story hours that bring books to life in every corner of the city.

photo credit: Meghan Rose

Beverly Hills Public Library
At the modern and inviting Beverly Hills Public Library Children’s Library, there are many, many things to love including the gorgeous space, toy filled Family Room and enchanting Enchanted Reading Room. But tops on the list are the amazing and varied story times led by some of the most enthusiastic librarians in town. There are story hours for everyone from non-walking babies on up through summer and after school reading programs for tweens and teens. All story times take place in the Little Theater in the Children’s Library and parking is available free for two hours. If you end up with a very hungry caterpillar, stop by the nearby (walking distance, we promise) Ice Cream Lab for a special made-before-your-own-eyes treat.

444 North Rexford Dr.
Beverly Hills
310-288-2211
Online: beverlyhills.org/exploring/beverlyhillspubliclibrary

photo credit: Stefani T via yelp

Central Library Los Angeles Public Library
The historical Los Angeles Public Library Central Library not only features beautiful architecture for young scholars to view, but offers reading programs for kids of all ages, almost everyday of the week. There are too many to list, so check their website for a complete listing of what’s going on this month.  One of our favorites is the Family Hour on Saturdays from 2 p.m.-3 p.m. at the KLOS Story Theater, where kids get to explore different themes through stories, songs, poems and musical instruments. Making this a whole day trip is simple as the Library houses many exhibits and Grand Park is nearby.

630 West 5th St.
Downtown
213-228-7000
Online: lapl.org

photo credit: courtesy of Vroman’s Bookstore

Vroman’s Bookstore
There’s something special about a bookstore like Vroman’s that has stood the test of time since 1894 (and survived the encroaching internet bookselling behemoths). The Children’s section upstairs is astounding with a selection curated with care. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the very funny and endearing Mr. Steve hosts a story time at 10 a.m. He’s been slinging books at Vroman’s for over 25 years and is consistently amusing, even for the adults. With an entire floor dedicated to young readers, the Children’s department is inviting and playful. Both you and your little ones can spend hours perusing their collection. Parking is available on the streets or in the back lot.  They also host amazing author’s events for kids here, where you’re sure to discover (and meet) a new favorite author.  Be sure to ask them about their upcoming events when you visit.

695 East Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena
626-449-5320
Online: vromansbookstore.com

photo credit: Judy Park

Children’s Book World
The only bookstore in town dedicated entirely to babies, kids and tweens, Children’s Book World is the best kept secret on the Westside. All their books are perfectly categorized, so if you have a little Bob the Builder, you can head right for an entire shelf section dedicated to construction vehicles. It is literally (pun intended) a dream come true for your little ones. Every Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. they have a rotation of storytellers, author readings, musical performers and other entertainment for kids and families. The best part of it is, after the story time or an author reading, your child can get their books autographed or they can stay for hours and browse through the endless collections. Our favorite Saturdays feature the super-librarian Hillary George with her ukulele.

10580 1/2 West Pico Blvd.
West LA
310-559-2665
Online: childrensbookworld.com

photo credit: Kelly W via yelp

{pages} a bookstore
This quaint little neighborhood gem offers a selection for book lovers of all ages. Children’s Story Time takes place on Mondays at 10:30 a.m., geared towards kids ages 2-6. On certain Saturdays, they also feature special readings and signings by authors of new children’s book releases. This bookstore is right by the pier and has nice boutique shops nearby, not to mention the beach, so you can plan for a full day of fun. Also, you can drop by Manhattan Beach Creamery for a sweet treat after you pick up some summer (or fall, winter or spring) reads.

904 Manhattan Ave.
Manhattan Beach
310-318-0900
Online: pagesabookstore.com

photo courtesy of Chudney Ross

Books and Cookies
Of course we love Books and Cookies—they combine two of everyone’s all time favorite things.  The very best time to sample the scope of what they have to offer is at a story time, and they have plenty to choose from.  Movers & Shakers Story Time is on Mondays & Fridays at 9:30 a.m. and is great for active little ones who can’t sit still. They’ll get to read stories, play games, dance, play musical instruments or play with the parachute. Musical Story Time on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. takes your little musicians on a musical literacy adventure as they weave hands-on instrument play into storytelling and dance. Story Time Adventures takes off on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. where not only are the stories brought to life with song and props, lil’ explorers will get to go on adventures that tie into the theme of the books, from dinosaur egg-hunts to wild rumpus dance parties. All story times are 35 minutes and cost $10 at the door on a first-come first-serve basis for the first 12 families; arrive early to ensure you get a space.

2309 Main St.
Santa Monica
310-452-1301
Online: booksandcookiesla.com

photo credit: Lilian K via yelp

Lollipop Dream
Aside from the plethora of princess teas and dress-up parties that Lollipop Dream offers, you can also find some fun, interactive story times on Tuesdays & Fridays from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Cozy up with your young royals on their soft pillows and wander off to Never-Never Land. Their story time is a walk-in event with no RSVP necessary. It costs $5/child and face painting is included.

14006 Riverside Dr.
Sherman Oaks
818-981-7446
Online: lollipop-dream.com

photo credit: Judy Park

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Inspire mini Picassos with a trip to the Boone Children’s Gallery at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Story time in the Gallery happens on Mondays & Fridays at 2 p.m. Admission is free with your free NexGen Membership (which is also free!). Get your little artists to do some Korean brush painting and check out current exhibits like the Metropolis II, before or after story time.

5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
323-857-6010
Online: lacma.org

photo credit: Zimmer Children’s Museum

Zimmer Children’s Museum
The Zimmer Children’s Museum is a great place for babies and young toddlers to burn off their energy and practice their crawling and walking skills. But it’s also a great place to cuddle and listen to a book. Story time at the Museum takes place in Bubbie’s Bookstore on the lower level every Thursday (with a few exceptions) at 11 a.m.; check their calendar for the current schedule. Then young adventurers can spend a few hours here going through all the exhibits. There’s even a lunchroom for when you and your little one need to take a little snack break. Admission is $7/person and kids under 1 are free.

6505 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
323-761-8984
Online: zimmermuseum.org

Did we miss one of your favorite story times? Tell us in the comments below!

—Judy Park

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Prepare to Be Charmed by This East Bay Gem: A Guide to Pleasanton

by Aly Brown

Pleasanton is a city with a colorful past. From its days as a dusty, Wild West stagecoach stop, it has blossomed into a town filled with art and family adventure. Discover everything the City of Pleasanton has to offer, whether you plan to stay for a while or are just riding through!

 

Play

Tawny Park
Grab some frozen yogurt or another treat from the quaint Vintage Hills Shopping Plaza and walk across the street to Tawny Park. This park, complete with play structure, is nestled near a large, grassy playing field and basketball court.

400 Tawny Dr.
Pleasanton, Ca

 

Mission Hills Park
Beneath the shade of this park’s senior willow trees is the perfect place for a family picnic. Kids love the old wooden bridge and the creek that winds beneath (playing billy goats gruff is still a favorite game!). With multiple play structures and sloping hills, the kids will have plenty to explore and lots of room to run. But the best, and most memorable, feature has to be the 50-foot metal slide. Even parents have to give it a try!

600 Junipero
Pleasanton, Ca

Veteran’s Plaza Park
After a morning at the Farmers’ Market or browsing boutique stores, your kiddos may need a minute to climb and run. The downtown park is parallel to busy Main Street but still offers a peaceful reprieve, and it is surrounded by large pine trees for optimal shade. (Psst! If you’re walking from Main, take W. Angela Street towards Peters to grab some Tully’s coffee, first!)

550 Peters Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca

Photo: Ryan D. via Yelp

BMX Facility
Your aspiring BMX pro will love this hard-packed dirt course. Enter the parking lot from Stanley Blvd for the easiest access (parking lot available). But, if you’re looking for a hiking or biking adventure, keep in mind that the park actually feeds into the Shadow Cliffs Regional Park via dirt trails. You could even begin at the entrance on Park Entrance Road off Vineyard and venture through the creek on two wheel or two feet.

3320 Stanley Blvd.
Pleasanton, Ca

 

Amador Valley Community Park
4301 Black Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca

Kottinger Village Park
4100 Vineyard Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca

Meadowlark Park
8200 Regency Dr.
Pleasanton, Ca

Nielsen Park
3755 Stoneridge
Pleasanton, Ca

Meadows Park
3301 W. Las Positas
Pleasanton, Ca

Oakhill Park
4100 Muirwood Dr.
Pleasanton, Ca

Sutter Gate Park
4801 Sutter Gate Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca

Valley Trails Park
3400 National Park Rd.
Pleasanton, Ca

Vintage Hills Park
3301 Arbor Dr.
Pleasanton, Ca

Woodthrush Park
5099 Woodthrush Rd.
Pleasanton, Ca

Walnut Grove Park
5150 Northway Rd.
Pleasanton, Ca

 

Explore

Towne Center Books
Who doesn’t love an independent, homegrown bookstore? Walk through the historic building smack dab in the heart of Main Street and browse for big name authors and local titles, alike. The creaking floorboards and musty paper scent only add to the old world charm, but it’s the children’s section in the back, filled with unique toys and books, that makes this little store a must-visit.

555 Main Street,
Pleasanton, Ca
925-846-8826
Online: townecenterbooks.com

Color Me Mine
Grab a piece of naked pottery from the shelf, a palette of colors, and sit outdoors with your friends to paint! What better way to unwind and get creative? If you’re looking for something to break the mold of routine birthday parties, consider hosting your child’s next party here.

310 Main St., Suite B,
Pleasanton, Ca
925-251-0202
Online: pleasanton.colormemine.com

Kottinger Farm
The old Kottinger Farm was built in 1852 and it still stands today in downtown Pleasanton. The building remains a destination for field trip students and citizens curious about the city’s past. Up until very recently, the barn served as a home for Milfleur—a shop full of home accessories and dried flowers. But a large note was found on the door (1/25/15), noting that the long-time tenant has moved. Keep an eye open for new attractions. But when it reopens, also keep watch for for the notorious ghosts!

200 Ray St.
Pleasanton, Ca
Online: Online: pleasantonweekly.com

Shadow Cliffs
In a town of folks who love their dogs, a local pooch-friendly swimming hole is a must. You should keep your pups on leash while walking the trails of Shadow Cliffs, but everyone knows once you cross the bridge over the stream and veer off to the right, you’ll end up at doggy paradise. Owners and dogs love gathering here to chuck a retrieving buoy into the lake and let their furbabies play. Disclaimer: there is no fancy dog park gate. When approaching the water hole, unleashed dogs will run to greet your (leashed) dog or little kiddo. If your pup is leash aggressive, this is not a good place for you. Dog-lovin’ dogs only, and mind your little ones, as there will be plenty of wagging tails at face level!

Park Entrance Rd,
From Bernal: Turn Left on Vineyard; Left on Park Entrance Rd.
Online: ebparks.org

The Pleasanton Library
With its high ceilings and many rooms of towering bookshelves, walking into the Pleasanton Library as a kid feels a bit enchanting. The children’s section is in full swing with events and reading programs. Check out their website for upcoming fun!

400 Old Bernal Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-931-3400
Online: cityofpleasantonca.gov

Concerts in the Park
This evening summer series of al fresco music has become so popular that die-hard fans know that you must reserve your patch of lawn in the morning, Pleasanton’s Concerts in the Park,featuring an eclectic mix of music from rock, blues and big band to 50’s and 60’s oldies, soul, and Latin rock, are the place to be on Friday summer nights. (The tradition also includes walking to the drive-thru dairy across the street for soft serve!)

First St. & Neal St.
Pleasanton, Ca
Online: patch.com

 

Murphy’s Paw
Spend a little bit of time around Pleasanton and you’ll see a wonderful array of dogs. You’ll also find a shop downtown dedicated to pampering your pet. Murphey’s Paw has everything from organic dogs treats to fast-drying doggy nail polish. If you happen to bring your dog with you, they can drink some water and have a treat while you shop.

410 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-600-8925
http://murphyspaw.com/

Eat

Gay Nineties Pizza
Another old building with ghost legends, the home of Gay Nineties Pizza was once a Wells Fargo stagecoach stop and brothel, built in 1864. Check out the yellowed newspaper clippings from days of old along the walls while you eat the best pizza in town. Got a bun in the oven that needs some convincing to come out? Franks Special pizza has been known to induce labor in dozens of impatient mommas to be.

288 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-846-2520
Online: gayninetiespizza.com

Photo: Baci Bistro

Baci Bistro & Café
Enjoy delicious food in an elegant setting, indoors or outdoors. In an atmosphere that’s just formal enough to meet with friends and feel like you’ve treated yourself, but also isn’t too snooty to bring the kids, this Italian restaurant gives you the best of comfort and class. Even the water is filled with fruit!

500 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-600-0600
Online: bacibistroandbar.com

Photo: New Leaf

New Leaf
This little grocery store is an amped up version of Whole Foods—fresh, organic living at its best. Whether you’re looking for an alternative for white flour flour or simply something sweet that you won’t regret later, this place has thought of everything when it comes to living without chemicals. (Try the dried mulberries!)

Vintage Hills Shopping Center
3550 Bernal Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-621-7660
Online: newleaf.com

Blue Agave Club
This restaurant, with its lights strung over the outdoor seating area, will make you feel like you’re visiting a beautiful Mexican villa. Exquisite Mexican food awaits you and your ninos within!

625 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-417-1224
Online: blueagaveclub.com

Lokanta Mediterranean Bar & Grill
Another treat along the main strip of Pleasanton are the Mediterranean flavors of Lokanta. We bet your little dancers will also also enjoy the restaurant’s European music!

443 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-233-8074
Online: eatlokanta.com

New York Pizza
For those of you looking for a quick bite to eat, you can’t pass up the downtown NY Pizza. New York Pizzas are everywhere, but there’s just something different about this one. The crust is the perfect mix of crisp and fluffy and the owners have taken obvious care in making sure the ingredients they use are fresh. Buy yours by the “slice” (two large slices on the same plate count as one). It also comes with a free soda!

690 Main St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-484-4757
Online: newyorkpizzapleasanton.com

 

Treat

Meadowlark Dairy
The good ol’ drive-thru dairy is home to the best soft serve you’ll ever try, and your kids will get a kick out of the drive up service. Your car’s tires ring the buzzer for attendance and you can shop for milk, eggs, drinks, and of course the legendary treats from the convenience of your car. Or try the walk-up line if you’re wandering downtown on foot.

57 W. Neal St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-846-2261
Online: meadowlarkdairy.com

Yogoholic
Just add the topping of your choice! Cool, sweet and refreshing frozen yogurt for a hot day. Bring this treat across the street and let the kids run wild at Tawny Park (mentioned above).

3500 Bernal Ave.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-417-2213
Online: plus.google.com

Photo: The English Rose

The English Rose
Have a tea party with plates of petite treats at The English Rose. The tearoom is filled with every treat, lacy doily or frill a little girl could desire. While you’re downtown, pop in for a tea tasting event.

163 W. Neal St.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-462-6233
Online: theenglishrose-pleasanton.com

Yolatea
Let your littles choose from 10 different fat-free frozen yogurt flavors and sprinkle it with fresh fruit. If someone is not in the mood for yogurt, try a crepe or creamy gelato!

600 Main Ste., Ste F.
Pleasanton, Ca
925-417-0449
Online: yolatea.com

—Aly Brown

Did we miss your favorite kid-friednly spot in Pleasanton? Tell us in the comments below! 

All images by the author unless otherwise noted.

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