Kids Los Angeles - January 12, 2009

Word of Mouth

Pigeon Japanese Teething Toys

You sit in lotus position facing a Zen teething master.

You: Master, it’s been ten nights straight. Aching gums, red cheeks, saliva everywhere. I am ready to learn your secrets. Where do I begin?

Master: The baby aisle at Mitsuwa Marketplace. There you will find many Pigeon teethers from Japan. Very gnawable. Babies love them.

You: What makes these teethers special?

Master: Daintier than American products. Easy for babies to grasp. Pastel colors very cute.

You: Are there different kinds?

Master: Gum and lip trainers help control force of bite. Rattle teethers develop sense of hearing. Cooling teethers soothe pain.

You: Thank you, Master. Any idea when the first tooth will come?

Master: Patience, Mama-san.

Available at Mitsuwa Marketplace, 333 Alameda Street, between East Third and East Fourth Streets, Little Tokyo (213-687-6699 or mitsuwa.com). To see styles, go to pigeonbaby.info.

Want more? Chew on these ideas from our other local editions.

CELEBRATE
Family Day Presidential Inauguration Celebration
What: See what it’s like to be prez for a day. Design a flag, a dollar bill, and decorate a time capsule to take home.
Why: Country first.
When: Sun., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Paintbox Kids,1383 E. Washington Blvd., b/t Holliston & Hill Aves., Pasadena. Register at 626-808-0330.

TREK
Speak for the Trees
What: Young hikers (ages 8 and up) channel The Lorax by exploring roots, trunks, and leaves.
Why: Just what the Dr. (Seuss) ordered.
When: Sat., 3-5 p.m.
Where: Sooky Goldman Nature Center, 2600 Franklin Canyon Dr., Beverly Hills (310-858-7272).

COOK
Wok and Roll
What: Kidding Around the Kitchen teaches families to whip up healthy stir-fries and sushi.
Why: Forget takeout.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.
Where: Japanese American National Museum, 369 E. First St., Little Tokyo. To reserve, call 213-625-0414 ext. 2222.