This Week's Picks: Magicians, Reptiles, and Distant Galaxies, June 9-13

6/9/14 - By Jacqueline Stansbury

Sunday June 15 is Fathers' Day; hopefully your kids are hard at work brainstorming ways to make this a special day for him. For help and inspiration check out the card making events at the Robertson Branch library and American Girl Stores. My kids’ dad loves a good outing, but he hates to be in charge of the planning. Give him a list of choices: a day at the museum, a hike out of town, or a picnic in the park and he’ll be thrilled.

The week needn’t be all about dad. There are plenty of other things to do now that school is out - many of them at the local library:

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1. Magician at the Library – Monday
Magician Alan Oshiro appears (and possibly disappears!) at the Chatsworth Public Library. An astonishing and free event for kids ages 3-12.

2. Meet the Reptile FamilyTuesday
The Atwater Public Library hosts a free opportunity for young zoologists to meet and touch snakes, lizards, and spiders. For young scientists who prefer not to get up close and personal with the reptiles, there are plenty of books on the subject. (Or for those who can't get enough, touch more reptiles on Wednesday at the Little Tokyo Library.)

3. The Last Days of the DinosaursWednesday
Paleontologist Richard Wade comes to the Van Nuys Public Library with a life size T-Rex skull, multiple fossils, and even a meteorite. Kids can learn how these prehistoric creatures lived and why their time on earth came to an end.

4. Sidewalk AstronomersThursday
Peddle over to the intersection of Chandler and Lima on the bike path in Burbank. Telescopes are available for free stargazing, weather permitting.

5. Dance DowntownFriday
The music center hosts free outdoor dancing every other week in the summer, with bands, DJs, and alternating themes. This week features the Argentine Tango.

Looking for more ideas? Then you need look no farther than our events calendar, which has plenty more ideas for a fun-filled week.