November 10, 2008
Mind Games
Toys for Plane Rides and Car Trips
The portable DVD player just died and your clan is starting to bug out. Plug them into endless entertainment: their own imaginations. Here, a few engaging compact toys to help time fly.
The smallest travelers will get busy with DwellStudio’s finger puppets (Giggle, 2110 Chestnut Street; 415-440-9034; online at giggle.com). The colorful animals play long and pack flat. 
Preschoolers will love a Mudpuppy Sticker Set Play Scene (Dottie Doolittle, 3680 Sacramento Street; 415-563-3244; online at galison.com). Illustrated foldouts depict airports, pirate beaches, and a ballet stage, and come with restickable vinyl characters and props.
Little readers will be intrigued by the pocket-size Kids Topics to Go (Stacey’s Bookstore, 581 Market Street; 415-421-4687; online at tabletopics.com). The junior version of the adult conversation-sparker is packed with questions like What would be a really good flavor for toothpaste?
Sure beats Are we there yet?
AUDITION
Marin Youth Performers Casting Call
What: Junior thespians (ages 7 to 16) try out for director Steven Hess’s A Storybook Christmas.
Why: All hams on deck.
When: Wed., 4-6 p.m.; Thurs., 5-7 p.m.
Where: 142 Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Ave., near Miller Ave. Register at 415-383-9613.
SHOP
Tea Collection
What: Fashion-forward togs at discounted prices, with a portion of proceeds (and $10 entry fee) going to local schools and The Global Fund for Children.
Why: They’re bursting at the seams.
When: Fri., 1-6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 1 Arkansas St., at 16th St., ste. b (415-621-9400).
GO
The Time Outs
What: Indie pop band gets tots bopping.
Why: Face the music.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.
Where: Bay Area Discovery Museum, Fort Baker, 557 McReynolds Rd. (415-339-3900). Register online at baykidsmuseum.org.
