Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Long Beach, CA

There are people who finish all their Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving. I am not one of those people. It seems like I'm always rushing around the mall at the last minute, buying presents for everyone on my list. If you're a procrastinator like I am, here is your chance to have some fun with your kid and do a little holiday shopping at the same time. The best part? You'll be putting your dollars to work supporting local schools and institutions.

Maple Village School will be hosting its first annual Winter Village on December 13^th from 11:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M at 4017 E. 6^th Street. The festival, to benefit the Maple Village School, will feature craftmaking, organic treats, and storytelling. Admission is $5.00, and includes three food or craft tickets. Additional tickets can be purchased for $1.00 each. Children under 2 will be admitted free.

Celebrate Chanukah and do a little holiday shopping at The Jewish Community Center's Chanukah Celebration and Boutique on Sunday December 14 from 11:00 to 3:00 PM. Activities include music, face-painting, and crafts. Admission for children ages 2 to12 is $5.00. Children under 2 will be admitted free.

Rancho Los Cerritos is hosting a Christmas Open House on December 14^th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Kids can see the traditional adobe house all decked out for Christmas, enjoy live Christmas music, and create traditional crafts and decorations. You can also support the Rancho by purchasing toys and ornaments in the Museum Gift Shop.