‘Rabbit’ Gives Kids a Jump on Reading Skills

The Learning Co. has updated its series for young readers with “Reader Rabbit 1,” a CD-ROM for Windows and Macintosh that helps develop the reading and phonics skills of children in preschool through first grade. Using three-letter words along with speech, sound effects and animation, children can improve letter recognition and recognize spelling patterns. There is also a score-keeping feature to help parents chart their child’s progress. Suggested price is $50. Available at most software retail stores.

EVENTS

TODAY

* The UCLA Fowler Museum presents a workshop where families can create dolls inspired by the ones on view in the museum’s current exhibit of African dolls. 2 to 4 p.m. Free with admission: adults, $5; seniors, non-UCLA students, UCLA faculty/staff and Alumni Assn. members, $3; UCLA students, $1; free to everyone on Thursdays. On the UCLA campus in Westwood. (310) 825-4361

MONDAY

* Bring your kids to the Los Angeles Central Library for the last day of “Brave Little Girls,” an exhibit organized by the National Museum of Women in the Arts to inspire children 8 to 12. 630 W. 5th St. Free. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Information: (213) 228-7000.

* For vegetarian teens 15 to 18, Newport Beach Community Services offers cooking classes from 7 to 9 p.m. on four Mondays. Registration is $136. 3300 Newport Blvd. Information: (714) 644-3151.

TUESDAY

* The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium’s SEA Club will offer classes for eighth-through 12th-graders who want to examine the marine environment and explore marine science careers. Sponsored by the Norris Foundation, the four Tuesday classes are from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Drive in San Pedro. Cost is $28. Information: (310) 548-7562, Ext. 7017.

SATURDAY

* Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum presents “A Spring Walk Through Your Arboretum.” 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. $5; free to members. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton. Information: (714) 773-3404.

* This family roundup appears on Sundays. Items to be considered should be mailed 3 1/2 weeks before the event to Aaron Davis, The Family File, Los Angeles Times, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles, CA 90053. Fax: (213) 237-4712.