The Guide: Kid Stuff

Compiled by George Ducker

Gold Rush Visitors may experience elation similar to that of the miners of 1849 when they pan for gold at the museum. Autry National Center, 4700 Western Heritage Way, L.A. Sat.-next Sun., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free with museum admission, $3-$9; 2 and younger, free. (323) 667-2000.

Justin Roberts Justin and the Not Ready for Naptime Players perform a mix of folk music, rockabilly and punkish tunes for the little ones. Largo at the Coronet, 366 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles. Today, 11 a.m. $15. (310) 855-0350.

Kids Fishing Clinic Learn new fishing techniques, hook-tying secrets and more. Then try them out on a half-day fishing trip that departs at 12:45 p.m. Dana Wharf, 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point. Today, noon. Free. (949) 496-5794.

Concrete Verse Menagerie Children's book illustrator Mary Peterson leads a workshop combining concrete poetry with paper models to create a wordy zoo. Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood. Today, noon-2 p.m. Free. (310) 443-7000.

Dig It! Learn about the history of the ancient Near East, the methods of excavating a site and the importance of preserving artifacts. No reservations necessary. Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A. Today, next Sun. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. (310) 440-4500.

Art Odyssey for Families Guided tours through galleries and art activities for ages 5 and older. Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades. Sat.-next Sun., 2 p.m. Free, advance tickets required. Parking is $8. (310) 440-7300.

Escape Reality Steve Spill and Bozena Sparrow perform classic illusions -- floating, vanishing, sawing, mind reading and a dangerous escape -- with sketch comedy, drama, romance and audience participation. Suitable for the whole family. Magicopolis, 1418 4th St., Santa Monica. Today, 2 p.m.; Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m. $22-$27. (310) 451-2241.

Giggle Gaggle and Detention Span Stand-up, improv and sketch comedy by young performers. Presented by Joy Theatre. Raven Playhouse, 5233 N. Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood. Sat.-next Sun., 2 p.m., 5 p.m. $8. (818) 505-9355.