A Day at the Cayton Children’s Museum: Play, Explore, and Learn

This New Year, we were excited to kick off 2025 with a visit to the Cayton Children’s Museum in Santa Monica. After a long stretch of holiday colds (12 days of sniffles, anyone?), we were ready to burn energy, fun, and new experiences. And let me tell you—this museum delivered all that and more.  

As a play specialist, I’m always looking for spaces that encourage children to explore at their own pace while providing opportunities to build on their abilities. The Cayton Children's Museum is a masterclass in scaffolding play. Every exhibit and activity offers layers of engagement, whether it’s a toddler discovering textures or an older child diving into imaginative role-play.  

What We Loved About the Cayton Children’s Museum  

1. Interactive Exhibits  

   The museum is packed with hands-on experiences. My little one’s favorites were the firefighter station (complete with uniforms and a fire truck!) and the ball pit water with boat. I thought the marketplace, where kids can shop, stock shelves, and “buy” their groceries was pretty cool.

2. Open Play Spaces  

   The museum also features large climbers and open areas where kids can burn off energy. It’s perfect for letting them move, climb, and explore freely in a safe environment.  

3. Thoughtful Design for All Ages  

   What stood out to me as a play specialist was the intentional design of each exhibit. The activities naturally build on skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. No matter your child’s age or stage, there’s something here for them to enjoy and grow from.  

Things to Know Before You Go  

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your day:  

Hours of Operation:  

  The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly!  

Admission Prices:  

  - Adults and children (1+): $16 each  

  - Babies under 12 months: Free  

  - Discounts: Seniors and military families get $2 off tickets.  

- Offer the PLAYFORALL 

- Reservations:  

  While walk-ins are welcome, they recommend booking tickets online ahead of time to ensure entry during busy times.  

Rules to Keep in Mind:  

  - No outside food or drinks are allowed in the museum. There’s a designated area for snacks if you need a break. We ate lunch before.  

  - Socks are required in certain play areas, so bring an extra pair just in case! My kid didn’t wear his shoes the entire time just socks. 

  - Parents must supervise children at all times (trust me, you’ll want to join in on the fun anyway!).  

Why You Should Visit:

The Cayton Children’s Museum is more than just a play space; it’s a community hub designed to empower kids through creativity, connection, and exploration. As a mom and play specialist, I was so impressed by how well this space encouraged kids to learn while playing—without any pressure or structure.  

Whether you’re local or visiting Santa Monica, this is a must-visit spot for families. We left with big smiles, tired feet, and memories we’ll cherish for a long time.  

Making Memories in Nature Enjoy Our Top 5 Favorite Local Spots

1. Escondido Trail and Waterfall:

   📍Location: Malibu, CA

   - Highlights: Enjoy a scenic hike through lush greenery leading to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

   - Family-Friendly Features: Moderate hiking difficulty suitable for children, picturesque picnic spots, and plenty of photo opportunities.

2. Ventura Botanical Garden:

   📍Location: Ventura, CA

   - Highlights: Wander through themed gardens showcasing a diverse array of plants from around the world, including Mediterranean, Australian, and Californian landscapes.

   - Family-Friendly Features: Well-maintained paths suitable for strollers, interactive children's garden with hands-on activities, and seasonal events and workshops for all ages.

3. Ventura Water Reserve:

   📍Location: Ventura, CA

   - Highlights: Immerse yourself in nature with serene wetlands, peaceful walking paths, and birdwatching opportunities.

   - Family-Friendly Features: Flat, easy trails perfect for strollers or young children, educational signs about local ecosystems, and tranquil picnic areas.

4. Carpinteria Nature Reserve and Bluffs:

   📍Location: Carpinteria, CA

   - Highlights: Stroll along coastal bluffs with panoramic ocean views, spotting seals and seabirds along the way.

   - Family-Friendly Features: Easy walking trails suitable for all ages, interpretive signs highlighting local wildlife and history, and beach access for sandcastle building and tidepool exploration.

5. Solstice Canyon:

   📍Location: Malibu, CA

   - Highlights: Explore a historic canyon with shaded trails, a babbling creek, and the remnants of an old stone mansion.

   - Family-Friendly Features: Variety of trail options ranging from easy to moderate, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and fascinating historical sites to discover.

Share this list with your friends and family to inspire outdoor adventures together!

Welcome October

Hey there, Happy Baby families! 🍂 The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and pumpkin spice has taken over – it's officially fall!

This season offers a treasure trove of opportunities to create lasting memories with your little ones. So, grab your cozy sweaters and let's dive into some delightful fall activities, fantastic books, and crafty adventures that will make this autumn unforgettable for your happy babies and toddlers.

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🍁See What’s Going On In Your Community

This time of year can bring a sense of togetherness that's simply magical. It's a time when communities come alive with plenty of festive activities. I start at the beginning of the month to plan out our fall fun activities. Between work, soccer, and Happy Baby classes I have to make sure we are prepared for all of the festive fun. Ventura County Mom Collective has put together a pretty stellar October activities list. Last year we did trick-or-treating at The Riverpark Collections, but It was nuts so we will probably skip this year. Our local library host a dress up Halloween StoryTime and a Spook-Tacular event. Check out what your city has going on and connect with your community.

🎃 Pumpkin Patch Adventure

I like traditions, the feel of another year going by but also being in a familiar place with loved ones, making more memories together makes my heart happy. We have geared up the past three years and braved the lines at Underwood Farms for their fall harvest. Great place to take advantage of all the cute photo opps and pumpkin back drops. Each year Tyson has enjoyed the corn maze and tractor ride more and more each year.

Tip: Skip buying the pumpkin there, Trader Joe’s have a nice variety for a cheaper price.

Another great option is Boccali Ranch in Ojai. They have wagon rides on the weekend and entrance is free. The ranch isn’t too big or crazy crowed (at least when we went) which makes for a much more low-key experience that still gives great photo opportunities.

📚Cozy Storytime with Fall Books

Nothing beats snuggling up with your baby on a chilly fall day and diving into a captivating book. Here are some wonderful fall-themed book suggestions for your reading pleasure:

- "First Fall” by Eric Carle

- “Leaf Man" by Lois Ehlert

- "Apples and Pumpkins" by Anne Rockwell

- *"Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn" by Kenard Pak

Tip: Level up your story time with Stories in Sensory. These sensory play book boxes help children elaborate and bring stories to life with hands on learning. I downloaded the fall conversation cards which provided some great fall topics to discuss with my little bestie over pumpkin pancakes in the morning. You can also get sensory bin bases and yummy smelling fall scented playdough on the website.

🖌️Pumpkin Palooza

Now that you have pumpkins, it’s time to get creative! When I was growing up carving was the only option for pumpkin decor. Now You can Decorate them with washable paints, stickers, or even carve baby-friendly designs. This year we are going to tryout using cookie cutters. If carving is too tricky, try painting a pumpkin to resemble your little one's favorite character. It's a fantastic way to get into the Halloween spirit! Make sure to use child-safe tools and supervise closely.

🧡Sensory Bins

I love a themed sensory bin, oh, yes I do!!Here are a couple of sensory base bin fillers: Oats with spices, black beans, red beans, orange-red-yellow colored rice, pumpkin puree, leaves, and hay. Add different scoops and containers to complete this open-ended play that will surely delight your child. Encourage your baby or toddler to touch and explore the different textures. It's a sensory delight that's both creative and educational!

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This fall, Happy Baby families are in for a treat! 🍂 From leafy adventures to cozy reading sessions, there's no shortage of family fun to be had. We hope you will also join our October classes and embrace the beauty of the season, create precious memories, and watch your babies and toddlers bloom like the colorful fall leaves. 💛 Enjoy your fall escapades with Happy Baby Social Nest!

Join Us for a Day of Wellness and Community Connection!

Mark your calendars and invite your loved ones to join us for an exciting and interactive experience that celebrates mental health and well-being right in our community. Together, we'll delve into the "Zones of Wellness" and embark on a journey that promotes holistic health and happiness.

At this event, families will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities designed to enrich wellness and enhance mental health. The goal is to provide a space where everyone, young and old, can come together to learn, play, and grow. The day will be filled with a diverse range of activities, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the event will be the play zone hosted by us, Happy Baby Social Nest in collaboration with Stories in Sensory. Enjoy sensory fun, bubbles, and connecting to your playful side. This engaging and nurturing environment is designed to spark joy and exploration within participants.

Best of all, this community event is absolutely free. The gracious event sponsors believe that everyone deserves access to wellness-enhancing experiences. So bring your family, invite your friends, and let's celebrate mental health, well-being, and the power of community connection. Thank you to Childhood Matter Non-Profit for including us and organizing this awesome event.

We can't wait to see you there! Together, let's create a day of positivity, growth, and celebration.

For more information and updates, please visit event information or email us.

10 Summer Activities

#1 Splash Pool Fun

Check out our Water Table Reel for purposeful play ideas

That cost $25 or Less

1. Splash pool fun: Set up a small inflatable pool, water table or splash pad in your backyard and let your little one splash and play in the water.

2. DIY sensory bins: Create sensory bins using simple household items like rice, beans, or oats. Add toys and scoops for your baby to explore and discover.

3. Nature walks: Take your child for a stroll in a local park or nature reserve. Let them explore the sights, sounds, and textures of the outdoors.

4. Picnic in the park: Pack a simple picnic with sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. Find a shady spot in the park and enjoy a relaxed outdoor meal with your little one.

5. Bubble play: Blow bubbles using an inexpensive bubble solution or make your own with dish soap and water. Watch your child's joy as they try to catch and pop the bubbles.

6. DIY obstacle course: Set up a small obstacle course in your backyard or living room using items like hula hoops, cones, and tunnels. Encourage your toddler to crawl, climb, and explore the course.

7. Storytime at the library: Visit your local library for free storytime sessions designed for young children. It's a great opportunity for your baby to listen to stories and interact with other kids.

8. Water play at the beach: If you live near a beach, take your little one for a day of water play. Let them splash in the shallow waves, build sandcastles, and collect seashells.

9. DIY arts and crafts: Engage in simple art activities at home, such as finger painting, sponge stamping, or creating collages with cut-out shapes and glue.

10. Join a Happy Baby Social Nest Class: Engage with your little and with other parents while taking in the fresh air. Class is a fantastic way for your child to socialize, dance and move around, and learn from the surroundings.

Remember to adapt these activities to your child's age and developmental stage for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Bluffs

An Unforgettable Adventure: Cherishing Precious Moments with Our Son Tyson

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve has beautiful scenery, wild life, and blooming flowers.

As we set off on a memorable outing, our son Tyson took the lead, fearlessly exploring the wonders around him. Although he occasionally fell behind, it only added to the excitement of witnessing his independent spirit. The joy radiating from him as he immersed himself in his surroundings was truly heartwarming.

During our expedition, we stumbled upon a captivating tide pool teeming with life. Delightful crabs scuttled about, while enchanting sea anemones and barnacles adorned the rocks. Other mysterious sea creatures lurked beneath the surface, their identities remaining a thrilling mystery. Our exploration felt like venturing into a hidden realm, brimming with extraordinary discoveries.

As we continued along the path, vibrant yellow flowers lined our way, infusing the atmosphere with a magical aura. Taking this as a cue, we slowed our pace, relishing every moment and seizing the opportunity to teach Tyson the importance of treating nature with reverence and respect. Together, we marveled at the intricate ecosystem surrounding us, understanding the significance of nurturing and preserving it for generations to come.

As the day drew to a close, we returned home with a heart full with contentment, our feet weary from our adventure. These precious moments spent together, immersing ourselves in nature's wonders, etched indelible memories within our core. It's these cherished experiences that shape our journey, reminding us of the beauty and awe that exists in the world around us.

In the end, it's not just tired feet we take away from such expeditions; it's the fulfillment of our souls and the invaluable lessons we impart to our children. These are the experiences that leave an everlasting imprint and shape their understanding of the world.

Tips: There is a dirt parking lot where the trail begins. I recommend doing lunch at a park down the road. There were couple groups of people picnicking on the side of the cliff but I would be too sketched out with a toddler to have lunch like that.

You can click the links below for more information. Feel free to message us if you have any questions.

Playdate for Mental Health Awareness

Talk about a fun and impactful Saturday. We had the pleasure of being one of the community partners at the 2nd Annual Mental Health Awareness Playdate, hosted by Childhood Matters, a non-profit that is on a mission to support and nurture the mental and emotional health of children and youth. This free event had a variety of organizations and community programs that provide support and resources for mental health.

Our Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Dominique, joined in on the fun Saturday. She facilitated Rainbow Breathing for kids and adults. It was cool to see people slow down, take a moment to deep breathe and trace our colorful rainbow.

We brought our DIY sensory bottles and bins. The brightly colored bottles and tactile bins can invoke a sense of calmness and helps regulate emotions. All ages enjoyed touching and playing with the sand, rice, and oats. What playdate is complete without bubbles? Bubbles floated around our table while we spent the afternoon engaging with others. It felt great to connect and bond with the community in support of mental health awareness. We are already looking forward to next year.

When My Little One is Sick

I try to go natural and holistic as much as possible but above all is getting my baby feeling better as soon as possible. One of the hard parts about being a parent is seeing your baby in discomfort. My friend once said, “parenting is not for the faint of heart” that has stuck with me. Here are some products that help my little one when he is fighting off a bug.

1. Fridababy 3 in 1 Thermometer-first thing we check is the temperature

2. Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter-baby’s skin is sensitive and a runny nose can lead to a lot of wiping. This nipple butter is perfect for keeping the nose area protected from all the wiping.

3. Puffs Tissues-because like I said, a lot of wiping.

4. Aura Cacia Eucalyptus Essential Oil- I like to add a couple drop to a bath or warm wash cloth to help with congestion and relaxation.

1. Maty’s Chest Rub- I rub this stuff all over my baby’s chest, neck, and bottom of his feet. He enjoys smelling the rub.

2. Fridababy Snot Sucker-Yup, the best way is to suck the snot out. Sucking the snot out is a must for a runny nose.

3. Pure Enrichment® MistAire™ Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier- I use this at night, and tell myself it helps, lol.

4. Maty’s Childrens’ Mucus Couch Syrup-Taste like thick seasoned honey. This stuff helped and gave relief within five minutes of giving it to my son.

Ventura Botanical Gardens

Visiting the Ventura Botanical Gardens is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Southern California while also learning about different plant species, enjoying scenic vistas, and connecting with the local community.

Everet and I enjoy visiting the gardens year round but spring time is our favorite. We would visit on the weekends before we became “Mom and Dad”. Now we get to enjoy the always changing scenery with our little bestie. Walking around the gardens is great way for us to enjoy nature and bond as a family. The Ventura Botanical Gardens is a family friendly outing that provides a great opportunity for exercise and learning. I really like that I can plan time to go to the gardens when it works best for us. Typically we go Fridays in the later afternoon because that works for us. Bonus Fridays are free and dog friendly. But you can visit when it fits your schedule, or should I say when it fits your little one’s schedule.

The gardens are beautiful and you can find little hidden gems that inspire and provoke a sense of peace and connection with scenery around. Various benches and looking points makes this a nice semi-leisure recreational outing. Giving our son the opportunity to explore and connect with nature is important to us. I am grateful to the volunteers (thanks Aunt Joanie) who continuously take care of the plants and give us this beautiful place to visit. Hope this gives you the push to go check out the gardens, tag us if you do.

Parent Tips:

• As I said Fridays are free and dog friendly

• Lather on the sunscreen

• Pack light unless you’re trying to burn those extra calories

• Bring a snack if you’re like me, I always have snacks. Plus by the entrance there is a place you can sit and snack.

• Water is must, bring plenty of water especially depending on how long you plan to walk/hike

• Don’t feel like you have to see it all in one trip. The gardens cover 109 acres, so explore the various gardens during different trips

For more information about the Ventura Botanical Gardens please visit https://venturabotanicalgardens.com/

Our Trip to the Ventura County Museum of Agriculture

I am the type of person that enjoys learning while having an experience. Especially if that experience is free and has anything to do with plants or a pretty view. When I called to get the details about the museum and bringing a child, I felt as if I was being sold on an experience for a child. Admission is free for now and donating a couple dollars helps keep it free.

The women at the counter was very friendly, she let us kinda wonder in. The shop area is located as soon as you enter. My first stop was to look at the different local goods, we then continued to the open museum room. It may have been the string lights that gave it that wedding vibe, but I couldn’t stop thinking how beautiful an event would be here.

Anyways, we spent about an hour walking around inside. We let Tyson play at his pace and didn’t rush him. We engaged and enjoyed playing with new toys in a new interesting environment. We have been reading books about bees so seeing them in real life connected the at home learning.

I packed apples, Trader Joes’s Sour Cream Spinach dip, couple sourdough rolls, dried berries mix, baby carrots, mango and string cheese. We snacked and let Tyson wonder around the garden area before us. The flowers were starting to bloom. A little lady bug caught Tyson’s eye and we had a moment. It was a nice afternoon taking it slow and enjoying the environment around us.

Information

Location: 926 Railroad Avenue • Santa Paula, CA 93060
805.525.3100

Hours: Thursday—Sunday 11am to 5pm

Admission is FREE but call to confirm

Free Parking adjacent to the Museum

Beautiful Building

This picture was taken from the parking lot.

Pretend Play

This pretend farmers market has a variety of objects that spark the imagination.

Outside in Garden

Perfect area to enjoy a snack and take in a little Santa Paula.

Free Fun Ways to Connect and Bond with Your Child

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• Dance /exchange dance moves

• Visit a new park

• Draw a picture together or for each other

• Make up a song together or about each other

• Play hide and seek or four corners

• Exercise

• Play I Spy outside

• Visit a library

• Hairbrush Karaoke

• Start a collection together