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.
🍁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!
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!
