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  • Cayton Children's Museum | Preschool | Los Angeles, California

    Your preschooler will thrill at the age-appropriate, fun projects we offer at the Cayton. Each project begins with a captivating story to set the stage, followed by a process-based art activity designed to enhance their skills in alignment with the California Preschool Foundations. preschool (3-5 years) PEFORMING ARTS VISUAL ARTS SCIENCE FINE PRINT FAQ Your preschoolers will thrill at the age-appropriate, fun projects we offer at the Cayton. Each project begins with a captivating story to set the stage, followed by a process-based art activity designed to enhance their skills in alignment with the California Preschool Foundations. Field Trip Reservations for 2026 are now open. REGISTER PEFORMING GARTS PERFORMING ARTS Art Is For Everyone Children will dive into the world of Gerald the Giraffe in Giraffes Can't Dance by Andreae and Parker-Rees, a tale of determination and rhythm. After the story, they'll bring their creative vision to life by crafting their very own dancing jungle animal. For those eager to explore further, there's an optional performance art collaboration where they can showcase how their animal might move, celebrating the joy of storytelling and artistry. S-E Domain: Self, Social Interaction; Language Domain: Listening & Speaking, Reading; English-Language Development: Listening, Speaking, Reading; Visual & Performing Arts; Physical development Domain VISUAL ARTS VISUAL ARTS Taco Tummy Trouble Students will enjoy the story Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin followed by a fun open art project. They'll explore the magic of color mixing while creating and naming their very own unique potions designed to soothe a dragon's upset tummy. S-E Domain: Self-regulation, Social & Emotional understanding, empathy and caring, group participation; Language Domain: Concept about print, vocabulary; Math Domain: Number sense, Algebra, Measurement, Geometry, Mathematical Reasoning; Visual & Performing Arts: Artistic Perception, Creative Expression SCIENCE SCIENCE Loving Lava Prepare for excitement as we delve into Harry and the Hot Lava by Chris Robertson. After the thrilling story, get ready to explore the world of sensory science as we concoct our very own slime creations. S-E Domain: Self-Awareness, Self-regulation, Social & Emotional understanding empathy and caring, initiative in learning, group participation, cooperation, responsibility ; Language Domain: Language use and conventions, vocabulary, grammar Concept about print, phonological awareness, alphabetics and word/print recognition, comprehension and analysis of age appropriate text, literacy interest and response; History Domain: Sense of time; Science Domain: Scientific Inquiry, physical sciences; earth sciences; Visual & Performing Arts: Artistic Perception, Creative Expression Fine Print Fine Print Actual field trip schedules may vary depending on the arrival of groups. Los Angeles traffic is unpredictable! Please allow ample time for your drive to the museum. If you are late, we CANNOT extend your field trip time, and museum playtime may be shortened. Memberships, discounts and promotions do not apply to Field Trips NO REFUNDS will be granted for groups that cancel within two weeks of the scheduled visit NO REFUNDS will be granted for any child or adult chaperone that has prepaid, but does not attend on the day of visit Any excess funds that cannot be refunded will be considered a museum donation FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Check out the FAQ page HERE

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Infant-Toddler | Los Angeles, California

    At the Cayton, we specialize in offering fun and age-appropriate activities designed specifically for your youngest students. infant-toddler (0-2 years) PERFORMING ARTS VISUAL ARTS LITERACY SCIENCE MATH SOCIAL SCIENCE FINE PRINT FAQ At the Cayton, we specialize in offering fun and age-appropriate activities designed specifically for your youngest students. We wholeheartedly embrace and celebrate infants and toddlers through engaging programs. For our youngest field trip visitors, we kindly request a 3:1 ratio, with a maximum of 20 students, ensuring a safe and immersive experience for these budding explorers. Field Trip Reservations for 2026 are now open. REGISTER PEFORMING GARTS PERFORMING ARTS Dance, Baby, Dance Craft Musical Memories! Infants and toddlers will enjoy a heartwarming storytime featuring Babies Around the World Dancing by Tamara Barker and Violet Lamay, exploring the joy of dance across cultures. Following the story, little ones will decorate their personal noise makers in a supported open art activity, igniting their creativity and rhythmic spirit. California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Interactions with Adults, Interactions with Peers, Recognition of Ability, Identity of Self in Relation to Others, Expression of emotion, social understanding; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, Interest in print; Cognitive Development: Cause and Effect, Imitation, Attention Maintenance; Physical Development: Perceptual, Gross Motor, Fine Motor VISUAL ARTS VISUAL ARTS Color Mixing Magic Experience the wonder of colors! Children will delight in the timeless tale of Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh. After the story, they'll have the chance to unleash their creativity by mixing colors using our sensory, magical dough. It's a hands-on adventure in the art of color blending! California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Interactions with Adults, Interactions with Peers, Recognition of Ability, Impulse Control; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, interest in print; Cognitive Development: Cause and Effect, Imitation, Classification, Attention Maintenance, Personal Care Routines Literacy LITERACY Little Feelings, Monster Feelings Join us as children explore their emotions through the beloved book The Color Monster by Anna Llenas. Afterward, they'll collaborate to craft a vibrant emotion quilt, inspired by Rothko's art, learning how to express their feelings through colors in a creative and heartwarming project. California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Identity of Self in Relation to Others, Expression of Emotion, Emotion Regulation, Impulse Control, Social Understanding; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, Interest in print; Cognitive Development: Attention Maintenance; Physical Development: Perceptual, Gross Motor, Fine Motor SCIENCE SCIENCE Paper Party Embark on a windy adventure inspired by Carol Thompson's book, Wind (Whatever the Weather) . Children will dive into the enchanting world of wind and weather through a captivating story and an open-ended exploration of paper and wind, by using fans to bring their imaginative paper creations to life. California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Impulse Control, Social Understanding, Relationships with Peers, Recognition of Ability; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, Interest in print; Cognitive Development: Cause and Effect, Spatial Relationships, Problem Solving, Attention Maintenance; Physical Development: Perceptual, Gross Motor Math MATH Get In, Shape In this engaging session, children will be captivated by the delightful story This is a Book of Shapes by Kenneth Kraegel. After the story, they'll team up with an adult to craft sensory bottles, choosing from a variety of shapes and colors, adding a tactile and visually stimulating dimension to their exploration of shapes. California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Interactions with Adults, Emotion Regulation, Impulse Control, Social Understanding; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, Interest in print; Cognitive Development: Cause and Effect, Number Sense, Problem Solving, Spatial relationships, Attention Maintenance; Physical Development: Perceptual, Gross Motor, Fine Motor Social Science SOCIAL SCIENCE Community Counts Discover the cherished tale of Counting on Community by Inosanto Nagara, where young readers embark on a duck-filled adventure on every page. After our story session, children will dive into a creative adventure. They'll express themselves through handprint and heart art, letting their imaginations and emotions flow onto paper in a beautiful display of artistic exploration. California Infant Toddler Learning & Development Foundations S-E Domain: Identity of Self in Relation to Others, Expression of Emotion, Emotion Regulation, Impulse Control, Social Understanding, Relationships with Peers, Recognition of Ability; Language Domain: Communication Skills and knowledge, Interest in print; Cognitive Development: Memory, Cause and Effect, Spatial Relationships, Attention Maintenance, Personal Care Routines; Physical Development: Perceptual, Gross Motor FINE PRINT Fine Print Actual field trip schedules may vary depending on the arrival of groups. Los Angeles traffic is unpredictable! Please allow ample time for your drive to the museum. If you are late, we CANNOT extend your field trip time, and museum playtime may be shortened. Memberships, discounts and promotions do not apply to Field Trips NO REFUNDS will be granted for groups that cancel within two weeks of the scheduled visit NO REFUNDS will be granted for any child or adult chaperone that has prepaid, but does not attend on the day of visit Any excess funds that cannot be refunded will be considered a museum donation FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Check out the FAQ page HERE

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Admissions | Los Angeles, California

    Explore exhibits and your creativity. Cayton members have priority access and expedited check-in during museum operation hours. ADMISSION ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP GENERAL ADMISSION FAQ ANNUAL MEMBERS GENERAL ADMISSION General Admission Annual Membership General admission: Free for members and children under the age of 1 Daily entry from 9AM-4PM $18 walk-in / $16 online Twilight entry after 4PM $12 walk-in / $10 online Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-ins may experience a wait during peak hours. Capacity limited daily. Members have priority walk-in entry. Being a member at the Cayton means you get to play at the museum as many times as you like without paying admission. LEARN MORE BOOK TICKETS General Hours Wednesday–Monday 9AM-5PM FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Check out the FAQ page HERE

  • Cayton Children's Museum | PLAY4ALL 2025 | Los Angeles, California

    Host your next celebration at the Cayton Children’s Museum! Located right off the beach in vibrant Downtown Santa Monica, the Cayton offers 21,000 square feet of play space  with 25 discovery-based exhibits, art studios, a state-of-the-art theatre, a gallery pop-up space and community space—all in the center of retail and hospitality at Santa Monica Place. play4all membership We believe every family deserves the opportunity to play, learn, and grow together. PLAY4ALL provides discounted museum tickets and memberships for families experiencing financial hardship. We remain committed to inclusion through a new discounted pricing model that keeps access affordable while sustaining the experiences that inspire every child to thrive. PLAY4ALL eligibility is expanding to include certified nurses and registered nurses. Nurses show up for children and families every day—with care, steadiness, and expertise—and our community is better because of it. Single-day Admission $6.00 $6 per person (ages 12 months and older) Admission is valid all day with re-entry allowed until 5 PM Annual Membership $27.50 $27.50 per year (90% discount from regular price) Membership Includes: Membership benefits for 4 named individuals 4 additional guest admission passes per year Unlimited admission for one year 10% discount on birthday party bookings 10% discount at the museum store 50% off admission for up to 6 guests at participating ACM reciprocal museums Eligibility Families are eligible if a member of the visiting party is enrolled in one or more of the following assistance programs: Medi-Cal/Medicaid Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC) CalWORKs (TANF) CalFresh (Food Stamps/SNAP/EBT For Registered & Certified Nurses: A current employer-issued photo ID badge (please see FAQs for further information) How to Enroll Bring proof of eligibility to the Cayton Museum’s front desk — our team will be happy to assist you. PLAY4ALL brings the joy of play within reach for every family. We can’t wait to welcome you! What do I need to qualify for a PLAY4ALL Membership? To qualify for a PLAY4ALL Membership, a member of your household must be enrolled in one or more of the following assistance programs: Medi-Cal / Medicaid Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC) CalWORKs (TANF) CalFresh (Food Stamps/EBT) For Certified and Registered Nurses: Option A: A current employer-issued photo ID badge showing the individual's name and healthcare role/title. The badge must be from a healthcare employer/health system/clinic. Option B: Proof of active California licensure/certification, and a government-issued photo ID matching the name. How do I sign up for a PLAY4ALL Membership? Please bring proof of eligibility (paperwork, card, etc.) and your ID to the front desk. Tell our Guest Services Associate that you would like to apply for the PLAY4ALL membership. Present your proof of eligibility and ID. How many times can I use my PLAY4ALL membership? You may visit as many times as you wish during normal operating hours for a full year with your PLAY4ALL memebership. How many people are covered under a PLAY4ALL membership? With this membership, you can admit up to four people every time you visit the museum. How much does it cost for additional tickets? For any entrances over four persons, ticket prices are $6 per person. Can I reserve a timeslot with a PLAY4ALL membership? At this moment, PLAY4ALL membership holders are admitted only on a walk-in basis. Does my PLAY4ALL membership allow me entry to any other museums? No. However, we are a part of the Museums for All access program where you may find additional free and discounted museums. Learn more at www.museums4all.org. Do I qualify for a PLAY4ALL membership with Medicare? Our PLAY4ALL membership is not eligible under Medicare. FAQ

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Tickets & Reservations | Los Angeles, California

    Learn more about Cayton's ticket, reservation, and refund policies. Tickets / Reservations Any and all fees and/or donations paid for museum admission are non-refundable. Tickets are valid for the designated day and time only. Please print your reservation bar code or have your bar code ready on your mobile device when you arrive. Due to our variable admission pricing structure, we may ask to see proof of address/zip code of ticket holders. Capacity is limited. To allow as many guests and families to visit as possible, we ask that guests reserve only tickets they plan to use. Excessive bookings may be subject to cancellation. A limited number of walk-up reservations may be available, but advance reservations are strongly recommended. If you need to reschedule your visit due to illness, please email info@caytonmuseum.org , and we will be happy to rebook you. The Cayton reserves the right to close select exhibits and/or areas of the museum for any reason, without providing refunds or discounts.

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Our Supporters | Los Angeles, California

    The Cayton is the product of so much love and support. We are grateful to our many donors whose critical support has made the Cayton the special place it is today. Together, we are PLAYING OUR WAY TO A BETTER WORLD. We would like to thank the following donors for making our work possible: THANK YOU Our Annual Supporters Fiscal Year 2024 We are deeply grateful to the generous donors whose invaluable contributions have shaped the Cayton into the extraordinary place it is today. Together, we are PLAYING OUR WAY TO A BETTER WORLD . With heartfelt appreciation, we thank the following donors for making our mission a reality. $100,000+ Andrea & Barry Cayton Kevin & Chelsea Washington Macerich/Santa Monica Place Mary Kitchen & Jon Orszag The Derfner Foundation VCA Animal Hospitals $50,000+ Art & Kate Coppola Kevin & Chelsea Washington The Derfner Foundation Haeran & David Zedeck Jean Cohen & Jennifer E. Cohen Carl & Jennifer Freed Ralph M. Parsons Foundation VCA Animal Hospitals Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Larry Braun Joy Monkarsh $25,000 Andy Kaplan and Allison Wright Courtney Mizel Danhakl Family Foundation Fernando and Nadina Szew Heidi and Jon Monkarsh James Mandelbaum and Steve Byrnes Jennifer Simchowitz and James Brooks Julie Gadinsky and Larry Froch Leo Rosner Foundation, Inc. Linda Gach Ray and Steve Ray The Mark Hughes Foundation Michael Cohl and Lori McGoran Million Dollar Baby Co. Sidney Kohl Family Foundation Westside Regional Center $10,000+ 3 Arts Entertainment, Inc. Aashika Patel and Jesal Parshotam Alexa Dell Allison and Larry Berg Andy and Lauren Kleinman Andy Meyers and M3 Creative Annette and Leonard Shapiro CCS Fundraising City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs Craig Erwich Deborah Dragon and Justin Goldstein Diane and Dorothy Brooks Foundation Feigco Entertainment Goldhirsh-Yellin Foundation Halle and Oliver Hammond Heather and Ben Braun Heather Lindsey Hillary Mow Cervieri and Peter Cervieri Joyce Brandman Lon V. Smith Foundation Marcia Israel Foundation Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg Mort Marcus and Deborah Klein Ron Perlstein Sam Simon Charitable Giving Foundation Susan Goldsmith and Van Hohman Tom O'Hern Walt Disney Company $5,000+ Anoosheh Bostani Aryeh and Judy Goldberg Bob and Nita Hirsch Family Foundation Brittany Shugart Shiba Cassie and Eitan Weinstock David Levine David Straus Dean Golder Elkus Family Esther Netter Fox Entertainment Global Gail Buchalter and Warren Breslow Heather Andrews Jim Koplik Judy and Michael Citron Linda and Steven Brown Lionsgate Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture Lynn and Les Bider Macerich / Santa Monica Place Michelle Patel Moshe and Desiree Netter Myles Share NBCUniversal Paramount Pictures Pilgrim Media Group Point Grey Pictures Richard and Suzanne Norton Richard Ellis and Geri Lieberman Rodney and Lauren Freeman Sally and Dick Lippin Seth Schulweis Shari and Michael Weiner Sony Pictures Entertainment Stacy and Jesse Sharf Susan and Aaron Amster Suzanne and David Robinson Warner Bros. Television Group We Are Santa Monica Fund Wendell and Celeste Birkhofer $2,500+ 42 Management & Production Alexa and Kevin Koehler Amanda Moldavon Andrea and Glenn Sonnenberg Annie Lukowski Barbara Lazaroff The Goldberg Family Bo Overlock Brianne and Alex Turtletaub CalPrivate Bank Catherine Powers and Grant Withers Christine and Stephen Lim Dana and Richard Smith Diana and Jeff Glasser Eileen and Bob Stringer Entertainment One Henry Appelman Independent Artist Group Jean and Jerry Friedman Jennifer and Andy Wexler Joseph and Melisa Shalom Katie and Alexander Grosvenor Kenneth Lesnik Larry & Rita Lieberman Lawrence and Lisa Bender Lisa and Josh Hofheimer Mary Kitchen and Jon Orszag Patty and Peter Best Sarah Dickerson Simms/Mann Family Foundation Stephanie Schaffer and Scott Marlette Tiffany and Teddy Fong Wrenn and Bill Chais $1,000+ Adam Fakhri and Maliha Fakhri Adam Waltuch and Carolina Burak Allison and Duncan Gilliam Amanda Aronoff and James Keller Andrea Zalewski Andrew and Sharon Cushnir Bill Silva Brian and Mary C. Smith Brian Kabatznick BXP Corinna Cotsen and Lee Rosenbaum Dana and Stephen Sigoloff Dana Wancjer Daniel H. Adler Danielle Levy David Delgado and Silvia Salomon Deborah and Ivan Kallick Denise Goldberg Diane Shader Smith and Mark Smith Dr. Michael S. Aronoff and Dara Welles Aronoff Dr. Natasha Trentacosta Ed Joyce & Linda Gerstel Edit and Ed Komberg EJS & SES Eric and Debora Edmunds Erica Gerard and Vin Di Bona Georgia Simon Green Dot Public Schools Guess Foundation Ian Fried and Meredith Messer-Fried Jackie & Richard McLaughlin Jeff Gold and Jody Uttal Jennifer and Jared Weinman Jennifer Freed and Rendy Freedman Joan N. Borinstein Jocelyn & Luna Solomon Jodi and Trevor Bryant Kathryn Avery Kirby Bumpus Lacie Liska Mary Ellen Klee Meghana Mudiyam and Salil Phadnis Melissa & Ross Zapin Michael and Dounia Turrill Netflix Paul and Joan Sher Paul Solit Pia Mehta Rebecca Schumer Rob Six Sandra Malouf Santa Monica Cultural Affairs Saundra and Robert Braun Selkowitz Family Foundation Sharon and Herbert Glaser Sheila and Aaron Leibovic Sheryl and Jeffrey Wachtel Stanley and Joyce Black Family Foundation Stephanie and Harold Bronson Tara and Jay Reisbaum The Grinstein/Rabin Family The Held Foundation The Zalewski Family Tina Chu UCLA - School of Education and Information Studies Wala Events - Jasmin Wala Y&S Nazarian Family Foundation

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Vision | Los Angeles, California

    Our vision is to vastly expand our service and impact to a much broader audience, both in age range & annual visitation and participation, through one-of-a-kind interactive exhibits, innovative programs, and outreach. vision HANDS-ON EXHIBITS INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS IMPACT Our Vision For The Future Of Play HANDS-ON EXHIBITS + INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS + COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Beginning on our 6th Birthday in Summer 2025, the Cayton Children’s Museum entered a new stage of growth. Our vision is to vastly expand our service and impact to a much broader audience, both in age range & annual visitation and participation, through one-of-a-kind interactive exhibits, innovative programs, and outreach. Hands-On Exhibits Cayton Children’s Museum is reimagining its physical footprint to deliver transformative, playbased learning through fresh, dynamic, and rotating exhibitions. With critical upgrades to our beloved core exhibits and the launch of a new Special Exhibitions Wing, we will present original traveling exhibits and immersive experiences that spark creativity, inquiry, and joy—at home in Santa Monica and across the country. WHERE PLAY TAKES SHAPE DONATE We believe that a space can tell a story—and in the coming year, we plan to craft new environments that speak to children’s boundless potential. Our vision includes introducing fresh exhibit formats that respond to evolving interests, offer more inclusive experiences, and reflect the vibrant diversity of the families we serve. With each installation, we’ll create opportunities not just to play, but to see, feel, and explore the world in new and meaningful ways. With your support , these investments will redefine how our spaces come to life— expanding the ways children learn, explore, and grow in a museum where play truly takes shape. To deepen engagement and elevate the Cayton experience, we’re proposing a multi-pronged investment in new and refreshed exhibit offerings that will expand our reach, revitalize our core, and carry our mission far beyond our museum walls. Special Exhibitions Wing We plan to launch a series of 2–3 rotating traveling exhibits each year, housed in a remodeled Special Exhibitions Wing designed to bring fresh energy and repeat visitation. These temporary installations will offer new content and interactive experiences that keep the museum dynamic for returning families and first-time guests alike. Core Exhibit Upgrades After nearly 700,000 visits since opening in 2019, our core exhibit spaces—spanning 22,000 square feet—are in need of essential repairs, enhancements, and technology upgrades. These updates will ensure our permanent offerings continue to deliver safe, stimulating, and inclusive play for the next generation of Cayton visitors. Touring Exhibits Looking outward, we aim to design new themed and sponsored traveling exhibits, original to the Cayton, that can be shared nationally with peer institutions. These mobile experiences will bring the Cayton’s unique approach to hands-on, values-based learning to children’s museums, libraries, and science centers across the country. Interactive Programs Designed to meet real educational needs while nurturing imagination, our programs will elevate the museum as a trusted learning hub and cultural destination for children and their grown-ups. Through original theatre productions, maker workshops, artist residencies, and school collaborations, Cayton’s interactive programs will deepen engagement with families, students, and educators alike. PLAY WITH PURPOSE DONATE In the year ahead, we aim to introduce a robust lineup of innovative programs that invite children to dive deeper—into stories, materials, ideas, and collaboration. From live performances and creative residencies, to drop-in experiences and field trips that align with real classroom learning, these initiatives will blur the line between education and inspiration. Designed with intention, each program will offer children and caregivers new ways to learn, engage, and grow together. With your support, we can broaden our reach and deepen our impact—bringing purposeful play to more children and families through highquality programs across our communities. To expand our educational impact and enrich the experiences we offer, we propose a series of innovative programs designed to engage children, families, educators, and caregivers through creativity, collaboration, and values-based learning. Theatre Programming We envision launching a slate of original children’s theatre productions inspired by beloved books and stories—bringing literature to life on stage and sparking imagination through live performance. These productions will serve as joyful entry points into language, empathy, and storytelling for young audiences. School Partnerships To deepen our educational relevance, we will develop and facilitate field trips for schools and camps in partnership with local districts and independent educators. These visits will be intentionally aligned with learning standards and designed to support classroom goals while providing enriching, outof-school experiences for students. Creative Workshops Through artist residencies, maker workshops, and creative “takeovers” of the Cayton’s Art Studio, we will offer children hands-on opportunities to experiment, build, and express themselves in ever-evolving ways. These experiences will nurture creativity, confidence, and collaboration while reflecting the voices of working artists in our community. Visitor Programming We also plan to expand our calendar of drop-in activities and signature weekend events—offering consistent, high-quality engagement for both members and first-time visitors. These programs will invite families into playful, themed experiences that evolve with the seasons and highlight diverse cultures, topics, and traditions. Learning Institute We will continue to build on the work of the Cayton Learning Institute—expanding offerings for educators, caregivers, and researchers supporting child development. Through teacher training, university partnerships, and parent workshops, we aim to strengthen our role as a hub for learning, leadership, and innovation in early childhood education. Community Connections With a new mobile vehicle fleet and deeper community partnerships, the Cayton will bring the Power of Play into neighborhoods across Santa Monica and broader Los Angeles. From festivals and schools to pop-ups and playgrounds, we will reach children and families where they are—removing barriers to access, strengthening local connections, and expanding our impact far beyond museum walls. TOGETHER THROUGH PLAY DONATE Connection happens when families feel seen, included, and invited in—and through our expanded community outreach, we intend to meet more families where they are. With mobile exhibits and on-the-go programming, we’ll bring the Cayton experience into neighborhoods across Santa Monica and broader Los Angeles, collaborating with schools, local partners, and public spaces to create joyful moments of discovery and connection— right in the heart of each community. With your support, we can create more opportunities for families to come together through play—fostering connection, curiosity, and belonging across the communities we serve. To bring the Cayton experience beyond our walls and into the heart of Santa Monica and broader Los Angeles communities, we propose a mobile initiative and expanded partnership strategy designed to eliminate barriers and foster deeper, place-based engagement. Outreach Fleet We plan to launch a branded mini-fleet of three vehicles equipped to deliver portable exhibits and hands-on programming to diverse community settings. These mobile activations will allow us to appear at festivals, farmers markets, and public events throughout the year—bringing joyful, valuesbased play to families in welcoming, everyday environments. The same fleet will also support in-school programming, with facilitated workshops tailored to classrooms, cafeterias, and playgrounds—offering children meaningful learning experiences where they already live and learn. Pop-Up Events In addition, we will collaborate with mission-aligned organizations across Los Angeles to co-create pop-up exhibits and shared programs. These temporary activations will allow the Cayton to partner deeply with trusted community institutions— expanding our reach, amplifying collective impact, and ensuring that every family has a chance to experience the power of play, right in their own neighborhood. IMPACT. Impact at the Cayton isn’t just measured in attendance—it’s measured in access, relevance, and transformation. As we look ahead, we’re focused on deepening our educational value, broadening who we serve, and strengthening our role in the community. The following goals represent the impact we’re working toward—driven by our mission, shaped by our families, and guided by a bold new vision for what a children’s museum can be. A VISION WITH NEW LEADERSHIP DONATE This bold vision for impact is being realized under the leadership of the Cayton’s new CEO, Thomas Sullivan, who joined the museum following a six-month national search. Thomas brings over two decades of experience in museum leadership, exhibit development, and early childhood education. From rebuilding the Westchester Children’s Museum post-pandemic to leading teams at DuPage Children’s Museum and designing learning experiences for institutions like the Liberty Science Center and the American Museum of Natural History, Thomas has dedicated his career to advancing playful, purposeful learning. With a Master’s in Museum Education from Bank Street College and teaching credentials from the Erikson Institute, Thomas combines hands-on expertise with a deep academic foundation. Now a Santa Monica resident with his wife and two children, Thomas is guiding the Cayton into its next chapter—rooted in access, innovation, and a belief in the academic and intellectual power of play. Thomas Sullivan CEO 424-416-8387 tsullivan@caytonmuseum.org Increased Age Range The Cayton is expanding its reach to serve children from the very beginning of life through early adolescence. By designing programs and experiences that support infants, toddlers, and tweens, we will provide families with a continuous, developmentally appropriate space for growth, learning, and connection from prenatal stages through middle school. Expanded Community Awareness Through increased partnerships with school districts, city and county agencies, and fellow nonprofits, the Cayton will strengthen its presence as a civic partner and cultural resource. These efforts will not only amplify our visibility but help us stay responsive to the evolving needs of Los Angeles families and communities. Elevated Experiences for Members and Visitors We are investing in hands-on, immersive exhibits and dynamic visitor programming that can’t be found anywhere else in the region. By creating innovative, everevolving experiences, we will invite repeat visits, deepen engagement, and reaffirm the Cayton’s reputation as a oneof-a-kind learning environment. Access for All We are committed to eliminating barriers that prevent families from fully engaging with the Cayton. Whether addressing physical or cognitive needs, financial constraints, or language and cultural gaps, our goal is to create an inclusive museum where every family feels welcomed, represented, and supported. Deeper Educational Content and Credibility We are deepening the educational value of every exhibit and program to ensure families see the Cayton as a trusted resource for early childhood and elementary learning. Through alignment with academic standards, thoughtful program design, and a commitment to joyful, research-informed play, we will build credibility with both educators and caregivers alike.

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Daily Drop-In | Los Angeles, California

    Included with general admission, our Daily Drop-In Programs invite children and their grown-ups to join us for joyful, guided experiences that bring stories to life, get bodies moving, and spark delightful surprises throughout the day. Programs are designed with toddlers to early elementary children in mind—but everyone’s welcome to join the fun! daily drop-in Play Your Way—Every Day! Included with general admission, our Daily Drop-In Programs invite children and their grown-ups to join us for joyful, guided experiences that bring stories to life, get bodies moving, and spark delightful surprises throughout the day. Programs are designed with toddlers to early elementary children in mind—but everyone’s welcome to join the fun! 10:30 AM Music & Movement Stretch, bounce, dance, and wiggle with our Play Guides! Featuring music, instruments, props, and puppets, this energizing session supports motor skills and imagination. Times: Daily at 10:30 AM Format: 15-minute interactive movement session Activities: Music, props, puppets, and guided dancing to build coordination, rhythm, and imaginative play No reservations required—just drop in and join the fun! All programs take place in the Derfner Theater and are led by our talented Play Guides. 11:30 AM Pop-Up Surprise! Anything can happen! A rotating activity designed to delight—could be sensory play, bubble time, a puppet show, or an impromptu dance party. Times: Daily at 11:30 AM Format: 10–15 minute rotating program Activities: Surprise activities may include bubbles, puppets, sensory bins, mini dance parties, or staff-led silliness 3:30 PM Music & Movement Get the wiggles out before winding down! Afternoon sessions feature the same fun as the morning, with a slightly more relaxed tempo. Times: Daily at 3:30 PM Format: 15-minute guided musical movement session Activities: Afternoon reprise of Music & Movement—puppets, props, rhythm, and lots of kid-powered fun! 4:30 PM Story Time Unwind at the end of the day with a shared story. Each session features a beautifully illustrated picture book aligned with our monthly theme. Times: Daily at 4:30 PM Format: 10-minute read-aloud session open to all visitors Content: Thoughtfully chosen picture books that wrap up the day with imagination, reflection, and connection FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Check out the FAQ page HERE

  • Cayton Children's Museum | Special Events | Los Angeles, California

    SPECIAL EVENTS Upcoming Events The Cayton welcomes you to join us for our seasonal events. Big Feelings Weekends 2026 Join us at the Cayton Children’s Museum for a year-long series of special weekend programs, free with membership/admission, where kids and families explore emotions through hands-on STEAM play. MARCH - CURIOUSITY & WONDER A time for discovery, surprise, and imagination. Saturday - Monday March 28 - 30, 2026 Frequently Asked Questions Check out the FAQ page HERE

  • Cayton Children's Museum | We All Play | Los Angeles, California

    Join us on Sunday, May 31, for We All Play—an elevated daytime pajama party at Cayton Children’s Museum. ABOUT DONATE TICKETS RAFFLE WPC SPONSORS A Museum-Wide Daytime Pajama Party for the Whole Family Sunday, May 31 10:30AM–2:30PM Join us for We All Play , a museum-wide daytime pajama party, presented by Babyletto, where the entire museum transforms into a high-energy day of performances, activities, food, treats, and hands-on fun for both kids and adults. The museum will be closed to the public for this special event. Family pajamas are absolutely encouraged, but not required. Families can expect a full day of immersive experiences throughout the museum, including: $125,000 supports 500 of our current 1,800 PLAY4ALL annual members $ 2 5 K 1 0 0 F amilie s 2 1 3 F amilie s s o f a r ! $ 5 0 K 2 0 0 F amilie s $ 7 5 K 3 0 0 F amilie s $ 1 0 0 K 4 0 0 F amilie s $ 1 2 5 K 5 0 0 F amilie s Your presence at We All Play helps make all of this possible Every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and grow. Every ticket sold to We All Play directly supports PLAY4ALL, the Cayton's financial accessibility initiative providing discounted memberships and community access programs for families across Los Angeles — because the magic of play shouldn't depend on a family's circumstances. This year, the Women’s Philanthropy Circle is rallying around an ambitious goal: raising $125,000 to sponsor annual memberships for 500 PLAY4ALL families — including newly eligible nurses, who show up for children and families every single day. It’s a meaningful step, and a reminder of just how many families are counting on this community. Today, over 1,800 families access Cayton Children’s Museum through PLAY4ALL, with more joining every day. Proceeds from We All Play help make the museum experience available to more children and families in need. TICKETS MORNING TICKETS AFTERNOON TICKETS Choose Your Arrival Time! We're hosting two experiences with limited capacity — starting at 10:30AM and 12:30PM — so every family has the space and time to truly enjoy the day: explore every corner, enjoy the entertainment, and sample every tasty treat. Two full hours, full access, all the fun. Adults without children (and vice versa) will not be admitted. Dream Ticket $150 1 attendee Come as you are, in your coziest pajamas. 10:30AM 12:30PM Snuggle Duo $285 2 attendees (Save 5%) Better together. Bring a favorite person and enjoy hands-on play and community fun. 10:30AM 12:30PM Cozy Crew $405 3 attendee (Save 10%) Perfect for a family of three or a trio ready to play. Full access to all activities. 10:30AM 12:30PM Sleepover Squad $540 4 attendees (Save 10%) Four tickets and a full day of hands-on play for the whole crew. 10:30AM 12:30PM Pillow Fort Party $637 5 attendees (Save 15%) Bring the whole group. A day built around creativity, play, and making memories together. 10:30AM 12:30PM Dream Team $765 6 attendees (Save 15%) Six tickets and a full day of hands-on play—the bigger the crew, the better the day. 10:30AM 12:30PM Tickets SPONSORSHIPS Support Access Through Play! Sponsors have the opportunity to integrate their brand across featured experiences and signature moments throughout We All Play, creating high-visibility, family-facing engagement. Starlight $15,000 Major Sponsor Company logo on Step & Repeat wall Major Sponsor of a high-visibility exhibit, room or the Theater Area for a branded activity station with a gift bag item Logo and boilerplate language in pre-and post-event press releases Opportunity to place merchandise throughout the venue Logo on We All Play webpage Social media posts across event channels Logo or name on donor wall 6 Tickets for We All Play! Guest passes to Cayton Children’s Museum Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALL Family to attend this event and 60 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP Campfire $10,000 Major Sponsor Company logo on Step & Repeat wall Major sponsor of a photo moment, exhibit, or room / area Area for a branded activity station with a gift bag item Logo and boilerplate language in pre-and post-event press releases Logo on We All Play webpage Social media posts across event channels Logo or name on donor wall 4 Tickets for We All Play! Guest passes to Cayton Children’s Museum Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALL Family to attend this event and 40 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP Storybook $5,000 Sponsor Sponsor of a exhibit, room / area or food station Area for a branded activity station with a gift bag item Mention in pre-and post-event press releases and social media posts across event channels Logo on We All Play webpage Logo or name on the donor wall 2 Tickets for We All Play! Guest passes to Cayton Children’s Museum Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALL Family to attend this event and 20 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP Dreamcatcher $2,500 Sponsor Branded activity or food station with a gift bag item Logo on We All Play webpage Mention in social media posts across event channels Logo or name on donor wall 2 Tickets for We All Play! Guest passes to Cayton Children’s Museum Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALLFamily to attend this event and 10 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP Sing-a-long* $1,000 Sponsor Branded food/beverage station with a gift bag item Logo or name on donor wall Logo on We All Play webpage Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALL Family to attend this event and 4 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP Goodie Bag* $750 Sponsor Recognition during the raffle drawing Gifting opportunity Logo or name on donor wall Logo on We All Play webpage Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALL Family to attend this event and 3 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP S'mores* $500 Sponsor Gifting opportunity Logo or name on donor wall Your support will sponsor 1 PLAY4ALLFamily to attend this event and 2 PLAY4ALL annual memberships PURCHASE SPONSORSHIP * These sponsorship levels do not include event admission, but include general admission tickets to Cayton Children’s Museum for a future visit. MULTIPLE DRAWINGS. MULTIPLE CHANCES TO WIN. MULTIPLE REASONS TO SMILE! RAFFLE TICKETS Our raffle is stacked with prizes for the whole family—think unreleased toys, luxury vacation experiences, a gorgeous diamond tennis bracelet, and surprises you won't see coming. Raffle tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100, and they'll be available to purchase online and at the event. To participate, you'll need to have a ticket to We All Play! At the event, you can enter the specific prize drawings that speak to you. With multiple drawings throughout the day, everyone has a shot at walking away with something amazing while supporting Cayton's mission to make play accessible to every child. CAN’T ATTEND? MAKE A DONATION DONATE TODAY Your tax-deductible gift helps expand access to play—supporting families, sparking imagination, and creating spaces where every child can learn, grow, and belong. Together, we can make sure play has no limits. WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CIRCLE Deepika Chopra , Co-Chair Lauren Kleinman , Co-Chair Katie Durko , Vice Co-Chair Tiffany Fong , Vice Co-Chair LILY BERG ANNIE CHEN ANNIE CHO COLE COHEN ALEXA DELL SARAH DICKERSON BARI GOLDBERG HALLE HAMMOND MARY KITCHEN JOO KIM LAURA KATZENBERG PIA MEHTA HILLARY NEWMAN DENISE PERLSTEIN CATHERINE POWERS TRACY ROBBINS MARIA SASS KT SCHELLENBERG BELL BRIANNE TURTLETAUB CHELSEA WASHINGTON JENNIFER WEXLER SPONSORS

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