LAist's Feelings Play Lab in Pasadena

Tantrums at the grocery store, tears at drop-off, a toddler who can't say why they're upset. LAist's Feelings Play Lab is built for exactly those moments. On Sunday, November 8, 2026, the public radio newsroom takes over The Crawford in Pasadena for a morning of interactive play aimed at families with children ages 0 to 5. If you keep a running list of family events Los Angeles offers for the very young, this one is worth a spot.

When: Sunday, November 8, 2026, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Where: The Crawford, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena Price: Free Organizer: LAist

What to expect

The pitch from LAist is simple: help your child work through big feelings by way of play. Instead of a lecture, the Play Lab is hands-on, so kids can move, make and explore while parents and caregivers pick up ways to talk about emotions in everyday language. The event art leans on cartoon faces showing sad, angry, worried and happy moods, which gives you a hint of the tone: friendly, colorful and low pressure.

The source page doesn't list a full schedule or activity roster, so treat the two-hour window as a drop-in style morning and check the LAist page before you go for any updates. Because the age range starts at zero, expect a room full of babies, crawlers and early walkers. Bring a little patience and a comfortable layer for the floor.

Why it's a good fit for young kids

Social and emotional learning gets plenty of attention in preschool, but the first years at home matter just as much. A morning like this gives parents a low-stakes way to try out games and phrases with their own child while other families are doing the same thing nearby. It's also a free option, which is not always the case with things to do with kids LA wide.

Getting there

The Crawford sits on South Raymond Avenue in the Pasadena area, close to the Old Pasadena shopping and dining blocks. That means easy options for a coffee or an early lunch once the session wraps up at noon. Sunday mornings are usually calmer than weekdays around here, but give yourself a few extra minutes to park and unload a stroller. LAist lists a ticket link on the event page, so reserve a spot there if you plan to come.

For more ideas near this one, browse the Pasadena guide and the family category. If you're planning a full weekend, LA events this weekend are usually easier to sort once you've locked in the one fixed-time item, and a 10 AM start leaves the afternoon open.