The Dad Movement Has Arrived in Ventura County: Recapping Our First HBSN Dad’s Meet!

Everet welcoming all of the dads and children.

We officially kicked off the Happy Baby Social Nest Dad Movement here in Ventura County and let’s just say, the dads showed up, leveled up, and dove straight into the magic of purposeful play.

A Morning of Connection

We started the session the way every great HBSN class begins: with the Welcoming Song. There’s nothing quite like seeing dads swaying with their littles, embracing the music, and getting into the groove with bubbles and colorful scarves.

It wasn't just a class; it was a statement. Dads are looking for community, and we are here to build that "nest" together right here in our local neighborhoods.

Spreading Community Love: The Wonderfold Giveaway

Wonderfold Wagon W Series open by box in park.

Code HAPPYBABY for discount on Wonderfold Stroller Wagon

The energy for this event hit an all-time high when we teamed up with our friends at Wonderfold for a family fun giveaway. We had the honor of gifting one lucky family a W-Series Stroller Wagon!

The winner, a dad named Jesse, was caught completely off guard.

"I am shocked, we never win anything!" Jesse said, while his little girl didn't waste a second, she hopped right into her new ride with a huge smile.

A massive “Thank You” to Wonderfold for supporting our mission and making this "extra special" morning even more unforgettable for this sweet family.

Diving Into Play

After the excitement of the giveaway, Everet led the group into what we do best: open-ended, sensory-rich play. Our HBSN sensory stations were a hit, featuring:

  • Tactile Sensory Bins: A variety of textures for tiny hands to explore.

  • The Gravity Drip: A crowd favorite for observing cause and effect, color mixing and curiosity.

  • Tinker-Tap Stations: Perfect for those developing fine motor skills and independence.

While the littles were busy discovering, the dads were busy bonding. It was a morning filled with genuine community, shared parenting wins, and the kind of "purposeful play" that builds lasting memories.

This event was all about providing moments like this, where a father and daughter get to share in joyful play.

Moments captured by Photo Isle

Fuel, Fun, and Favors

No playdate is complete without snacks and swag! We kept the energy up with Amara Oat-Melt snacks (a total hit with the toddlers) and made sure the dads went home with some Tubby Todd samples to keep those littles fresh and clean.

This Is Just the Beginning

This event wasn't just a one-off; it was the spark for a Dad Movement in Ventura County. We want to create a space where fathers feel empowered to engage, play, and connect with other parents in a way that feels authentic and fun.

Missed this one? Don’t worry, the Nest is growing! Stay tuned for our next Dad’s Meet. We can’t wait to see you and your littles there.

Did you join us for the first meet? Tag us in your photos and use #HappyBabySocialNest

Happy Baby

Happy Baby Social Nest facilitates Play-based classes for babies 6-18 months of age. Classes are 60 minutes and include semi-structured activities that are developmentally appropriate and provide opportunities for growth. Babies will get to engage in sensory exploration, music, and play while parents learn about the cognitive, physical, and social emotional benefits of the various activities.

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