In SoCal after multiple years of drought and with that small an area to cover, I wouldn't think twice about using artificial turf!! Yes, the initial cost/investment is higher but it is 100% kid and pet friendly and with the exception of the occasional sweeping or hosing down, maintenance free. Water bills are virtually eliminated for this application and heating doesn't even enter the equation.

The big draw back is- you can't let kids and pets on the surface during high sun periods. The heat is unbearable !

I wrote a blog post about this awhile back. Check it out.

http://sedonalandscapedesign.com/the-case-in-favor-of-real-turf-grass/

Synthetic grass does get hot. One tip when you are considering replacing an existing natural grass area with synthetic is to keep the sprinkler heads functional so you can cool off the turf.