Category Archives: Blog

Top Tech Gifts for Your Tweens

tech for tweens

Tweens can be difficult to buy gifts for or to please. The one thing that you can count on, however, is a tween’s love of technology. There’s a variety of tech-based gift items that tweens will appreciate.

  1. Action cameras are still one of the must-have tech products for adventurous tweens. They can record their own exploits and their friends with hands-free convenience.
  2. Hand-held video games that offer multi-player capabilities are more affordable than console models, they’re portable and available in an array of colors.
  3. For the gaming tween, consider a customized and laser engraved Xbox controller from Microsoft. It’s compatible with multiple devices.
  4. PC gaming headsets are especially popular and there’s a wealth of choices, some of which perform other functions.
  5. Believe it or not, an increasing number of tweens are taking an interest in vinyl. Turntables are available to play vinyl records and also connect to a phone’s playlist.
  6. The interest in drones hasn’t abated and they’re available in a variety of sizes and price points. The built-in cameras allow beginner content creators or influencers to be more creative.
  7. Budding YouTubers will appreciate a webcam for creating and streaming their own videos.
  8. Mini movie projectors enable tweens to watch movies and play video games by turning any wall into a movie screen or computer monitor.
  9. A portable mini speaker lets your tween blast their music at the beach, pool and around the house. Choose a model with a hard-shell case that’s also waterproof.
  10. Tweens are doing amazing things with their phone and novice filmmakers will be able to make smoother and more professional-looking content with a gimbal. Automated models are available with multiple shooting options.
  11. Anytime a tween wants to share a photo memory, they can do so with a mini photo printer for their smartphone.
  12. Consider a digital notebook for the tween that likes to write. Prose can be erased making them reusable.
  13. For the music-loving tween, there are Bluetooth-enabled karaoke microphones and voice mixer combinations that allow them to sing and craft their own sounds.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Fall Carnival Party Rentals

carnival games

The changing of the seasons is often the inspiration for a fall carnival to mark the end of summer and the transition to autumn. Midway games are one of the most popular activities at carnivals and with enough space, any individual, business or organization can create a fall carnival.

Games

No carnival would be complete without a selection of games. People can choose from the classic ring toss, milk bottle knock down, and bean bag toss. There’s also the frog fling, and the perennial favorites of skee-ball, wack-a-mole, and Velcro axe throw. Don’t forget the ring-the-bell strong man challenge for kids. Sports fans can try their hand at the basketball throw or test their baseball throwing arm at the radar gun speed test.

Inflatables

The popularity of inflatables has continued to increase at professionally operated carnivals and they’re available as rentals. There are multiple models from which to choose, with dry slides being a favorite. Another option is Jacob’s Ladder that challenges people to climb a rope ladder to the top of an inflatable. Don’t forget an inflatable corn maze.

Booths

Brightly-colored booths can be rented to conduct any number of activities from a shooting gallery and tip-the-can to tic-tac-toe and Velcro bull’s-eye games. They’re an ideal way to keep game operators cool.

Dunk Tank and Cash Cubes

There are few people that can resist the allure of a dunk tank or cash cube. Dunk tanks are even better if local celebrities or officials agree to be dunked. Portable dunk tanks are collapsible and are always a favorite. No one can resist the opportunity to catch a few dollars with a cash cube.

Bungee Trampoline

For those that want the thrill of extreme sports without the risk, a bungee trampoline is ideal. The devices can accommodate up to 5 individuals. The harness and rope systems enable people to jump higher and perform maneuvers that wouldn’t be possible on an ordinary trampoline.

Kiddie Activities

Younger children can get in on the fun with inflatable bounce houses and toddler playlands that enable them to participate in multiple age-appropriate activities. Trackless trains provide fun travel throughout the carnival or as a stand-alone ride.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Inflatables are the Best Outdoor Party Entertainment

Outdoor Party Entertainment

There are many reasons why inflatables have become the go-to entertainment option for parties of all types. They offer a safe means of providing guests with a wide array of games and amusements. In a digital age when fun and bragging rights are an integral part of online life, inflatables provide ample opportunities for social media posts.

The range of inflatables is truly amazing. Individuals can rent inflatables encompassing water slides and mechanical rides to popular carnival-style games. They allow people to engage in friendly competitions and are available to accommodate all ages, interests and skill levels. One of the advantages of inflatables is that models are available that provide 3-in-1 opportunities rather than a single activity.

People can try their hand at activities that include bungee trampoline, virtual roller coaster and rock climbing, along with multi-purpose inflatables for surfboarding, snowboarding and skateboarding. For those that have a competitive streak, inflatables offer multiple ways for guests to play and compete against each other in obstacle courses featuring multiple themes.

Full-size inflatable lawn games provide an elevated level of fun. Party hosts can select from Zorb balls, 9-hole mini golf, and human foosball. People can book a dance/disco dome, inflatable sumo arena, human billiards, soccer darts, and gladiator joust.  Even the younger set can get in on the fun with Hungry Hungry Hippo, a bounce house and child-size versions of dry/water slides.

Inflatables offer unique and interesting entertainment for any party. One of the advantages for guests is that inflatables level the playing field. Those that typically engage in cerebral activities are on equal footing with athletic types. Everyone wins with inflatables.

Playing with inflatables is hungry work and there will need to be food. They’re not inflatables, but fun food machines can be rented that helps hosts eliminate hot kitchens and save time. Guests can enjoy everything from hot dogs and cotton candy to popcorn and snow cones with rentable food machines.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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9 DIY Halloween Decorations

DIY Halloween Decorations

Halloween is always a favorite with children and adults. Whether individuals are distributing candy, hosting a haunted house, or simply setting a sufficiently spooky mood, there are dozens of DIY decorating ideas to suit any budget and time constraints. With a little spray paint, a hot glue gun and other easily obtainable supplies, almost anything can be transitioned into a Halloween decoration.

  1. Straw Spider

A traditional square bale of straw, or a round one, can be used. Spray paint the straw bale or cover it with a black tarp, paint a face with fangs on one end, and use some flexible black hose for the legs.

  1. Straw Bale Creatures

From monsters to mummies, a bale of straw can serve multiple purposes. Create a mummy by wrapping a straw bale in ordinary medical gauze or even strips of thin white cloth. Leave an unwrapped space to adhere large googly eyes and a felt cut-out mouth. To create a straw Frankenstein, spray paint the straw bale green, add googly eyes and a mouth. Spray paint some loose pieces of straw black to use as hair for the monster.

  1. Hand Wreath

Create a spooky door wreath by attaching skeleton hands in a circle against a chalkboard. The hands can be left as is or spray painted. The chalkboard center can be used to write a scary message.

  1. Spider Wreath

Use sticks of varying sizes from the yard and attach them to a circular piece of cardboard. Add faux spider webbing and plastic spiders.

  1. Spiderwebs

Purchase premade spiderwebbing to arrange across decks, porches, trees and bushes in any desired pattern. Attach some plastic or fuzzy pre-made spiders throughout the creation – be sure to use at least a couple of big spiders.

  1. Skeletons

Faux models of skeletal people and animals are available that can be placed in varying poses around the yard, in trees, and on porches in varying poses.

  1. Oh, Rats

Add a few faux rats scattered throughout the pumpkins and other decorations on the deck or porch. They can be used to create a friendly and mischievous appearance or something more menacing. Giant rat cutouts can be created using tag board and placed around the yard.

  1. Bats and Birds

Collect a flock of fake ravens and attach them in various poses on a fence, porch banister or porch railing. Colonies of giant bats can be crafted from black tag board and secured to railings, fences or even the side of a house.

  1. Ghoulish Eyes

Use a permanent marker to draw pupils on varying sizes of white foam balls. Use a skewer, toothpick or stick to hold them together to create a pair of unblinking eyes. They can be placed in trees and on fences, decks, porches – even lawn furniture.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Benefits of Exercise on Kids’ Mental Health

Much has been said and written about the importance and benefits of exercise on a child’s physical health. However, little has been reported about the impact it has on mental health – which is considerable. The focus isn’t on building muscle and endurance, though that’s a side benefit. The goal is overall mental wellbeing.

Even moderate levels of activity are beneficial. There’s a multitude of activities in which children can engage and it doesn’t have to include organized sports or a regimented routine. Bike riding, swimming, Frisbee, disc golf, badminton, rollerblading and skateboarding are all effective means of getting needed exercise.

Mood

Exercise stimulates the body to release dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, all of which trigger a feeling of positivity and wellbeing in the brain. All three of the body’s natural chemicals play a critical role in regulating mood and creates a feeling similar to that of morphine in adults.

Pain

Those three chemicals are the body’s own natural response to exercise. They function as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and sedative.

Anxiety, Stress, Depression & ADHD

Exercise has been proven to be an effective treatment for managing anxiety, stress, depression, and even ADHD. Unfortunately, it’s a highly overlooked and underused therapy that’s typically reserved for weight loss and to aid in diabetes treatment.

Cognitive Abilities

The improvement in mood that comes with exercise also works to enhance the mind. Youngsters that exercise improve their cognitive abilities. They demonstrate better memory and enhanced concentration. Exercise is a powerful tool for honing decision-making skills and better processing of information.

Confidence and Self-Esteem

Trying new physical activities increases confidence and self-esteem. That includes an improved body image.

Sleep and Relaxation

Even when children are participating in high-activity exercise, it acts to relax the body and mind. The result is a more restful slumber and deeper sleep.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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An Indoor or Outdoor Event? Things to Consider

There are many of the same concerns and details connected with an event whether it’s held indoors or outside. However, there are some major differences of which every host needs to be aware. The primary concern will be the comfort of guests, enabling them to enjoy themselves.

Budgetary Concerns

There’s a myriad of outdoor options that are free to use and they may even contain grills for a BBQ and playground equipment to entertain children. Be sure there’s ample shade, a canopy or tent for a respite from the heat and humidity. For those that will be renting a hall or other building for indoor festivities, it’s essential that hosts know exactly how much they have to spend. Indoor venues can be expensive.

Capacity Limits

Know how many will be in attendance and make sure the venue is up to the task in terms of space and seating ability. Keep in mind that there are often guests that won’t RSVP, but will show up anyway. Never rent a space sight unseen. Take the time to actually view the venue for space, functionality, cleanliness, and sufficient bathroom facilities. Amenities can be more of a problem at a free outdoor venue so choose carefully.

Entertainment

Older individuals may be content to sit and talk, while younger attendees won’t be so easily pleased. An outdoor venue allows for a greater range of potential activities, but bear in mind that permits may be required. An indoor event is limited in the array of amusements that can take place.

Weather

There’s no controlling the weather and outdoor events are at the whims of Mother Nature. Rain, wind and lightning will have guests scrambling for their cars since the majority of outdoor events won’t provide any type of shelter unless the host rents tents or canopies. An indoor event eliminates those problems and will be air-conditioned.

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Pre-Event Planning: What not to Overlook

There are dozens of details connected with any type of event, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or an informal wedding reception. Even when people believe a particular detail has been addressed and planned for, they often discover that there are gaps or insufficiencies. The following are some of the most commonly overlooked details.

Guest List

Never rely on word-of-mouth and never issue a blanket invitation via social media. Always send invitations with an RSVP for individuals that may not be computer savvy and make it clear that all invited guests are expected to RSVP.

Food

People are going to eat and drink more than the planned amount and there will inevitably be more people than anticipated. Always plan on an additional amount of food. Many individuals plan simpler menus as a cost-saving measure. It’s far easier and less expensive to serve extra burgers, hotdogs and punch than prime rib, soda and alcoholic beverages.

There will always be those that don’t RSVP, but show up anyway so be prepared. Always ensure that everyone needs to let the host/hostess know about any special dietary requirements ahead of time so vegan dishes and those that are nut or gluten-free can be provided.

Entertainment

Modern guests want activities to engage in and that’s where inflatables are an ideal choice. There are water slides, mazes and lawn games that will keep individuals busy for hours. Don’t forget music and the potential for dancing, along with any pertinent permits for music or serving alcoholic beverages if applicable, along with those for inflatables.

Liability

Most home owner’s insurance will cover injuries on the property, but there may be exclusions that leave hosts on the spot for expenses should someone be injured. Check the policy to identify what’s covered and keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.

Tents and Canopies

Any number of things can go awry, even at the most carefully planned event. The one thing that can’t be controlled is Mother Nature. Be sure that there’s sufficient seating for each individual so they can rest from the heat and humidity and plan on a canopy or tent where people can cool off or take shelter from any rain or storm that happens to blow through.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Throwing a Big Party in a Small Yard

outdoor event

One of the best things about summer is the ability to gather outdoors with friends and families. However, for those with small yards and a large number of family or friends, hosting a summer bash can present some significant logistical problems. Before scrapping the party plans or limiting the guest list, consider the following ways to maximize the space.

The Grill

Choose a smaller grill so it can be moved out of the way once everyone has eaten. There’s a wealth of small, compact grills on the market that operate with charcoal, gas and electric. Individuals can also choose from tabletop grills and there are even convertible models that transform from a traditional upright grill to a hibachi.

Multiple Tables

Separate the food from the beverages on separate tables, each in its own space. It prevents guests from crowding around a single place and evens out the foot traffic. Instead of trying to offer a full bar, consider a single beverage that can be served in a pitcher and made prior to the event.

Seating

Forget lawn chairs in small spaces. The modern way to provide seating is through stackable stools. They’re inexpensive, require less room, and can be pressed into service as a small table when needed. Establish seating areas on the perimeter of the party area. It’s a method that enhances the flow and ebb of foot traffic and leaves room for guests to mingle in the middle.

Fire Pits

Rather than try to control a bonfire, which may be illegal in urban settings anyway, consider a fire pit. They’re available in multiple styles and sizes to fit any deck or patio, including portable models. Some are even equipped with protective glass. It’s an important safety feature if alcohol is being served, someone imbibes too much, and becomes tipsy and unsteady.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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A Backyard Water Slide Can Save a Summer Birthday

Inflatable Waterslide

It can extremely difficult to plan birthday entertainments for tweens and teens. They’re at an age where they want adult style activities and aren’t typically fans of themed parties. That’s where an inflatable water slide can turn the tide to create a stand-out birthday bash. The wide range of available water slides makes them equally appropriate for adults and younger children.

There’s a water slide to accommodate any age group. Individuals can choose from a wide range of themes to thrill and delight younger children and water slides with multiple lanes are available to facilitate friendly competitions.

Varying heights are offered, from models with an 18-foot drop to those with a 40-foot drop. For little tykes, individuals can choose models with a 13-foot slide and unique ladder that’s easy for small children to climb. There are also water slides that will deposit partiers directly into an inground pool.

Inflatable water slides are highly portable and can be set up almost anywhere there’s enough room. The rental company drops it off, picks it up, and performs all the set up and the variety in waterslides is enormous. There are more than 70 models from which to choose and they’re an unexpected treat that guests won’t anticipate. There are endless ways to have fun with a backyard water slide.

A waterslide provides a way for party-goers to stay cool and refreshed during the hot days of summer. An added benefit is that the vinyl is soft, so even if a guest bangs up against the sides, they won’t sustain a serious injury – an important feature, especially for children’s parties.

Waterslides are an affordable option for injecting an extra level of fun into any event. Summer parties are typically held outside and when people get hot and sweaty, they get cranky. Party guests that are cool and feel refreshed have more fun.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Kids Party Essentials

outdoor event

Kids of all ages love a party, but it’s essential to have some party games and activities planned to keep them fully engaged. With the wide range of affordable inflatables available, a kid’s party can take many forms. Hosts can choose a waterslide for a beach theme, inflatable carnival games, or even a rock-climbing wall. The choices are almost endless and there are options for youngsters of any age.

There are inflatable mazes, virtual roller coasters and bungee trampolines from which to choose, along with robo surfers and skateboarding games. Guests can test their skills on a ninja wall, in Zorb balls, mini golf, human foosball and Hungry Hungry Hippo for younger children. Kids interested in tech-related activities can engage in interactive space activities, a disco dome, sumo arena or human size lawn games.

For those that prefer an old-school approach, there’s always musical chairs, bean bag toss, treasure hunt, and clothespin drop. Water balloon fights and variations such as water balloon bust is a great way to let kids have good, clean fun while staying cool. A bucket toss is always fun and an old-school approach introduces today’s kids age 5-12 to games with which they may not be familiar.

Pass the Parcel requires a little preparation, but it’s an especially fun game for younger children. The game can also be played so that every child receives a lollipop or other small prize so no one feels left out. An egg toss is popular with teens and tweens, especially if raw eggs are being used. A pinata always guarantees a good time – just be sure to keep other children far from the child swinging at the pinata.

There are party games and activities for children of any age and to accommodate any budget. It doesn’t matter whether hosts choose an old-school approach or opt for one or more inflatables for the party, children are sure to be pleased.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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