Category Archives: Blog

Blog

How Boredom can Turn on Creativity

In times past, children were taught to keep busy during every waking hour to prevent boredom. Luckily for kids and adults, science has proven that boredom can actually spark creativity in individuals of any age. Boredom often results in daydreaming, which in turn can ignite a mental atmosphere in which ideas blossom and flourish.

Many writers and inventors created their best efforts during a bout of boredom. Agatha Christie is a prime example. Acknowledged as the best-selling author of detective novels of all time, Christie utilized boredom to fuel her greatest writing efforts. It motivates sculptors to create masterpieces and songwriters to compose songs.

When the mind is bored, it begins to essentially tell itself stories and say “what if.” Those two words can make a monumental difference in the mental health and creative ability of individuals. People that “make their own entertainment” often make groundbreaking contributions to science, the arts, and technology.

The lockdowns that came about due to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many people complaining that they were bored and didn’t have anything to do. Even those working from home experienced more episodes of boredom. Instead of approaching boredom as a problem, scientists suggest that people look at it as a prime opportunity to unleash creativity as the mind desperately looks for something with which to occupy itself.

Boredom also functions as a way for the mind to clear itself and reset, much like defragging a computer drive. The state of boredom in itself isn’t all that constructive. It’s what it can lead to that’s really important. Creativity occurs when the mind has a diffused focus, can “zone out,” and is free to roam and wander. It’s a state that is most likely to occur when someone is performing a repetitive task that requires little or no concentration.

Researchers have also found that boredom can result in eureka moments and increases dopamine in the brain – what’s known as the feel-good hormone. The important takeaway is that boredom isn’t something to be avoided at all costs and isn’t a character flaw. Letting the brain wander and daydream is good for mental acuity, emotional health, and the creative process across multiple fields.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog

An Outdoor Carnival Party is Sure to Please All

Everyone loves the sights, smells and activities at a carnival and with the availability of inflatables, it’s easy to stage an outdoor carnival in the back yard for birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations. The events are also great as fundraisers for churches, schools and charitable organizations.

Bounce House

A bounce house has become a staple at any event. It’s an excellent way to provide fun for younger children that might not be old enough or tall enough to participate in other types of activities. Toddler playlands are also offered.

Activities

High flying and bouncing fun for older kids and adults can be had with a bungee trampoline. The devices can accommodate up to five people at the same time so everyone can take a turn. Rock climbing walls are popular, along with ladder climbing activities such as Jacob’s Ladder. Carnival coordinators can choose from among a variety of life size yard activities that includes obstacle courses, corn mazes, “human hamster balls,” human billiards, and mini golf.

Games

No carnival would be complete without a dunk tank and individuals can include a cash cube and photo booth to the fun. There’s a myriad of inflatables for games that include skee ball, “plinko,” basketball shoots, whack a mole, and safety battle ax throwing.

Electronic games are always a hit and interactive games can be played one-on-one or by teams. For those that want a truly unique experience, there’s always a virtual rollercoaster simulator. They include landscapes ranging from cartoons to the exotic. Individuals can also experience the thrill of extreme sports with inflatables for snowboarding, surfing or skateboarding. Don’t forget to arrange for a mechanical bull ride.

Food and Fun Extras

Every carnival must have food and there’s a great variety of rentals that can accommodate that need. It’s easy to provide snow cones, cotton candy, popcorn, and hotdogs to keep everyone happy and fed. To add a little extra fun and excitement to the carnival, bubble machines can be rented, along with foam/snow machines for a winter carnival theme.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog

Kid Friendly New Year’s Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions are typically viewed as an adult activity, but it’s also an excellent way for teaching children about setting goals and achieving them. It’s important that youngsters set their own goals and not have parents select for them. They’ll be more likely to work toward keeping them.

There are numerous websites with cute charts and certificates that can be printed out to help younger children create their resolutions and as a reminder for keeping them. It’s also helpful if a child’s chosen goal can be separated into milestones.

Preschoolers

It’s never too early to begin setting goals and learning responsibility. Keep resolutions age-appropriate. Some common New Year’s resolutions for preschoolers could include the following.

  • Wash hands after using the bathroom and before eating
  • Brushing teeth after meals
  • Put away toys
  • No hitting or biting
  • No throwing things

School Age

Elementary age youngsters have a wider variety of potential resolutions they might make. They include:

  • Do my homework
  • Go to bed on time
  • Be kind
  • Eat three fruits or vegetables each day
  • Do my chores each day

Tweens and Teens

Adolescents have a myriad of things on their minds. New Year’s resolutions are an easy way to remind them about things that are important. Some examples would be the following.

  • Spend less time on the phone
  • Spend less time in front of the TV
  • Eat at least five fruits and vegetables each day
  • Be respectful to parents, teachers and elders
  • Perform a random act of kindness each day
  • Won’t use drugs, alcohol or cigarettes
  • Write each day in a journal

Family Resolutions

Resolutions are a great way to learn and train the mind toward desirable actions. There’s also a myriad of resolutions that families can make together and work toward. They include having more patience, no cussing, or eating one meal a day as a family. Resolving to get more sleep is always good and taking turns making meals each month can be truly exciting.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog

Why Physical Activity is so Important for Kids

Sending the kids out to play does more than giving them the opportunity to burn off excess energy and give parents a break. There’s a wealth of health effects associated with any type of physical activity and it doesn’t have to be a regimented routine or be sports-based to be beneficial.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 60 minutes of exercise each day, with more intense exercise on three of those days. That can take many forms, from rollerblading, ice skating and skateboarding to swimming, shooting hoops or simply playing in the park.

Heart and Lungs

The heart and lungs continue to develop as children grow. Exercise improves the functioning of both those organs. Strengthening the heart and lungs enables the body to more easily pump oxygenated blood to all areas of the body and increases lung capacity.

Bones and Muscles

Bones and muscles grow and strengthen as children mature and exercise enables that process to occur. With regular exercise, bones become stronger and denser, thereby reducing the risk of injuries. Muscles are better able to withstand any stressors.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

People that get regular amounts of exercise have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels that reduce their potential for cardiac-related problems. Exercise lowers “bad” cholesterol while elevating levels of “good” cholesterol.

Weight Control and Diabetes

People understand that exercise burns calories and is a major part of weight control. It can also be helpful for preventing the development of diabetes since it aids in controlling glucose levels and how the body utilizes energy.

Anxiety and Depression

Exercise stimulates the body to release endorphins. The natural chemical in the body triggers a positive feeling within the brain and is beneficial for relieving stress, anxiety and depression. The same endorphins are also released when a person is injured to reduce the perception of pain. Adults experience the same effect when they get a massage. 

Socialization

When children of any age get exercise through play with other youngsters, it improves their social skills. They learn socially appropriate behavior, how to take turns, and play in groups.

Memory and Cognitive Function

A child’s memory, concentration and ability to learn are all improved when they obtain sufficient exercise. They tend to get better grades and have attendance.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog

Best RV Vacations in the Southeast

RV vacations have always been popular and they’re gaining additional attention as families are being urged to celebrate within their family unit as a means of reducing the spread of flu and pandemic level viruses. There’s a multitude of unique destinations from which to choose when planning a vacation in the southeast.

Scenic Highway 30A – Florida

The stretch of road leads to a variety of beach towns and each one has a unique personality all its own. Grayton Beach is an art community, while Seaside was featured in the film “The Truman Show” starring Jim Carrey. For those traveling the route in May, be sure to stop at the Alys Beach enclave for the Digital Graffiti Festival.

Memphis-Nashville, TN

Tennessee is the home of country music and the area is a dream journey for music enthusiasts. One of the most popular attractions is Graceland, the estate of Elvis Presley. There’s also the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, The Country Music Hall of Fame, and the revered Grand Ole Opry.

Blue Ridge Parkway – VA and NC

The Parkway has earned the name of “America’s Favorite Drive” and it’s the perfect getaway for the nature lover.  It spans 469 miles of the Appalachian Mountains and connects the Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

Georgia to South Carolina

The 107-mile stretch includes Savannah, GA nicknamed “The Hostess City” for its southern hospitality. It’s a historic district with Gothic-Revival architecture and cobblestone squares. It also includes Chippewa Square where the iconic park bench scene was filmed for the movie “Forrest Gump” starring Tom Hanks. Travel on to Charleston, SC to explore Fort Sumter National Monument.

Williamsburg to Mt. Vernon, VA

The city of Williamsburg is home to the Governor’s Palace. It was the residence of Royal governors and was later the home of Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry. Vacationers will also find five James River Plantations constructed around Jamestown, the first European settlement. Arriving in Richmond, visitors will see the capitol building, the first state capitol after the Revolutionary War, that was designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1785. Finish the journey at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog, Bounce House Rental

Epic Waterslide Rentals for your Teen’s Birthday

Kids of all ages love waterslides and they’re especially popular with teens. Bigger is always better where teens are concerned and South Florida Bounce has some of the most epic waterslide rentals that will make your teen’s birthday party the event of the year.

Inflatable waterslides encompass a wide variety of sizes and themes. South Florida Bounce is also taking extra precautions for sanitation and hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic. Every rental is continually inspected for safety. South Florida Bounce offers the following waterslide rentals sure to please teens.

40-Ft. Tall

The Typhoon and Hurricane models are two-lane, 40-ft. tall slides. The Twister also tops out at 40-ft. in height and is available as a straight slide or can be assembled with a curve at the end.

32-Ft. to 38-Ft.

Coming in at slightly shorter is the 38-ft., two-lane Space Shuttle waterslide. The Hulk is 36-ft. high and features 100 ft of slide that ends in a pool at the end. The 32-ft. All American is highlighted by a cascading drop and a hump that blasts individuals down a 70-ft. long slide before being deposited in a pool at the bottom. Also featuring two lanes and a 32-ft. height is the Black Pearl in the shape of a ship.

30-Ft.

Built exclusively for South Florida Bounce, the Tropical Cyclone is 30-ft tall with two sliding lanes at different heights. It’s ideal for teens and tweens that may also be in attendance. The Roaring Rapids waterslide has two lanes, a radical sliding angle and an additional 30 ft. of sliding fun before riders are deposited in a splashdown pool.

For one of the fastest rides available, the Tropical Storm features a super steep sliding angle and a pool at the end. South Florida Bounce is also home to the Purple Paradise and Pipeline. The two-lane waterslides are great for the competitor in every teen and ensures the greatest number of attendees get to take a turn on the company’s selection of epic waterslides.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog, Event Planning

Hot Holiday Gifts for Kids

It can be difficult for parents to shop for the best gifts for their children. What holds a child’s attention today can easily turn into yesterday’s discarded toy.  School has been transitioned to online learning in many locales and one of the greatest gifts for kids are those that allow them to use their imagination and explore new concepts.

3-5 Years Old

Some tried and true toys for three and four-year-olds that enable kids to build, explore and imagine are LEGO® blocks, Lincoln Logs and K’NEX. There are dozens of toys and kits designed to introduce even this age group to STEM disciplines. Parents can select from a variety of kits that encourage the development of various STEM skills and they’re available in magnetic versions such as Magna-Tiles.

Board games are an excellent choice for the five-year-old. Children at this age are very social and board games encourage playtime with parents and siblings. The games also teach them how to follow rules, play fair, and how to win/lose graciously. Other popular options are sets that enable children to emulate their parents and role play. Non-motorized ride-on toys provide fun while developing motor skills.

6-9 Years Old

This age group can enjoy playing by themselves and creating their own narratives. There’s a variety of drawing tools for self-expression and options that encourage children to write their own stories. Books are always great gifts that enable children to explore new worlds and far away places. They’re especially welcome by those ages 8-9.

For kids that have access to a tablet or gaming system, there are dozens of age-appropriate games that will keep kids occupied for hours while stimulating their imaginations. Parents can also choose from a variety of robotic toys for youngsters. The toys move, speak and are programmed with their own personalities.

Judgement Call

These are just some of the options available for parents that want their child to learn, create, and develop their mental and motor skills. Parents know their children better than anyone and should use their own judgement when choosing holiday gifts for their children.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog, Event Planning

Kids in the Kitchen for the Holidays

Some of the fondest memories people have as adults are the times spent in the kitchen with parents and grandparents. Those traditions can be recreated for the current generation by letting them help in the kitchen during the holidays. There are numerous opportunities for kids to help out. Some include:

  • Rolling dough
  • Measuring
  • Stirring ingredients
  • Reading recipes
  • Using cookie cutting tools
  • Decorating holiday treats

Plan for Extra Time

It will take longer when children help in the kitchen so it’s important to set aside extra time. That will enable everyone to enjoy the experience and not feel rushed or frustrated. Don’t be surprised if children wander off at any point, depending upon their age and attention span. The time spent together is the important thing.

It’s Going to be Messy

Expect to break a few eggs – and not necessarily in the bowl where they belong. Children learn by doing and making mistakes. Likewise, there’s no sense in crying over spilled milk, tipped over flour or other mishaps.

Choose Small Projects to Start

Don’t attempt to make every holiday treat at once, choose one or two. Save those that are most complex for a different time. Select cooking projects that have a high degree of success for the child, especially if they’re not accustomed to helping out in the kitchen.

It Doesn’t Have to be Pretty

Don’t expect children to reproduce projects that look like an adult made them. The food doesn’t have to be “pretty” to be delicious. Children want to please and it’s critical that they know their efforts are appreciated. Serve the child’s cookies or other culinary efforts with pride.

The Modern Cook

Making treats from scratch isn’t for everyone and in the interest of saving time many families purchase pre-made cookie dough, pie crusts, and box cake mixes. That’s absolutely fine. There are still ways for children to help in the kitchen and those memories will be equally treasured for years to come. Don’t forget to snap a few photos – they’ll be a cherished reminder.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog, Event Planning

What Equipment to Consider for your Outdoor Event

Outdoor events are becoming increasingly more popular for a number of reasons. Most people worry about “a million details” when planning their event, but there’s really just a few basic things you need to worry about to hold a highly enjoyable gathering.

Food

The food to be served is an area in which people have the most problems. They want to make sure everyone has enough to eat and be able to stay within a specific budget. Then there’s the question of what to offer. You may not realize that catering is an option that has multiple benefits and can actually be less expensive.

The food is cooked to perfection, the catering company delivers, and staff is often on duty to serve. They can handle anything from burgers and BBQ to smoothie bars and international cuisine. Catering companies can also provide table service and the best of all – they provide all the clean-up afterward.

Venue

The event’s location will largely depend on available venues, the purpose, and the number of guests. You can hold the event in your back yard, a rented hall, or an extravagant destination location.

Seating/Tables

Enough seating and table space to accommodate each guest is essential. For informal gatherings, there are multiple rental companies that will provide the tables and chairs you need. Some will even set them up for you. Formal events at destination venues typically provide everything required.

Shelter

This isn’t something most people consider when planning an event, but it’s essential in the South Florida climate to protect guests from heat, humidity, and the threat of rain. Tents and canopies can be rented to accommodate that need and there are also portable air conditioners that can be attached to tents for a cooling respite.

Entertainment

You may want some form of entertainment, whether it’s lawn games, a DJ, or a full-fledged band and dancing. You’ll need a solid stage or area similar to a patio for entertainers to set up their equipment. Expect dancing if a DJ or band is involved and have a dance area ready – they can be rented. If lawn games are the order of the day, just let guests loose in the yard to have 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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce

Blog, Event Planning

Kid Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers

Children like unique snacks just as much as adults and it’s a great way to introduce youngsters to new foods and tastes. There are dozens of ways to turn ordinary foods into crowd-pleasing appetizers that kids will love. The following are just some of the ways people are feeding their youngsters during parties and playdates.

Kabobs

There’s something innately appealing about any type of food on a stick. Fruit and cheese kabobs are healthy and individuals can combine multiple types of cheese with grapes, strawberries, melon, avocado, pineapple, and apple pieces in any combination. Use fancy toothpicks rather than full-size skewers for safety and extra appeal.

The same technique can be used to create burger kabobs. It uses the same ingredients as an ordinary burger, only in bite-size pieces of burger, lettuce and cheese. A small piece of bacon can also be added to create a bacon burger.

Grilled Cheese Strips

Simply take an ordinary grilled cheese sandwich and cut it into strips. Add a small cup of tomato soup or a favorite dipping sauce.

Veggie Cups

Use a small, short cup or glass and fill it ½ full of a favorite dressing. Cut carrots, celery and peppers of multiple colors into small strips and stick them on end into the dressing. Green beans and cucumber strips can also be added to the mix.

Mini Meatballs

Simply make meatballs and cook them in a crockpot. Individuals can cook them with their favorite BBQ, teriyaki or other flavorings/sauce. Place on a small wooden fork and they’re ready for any occasion.

Bacon Wrapped Anything

Take a cocktail wiener or whole-grain cracker and wrap a strip of bacon around it for a tasty snack. These are easier to make using precooked bacon. Microwave the bacon and wrap it around the cracker or other base. Do small batches of bacon at a time to ensure it doesn’t become stiff and remains easier to manipulate.

Go Mini

Mini snacks of any kind are ideal for kids since they fit their smaller hands and adults appreciate the novelty. Mini chicken and waffles, mini corn dogs, or mini pancakes are just some of the options available for kid-pleasing appetizers.

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/

Connect with us on Social Media at: 

https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce

https://twitter.com/SBounce