The season has come and gone and now everyone who is blasé with vacations, toys, sweets, etc., is now looking for anything to say those horrific words “I’m bored.” As a parent, these words muttered together with that sniveling whine can make you quiver with angst. What do you do? We’ve got the answers right here in this week’s blog.
Hint, Hint: (of course, we’re not going to tell you to rent a bounce house or anything until the end, where you’ll be looking to put us on speed dial)
There are a million, gazillion, trillion answers online. By visiting places like Pinterest and Parenting Magazine, you can find a ton of great games, projects or whatever else floats your kid’s boat. Here’s a one we found ideal for staying home.
The Fizzy Candy Cane Experiment is totally awesome and a great way to rid your children of cavities. Plus, it’s a science project, so it’s okay. You’ll need the following to conduct the process:
Leftover Candy Canes
1 Box Baking Soda
1 Bottle Vinegar
Any Color Food Coloring
A baking pan that’s deep
Measuring Cup
Spoons
Follow these steps:
Spread all the baking soda out on the sheet.
Place Candy Canes on top of the baking soda and try to spread them out evenly.
Mix food coloring with a cup of vinegar.
With a spoon have each child drop vinegar mixture onto the baking soda in the pan.
If all goes well, there’s going to be a lot of fizz and the colors from the food coloring plus whatever dye is in the candy canes will create beautiful designs of foamy color. If you didn’t like the idea of this project, let’s move onto the next.
Another idea to keep in your boredom briefcase is local activities online.
Take your kids to an outdoor yoga camp for a day.
You can do a Google Alert for free events in South Florida or Coral Springs.
Consider visiting one of the many museums in South Florida. Check to see if they have any days open to free admittance for kids.
Take a look at the Google Store or iTunes, and you’ll soon realize there’s an app for just about anything. You’ll certainly never run out of apps to select when it comes to parents and adults. But, for 2017 we found some of the best ‘kid-friendly’ apps for your child to enjoy.
The Toca Life Vacation App is available for iPad, iPhone and Android devices. What’s cute about this interactive game is it allows your child to take a vacation and travel to different destinations and includes plenty of touch screen activity such as changing clothing, emptying luggage and a ton of other fun stuff. This app isn’t free but can be purchased for a flat fee. This one is super cute and guaranteed to keep kids entertained for hours.
Duck, Duck, Moose has plenty of learning apps that allow kids to interact with puzzles for everything from learning new vocabulary to games like “PuzzlePop.” These types of games are fantastic for hand to eye coordination as well as memory skills. Just about any of their apps are sure to be a winner for your son or daughter.
Who doesn’t love Angry Birds? We just think the little piggies and all the fun graphics are a hoot! Again, these types of games promote hand to eye coordination as well as memory and depth of perception if you want to get technical. All we know is both kids, and grown-ups love this app!
This app is a little on the steep side as far as price goes, but it’s a great one for teaching kids their multiplication tables in fun and easy to learn menu. If you’re son or daughter is having a difficult time remembering their time’s tables then this app might help as it’s rap for kids that’s friendly and clean. The music helps them learn through a different channel of their cognition.
PBS Kids app is another learning tool that allows your child to brush up on skills like spelling and even science. There are mixed reviews that had to do with upgrading that seem to have been fixed now, and the app is FREE, so it’s worth a try.
Bounce House Arrow is another great game where the kids have to bounce a ball to a victory line. Not as much fun as renting one of our monster bounce houses or waterslides. But hey, it’s still a good time for kids of all ages when they’re bored.
These are a few of the best apps we could recommend for 2017. Let us know what apps your kids love by leaving us a comment.
For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce 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, and https://plus.google.com/102602010368213075186/about
In a recent article found in Parenting Magazine, the author highlights some excellent points for do’s and don’ts of taking photos of your child. Rather than adhering to photography 101, they mention the safety issues of making her son’s pic and then distributing it across all your social media channels. Today’s world has become hazardous when it comes to places such as Facebook and Instagram. While we don’t want to discourage anyone from sharing family events and the like, we do think many of the tips in the article were valid. As parents, ourselves, we want everyone to have a safe and happy life without putting our kids in danger. In this blog, we expound on some of the important points you should know.
The first point they make is not to take pictures of your kids during their bath time. It’s downright sad to say they have a point that these types of photos can get into the wrong hands. While we think, kids are adorable, it’s their safety that counts.
Next, up, posting shaming videos may seem innocent but, it’s also something that can make a real mess. We’ve all seen a few videos on Facebook and Twitter where a child pouts or tells off a parent. The article claims this can be devastating in the long run. Not exactly sure how or why but they also advise this type of photo opportunity can cause a child to become stressed or develop anxiety. While this may be true, we do think this is an over the top statement by the author.
Now we know shaming and bath time are out, when do you know when to take a photo? The time may not be right if your child attends a private school where uniforms are worn with a school logo. This can tell perpetrators where your kids go to school. Be sure to give your kids proper instruction when babysitting or attending events. Children should be taught that people can find them online and places like Facebook aren’t good to advertise addresses, situations where they’re home alone or what school they go to. It may seem like common sense to you, but to your kids, it might be a different story.
Lastly, the author gives some excellent advice on not taking photos during unsafe activities. The picture isn’t the important part, the safety of yourself and your children are. People taking pics of your kids while you aren’t looking at all angles of a situation can be dangerous. Parents could be reported if they’re taking photos of their children sitting on their laps while driving a car when they should be in a car seat, can get you into some serious trouble, on top of backlash from your followers. The best suggestions we should think twice before grabbing your smartphone.
For more information on planning your party or event, contact us directly.
The holidays are a great time to hang out with family and friends. It’s also an excellent opportunity to visit one of the many holiday carnivals or festivals in the area. Many of our rentals will be out in the South Florida area making kids of all ages happy. In addition to the kids being happy, adults are delighted to know they can rent a bounce house, waterslide or obstacle course to make their event complete. Check out some of the best rentals available for this year’s fundraisers and festivities.
Disco Dome – If you’re guests like music and dancing this bounce house is one they will love. They can bounce to the joyous sounds of seasonal music or their favorite top forty. Whatever the case may be the speakers are enough to be heard in the next county. We know your kids or adults will get a big kick out of this inflatable.
Radical Run – For indoor and outdoor events where kids can let off some steam, consider our Radical Run obstacle course. Equipped with a 25ft slide and almost 90feet long this super rental is phenomenal for child participation. It’s also an excellent way to burn off some calories after eating all the carnival food.
Escape from Alcatraz – This obstacle course introduces several maze type tunnels, and plenty of places for kids to crawl, climb and bounce till their hearts are content. The only thing your child will need after a day of escaping Alcatraz is a comfortable bed! Whether this is a child or adult party, the fun continues for hours with any of our obstacle courses.
Total Meltdown – It seems kids these days stay competitive. Why not let them challenge each other to a complete meltdown that is interactive and gets them from behind the video games. Rather than sitting in front of the TV or computer, they can be a part of the action. This inflatable is ultra-safe and allows up to 8 players. On top of burning calories, this is a game that helps develop skills such as balancing and strategizing.
The Hurricane – Since Hurricane Matthew blew over most of South Florida, we’ve got another hurricane that’s taking its place. The Hurricane waterslide continues to be one of our hottest rentals and is perfect for the hot winter days in SoFlo. We can turn any parcel of land into a featured attraction with this 40-foot-tall monster waterslide. Be sure to book early as this is one of our most popular.
No holiday carnival can be complete without some activity. We provide you with the fun and entertainment that will turn your fundraiser or event into one that is memorable for years to come.
Contact us today for your rentals.
During the magical times of the season, everyone tries to focus on holiday maintenance perhaps a little too much. We find the holidays are traditional and can bring families closer together despite everything you may be hearing. Here are some of our favorite family traditions you can share with your next of kin and children.
Cookie Bake Off
Decorating the Tree
Wrap Session
Elf on the Shelf
With the cookie bake off you’ll need to create a variety of cookie dough ahead of time so make time for prepping. Make it easy and start a week before the bake-off, freeze the dough. Trust us; your life will be saner. Our relatives make a night special and bake their best pastries then everyone gets a box that includes the variety. Not only is this fun, but it’s also great to work with relatives who don’t get a chance to see each other that often.
We think it’s safe to say that decorating the tree can be one of the highlights of the whole year. Regardless of who you are, if you decorate a tree, you’ll probably agree there’s something so special about that time when dad’s pick up their little boy or girl to place the topper on the tree. Who doesn’t love watching the kids put all the candy canes on the same branch? We can’t forget tinsel in the dog’s business either. (We hope you have a smile on your face right now) Decorating the tree is always a joyous event no matter what age you are.
The wrap session is best when done by neighbors. Trust us; this one can be tricky. Since the holidays like Christmas, Hanukah, and Kwanza are about connecting with people, why not host a wrap session and invite friends and neighbors to help you wrap gifts while catching up? One way to organize this type of gathering is to have everyone bring their kids gifts and wrap the presents one person at a time. This method can work well if you keep it organized since it saves time with the extra helping hands.
Elf on the shelf is one of the greatest ideas anyone ever. These little figurines have been around forever, and we’ve had the pleasure of finding that little elf in places like the bathtub, laundry room and even behind the toilet as a tactic to poddy train.
Whether you’re hanging out with a family before or after the season, make sure you carry your family traditions as a way of bringing each other together to build long lasting memories.
BBQ Recipes for Your South Floridian Parties, Events, and Holiday Celebrations
This time of year, is one of the most favored in South Florida. The holiday decorations, kids excited for a multitude of reason and the temperature is ideal for having large parties and events outdoors. Here are a few recipe’s just right for you to test out on your guests that just might make your family favorite list!
South Florida Beef Brisket Ingredients:4 lbs. of Beef Brisket Garlic PowderKosher Salt Onion Powder 1.2 lb. of bacon cooked and drained (crispy)¼ C Brown Sugar3 Tablespoons of ketchup1/3 C Apple Cider Vinegar
Sear the brisket in a frying pan until it’s cooked with a crispy crusty shell. Transfer to a slow cooker or barbeque grill and cook until tender.
Crock Pot Cook on high for up to 4-6 hours. If you bake it in the oven go low and slow at 275 degrees, the crust locks in the juices and stays crunchy. Bask the juices. If you grill this bad boy, then leave it on for 5-6 hours and at 275.
This smoky, robust brisket is perfect for small family gatherings. The ingredients without accurate measures next to them allows you to use these spices at your leisure and to your preference. When you get a bite for the first time, you’ll be calling to thank us!
Bacon Brussel Sprouts
The mix of bacon and Brussels sprouts is an exciting way to serve this super food and keep it super tasty. Buy bacon from the deli or by it uncut and then chop in chunks sear until well done. Add your sprouts, sprinkle with a light layer of garlic powder and a handful of pecans. Add a tablespoon of real butter. Once it’s melted, sauté the veggies, nuts, and meat until the sprouts are tender.
Healthy Green Latkes Ingredients:
2 eggs scrambled
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
one teaspoon baking powder
3 Tablespoons matzah meal or flour
1 small onion
1 teaspoon garlic powder
one large potato
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Handful of Fresh Kale
peanut oil
Chop the kale after it’s been washed and drained on paper towel. Grate the potato drain on paper towel. Heat oil in a pan. Mix eggs and then add the vegetables, eggs, and dry ingredients. Form pancakes into balls and heat in hot oil till crisp, smash to pancakes after the bottom of the ball is crisp. Drain before serving.
These are just a few great recipes to try that you’ll enjoy, be sure to share with your friends and family. Best Wishes during the Seasons.
Winter carnivals are always a wonderland of fun. Good times apply when you live in a place like South Florida. Since there’s so much to do for planning one of these events, we thought we’d call on a few superhero friends to help you out! “Wonder-Twin Powers Activate”!
Supergirl suggests hiring a face painter who can create beautiful snowflakes since she wouldn’t want your event to be bizarre. Many of her friends will enjoy looking at your designs with her little vision. Since Supergirl is super-fast, she points out to have an experienced face painter who does designs at lightning speed.
Next, you can create giant igloos using plastic milk jugs for an easy to tear down and set up activity. Just like Captain Marvel is versatile; winter carnival activities don’t have to be costly just wise. By using household items to create fun stations, you’ve got the wisdom of Solomon just like that! “Shazam”!
Your guests can climb the rock climbing wall just like Spiderman without spinning the web. The visitors at this winter carnival won’t have time to get cold while using their superhuman powers to reach the top. Good times along with an excellent way to build skill with the 25’ high rock wall, perfect for any winter party.
The Hulk is sure to enjoy testing his strength and skills while adrenaline fills his veins in our Meltdown interactive carnival attraction. Mini-Hulk’s can enjoy hours of activity while they take on the Marvel Universe with their friends.
Both Batman and Robin are eager to slide into the bat cave with the dual lane skyscraper that’s 25 feet high and perfect for winter parties since this is a dry slide.
Of course, we know how hungry superheroes become bouncing around and playing interactive sports, and we have a solution. With a little “BAM” and a “Splat,” we’ve got the fun food supplies that are perfect for your event.
With a little help from the adventurers at South Florida Bounce, we can help you look like Wonder Woman or Captain America planning your next event., even if it’s a winter carnival in Florida.
Contact us today for more information on party supplies, including bounce houses and waterslides.
It seems with the fall being upon us once again, more of our philanthropy events are taking place around South Florida. Every organization from the Boys and Girls club to the local churches are planning their yearly events. Many of us busy bees and procrastinators forget the entertainment till last. In this blog, we dedicate our expert advice to conjure up some ideas even if you’re a last minute planner. Read on!
Bounce houses are obviously a favorite past time for all ages. Today’s BH’s have more to offer than the moonwalks of yesterday. It’s important to know the square footage when reserving your BH with any vendor. The sqft gives them the opportunity to offer a great deal with the correct size.
If you have a more selected age group that’s older, consider one of the obstacle courses for your guests. You can charge the participants a dollar a fight and command the audience betting on the winner. Request local business co-op the event and donate a prize for the donation. Great way to build awareness of the event along with raising funds.
If this is a family event, strong games can be fun. Rock climbing is a favored feature for many of the younger generation.
Food vendors can be expensive. If you’re looking to offer food at your charity event, keep in mind that you can cook with our appliance rentals such as hot dog griller and cotton candy machine. South Florida Bounce has one of the biggest selections of food prep tools.
When you live in a place such as South Florida waterslides are extremely popular. With the perfect weather temperatures year around, a waterslide rental can be ideal whether your event is planned for July or December!
We’ve seen a lot of rentals for October with big races such as Cure for Cancer. If your event is a 5K marathon, we can’t suggest to you more how great waterslides are. Many of these races are family affairs; kids love to participate too. Now, watching dad run a marathon is more exciting for both fathers and children.
No matter if you wait until the last hour to throw your shin-dig together or you’re someone who’s run out of time, our office staff can help you schedule the perfect entertainment in town.
We’re here to help!
If you or someone you know has been selected to throw this year’s back to school party then this blog is for you! Seems many of the teachers and school administrators are looking for ways to make their back to school parties a hit. Of course we know that the main goal here is to get our children interested in coming back to school once summer is over. So what better way to do it than with an awesome party that will energize grades K-12? Let’s get started:
First, we want to say that safety is paramount to everything we do, and so should you. Be sure the parents have filled out all forms necessary if you’ll be incorporating bounce houses, waterslides or obstacle courses. Keep these in a locked file and don’t hesitate to make this a priority.
Next: Decorate according to the location of the party. Outdoor themes should have plenty of balloons and Streamers, sidewalk chalk is also another great item to have on board.
Don’t forget the Sanitizer: Keep plenty of jugs of sanitizer on board to lower the spread of germs.
Food: Whether you have it catered or your school is supplying, there’s nothing better than items you can eat quickly with your hands. An old standby like hot dogs, hamburgers and even pizza are amongst the favorites with the younger crowds. Don’t forget something sweet such as sno-cones or caramel apples that are great this time of year in Southern Florida.
Remind everyone to wear appropriate clothing to ensure they’re protected from the sun and are comfortable.
The first sign of rain, take shelter immediately. Again, safety is key here.
Organize an interactive game, such as a scavenger hunt. Have groups found items around the school or event area. Make sure a head count is done before and after for accountability.
Don’t stress out. Do meditation, book a massage or just take some quiet time either before the event or after allowing yourself time to unwind. The party should reflect how happy you are to have the kids back and telling them learning is fun as well as important.
Games are the one of the most important elements to any kid party. However, kids in the older age groups such as 13+ do well with our obstacle courses and competing games. Contact us for information on what works best for your event.
It’s that time of year again in South Florida where everyone is starting to plan their fall and winter parties. More parties happen this time of year since our weather has become cooler and not as humid. One party that everyone looks forward to annually is their neighborhood block party. If you’ve been selected or have volunteered to be on the planning board, then we’ve got some helpful tips for you that will make your block party into a ‘Block-Buster Party’!!! Read on!
Meet with the neighbors
Get a permit from the city or township
Book Inflatable Rentals
Plan food and activities
Send invitations to the neighbors
Create a Map showing who is participating and what each neighbor is hosting
Meeting with the neighbors as a planning committee is imperative to the success of your party. Select someone as the chairman and then have everyone assigned tasks. The chairman should be coordinated with everyone and be there in case the ball gets dropped.
Next, you’ll need to get a permit for your party. This is especially true when you’re blocking off streets. This is another important step to planning a great party that won’t get shut down by the feds later.
Contact South Florida Bounce for your rentals such as bounce houses or water slides. The sooner the reservation is made, you’ll be ensured on us being present for your party.
Now that you’ve got the most important steps out of the way, plan food and activities. If you’re having games such as balloon toss or a face painting station, make the correct arrangements and include the activities and times on your map. Food is another thing that will need some attention to detail. Keep it simple, unless you’re looking to impress the Joneses.
Send out invitations including the map made that shows all the neighbors who are participating, the activities and food and the times.
You can create really cool maps to include in your invitation. Use Google Maps or Google Earth Pro (now free) to create a template of the neighborhood. Google Earth allows you to add graphics that will make it exciting. Nonetheless, you want to have a visual so people will get excited.
Now that we’ve given you the tools to keep you organized, there’s only one thing left to do. Go have fun at your neighborhood block party!
Contact us today for rental availability.
