Kids Bouncy Castles

I'm the King of the castle..and you're the dirty rascal~

Way back in the 1960's a man called John Scurlock was experimenting with making an inflatable tennis court cover, when he had a sudden revelation. He realised how much his workers loved walking on the inflatable material. So taken was he with this, that he opened a new business for the entertainment of kids - Space Walk, which was basically a large, inflatable air mattress. Over time headded walls and the idea was refined by others until we ended up with the Jumping Castle almost all kids all know and love.

Bouncy castles are a great choice for kids on a a number of levels. First and foremost, they love them and it's an activity that will keep keep them occupied for long periods of time. Next, they're physical; which means kids are exercising their muscles and gaining flexibilty and strength. Last but not least, they can be enjoyed by several kids at the same time - bouncing is a great social activity. There's nothing to fight over, no competitive rules to keep some kids feeling left out or defeated. They're also terrific fun on a hot day wehn you can squirt the hose on them to make a slippery slide.

As bouncy castles aren't cheap (though still comparable to many kids techno items) you'll need to make sure you get one that is strong and made from durable materials. It should be bright and colourful and have interesting areas - you dont just want a big mattress. Filling part of the castles with balls will increase the funometer.

The Award winning wet and dry 7-in-1 Bounce and Obstacle Combo castle at right has all the desirable qualities and is reasonably priced. Product features include:

• Inflated size 17.5 ft L x9 ft W x8.5 ft H
• Powered by strong UL blower (included).
• Heavy-duty puncture proof materials with double to quadruple stitches
• Long fill tube (6.5') so blower can be placed farther away from the bouncer
• Easy set up and take down. Inflates in less than a minute
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Inflating in less than a minute has to be a major plus as it means you can easily pack it away for storage. It's best not to leave the castles in the yard permanently - not only because of weather damage, but becuase you don't want the kids to get tired of it. Bringing it out now and then will mean they'll get enthusiastic all over again.

I've yet to meet a kid that doesn't love a bouncy castle and they really come into their own at parties. Certainly if you have a few children and give lots of parties they will be well worth the investment - much better than hiring one each time around.But even if you dont...they're still worth it. Ask any kid!