Bouncy castles (also known throughout the world) as bounce houses, inflatable castles, jumping castles and moonwalks) are becoming more and more popular, and are considered by many parents as "an essential item" for childrens birthday parties and other social events.
This is simply because they are such great fun to play on! They are usually a big hit at any family gathering, celebration or social event where children need to be entertained for an extended period of time.
For example: childrens parties, barbecues, wedding receptions, fund-raising events, any social event, church or worthy cause or just for a special treat - children absolutely love them, and they will often be entertained for many hours - and sometimes even the whole day! Play inflatables can also provide important therapy and confidence building for youngsters with special needs.
Bouncy castles are safe to use when supervised correctly by a responsible adult, who should ensure that children of differing ages and sizes do not bounce together at the same time.
Your hire company should provide you with a list of operating instructions.
Bouncy castles are strictly for children under 12 yrs old.
Any child taller than the inside wall is not permitted to use it.
Bouncy castles are now available not only in castle shapes, but also in many others including popular cartoon, film and childrens book characters.
In addition, new variations on the general design have resulted in different activities and experiences for the users.
Examples are: inflatable slides, bouncy boxing, bungee runs, obstacle courses, biff "n" bash, tunnels, interactive games and climbing walls.
There are even castle/slide combination units which provide both bouncing and sliding.
Inflatable beds also form the essential protective cushioning for leisure activities where the user may fall off, such as Rodeo Bulls, gladiator duel, pole joust and other vital protection such as inflatable barriers for quad-bike racing, and electric carts etc.
Bouncy castles suitable for adults tend to be a popular option for people with larger gardens holding kids parties where adults will be present as they enable all those attending the event to join in the inflatable fun, regardless of size and age.
They are also highly desirable hire items for corporate events and galas.
Since 2006, it is best practice for inflatables (which are either bounced on or involve sliding) to be manufactured in accordance with the European Standard which is BS EN 14960:2006.
This helps to ensure that the children are kept as safe as possible when they are playing on the inflatable.
To sum up: Bouncy castles are probably the most popular and enjoyable form of entertainment for children at any event where children are present, but at the same time, it is essential to ensure that they are kept as safe as possible.
To achieve this level of safety, adequate supervision must be maintained at all times, an eye kept on the weather - especially if there are wet or windy conditions, and the customer should insist that the inflatable is designed and manufactured to the BS EN: 14960:2006 Standard.