Exercise is a key part of good physical and mental health, especially in children. As parents, we want our kids to get plenty of exercise, but it can be hard to make it enjoyable for them. In this blog post, we’ll explore ways to get creative with exercises for kids of all ages so they can have fun while staying fit and healthy.

Variety is Key
One of the main things to keep in mind is that variety is key when it comes to finding exercises that your kids enjoy doing. Doing the same activity every day can cause boredom, so mix up their routine every couple days or so. If you’re taking your children outdoors, try different sports like basketball or soccer; if they prefer more low-key activities, consider playing catch with them in your backyard or teaching them some yoga poses.

Keep Goals Realistic
It’s important not to set too-high expectations for your child when it comes to exercising – instead, focus on helping them build up positive habits. Keep their goals realistic and achievable by setting small daily goals that track their progress over time and celebrate successes when they occur. Make sure your child understands that any goal worth achieving takes consistent effort and dedication over a period of time. This will help create a habit out of exercising rather than trying to do too much too quickly.

Games and Challenges
The best way to ensure your child stays engaged in physical activity is through games and challenges. These can be anything from active charades (where you act out different animals or objects) to scavenger hunts in the park (where different items have been hidden). Not only are these activities fun for everyone involved, but they also encourage imagination and exploration – perfect if you want your children to develop motor skills as well as physical fitness.

Incorporating Technology
Let’s face it – kids love technology! Take advantage of this by incorporating gadgets such as tablets into their exercise regime – there are tons of apps available which provide interactive workouts featuring cartoon characters which aim to make working out both fun and educational at the same time! Just make sure you check age recommendations before purchasing anything – some apps may be inappropriate for younger children!

Encouraging Independent Exercise
When dealing with older kids who may be getting ready for puberty, encouraging independent exercise becomes even more important – giving young people the opportunity to take responsibility for their own health not only teaches valuable life lessons but also helps them feel empowered about their bodies! Remind them about how regular exercise can benefit both their physical and mental health – once they become aware of how beneficial something like running or swimming could be for them, chances are they’ll start participating in those activities more often without having much encouragement from you!

Exercise doesn’t have to be boring – try getting creative with different ways you can incorporate physical activity into your family life! For more ideas on improving kid’s physical skills while having fun at the same time contact Jumbaloo today 🤗

Summer camp is an experience that can have a lasting impact on children. It provides them with the opportunity to develop skills, build relationships, and make lifelong memories. But what are some of the specific benefits of summer camp? What do kids get to learn and take away from their time spent away from home?

At summer camp, kids learn to be independent. They’re encouraged to take care of everyday tasks independently, such as getting dressed in the morning and brushing their teeth before bedtime. Camp counsellors give clear directions on how to complete these tasks so that children understand the expectations and are held accountable for their own responsibilities. Through this experience, kids learn responsibility and gain a sense of self-sufficiency.

Kids also gain confidence at summer camp. They have a chance to try new activities like rock climbing, canoeing, or outdoor cooking — activities they may not get a chance to do throughout the year — which helps them step outside of their comfort zones and push themselves further than they would at home. This newfound confidence carries over into other aspects of life beyond camp and gives children the courage needed to tackle difficult challenges.

Summer camp also teaches kids important social skills like empathy and communication. Through daily interactions with peers in structured settings, kids become adept at expressing their emotions and understanding the emotions of others. Camp encourages problem-solving among groups as everyone works together towards a common goal — like how best to pitch a tent or raft down a river — teaching cooperation through collaboration.

Finally, summer camp cultivates creativity in children as they explore new ideas and engage in creative activities like arts & crafts or music & drama classes. It’s here where imagination runs wild! Kids often come up with unique solutions to problems while having fun within an accepting environment free from judgement by adults or peers back home — allowing them more freedom to experiment with different approaches confidently.

In short, summer camp helps children gain independence, build confidence, practice important social skills, and nurture creativity! Whether it’s through sports tournaments or musical performances, each activity teaches valuable lessons that stay with kids well beyond their weeks spent at camp! If you’d like more information about Jumbaloo’s summer camps for your child, contact us today!

Going to the playground with your kids can be a thrilling experience. It’s a place full of adventure and new experiences, but it also comes with its own set of rules and regulations that must be always followed. Teaching your children how to play safely and responsibly on the playground is essential for their safety and well-being. Here are some tips for helping your kids develop good playground behavior.

Set a Positive Example
One of the most effective ways to help your children learn good playground behavior is by setting a positive example. Through modelling appropriate behavior while you’re at the playground, you can show them what they should do when interacting with others as well as how to stay safe while playing on equipment or other activities. Make sure you also explain why certain behaviors are important, such as taking turns, following safety rules, and being respectful towards others.

Emphasize Kindness
Teaching your children how to treat others kindly while they’re playing is key in teaching them to develop good playground behavior. Letting them know that words like teasing or name-calling are mean-spirited isn’t enough; encourage them to be kind by showing empathy whenever possible and helping friends who may need assistance when playing games. Making sure that everyone plays together fairly is crucial for teaching kids about kindness and cooperation with one another in the playground environment.

Have Clear Rules
Set limits for your children before they go into the playground so that they know what’s expected of them when they get there. Establishing clear boundaries helps prevent any potential misbehavior from occurring while they’re having fun on the playground equipment or participating in activities with other children. Explain what kind of behavior will not be tolerated (e.g., pushing people off playsets) and explain why these behaviors are unacceptable so your child has an understanding of what’s acceptable and what isn’t in different situations at the park or other places where there might be more people present.

Praise Good Behavior
It’s important to praise your child whenever he/she does something right or shows good behavior at the playground so that he/she continues to perform these deeds on future visits as well. Give positive reinforcement such as verbal encouragement–“Great job! You shared nicely today!” –or even small rewards like treats if appropriate to incentivize desirable actions during their next visit outdoors or elsewhere where interaction with strangers is likely to occur.

Contact Jumbaloo for More Information
If you would like more tips on helping teach your kids good social skills, contact Jumbaloo today! We have experienced professionals who can provide resources and advice tailored specifically towards developing strong social skills in children of all ages based on their individual needs, goals, and circumstances!

Father’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the special relationship between father and child. It’s also a chance to show Dad just how much he means to you by spending time together doing activities that he loves. Here are 10 fun activities you can do with Dad on his special day.

Take a Hike
Getting out in nature together is a great way to bond and have an adventure. Find a local trail, pack up some snacks, and enjoy the outdoors with your dad. Whether you choose a short stroll or an all-day hike, it’s sure to be an experience both of you will cherish for years to come.

Go Fishing
If Dad loves fishing, then there’s no better way to spend Father’s Day than out on the lake or river with him. Get your rods and baits ready and spend the day outdoors catching some fish! Plus, nothing beats having dinner afterwards made of freshly caught fish.

Visit the Zoo or Aquarium
Heading out to explore the zoo or local aquarium is an exciting activity for everyone in the family this Father’s Day! From tigers and bears to octopuses and jellyfish, there’s something interesting for everyone at the zoo or aquarium – plus lots of opportunities for picturesque moments!

Play Some Sports
Playing sports like basketball, baseball, tennis –– whatever sport Dad enjoys –– is sure to make his day extra memorable! Hit up your local park or court for some friendly competition between dad and kids for Father’s Day this year.

Cook His Favorite Meal Together
Nothing says “I love you Dad” quite like preparing his favorite meal together as a family! Gather around the kitchen table with your ingredients of choice and whip up something delicious while creating memories that last forever. Don’t forget dessert too — because why not?!

Movie Night In
What dad doesn’t love movie night? Pick out one of his favorite movies from when he was younger (or one from today!), pop some popcorn, get comfy on the couch –– it’ll be just like old times.

Play Board Games Together
From classic board games such as monopoly and chess –– To more modern puzzle-based games like Sudoku –– There are so many fun board games available these days that make great activities for Father’s Day evening family time!

Go Bowling
Hit the lanes! You’ll have lots of laughs rolling down strikes or spares — or even watching each other’s gutter balls — at your local bowling alley this Father’s Day morning or evening with dad!

Have a Picnic Somewhere Special
Take advantage of nice weather by gathering some blankets/pillows/snacks/drinks–and head off somewhere special (the beach? A scenic forest?) Spend quality time talking while enjoying yummy food in picturesque surroundings this Father’s Day.

Staycation At Home & Spend Quality Time Together
Not all fathers appreciate expensive gifts—some simply want quality time spent with their families at home doing simple tasks such as eating meals together, playing card games or simply watching TV shows! Whatever it may be, staying home can be just as special as going away somewhere if we take our time appreciating each other’s presence! So why not try it out this Father’s Day! So, there you have it—10 fantastic ideas where you can create meaningful experiences with your dad this Father’s Day. Just remember whatever activity you choose; it isn’t about how much money you spend but rather about taking quality time spent with loved ones! For more information on how Jumbaloo can help create heartfelt experiences for dads, contact us today!

Celebrating Mother’s Day is a special and meaningful opportunity to show your mom or the mother figures in your family how much you care. This year, why not add a personal touch to your tradition and get creative together with the kids? Here we give you some ideas for crafting custom Mother’s Day cards that can be enjoyed by moms of all ages.

Get Crafty!
Creating custom cards is an enjoyable way to express love and appreciation on Mother’s Day. Younger children can easily make colorful cards with crayons, markers, or colored pencils. But even older kids might appreciate a chance to craft something handmade for mom. Consider providing them access to a range of materials like scissors, glue, foam paper shapes, glitter stickers and more. Together they can brainstorm ideas like pop up cards, foldable cars, or any other design they come up with. Encourage children to use their imagination and create something unique for Mom!

Add in Photos
To make the card extra-special, incorporate pictures of your family into it! You can attach photos directly onto the card or let the kids draw self-portraits or scenes inspired by family moments. Or if you have access to a photo printer at home you could print out pictures from recent family trips or special occasions that Mom would love to see again.

Finishing Touches
If you’re looking for one last unique detail for the card, consider adding scents like perfume oil drops or essential oils so your crafts will smell as good as they look! Once your cards are complete simply write down a special sentiment inside each one, so Mom knows exactly how much she means to all of you!

Crafting custom Mother’s Day cards is just one idea among many when it comes time to celebrate Mom on her special day – but it’s sure to leave her feeling appreciated and treasured. Remember that Jumbaloo can help make this year even more memorable: contact us today and take advantage of our vast selection of wholesale handicraft items perfect for creating your own personalized gifts this season.

Creative play has a significant influence on the mental development of children. It aids in their cognitive, emotional, linguistic, physical, and social development. Through creative play, children can develop skills that will serve them into adulthood.

Benefits of Creative Play for Cognitive Development
Creative play helps to boost cognitive development by allowing children to explore the world around them using all their senses. Through creative play, children can find new ways to solve problems and think creatively. This type of exploration helps them develop better problem-solving skills as well as a deeper understanding of the world around them. Additionally, creative play encourages creativity in young minds and helps foster an understanding of cause-and-effect relationships.

Enhancing Emotional Development Through Creative Play
Creative play is essential for developing strong emotional regulation in children. It allows them to express themselves freely without fear of judgement or criticism. It also enables them to explore their feelings and emotions safely through various activities such as storytelling and dress up games. This kind of exploration is beneficial in helping children understand different types of emotions, how they manifest in different situations and how they can be managed effectively. Additionally, it gives children an opportunity to practice empathy towards others and gain insight into other people’s emotions as well as their own.

The Role of Language Development in Creative Play
Encouraging language development through creative play helps children sharpen their communication skills from an early age. By engaging with books, puppets, and characters from storybooks, they learn vocabulary words which help broaden their English language capabilities significantly. Additionally, playing with toys such as blocks, or Lego pieces allows kids to experiment with arranging objects in specific order creating stories that have narrative structure – this serves as the basis for creating longer sentences later on in life when more complex conversations arise.

Building Social Skills Through Creative Play
Including other people during creative play provides a great platform for reinforcing positive behavior amongst kids while teaching important social skills such as sharing and turn taking at the same time too! Sharing stories also gives kids an opportunity to practice negotiation skills while trying to reach compromise with one another if they don’t agree on a particular outcome or idea. Similarly constructive games such as card games or building puzzles together help create a sense of collaboration between peers which is incredibly valuable for child’s social wellbeing down the line!

Overall, it’s clear that nurturing your child’s mental growth with creative playing is beneficial short-term providing joyous fun filled moments but most importantly long-term by shaping his/her personality into one that leads successful life ahead! If you want your child to benefit from our programs, contact us at Jumbaloo today and take the first step towards unlocking your child’s full potential!

When March Break arrives, one of the first things most parents think is “What are we going to do?” You want to make the most of this time with your children, but you also don’t want to break the bank and overspend either. The good news is you can achieve both of these goals!

Here are some March Break activities that will keep your kids occupied and having fun without blowing your budget.

Catch Up with Family

One of the best parts of March Break is that most kids in most school districts have the same time off all at once. This makes it perfect for visiting grandparents, cousins, and other family members that you may not get to see very often. Cousins and grandparents love seeing relatives and they’ll likely even entertain your kids the whole time, so there isn’t even much for you to do.

These trips will be memorable for both you and your children and they likely won’t cost you anything at all, minus the travel costs.

Make a Homemade Recipe

Most children love to help in the kitchen. Depending on their age, there are a lot of things you can do to spend some time together and create a new recipe. Younger children can help with mixing, measuring, and pouring while older kids may want to take on the entire project themselves – with your help, of course.

There are many different ways you can approach this. One fun option is to have a make your own pizza or make your own taco night. Not only do you get to have the fun of putting a meal together as a family, but you also each get to design the specific meal you like. There’s a better chance of your child actually eating their dinner if they help prepare it.

Another option is to bake something together. Cakes, pies, cookies, and loaves are popular with just about everyone and kids love preparing them. Plus, you get to eat them once they’re baked, so everyone wins!

Check Out Any Free Events in Your Neighbourhood

Many neighbourhoods have free events happening during spring break. For instance, you might find free family concerts, arts and crafts events, sporting events, and much more happening nearby for free.

Look at local websites, newspapers, and social media outlets to find free activities near you. Local businesses may also offer events like free lessons and more, so check with them as well.

Visit the Library

The library is a great place to spend time with children during March Break. First of all, where else can you borrow books, music, and videos for free? Many libraries even have digital collections that you can download and use at home.

In addition, there’s a good time you’ll find a lot of events and classes happening for free at the library as well. For younger kids, there are often storytimes, sing-along sessions, puppet shows, plays, and much more. For older children, you might be able to find classes and seminars geared toward anything from STEM to cooking to art.

Book a Playdate at Jumbaloo

One thing most parents want from March Break is activity. While a family movie night or video game tournament is certainly fine, you don’t want your children to spend the whole time sitting on the couch looking at a screen.

Another thing you likely want is to have your children spend some time with friends and enjoy their time together.

A solution to both of these issues is to book a playdate at Jumbaloo! It’s a great way to make sure your kids are having a fun and memorable time while staying active and playing with other kids. We have an indoor jungle gym, trampolines, and much more that children from toddlers to age 12 will love! For more information, please call us at 905-785-3990 or contact us online.

February is fun-loving, especially for children. The world needs more love without commercial pressure into gift buying, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to engage your little ones with Cupid-approved kid-friendly activities. 

We’ve comprised a list of family time fun to build new Valentine’s Day traditions and lasting core memories.

Read Love-Themed Bedtime Stories

Reading to your children provides a sense of adventure and security, even comfort from the sound of your voice. Love-themed bedtime stories are the perfect way to explore playful ways the story’s character expresses love or even who gives it to them.

Books are full of teaching opportunities that show healthy ways to give and receive love and even laugh at the comical ways Cupid gets involved. Curling up with your kids over a book is a love language they will never forget.

Decorate With DIY Paper Hearts

Breaking out the craft paper, glitter, stickers, and pipe cleaners thrills kids of any age, including grown-ups! Creating your own Valentine’s Day paper hearts allows everyone to let their inner Cupid out with bursts of colour and imagination.

You can use them as fun decorations around your front door, around the dining room table, or as gifts for each other’s rooms. Their happy bursts of colour will surely bring a smile to your face every time you see them.

Do Random Acts of Kindness

Giving love is as simple as holding a door open, giving a care package to someone in need, or helping a neighbour shovel snow. Kids love the chance to do nice things for others, and it boosts their sense of self-worth at the same time.

Ask your kids to sit down and write out a list of what they feel are random acts of kindness and how they can participate. Then, gather any needed supplies and plan a special day full of spreading love and joy to others.

Have a Cozy Movie Night

Some of the best family time comes from watching a movie together. So, why not make it Valentine’s Day themed? Perhaps dinner and a movie are in store, where heart-shaped pancakes with raspberries and pink whipped cream are sure to please—pre-make fun little grab bags with popcorn and candies.

Then, pick two or three of your favourite love-themed movies and go one step further and create a cushion fort, Valentine’s snacks you made together and complete the event with improvised costumes.

Craft Cards for Loved Ones

A handmade Valentine’s Day card is always more meaningful, and children put a lot of heart into their creations. For the recipient, it is a touching keepsake that overjoys and delights far past the occasion. 

Find several Valentine’s Day card ideas online, then help your child select their materials. For example, you could paint the wooden part of a tree and use your child’s fingerprint for the leaves, forming a heart canopy. 

There are many designs to pick from; some may involve more of your help. Or, your child may prefer to design the whole thing themselves and personally deliver their creation.

Take Your Kids for A Fun Playdate

Nothing is cuter than watching children deliver their Valentines to their friends and family and seeing their reactions. So why not set up a special Valentine’s Day playdate at Jumbaloo Playgrounds in Mississauga, ON.? With an enormous indoor jungle gym and activities, your kiddos can delight in imaginative games to their heart’s content, then settle into an event room for organized fun.

Spread the love with your children this Valentine’s Day at Jumbaloo! Arrange your playdate online or by calling 905-785-3990 now!

The time after the holiday season can sometimes be tough. It’s cold and there isn’t much sunlight during the day, and that can make you feel down in the dumps. The holiday activities are over, you’re tired, and you might be struggling for things to do. This time can be especially difficult for people who have children. Most kids like to be up and active and running around, and that’s hard to do when it’s dark and cold outside.

The good news is there are a lot of things you can do to beat the winter blues as a family. Here are a few ideas.

Build a Blanket Fort

Everyone loves blanket forts, especially children. If you have a lot of blankets and pillows in the house, you might even be able to build one that the whole family can fit into! This is a great way to spend the day and your children will be thrilled! Plus, if they spend the day building, they won’t be spending it asking for more screen time.

Enjoy the Winter Weather

Just because it’s cold, it doesn’t mean that you can’t spend time outdoors. The winter weather can be very enjoyable if you bundle up and prepare for it. Dress in layers, bring some hot chocolate along with you in a thermos, and go for a walk in the snow or play a sport as a family. Hockey is obviously the most common choice, but there are all sorts of ways to get out and get active during the winter. If you have a sled or a toboggan, that’s a good option too!

Have Theme Nights

If you’re looking for ways to add some excitement and fun to your winter break or any other winter evening, consider putting together a theme night. For instance, organize a movie night with popcorn, snacks, and a special movie that you’ll all enjoy. You can even make tickets and assign seats to make it more fun.

Or why not have a build your own pizza night? Kids of all ages will love this and it’s also a way to prepare a dinner that they’ll actually be excited about eating!

Think of what your children like and then create a night based on this theme. You can even dress up as superheroes or princesses or crime fighting dogs if that’s the sort of theme you’re interested in!

Visit With Family or Friends

The winter time is the perfect time to visit family and friends, especially if you haven’t seen each other much lately. Plan a day together and enjoy each other’s company. Socializing and spending time with the people you care about is an excellent way to beat the winter blues. You can even come up with some activities to do together so that everyone is involved and happy. Divide into teams to play a sport, put together some games or do some crafts, or watch a movie together. Whatever you do, you’ll be happier and feel more fulfilled if you do it with friends or family.

Try a New Hobby Together

If it’s cold and dark and you’re stuck indoors all day, why not take this opportunity to try a new hobby? Maybe you’ve been meaning to get into painting. This is a perfect chance to do it as a family. Or perhaps you’ve always wanted to learn to knit or do woodworking. Watch some tutorial videos online or take books out from your local library, then start learning as a family. It’s the perfect chance to grow as a group.

If you’re looking for some indoor fun during a cold and dark winter day, Jumbaloo Playgrounds has you covered. We have an indoor playscape structure that kids of all ages will love. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and be active without having to worry about the cold. For more information, please contact us online or give us a call at 905-785-3990.