My son was turning nine this year and I was looking for something that would: a) make him happy, b) save money, and c) exhaust him and his friends (you’re welcome parents).
Located within the Frederick Indoor Sports Center, the obstacle course is upstairs and it is impressive! While we were there, actual Jujitsu competitions were happening on the main floor so it was a huge bonus for the kids to see as they entered. The staff inside Jump Climb Extreme (JCX) was great—they were flexible from the get-go, and tried to make the party easy, fun, and safe. When I made the reservation, they made sure I let everyone know that tennis shoes were required to prevent slipping and that there would be staff to help with organization and games. I also noticed that there was ample padding cushioning the floor. The kids would be challenged, but they would also be safe.
On the day of the party, the JCX team was alert to even the slightest potential for anyone to get hurt, and they cautioned and redirected without making kids discouraged or the parents anxious. At the beginning they did a safety briefing and they walked the kids through the obstacle course.
Then they followed and encouraged the kids and helped them through the more challenging parts.
Beyond safety patrol and cheering, they did tricks to motivate the kids and show them what was possible, and the kids really surprised us (and sometimes themselves) at what they could do. Even the grown-ups were inspired. My husband was literally climbing the walls and my friend shimmied up a rope swing! I’m thinking this may become a future parent’s night out idea for us and our friends. It was fun to do and fun to watch.
I was able to bring my own snacks and drinks—so they could be as healthy (or indulgent) as I wanted. This was also a money saver!
I chose an early afternoon time slot, so we didn’t do pizza or BBQ, but we could have ordered that through JCX and had it delivered as well. Yes, you read that right—a kid’s birthday party that offers more than just pizza as a food option. I recommend bringing your own paper plates and utensils if you just do snacks though. Also, don’t forget a cake knife and candles—I almost did!
They even allowed us to bring our own cake (another budget-friendly option) and the chocolate mess that was left was not mine to worry about. The one all over my toddler was, but hey. With swift ninja skill, the goody bags were tossed to the worn out warriors and they slipped off into the evening (with their folks) and with smiles on their faces.
*I was provided with product and/or compensation in exchange for my review. As always, opinions are 100% my own.
