We went along with a 5 year old, a 3 year old and a 16 month old to try out the new PJ Masks ‘Jumping Adventures’ toddler session. This is our review of what turned out to be a really fun morning for adults as well as kids.
Our session started at 10am and we arrived with about 10 minutes to spare. Parking is free and at that this on a weekday we were able to find a space right outside. I’d recommend arriving a little earlier than us though if you can, as by the time we’d filled out the online disclaimer, got our belongings in to a locker and put on our snazzy socks, we were almost last for the start.
The session begins with a small safety briefing, which takes place in an industrial looking room with dramatic UV lighting and surround sound music on full blast. It felt a bit like waiting for a ride in a theme park and all added to the excitement of the session. Once the doors opened, the kids burst into the arena like a bunch of uncaged chimps, screaming with excitement. And I have to say it was infectious. When faced with wall-to-wall trampolines it’s hard not to want to run across all of them at full pelt. Quick word of warning though to any reasonably new mums…..repeated bouncing can trigger embarrassing incidents, so you may want to beprepared!!).
The park consists of trampolines, a foam pit, a giant airbag, dodgeball area, basketball area, and reaction walls. There is also a ninja course, although this isn’t in use during the toddler session.
The PJ Masks Jumping Adventure lasts for an hour and in between being able to explore the park, the children are encouraged to take part in three themed activities:
First up, Catboy’s Leap
Here the kids had to leap from a platform, on to a trampoline and then jump off onto the giant airbag, pulling their favourite Catboy pose as they go. A member of staff supervised the game (whilst wearing a Catboy cape) and winners were chosen based on distance leapt and style. All the children who took part were given a wristband and the winners received stickers and PJ Masks activity kits. The activity was probably more suited for the elder children but parents were able to assist the younger ones if they still wanted to take part.
Next Owlette’s Flight
The children were asked to find a trampoline and copy the instructor as he carried out a number of moves, including start jumps, tuck jumps and turns. It was a fun way for them to experience some beginners trampoline skills.
Finally Gekko’s Grip
The children were taken in to the dodgeball area, where they were split into two teams. Hundreds of ball-pool sized balls were then dropped into the centre of the area and the children had to bounce across the trampolines to collect as many balls as they could for their team. The winning team members won PJ Masks activity kits.
The whole session ended with more free jumping time and everyone being invited to collect a certificate to demonstrate they’d taken part.
What we thought of it
In summary, we had a brilliant time. The session was pitched at the right age group and it was great to be able to let the kids jump without being worried about more boisterous older ones knocking anyone over. As a mother of a 16 month old who loves to run, it felt like a welcome alternative to soft play, where I could set her free to roam and have a bit of fun myself! For older children, the competitive activities added a bit of fun and novelty.
The park itself is immaculately clean and still feels very new and safe. There were plenty of free lockers and lots of seating available in the onsite cafe. Before going you should be aware this isn’t a ‘meet and greet’ with the PJ Masks. There was no one dressed up as Catboy, Owlette or Geko, although the staff did have coloured capes on. As long as you set your little ones expectations, I don’t think they’ll be disappointed.
We will definitely be back with a group of mum friends soon and will probably be booking our next birthday party there too.
