Backyard Parties: Managing Toys & Distractions
Hosting a party in your yard? Learn how to handle toys, pets, and the bouncy castle to keep kids focused on the entertainment.
Shay Rokach-Penn (Shay the Funny Clown)
6/7/20261 min read


If You Hired an Entertainer (Magician, Clown, etc.):
Hide backyard toys during the show: You don't need to put them away before the party starts, but when it's time for the entertainment, make sure to put away loose toys (balls, big toy cars, etc.) and tie up or flip the swings. These items can easily disrupt the show - a child sitting on a swing won't get up to participate because they know the moment they do, someone else will 'steal' their spot!
Deflate the bouncy castle: Just before the show begins, simply turn off the blower and let the castle deflate. No matter how amazing your entertainer is, it is very hard to compete with a giant bouncing castle... and the noise from the blower is just awful!
A mini-vacation for the dog: If you have a dog, the party day is the perfect time to send them for a visit to Aunt Sarah's (who loves them so much anyway!).
If You Are Hosting the Party Yourself (No Entertainer):
Let them play! If you didn't hire an outside entertainer, forget all the rules above. Just leave everything as is and let the swings, the balls, the bouncy castle, and the dog entertain the kids!
