As I pulled the too-small toddler back into the seat of the Little Tykes car this evening, I realized we have replaced clubbing with birthday parties. This is the fourth or fifth birthday party this school year at one of those inflatable party places. You know them-they’re in an industrial office park, the most random locations. It dawned on me as the lights went out and the black lights filled the room with their well-known glowy appearance that these places are family clubs.
Loud music? Check.
Black lights? Check.
Glow necklace? Check.
Mosh pit inspired inflatables? Check.
All that is missing are the drinks and nachos grande. There are grown-ups wearing inflatable crowns. True, the hats belong to the birthday kids, but it’s the grown-ups wearing them.
Perhaps this is why I feel a bit of nervousness before coming to one of these parties. They remind me of clubbing. Clubbing presented awkward moments-will I know anyone there, will I look like an idiot dancing with my two left feet? These thoughts are probably why parents like these places. The awkwardness is removed. You know you will know someone-you’ve been invited. You can feel like you’re at a club without paying a babysitter. Plus you get quality time with your child playing air hockey or going through the giant inflatable obstacle course.
Maybe I’ll have my next birthday party at one of these places…
ohbloodyhell8 
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