With the term break right around the corner, model and mum Jess Dover plans a perfect day out with her three-year-old son, the adorable “rough and tumble”, Seb.
“I really love the age Seb is at the moment,” reflects model, mum and local personality Jess Dover. “You get such a small amount of time with them before they go to school… it’s really nice to do things I know he enjoys doing. We’re so lucky in Adelaide, everything’s so accessible!”
Fun
During the school holidays, fresh air and fun are at the top of the list most mornings for Jess and Seb. “It’s nice to just get up and go,” she says. “We start our morning grabbing a coffee and a babyccino… then we’ll go to a different to develop confidence, independence and fundamental movement skills.
Parents can choose between one or two hours environment, somewhere Seb can burn some energy.” Indoor trampoline park BOUNCE is today’s activity.
“Seb loves BOUNCE. He would go every day if he could!” Based in Marleston and Greenacres, BOUNCE is a perfect outlet for Seb, who Jess describes as “rough and tumble”.
While trampoline parks often have height restrictions, BOUNCE Marleston has created a special adventure zone for kids who don’t quite meet the mark.
Featuring a dual-lane slide, a ball pit and a challenge course, the multi-level miniBOUNCE is designed for little jumpers of playtime, and there’s a dedicated space to watch from the sidelines as your little ones slide, jump and explore.
“[Seb] can just go wild,” says Jess. “An hour is plenty for him to let all his steam out.”
Of course, BOUNCE is a fun-filled outing for bigger kids, too (there’s a free-jump arena, vertical wall run, X-Park and super tramp), and there’s also an on-site café if refreshments are in need.
You can book the BOUNCE bundle and holiday ticket specials online.
Fuel
After Seb’s hour of power at BOUNCE it’s on to the next destination – the Parkside Hotel for lunch – and the pair go in comfort (and safety) in the Jarvis Skoda Kodiaq RS.
Jess has been driving the Jarvis Skoda Kodiaq since her son was born and describes it as a “foolproof car that’s perfect for growing families” and ideal for getting around the city.
“The first time I put Seb in the car when he was a newborn, I remember becoming really attuned to the safety features,” she says.
The Kodiaq’s autonomous emergency braking, nine airbags, bird’s-eye and rear-view cameras, and electric child lock are all stand-out features for the vehicle.
No matter the distance – whether it’s the 15-minute drive from BOUNCE to The Parkside or a longer journey – Jess knows her son is always safe.
“It has every feature I need. You don’t really notice those things until you have a child in the car, but you have so much more to care about when they’re there.”
The safety aspects of the Jarvis Skoda Kodiaq RS are just one reason why it’s Jess’ car of choice. There’s also the remote boot release and keyless entry that’s perfect for busy mums with full hands; a spacious boot that can easily fit a pram; a 9.2-inch Infotainment system; and built-in blinds for sun protection (including a shade that pulls across the sunroof).
“The blinds are a game-changer,” says Jess. “Especially when it’s hot… it removes the glare and adds protection.”
Food
Finding a place that’s fresh, nutrition and kid-friendly can sometimes be a task, but a venue like the Parkside Hotel ticks all the boxes for Jess.
The leafy suburban watering hole underwent a makeover in 2017 and has since become a fi rm favourite for family outings.
Inside the light-filled, contemporary hotel, you’ll find a sunny beer garden, casual bar and indoor dining room, as well as a spacious kid play space.
“I love places that are kid-friendly,” says Jess. “The little play area at the Parkside is perfect.” Fit out with games, a small climbing frame, a wooden pirate boat and a large-screen TV, the gated playground is a great way to keep the little ones entertained while enjoying your meal.
Space for prams is also a priority Jess says, (particularly if she’s dining out with her girlfriends and their kids) and this hotel has it in spades. There’s even an option to enjoy your food while overlooking the playground.
As for food, Jess says the Parkside’s focus on fresh, whole ingredients is a big drawcard. “It’s always nice to have a variety as opposed to eating a lot of deep-fried food,” she says.
A modern take on traditional pub grub, the venue’s menu features dishes that showcase South Australia’s best flavours, like the harissa spiced wood-fired pumpkin salad or chicken saltimbocca. T
The Parkside’s kid-friendliness extends to its food offerings too, with the hotel serving up pint-sized portions perfect for easy eaters like Seb (think half-chicken schnitzels, cheeseburgers, fish and chips or pizza).
Take advantage of these tasty meals on Mondays and Tuesdays with the Kids Eat Free weekly special. One kids meal (for children 12 and under) is available with the purchase of any full-priced main!
South Australian Style Magazine 