Two years ago Jill Clifford was looking for something different to do for her son's birthday -- a birthday that, being in March, counts out a lot of outdoor activities. Along with her neighbor and fellow mom Robin Best, the St. John women discovered -- outside of Northwest Indiana -- a place where kids could jump, bounce, and party. An indoor land of large inflatables.

"This was a great idea," Clifford said. "Our community needed something like this."

Welcome to Jump Central. A 6,000 square foot indoor inflatable play area "perfect for any type of event from birthday parties to field trips and everything in between." Best and Clifford designed the layout, which is also set up to welcome open jumps, special needs groups and private parties.

"Clients like that it is family-owned ... we're two moms who live in the neighborhood," Clifford said. "We keep on top of cleanliness and it's a little more cozy and family friendly. And you can't go anyplace else and spend $5 for two hours."

The $5 per child cost is for ages 2 to 18, and there is no fee for parents and grandparents. Jump Central, which is open seven days a week, utilizes a separate party room for kids to gather after an hour of jumping during private parties. Parents can bring ice cream, cake, or order pizza from nearby Zuni's.

"We do great parties," Clifford said. "We do all the clean-up and serving. Our employees are awesome -- they interact with the kids very well."

Jump Central keeps a close watch on school calendars in order to schedule more open jumps when kids are off.

"Its good exercise and fun," Clifford said. " Kids can exert their energy here."

Jump Central

Location: 9585 N. Industrial Dr., St. John

Phone: (219) 365-2010

Owners: Robin Best and Jill Clifford

When opened: August 2006

Number of employees: 10 to 20

Type of business: Kids party center