Stick the Landing: Kids and Trampolines Are a Dangerous Mix

It's hard to argue with the simple, primal pleasure that comes from jumping on a trampoline. But it's also impossible to ignore the significant health risks.

A growing number of medical professionals are discouraging the use of backyard trampolines, if not pushing for an outright ban - at least for children and their underdeveloped bones.

Staggering Numbers of Trampoline-Related Injuries

According to a 2022 report in Pediatric Emergency Care, more than 800,000 children sustained trampoline injuries in the United States between 2009 and 2018. More than 90% of these injuries occurred in kids under 16 years old, and most of these injuries occurred at the children's own homes. Of these, about 30% were arm and leg fractures. Even more serious injuries can occur, including ones that result in substantial neurological damage when the head is involved.

Most injuries occur when multiple people are jumping at the same time. Kids land on one another or can have a midair collision. And when more than one person is jumping, the trampoline becomes like concrete for the one coming down.

Follow These Safety Guidelines

If you are going to use a trampoline at home, follow these safety guidelines to avoid becoming a statistic:

• One child at a time
• No children under 5
• No ladders attached, limiting access for younger children
• Always have adult supervision
• Place a screen around the trampoline
• Don't place the trampoline over a hard surface
• No stunts or gymnastic move
• Check your homeowners insurance as many policies won't cover trampolines

Trampoline Parks

It's almost inevitable - through invitation, proximity or sheer chance - your child might find themselves at a trampoline park. While I'd generally recommend avoiding trampoline parks altogether, there are some steps to make the experience a bit safer and softer.

• Avoid peak times
• Try to keep kids separated by age and size
• Wear safety socks
• Minimize loose clothing that could get caught in springs
• Empty pockets
• Choose facilities with visible, trained staff
• Encourage jumping in the center of the square and always landing feet first

It's important to remember that as much fun as kids might have on a trampoline, it isn't a toy. It is a piece of equipment and needs to be treated as such. Please consider finding some thrills a little closer to the ground.