The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using a trampoline recreationally. If you do, follow these tips for your kids’ safety.
I am often called the “Safety Lady” in my neighborhood and I take great pride in that, despite my girls’ embarrassment. I am a pediatric trauma injury prevention manager for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, and summer is the hardest time of year for me. With the weather warming up and school out, we will, unfortunately, begin to see a lot more kids being admitted to the hospital.
One area of concern for those in our field is the use of trampolines.
Are trampolines something to have fun on or something to be feared? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, trampolines are simply too dangerous for children to use outside of a structured sports training program with proper supervision. The Academy noted that installing safety nets and having adults nearby do not seem to affect the occurrence of injuries.
Parents often view trampolines simply as recreational equipment that keeps children busy, but trampolines are not toys. Injuries on trampolines can have very dangerous ramifications. Research shows that 75 percent of trampoline injuries occur when more than one person is jumping on the mat. The youngest kids are at greatest risk for significant injury, including fractures of the legs and spine.
To repeat: The AAP recommends avoiding recreational trampoline use entirely.
Despite these warnings, kids love bouncing on them and in my neighborhood almost every other home has them. Trampoline injuries are not just freak accidents. They follow a pattern and may be prevented.
If parents choose to allow their children to jump on trampolines, the academy says that:
- Trampoline use should be restricted to a single jumper on the mat at any given time.
- Trampolines should have adequate protective padding that is in good condition and appropriately placed.
- Trampolines should be set at ground level whenever possible or on a level surface and in an area cleared of any surrounding hazards.
- Frequent inspection and appropriate replacement of protective padding, net enclosure, and any other damaged parts should occur.
- Trampolines should be discarded if replacement parts are unavailable and the product is worn or damaged.
- Children should not perform somersaults and flips in the recreational setting; these are among the most common causes of permanent and devastating cervical spine injuries.
- Children should be actively supervised at all times by adults familiar with these safety guidelines.
- Homeowners should verify that their insurance policies cover trampoline-related claims. Coverage is highly variable.
If you do decide to purchase or use a trampoline and keep your kids entertained this summer, remember that it is not as harmless as it may seem.
Purnima Unni is the Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention Program Manager for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and is a certified child passenger safety technician. She is a wife and mother of two girls, ages 17 and 14. She loves to cook, travel and watch murder mysteries. She is fluent in three languages and wishes she had a green thumb.
