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Kids love trampolines. Look at any neighborhood where kids live and you will find a multitude of trampolines in different shapes and forms. Parents also love trampolines—what better way to get kids to burn off excess energy and give parents some breathing space? But, are trampolines safe for kids?

Trampoline injuries are on the rise, with the increasing popularity of trampoline parks being a key contributor. There were over a million trampoline-related ED visits between 2002 and 2011 in the United States, resulting in over one billion dollars spent. Twenty-nine percent (29%) of these injuries were fractures.

In New Zealand, trampoline injuries resulted in the government paying out over 4.4 Million NZ dollars for treatment and rehabilitation in 2014. Not all of these injuries were from children either. More than 670 people aged 30 or over made a claim in 2016.

And while most of these adult injuries are said to have been caused from overconfidence, children’s injuries are most often caused by landing awkwardly, usually affecting their lower extremities such as a fractured ankle, lower tibia, or fibula. Many pediatricians are even calling to end the use of home trampolines, suggesting they are too dangerous.

Despite the risks, trampolining can also result in benefits for children. It can increase cardiovascular fitness and even improve motor function and coordination. If you believe the benefits outweigh the risks and insist on letting children use a trampoline, here are some trampoline safety tips to ensure they do not injure themselves:

1. No children under 6

Children under 6 should not use a trampoline under any circumstances. Their bodies are not developed enough, and their bones are not strong enough to handle the impact of repetitive jumping. Allowing children under six on a trampoline can cause brain and spine injuries as well as organ damage.


2. Always supervise

Parental supervision during the bouncing is also highly recommended. The presence of an adult can prevent children messing around. And should an accident happen, the parent is within easy reach of offering first aid.


3. One child at a time

One of the most important tips for trampoline safety is to only have one child bouncing at a time. Collision injuries are common with children on trampolines. Children often do not have a developed sense of balance, and trampolines can often bounce them unpredictably. So, allowing two or more children on a trampoline at the same time can cause serious risk.


4. Ensure correct clothing is worn

Children should be wearing safe clothing while using a trampoline. Drawstrings should not be worn as they can get stuck in springs which can cause children to fall off the trampoline or into the springs. Shoes should also not be worn as they can make it more difficult for children to keep balance while jumping, damage the surface of the trampoline creating future hazards, and shoelaces can get caught in springs and the enclosure. Long pants should also be considered to prevent grazes and nylon burns.


5. No dangerous tricks

Many trampoline injuries occur when landing incorrectly. Performing tricks such as flips should be left in the gymnasium, where there is the supervision of trained professionals. Dangerous tricks such as flips can result in spinal and head injuries, which can be devastating for the development of children.


Buying and setting up for trampoline safety

There is a list of guidelines that should be followed to help establish what trampoline is safest for kids. This is to ensure you are correctly using the safest equipment to minimize injury:

Correct trampoline placement

When choosing the perfect spot for the family trampoline, make sure you pick a place that has no obstacles, equipment, poles, fences, debris, or even clothes lines near it. This eliminates any risk of accidental collision or strain during your child’s bouncing time. Placing your trampoline on even ground guarantees that the trampoline stays where it should be.

If you reside in a windy area, you might consider anchoring your trampoline to the ground. Many manufacturers include anchors in their trampoline package. You can also purchase anchors online or at a local hardware store.


Always ensure the jumping area is clean

Always check that there are no toys, clothes, leaves, or small branches on trampolines as they can all cause serious problems. You should also perform regular inspections on the trampoline springs, enclosure, and jump surface for damage. You may need to buy replacement parts to substitute any torn or worn out ones.


Buying and setting up for trampoline safety

Investing in a quality trampoline is a must if you wish to guarantee your child plays safely. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it will cost you a fortune, as many quality and inexpensive trampolines exist. Choose the one that fits your needs and pocketbook best. But no matter which one you pick, please make sure it meets the following criteria:

  • The trampoline must have a layer of padding around its poles and over its springs or, even better, have a net around the edges. Your child must never come in contact with any metal parts. Investing in a trampoline with a safety net enclosure is vital, especially when younger children are involved. Many trampolines use arched poles instead of straight ones. This ensures children don’t jump into poles or netting.
  • Also, ensure your trampoline has safety pads over the springs, and if not, install them. Springs need to be covered completely as a significant percentage of injuries are caused by toes or fingers being caught in trampoline springs.


Consider a round trampoline:

Round trampolines offer less bounce. Buying a round trampoline could be a lot safer than purchasing a rectangular or a square one. Less bounce equals less space for dangerous maneuvers and somersaults. It also means children are more likely to bounce in the center of the trampoline (and away from the edges) as that is where they can bounce the highest.

If you purchase the right trampoline, establish strict trampoline rules for kids, and supervise your children, there are benefits to be had from trampolining. But keep in mind that there is a risk of injury, so always be prepared for the worst.


A special note on trampoline therapy

If you’re looking into trampoline therapy for children and want to use trampolines for therapeutic or medical value, look into rebound therapy and consider purchasing a mini-trampoline instead of traditional trampolines. You absolutely must consult medical professionals before doing this.


  1. Nice article i loved the way you explained. Jumping on trampoline is really a great activity, which I think no one wants to miss. But as you discussed it becomes important that your trampoline choice should be best so that you can make yourself protective while jumping on it. If you are also looking for trampoline then don’t delay visit on website Happy Trampoline and choose the best trampoline for your family ……..


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