Trampoline safety for kids: We know how much kids just love bouncing around in general, and what better way to do this than on a trampoline? But once you hear this mum's story, you are bound to think twice before even letting your little one go near a trampoline.
Kait Ellen is mummy to sweet three-year-old Colton. Just a few weeks ago, she, her husband and little Colton headed to an indoor trampoline park for some good old family fun.
All was going well until the little boy fell... and broke his femur - the strongest bone in his body. He wasn't even jumping alone - his parents were right by his side (on squares next to him) on the trampoline.
Kait posted a very strong message on Facebook after the incident so that all parents become aware of the very real danger jumping on a trampoline can pose to young children.
Trampolines not suitable for young children
Following the accident, Kait describes their lives as having 'turned upside down'. She explains that every single day is a struggle for the little boy as he gets used to his cast.
She says, "we share this with you today to spread awareness that these facilities are specifically advertising for Toddler Time, when in fact toddlers should be no where near trampolines. We hope by sharing his story it will prevent a child and their family from experiencing the trauma and heartbreak associated with trampoline injuries in young children."
Kait also emphasises a point that not many parents might know about. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, "children under the age of six should never use a trampoline."
This is because their bones - which are still fragile and developing - cannot take the repetitive pressure of repeated, high-pressure jumping, and as such, serious injuries can be sustained.
Note: the Facebook post has since been removed.
Trampolines and kids
Trampolines are super fun, but they also put kids at great risk of injury when proper safety procedures are not followed.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, common trampoline-sustained injuries include:
- Concussion and other head injuries
- Broken bones, sometimes needing surgery
- Severe head and neck injuries, possibly leading to permanent paralysis or even death
- Sprains/strains
- Bruises, scrapes, and cuts
Most trampoline injuries occur when there is more than one person using a trampoline, stresses the AAP.
Other than this, kids get hurt on the trampoline during the following instances:
When they,
- land wrong while jumping.
- land wrong while flipping and doing somersaults (this should not be allowed because of the risk of head and neck injuries).
- try stunts.
- strike or are struck by another person.
- fall or jump off the trampoline.
- land on the springs or frame.
The professional recommendation is that you should NOT get a trampoline for your home. Yes, they are fun and way of getting active for your kids, but there are much safer alternatives to this, such as riding a bike, or various sports.
According to the AAP, "mini and full-sized trampolines never be used at home, in routine gym classes, or on playgrounds. They should only be used in supervised training programs for gymnastics, diving, or other competitive sports. Only one person should be allowed on a trampoline at any given time."
If you do choose to have a home trampoline, then keep the following safety tips from the AAP in mind at all times:
- Adult supervision at all times
- Only one jumper on the trampoline at a time
- No somersaults performed
- Adequate protective padding on the trampoline that is in good condition and appropriately placed
- Check all equipment often
- When damaged, protective padding, the net enclosure, and any other parts should be repaired or replaced
We wish little Colton a speedy recovery. Mums and dads, share this article to spread awareness.
*Images from Facebook.