Are Trampolines Safe for Kids?

Trampolines can be fun, but they also carry a risk of injury, especially for kids. Dr. Erik King, a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Lurie Children's explains the safety risks of children jumping on trampolines and other considerations for parents. 

How dangerous are trampolines?

Trampolines pose a safety risk to people of all ages but especially children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages trampolines for home use altogether due to the high number of injuries, including:

• Broken bones
• Concussions or other head or neck injuries
• Sprains and fractures
• Cuts, scrapes and bruises

Younger children (under 6) are more at risk because their bones are weaker and their coordination is developing. Safety nets can prevent kids from falling off, but injuries still occur in other ways. Having multiple people on the trampoline increases the chance of collisions and injuries.

Are trampolines with a handlebar safer?

Not necessarily. The handlebar itself could pose a risk, such as a child falling onto it, or landing awkwardly while holding it.

Are bounce houses safe?

Bounce houses offer an additional safety barrier thanks to their padded walls. Still, children using them can land awkwardly, collide with other children or fall out of the bounce house. These falls can lead to bumps, bruises, sprains and broken bones. Just like trampolines, bounce houses should be used only with adult supervision. Proper setup of the bounce house and limiting the number of jumpers help increase safety.

Trampoline Safety Guidelines

Avoiding trampolines altogether is the safest option but ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a trampoline is up to a child’s parent or guardian. The AAP and Lurie Children’s providers recommend being aware of risks and taking safety measures to minimize them. 

• If you do get a trampoline, adult supervision is essential.
• Place the trampoline on an even surface. There should also be enclosure netting and padding around the frame and springs to minimize falls.
• Routinely check the trampoline equipment to make sure there isn't damage.
• Allow only one person on the trampoline at a time. 
• Never allow children under six years old on a trampoline.
• Remember there are safer ways for kids to get exercise, like gymnastics classes or trampolines at supervised facilities. 

Despite how many safety protocols are followed, it still does not guarantee that injury will not occur. If your child sustains an injury and is unable to walk on their own or a bone/joint appears out of place, seek immediate evaluation in an urgent care or pediatric emergency department setting. 

Learn more about Pediatric Orthopedics

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