Trampoline parks are growing in popularity day after day. As our kids don’t seem to run out of energy, they see it as the perfect outlet to burn off some steam. It’s just the perfect match.
But as we find out as we grow old, with great fun comes great responsibility. Countless injuries have been reported in trampoline parks in the US which led the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to strongly discourage kids using backyard trampolines. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons also takes a dim view on trampolines because of the risk of injuries.
Ways to prevent injuries
Here are a few things to keep in mind the next time you let your kids use trampolines to avoid injuries:
- Use safety nets and pads. Make sure a proper trampoline enclosure is installed properly and well-maintained as well as pads that covers the framing, springs and perimeter landing surfaces. This prevents the kids from falling off the edges that could cause sprains or worse, broken bones.
- Implement an age limit. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children under 6 years of age should not be allowed to use trampolines as they are more at risk of trampoline related injuries.
- Limit the number of people. One of the most common injuries in using trampolines are caused by colliding with other users who were jumping at the same time. Most concerning thing is, it has even led to the deaths of a few children. Also, a botched attempt in doing the double jump (landing at the same time from a jump for a stronger bounce) can result to pressures strong enough to cause fractures.
- Supervision is key. Most of the kids are adventurous. They want to try new things and new stunts as they play in the trampolines. Thus, we as parents have to keep an eye on them. They can sprain a wrist or an ankle, or fracture an arm or leg just from a bad landing. They can attempt a somersault or other stunt and land on their head injuring their necks. They could have fallen and being stomped on by other kids oblivious to screams of pain. Having an adult around to supervise the kids as they have their fun in the trampoline could dramatically lessen the risk for such injuries.
Remind your kids
All these being said, we don’t condone trampoline parks as we as adults can also see the potential of the fun it could bring. Also, we understand that there is a risk in everything be it sports, travelling, or even just being in a car. Just remind the kids to play safe while keeping it fun.
Source: CBS News
Also read: Emergency first aid for common household injuries: Important info for parents