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Best Trampoline for Kids and Toddlers: Our Top Picks For Indoor and Outdoor Play
Hello and welcome. In this post, we’re going to shortlist the best trampolines for kids of different ages, both for indoor and backyard use, along with the reviews, strong and weak points.
If you’re a parent, you’re probably perfectly aware of the fact that the current generation of kids prefers to spend their time at home playing computer games or watching movies.
Most would rather stay indoors than go cycling or swimming. But there’s one item that might just change their minds- trampolines!
Kids’ trampolines not only offer entertainment, but it will also pique your child’s interest in outdoor play. The best part is, some trampolines are versatile enough to be set up indoors in case of bad weather.
The only question that remains is, how do you choose a trampoline from the dozens of options on the market? Should you look for one with an enclosure? What’s the difference between a springless and spring-based trampoline?
These are the question that we wanted to answer in this post. Not only we’ve listed the best kids’ trampolines available, but we’ve also provided a guide to help you make an informed purchase decision. Let’s dive in!
Our Top Kids’ Trampoline Picks If You’re In a Hurry
Kids Trampoline Reviews – Our Top Picks for 2020
When compiling this list, we looked for trampolines that offer both safety and entertainment. As such, the majority of them include safety features such as handrails and enclosure nets.
This segment includes reviews of trampolines for indoor and outdoor play.
Best Indoor Trampoline for Kids
If you’re purchasing an indoor trampoline, there are a couple of things you should look for. For one, it should be the right size so it fits perfectly in the space you’ve set aside. Two, the legs of the trampoline should be encased in protective material.
Here are some of the best indoor trampolines to consider:
LBLA 36-Inch Little Trampoline – Best Overall
Looking to invest in an indoor trampoline with a good selection of features? The 36-inch Little Trampoline by LBLA is an excellent choice. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
A distinguishing characteristic of this trampoline is the handrail. This is included specifically to enhance your child’s safety as they play. For that reason, it’s padded to provide the user with a secure grip.
It can also be adjusted both horizontally and vertically. The vertical adjustment range is 24.5 to 36 inches. The horizontal one is 18 to 36 inches.
This adjustability is a crucial feature as it enables you to configure the trampoline to your child’s height and size. More importantly, it means the trampoline grows with your child; the recommended age limit is 3 to 6 years.
Although this trampoline is described as being little, this doesn’t mean that it’s cheaply made. Constructed using steel, this is by far one of the most durable trampolines on the market. Its maximum weight capacity is 132 lbs. It’s also equipped with 6 legs, which further enhance its stability.
Worried that the trampoline might take up too much space in your home? You don’t need to be as the LBLA is foldable. Once your toddler is done playing, fold it up and hide away to save on space.
Pros
- Sturdy construction consisting of steel
- Kids trampoline with a bar to provide a firm grip
- Space-saving foldable design
- The handrail is also adjustable to accommodate different users’ needs
- Generous weight capacity
Cons
- Not as easy to assemble as advertised
Little Tikes 3′ Trampoline – Kids Trampoline with Bar
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on an indoor trampoline, Little Tikes is a great budget option. Despite its reasonable pricing, this trampoline sports numerous kid-friendly features.
For starters, there’s a handrail installed over the jumping surface. This allows your child to hold onto the bar while they jump. This minimizes their chances of falling.
Also, the entire trampoline is padded- from the frame to the play mat. This is also to prevent your toddler from hurting themselves severely in case they trip.
Another feature you’ll love about this trampoline is its minimalist design. This offers two key benefits.
One, it’s incredibly easy to assemble. The majority of buyers report spending just 10 to 15 minutes to assemble the whole thing. The second benefit is that it occupies a fairly small space. To be specific, the trampoline is about 36 inches long and 36 inches wide.
The length from the jumping area to the top of the handrail is 26.25 inches. This makes Little Tikes suitable for kids aged between 3 and 6 years.
Important to note though is that its maximum weight limit is 55 lbs. Exceeding this recommended load can cause the mat to rip. This creates a risk of your toddler getting injured in the process.
Also, the manufacturer recommends that the trampoline be used by one child at a time.
Pros
- Compact design; perfect for small spaces
- Easy assembly
- Slip-resistant feet to protect your floors
Cons
- Has a fairly small weight limit
Bazoongi Bouncer – Best High Bounce Trampoline
Looking for a trampoline that will allow your child to jump to extreme heights? If so, the Bazoongi Bouncer Trampoline is just what you need. It’s spring-based, which is why it’s able to provide a greater bounce.
This trampoline sports a simple design and is made of fairly lightweight material. This makes it easy to carry around in case you need to transport it to a different room.
It’s also highly stable thanks to the incorporation of 6 sturdy legs. Plus, these feet have rubber caps to ensure the trampoline doesn’t scratch your floor.
Another feature that sets this trampoline apart is that it provides quite a large jumping surface. More specifically, the playmat has a diameter of 48 inches, making it larger than most other models.
Though it’s big enough to accommodate two kids, it’s advisable to have just one kid jump at a time.
The trampoline also has a handrail to provide a secure grip. This is particularly handy for toddlers who’ve never used trampolines before. What’s more, this handle is adjustable. Meaning, you can configure it to suit your child’s height.
That said, Bazoongi Bouncer has a maximum weight load of 100 pounds. Thus, it’s important that you don’t exceed this limit.
Pros
- Six-legged for optimal stability
- Adjustable handrail makes it ideal for kids of different sizes
- Spring construction provides a better bounce
Cons
- A little difficult to assemble
- The foam on the handrail peels off over time
Skywalker Mini Trampoline – Best Toddler Trampoline with Net
Skywalker Trampolines is a favorite brand for many, and for good reason. They provide safe and quality trampolines at a reasonable price, and their Mini Trampoline is no exception.
The primary highlight of this trampoline is the enclosure net. One of the best safety features, this enclosure enables your child to bounce up and down without falling over.
Skywalker has used a fine mesh to construct this net. This is to ensure that your child’s fingers and toes don’t get trapped.
The fact that this enclosure is sewn directly to the jump mat is another factor that enhances your toddler’s safety. This is because it eliminates gaps where your child would otherwise get stuck or trapped.
The springless design of the Mini Trampoline is another impressive aspect. Instead of springs, the manufacturer has used stretch bands, which are considered a safer alternative.
Also, this trampoline features a space theme and is available in two color schemes. You can choose the blue model with red and gray accents. Or opt for the dark blue with grey accents.
Given all these features, it’s not surprising that this trampoline is pricier than other models. So if these factors are important, consider investing in the Mini Trampoline.
Besides, it’s backed by an extended warranty. This comprises a 3-year limited coverage on the frame and additional 1-year coverage on other components.
Check the price at Amazon here >>
Pros
- Gap-free enclosure net improves user’s safety
- Comes with a 3-year warranty on frame
- Available in two color options
- Springless design
Cons
- Not suitable for older kids
Trampoline Pro Mini Indoor Trampoline – Perfect For Gymnasts
If you’re purchasing a trampoline specifically for an aspiring gymnast, it should have several essential features.
These include a strong frame, enclosure net, and a sizable jumping surface. One trampoline that checks most of these boxes is the Mini Indoor Trampoline.
This trampoline has a diameter of 48 inches. While it’s not the biggest in our review, it’s certainly bigger than most models on the market. With a larger jumping surface, you can comfortably practice a variety of gymnastic routines.
Another feature that makes this trampoline perfect for gymnasts is the fact that it comes with a jump sensor. This detector comes in the form of a belt that ought to be strapped around the user’s waist.
The way this sensor works is by sending your child’s jumping statistics to an app via Bluetooth. The app, which can be downloaded on a phone or tablet, helps to monitor progress.
Better yet, it recommends dozens of other games that can be played on a trampoline. This means that your child will never run out of things to do on their new play equipment.
For safety, the Mini Indoor Trampoline comes with a grab bar. Thus, the user has a place to hold onto when performing complex moves. Similarly, it has an enclosure to prevent your toddler from falling off the trampoline.
Pros
- Includes a jump sensor
- Works with a highly-interactive app
- Backed by a 30-day guarantee
- Fitted with handrail and enclosure
Cons
- The safety bar is too thin
PRO TIP: We have reviewed more trampolines for gymnastics reviewed here.
smarTrike 9200000 Indoor Trampoline – Mini Trampoline for Kids
Are you looking for a trampoline that even your 10-month old baby can enjoy? smarTrike Toddler Trampoline is just what you need. It combines a series of kids’ activities and comes with a decent price tag.
This activity center combines a 2-stage trampoline and a ball pit. This gives your child a range of fun activities to pick from.
According to the manufacturer, the ball pit is safe for toddlers as young as 10 months. And, the package includes at least 100 small-sized balls. Thus, your child can start playing as soon as they get the ball pit.
Once your baby is a little older or has learned to walk on their own, they can start using the trampoline. One thing we like about this trampoline is that it’s very colorful. Thus, your child will be attracted to it and encouraged to stay active right from day one.
The trampoline is also built using high-quality materials to provide durability. This constitutes a highly-elastic play mat and strong elastic bands that enhance its bounce. There’s also a padded and detachable handlebar to offer your child maximum support while they jump.
Not every parent is a DIY enthusiast. Luckily for you, the 3-in-1 smarTrike arrives ready to use straight out of the box. That’s right, you don’t have to do any assembly either on the trampoline or the ball pit. Also, the two items can be folded and stored away to save on space.
Pros
- The ball pit is perfect for very young kids
- The trampoline includes a padded handrail for user’s safety
- Does not require any assembly
- An elastic jumping mat for an even and safe bounce
Cons
- The activity center is not easy to fold up
Wamkos 2020 Upgraded Mini Trampoline – Best for Older Kids
Sporting a stylish camo design and a massive dinosaur picture on the jumping mat, the Wamkos Mini Trampoline is ideal for older kids.
Despite being called a mini trampoline for kids, this equipment is far from being simple or small. When assembled, it measures 36 inches long and 9 inches high with a diameter of 36 inches.
More importantly, the entire setup can support weights of up to 220 lbs. It is this generous weight capacity that makes it suitable for older kids.
Wamkos trampoline has a rather sophisticated design that sets it apart. Contrary to traditional models that use elastic springs, this one has a frame made from 30 rust-resistant bungee loops.
Not only do these loops provide a better bounce, but they’re also more durable than conventional spring systems. Also, the heavy-duty polypropylene material used for the mat’s build further helps to provide a consistent bounce.
The feet of this trampoline are encased in heavy-duty rubber, and this offers several benefits. For one, it prevents the trampoline from scratching your floor when it’s in use.
Secondly, the rubber feet minimize the level of noise resulting from the trampoline’s constant movement. Lastly, they provide a firm grip to the floor, preventing the trampoline from tipping over.
Like most of the kids’ trampolines we’ve reviewed, this one also sports a handrail. But what sets this one apart is the fact that this safety bar is covered in very thick foam (7 mm thick).
This ensures that even if your child sweats- as they’re likely to when jumping on a trampoline- they’ll still have a solid grip on it.
Pros
- Comes with a camouflage and dinosaur design to attract kids
- Equipped with a handrail for safety
- Instruction manual provided for easy assembly
- Rubber feet to minimize noise and protect your floors
- Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- The feet need to be tightened every once in a while to ensure they don’t come loose
Doufit Trampoline – Perfect for Twins or 2 Kids
If you have twins, multiples, or kids who are close in age, Doufit Trampoline will work better for you.
The trampoline’s large jumping surface is what makes it suitable for use by two people. This could be two toddlers or a parent and their child. Thanks to its generous weight limit of 220 pounds, the trampoline fosters interactive parent-child exercises and activities.
Also crucial to note is that this jumping mat is connected to 40 steel springs. The use of steel springs ensures that the platform is stressed evenly. As a result, the trampoline’s setup is safer and more elastic.
Doufit Trampoline also prides itself on being user-friendly. The frame is foldable, enabling you to assemble and disassemble with ease.
It’s also equipped with a high-quality handrail for user’s safety. This grab bar offers 5-level height adjustability. It’s also covered in foam to provide an anti-skid grip.
Pros
- Waterproof jumping mat ideal for outdoor use
- Massive weight limit means it’s suitable for 2-person use
- Spring build enhances safety and elasticity
- Comes with an adjustable and foam-covered handrail
Cons
- The spring construction may not work for everyone
Best Outdoor Trampoline for Kids
When it comes to outdoor trampolines, you don’t have to worry as much about size. Most of the models are well-sized so they’re likely to fit in any backyard or garden.
What you should be more concerned about is how well it can withstand weather elements. This is because it will be constantly exposed to UV rays, wind, snow, rain, and more.
Here are some of the best outdoor trampoline for kids.
Sportspower My First Trampoline – Best Overall
Looking for a trampoline that is built to last? My First Trampoline by Sportspower is an excellent candidate.
There are several features that make this trampoline more durable than others. For starters, the frame is made of rust-resistant galvanized steel. This means that it can withstand traces of moisture or a light shower without incurring significant damage from rusting.
Furthermore, both the mesh enclosure and jumping mat are made of UV-resistant materials. Lastly, the metallic legs are encased in molded plastic to prevent corrosion and rust.
My First Trampoline includes a net that covers its perimeter all-round. Not only does this improve user’s safety but it also makes it easy for you to monitor your child while they play.
Some parents might be hesitant to invest in this trampoline due to its spring design, which can sometimes compromise a child’s safety. Luckily, this model comes with a spring cover so none of the springs are exposed, minimizing the risk of injury.
Another thing we love about this outdoor trampoline is the fact that your child can use it when they’re older. Its maximum weight capacity is 220 lbs., meaning it’s suitable for older kids.
And while it’s not equipped with a ladder, this trampoline is low enough to the ground that even a three-year-old can climb onto it safely. That said, the manufacturer states that this piece of equipment can only be used by one child at a time.
Pros
- Durable build
- Spring cover enhances safety
- Low profile for easy entry and exit
- Mesh net for unrestricted visibility
Cons
- No handrail to offer support to younger kids
Skywalker Jump N’ Dunk – Best Trampoline with Basketball Hoop
Does your child quickly tire or get bored of doing the same thing over and over again? If so, they’ll love the Jump N’ Dunk Trampoline that integrates a game of basketball.
One thing that Skywalker Trampolines is known for is its emphasis on safety. In line with this, the manufacturer uses a patented enclosure system.
This ensures there aren’t any gaps between the jumping surface and the spring system underneath. To be specific, the springs are positioned around the enclosure’s exterior to enhance safety.
Moreover, the trampoline- and all other accessories including the hoop- are made of soft materials. The purpose of this is to minimize injury in case your toddler ends up hitting their head against the basketball board.
If you’re still hesitant about the trampoline’s level of safety, consider this- it’s been tested and found to comply with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards.
The brand’s extensive warranty is a nice addition to the package. There’s a 3-year coverage on the frame and 1-year coverage on the rest of the components.
Pros
- Includes a basketball hoop for more fun
- Equipped with safety features
- Adheres to ASTM safety standards
- Backed by an extensive warranty
Cons
- Replacement parts are difficult to come by
Zupapa Kids – Most Durable Trampoline
If your primary concern is durability, Zupapa Kids Trampoline is a superb choice!
The tube frame is constructed using deep galvanized steel. What this means is that the steel has been coated with a layer of zinc. As a result, it offers up to 5 times better resistance to corrosion and rusting.
Another benefit that results from the hot-dip galvanization process is stability. While most outdoor trampolines can only support 300 pounds, Zupapa can hold up to 375 pounds of weight.
And it’s not just the tube frame that’s galvanized. The 7-inch springs used to make the jumping mat are also galvanized. This not only improves their durability, but also the quality of bounce.
Zupapa understands the extent of damage on trampolines that can be caused by rain, snow, and the sun’s UV rays. For this reason, they’ve provided a rain cover, which helps to extend your trampoline’s life.
Given the quality build of this trampoline, it is no wonder that it comes with such a generous warranty. This includes a 10-year warranty for the frame and 2-year coverage on the mat, enclosure, springs, and safety pad.
Pros
- Highly durable frame and springs
- Non-slip ladder for convenient entry and exit
- Extended warranty on frame and other parts
- 375-pound weight limit
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
Giantex – Best Outdoor Toddler Trampoline
Trampolines are so versatile that they can be used by children of all ages. Giantex Trampoline is ideal for toddlers as young as three years old.
One of the features that make this trampoline perfect for toddlers is the fact that it’s low to the ground. This makes it really easy for younger kids to get on and off.
Secondly, Giantex has one of the most colorful designs. This comprises a blue enclosure net with a red perimeter ring at the top and green-colored support poles. Thanks to this beautiful design, your inquisitive toddler will be drawn to it right off the bat.
The trampoline’s legs are U-shaped legs and evenly spaced out on the base. The shape and arrangement of these legs provide ample stability and support.
Giantex also includes a handy enclosure netting. This is attached firmly to the steel tubes that connect it to the spring cover.
But what we like most is how ingeniously the alignment of this enclosure is done. This ensures that there aren’t any gaps where your child’s feet or fingers could get trapped.
The manufacturer has also done a decent job of providing all the accessories you’ll need to get started. These include a steel frame, safety enclosure combo, jumping mat, and additional hardware.
The only drawback is that the trampoline is not easy to assemble. The instructions are vague and the pictures difficult to understand.
Pros
- U-shaped poles provide ample stability
- Enclosure attached nicely to prevent gap formation
- Large weight limit of 275 lbs.
- Sturdy build consisting of galvanized steel
Cons
- Hard to install
North Gear Trampoline Set – Best with Ladder and Enclosure
It’s hard to come by a trampoline that has all the essential components. The majority of manufacturers avoid providing ladders or steps to cut down on production costs. But the North Gear Trampoline Set proves that you can have everything you need under one roof.
Recommended for children aged 4 years and up, this trampoline includes a sturdy ladder. This 2-step ladder works fairly well as the trampoline is not too far off the ground.
Apart from the ladder, North Gear has also equipped this trampoline with a protective net. This enclosure is constructed using heavy-duty polypropylene mesh, and it keeps your child from falling off.
For the frame, the manufacturer has used galvanized steel. This is to enhance the trampoline’s strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
We also like that the package includes a rain cover. This feature not only protects your trampoline from weather elements, but it also keeps the trampoline clean. This way, you don’t have to clean it as often as you usually would.
Pros
- Comes with a safety net and ladder
- Trampoline cover to extend its life
- Complies with GS safety guidelines
Cons
- Quality of the safety net requires some improvement
Propel Trampolines Indoor/Outdoor Trampoline – Most Compact
If you have a small backyard, Propel Indoor/Outdoor Trampoline is a great option. With a circumference of just 7 feet, this trampoline takes up a very small space.
Despite its compact design, the trampoline doesn’t skimp on essential features. For one, it has an enclosure net to enhance your child’s safety. Better yet, it includes a basketball hoop, allowing your child to practice how to shoot.
The 86-inch tall trampoline is highly stable. It’s supported using 4 strong and wide legs that keep it planted firmly in the ground. So regardless of how aggressively your child jumps or plays basketball, the trampoline is unlikely to tip over.
The T-bracket system is another aspect that enhances the trampoline’s safety. This is incorporated so as to prevent the frame from twisting during use.
Also important to note is that the frame uses a spring system. To be specific, it’s made of 40 springs that facilitate a smooth and consistent bounce.
Pros
- Equipped with a free basketball hoop
- Uses an advanced T-bracket system to hold the frame in position
- 4 wide U-shaped legs improve the trampoline’s stability
Cons
- The 150-pound recommended weight limit is limiting
Acon Air 4.6 Trampoline with Premium Enclosure – Best Bounce
If you’re looking for a trampoline that will give your child a really high bounce, Acon Air 4.6 trampoline is your best bet.
What sets this trampoline apart is the use of the manufacturer’s Synergy Design. This works by optimizing individual springs so that they produce the full punch.
While other trampolines restrict the performance of the springs, this one provides the full experience.
Another feature that makes the 4.6 Trampoline worth investing in is the jumping mat. This is made of UV-treated polypropylene material. As such, it can withstand prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays.
Acon Air is a highly-versatile trampoline. It doesn’t have any weight restrictions meaning you can also use it to work out when your child is not using it.
Check the price at Amazon here >>
Pros
- Uses Acon Air Synergy Design for improved bounce quality
- U-shaped legs for optimal stability
- Ideal for kids and adults
- Has a durable build that makes it suitable for all-year-round use
Cons
- Too bulky and heavy to disassemble or move by yourself
Octagon Magic Circle Trampoline – Perfect for Teens
There’s no doubt that your child enjoys jumping on a trampoline. But do you know what they’d find even more fun? Being able to bounce on the trampoline with their teen sibling.
The Octagon Magic Circle has the largest weight limit of 450 pounds. This makes it suitable for older children and even adults. As implied in its name, this trampoline has an octagon shape. The benefit of this is that it provides more room for manoeuvrability.
Given its size and load capacity, it’s not surprising that the trampoline occupies quite a bit of space. As such, you’ll want to ensure that you have ample space in your backyard to set it up. This also means that you’ll need help piecing it together.
The trampoline is also fitted with 112 heavy-duty galvanized springs and 52 coils. The springs work well together to provide the user with a responsive bounce.
Pros
- Octagon design provides more room
- U-shaped legs for maximum stability
- Incredible weight limit makes it suitable for teens and adults
Cons
- Requires a large area to set it up
Kids’ Trampoline Buying Guide
With so many trampolines on the market, it can be difficult to find one that’s suitable for your child. Listed below are essential features that will help to narrow down your options.
Choosing the Right Size for your Child
The most crucial factor you should take into account is the trampoline’s size. Usually, companies make trampolines for specific age-groups. Here’s a size chart to guide you:
Child’s Age | Diameter of Trampoline |
---|---|
1 to 3-year-old | Toddler/ Mini trampoline |
4-year-old | Mini trampoline/ 4.5 ft to 6 ft |
5-year-old | 6 ft to 8 ft |
6-year-old | 6 ft to 10 ft |
7-year-old | 8 ft to 10 ft |
8-year-old | 8 ft to 12 ft |
9-year-old | 10 ft to 14 ft |
10-year-old | 12 ft to 14 ft |
11-year-old | 12 ft to 16 ft |
12-year-old | 12 ft to 16 ft |
13-year-old | 12 ft+ |
14-year-old | 14 ft+ |
15-year-old | 14 ft+ |
16-year-old | 14 ft+ |
Now, it’s important to adhere to the recommended age limit. To back this principle is this article published in The Guardian, which then inspired us to write our own in-depth guide to toddler trampolining.
The article explains how kids younger than five years face a higher risk of getting fractures whenever they use trampolines that are too big for them.
Apart from your child’s age, you should also base your decision on the number of users. For instance, will the trampoline be used for occasions like birthdays?
If so, you might want to get a bigger trampoline that can accommodate several kids at a time. Be sure to check and adhere to the recommended weight limit as well.
Also consider the size of your home, backyard, or garden. You don’t want to spend a fortune on a trampoline that ends up being too big for your space.
Choosing the Right Type: Springfree vs. Spring-based
There are two main kinds of trampolines: spring-based and springless. Both options have safety nets, protective padding, and all the other features you’d want in a trampoline. Thus, your decision will mainly boil down to your personal preferences.
Spring-based
Historically, spring trampolines have gotten a bad rep for being unreliable and unsafe. While it’s true that a lot of people fall on the springs and injure themselves, these incidents are rare.
Plus, they only happen under these two conditions:
- Poorly-designed trampolines that don’t have any high-grade protective covers
- Protective covers that aren’t attached or are poorly attached
As long as you invest in a high-quality steel spring, you don’t have to worry about your kids getting into accidents. For instance, most of the spring trampolines in our review come with protective covers, mitigating the risk of accident, and providing a better bounce.
Springless
A Springfree trampoline replaces the traditional springs with composite rods. The latter are placed underneath the jumping mat, and this puts the bouncing mechanism away from the jumper’s path.
Apart from composite rods, some springless trampolines also use elastic bands in place of coil springs. Often, these bands are made of ultra-thick materials to enhance their durability.
With both types of trampolines, the elimination of spring systems reduces the risk of injury to some extent. If you’re dealing with a low-grade spring trampoline, there’s always a slight probability of your legs or fingers getting trapped in the coil springs.
Safety Features to Look For
Enclosure Net
One of the easiest ways to enhance user safety is to invest in a toddler trampoline with net. This is particularly the case if you plan to place this equipment in an outdoor setting.
Check the quality of the mesh or material used to make this netting. It should be thick to withstand your child’s rough play as well as the weather elements. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right material for your trampoline net.
Protective Padding
Another feature you should look for is padding or the material used to cover the edge of the trampoline. A well-padded trampoline means that your child will land on a cushioned surface in case they trip and fall.
Other than the material, check to see if this padding is tightly secured to the frame. This way, you’re guaranteed that it won’t come loose during use.
PRO TIP: It’s also very good idea to get your kids wear special trampoline socks. These will provide the right grip and thus, improve safety.
Keeping Your Child Safe on a Trampoline
Trampolines have become a staple in many American homes. But like ATVs and BB guns, they also pose certain risks to your toddler.
Based on data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 300,000 children and adults were treated for trampoline injuries in 2018.
Should parents avoid trampolines and look for alternative kids’ toys? Not necessarily. By following these tips, you can enhance your child’s safety when they’re playing on the trampoline.
PRO TIP: Be sure to check out our toddler trampolining guide for parents.
Don’t Permit Tumbling
Just because your child has a brand new trampoline doesn’t mean they can start catapulting themselves to the sky! This presents a significant risk of injury.
If your toddler insists that they want to tumble, enroll them in a gymnastics class instead. There, they’ll be taught how to tumble by a professional and use the right equipment.
Trampoline Placement is Key
Trampoline placement is another crucial factor that determines your child’s safety. This is particularly the case when you’re setting up the trampoline outdoors.
The rule of thumb here is to always install this play equipment on level ground. By that, we mean, on a completely flat and uniform area.
If there’s even a slight incline, consider creating small holes in the soil where you can sink the legs further till the trampoline is level.
The ideal area should also have a soft or cushiony surface. For indoor trampolines, this means placing it atop a carpet and for outdoor trampolines, the ideal space should have grass.
One Child at a Time
Unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer, there should be one toddler using the trampoline at any one time.
Based on this research done by the American Academy of Pediatrics, having several jumpers increases the likelihood of accidents.
In addition, you should train your child to jump close or in the center of the trampoline mat.
Don’t Leave Your Child Unsupervised
A grand mistake that a lot of parents make is to leave their child unsupervised on a trampoline. But this should not be the case, especially if they’re using it for the first time. There should always be an adult monitoring their activity.
If you’ve set this equipment outdoors but you’re too busy to monitor them directly, ensure the trampoline has a transparent enclosure. This will allow optimal visibility, making it easy to check on your kids from where you are inside your home.
Don’t Ignore Injuries
Along with training your child to use the trampoline safely, you should also teach them to report accidents. Often, kids are reluctant to say that they got injured because they don’t want the trampoline to be taken away.
This is one of the reasons why you should supervise your toddler. If you notice your child experiencing pain or discomfort, inquire what happened. Use a reassuring and calm tone so they feel free to open up.
In case, they’ve sustained an injury, take the necessary precautions. Essentially, have them rest, elevate, and apply ice on the affected area.
If they don’t feel any better even after administering pain relievers, seek medical attention. You’ll also want to keep them away from the trampoline until they fully recover from their injuries.
Benefits of Using Trampolines
If you have a toddler, you know how much they love bouncing up and down on a trampoline. But are there any real benefits to this activity?
Well, you’ll be surprised to learn just how beneficial trampolining is to your child’s wellbeing.
Improving Balance and Coordination
Jumping on a trampoline without tipping over requires a great deal of coordination and balance. The bouncing action creates a constantly shifting center of mass, which one must respond to quickly to avoid falling.
In the process, your child is able to improve their posture, balance, and motor skills.
It’s a Fun Activity
There’s a reason why your child becomes so happy after bouncing on a trampoline. The motion of jumping constantly improves oxygen circulation.
This, in turn, stimulates the production of endorphins. Endorphins are naturally mood-enhancing hormones, which is why your toddler is always happy.
Staying Fit
Having trouble getting your child to stay active and fit? A trampoline is a great way to get them moving again.
As they bounce countless times on the trampoline, they’re getting a full-body workout. In fact, a study carried out by NASA revealed that bouncing on a trampoline for just 10 minutes offers a better cardio workout than running for 33 minutes.
Best Trampoline for Kids – Wrap Up
Want your little one to be more outdoorsy? Getting them the best trampoline for kids is the way to go. Keep in mind that trampolining will offer a lot more than just entertainment.
Healthline explains how rebounding improves balance, posture, and coordination. It also helps your child to stay fit. More importantly, it provides an opportunity where they can interact with their siblings or peers.
Happy jumping!
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API