There is no doubt that most kids would be thrilled to have a trampoline in their own backyard. Of course, many adults who had access to a trampoline as kids themselves are likely to have fond memories of jumping, playing games, and doing tricks as well. However, the connection between trampolines and happy, carefree playtime in childhood is not as straightforward as nostalgia may have parents believe. There are several risk factors that families should carefully consider before setting up a trampoline at home, despite the seemingly obvious benefits of kids having one for their personal fun.

In reality, the choice of whether to have a trampoline for your family’s home use is more complex than it may appear. Therefore, we’ve compiled some pros and cons for parents to help in making a decision whether a trampoline is right for their kids.

Pros of Trampolines for Kids

 

There are several benefits to having a trampoline for home use. Trampolines can help kids learn social skills such as learning to take turns and cooperate with peers as well as develop spatial awareness and physical confidence. In addition, they can be a source of exercise and fun for the whole family.

Here are just some of the pros of trampolines for families:

Jumping/Bouncing

Jumping and bouncing can promote gross motor skills, enhance balance, build coordination, and allow for muscle development and improved bone density in children.

Outside Playtime

Playing on a trampoline outside is beneficial for getting fresh air, vitamin D, and time away from screens and digital media.

Exercise

Safe trampoline play is a good form of exercise for kids, enhancing cardiovascular fitness, improving sleep patterns, and providing an outlet for excessive energy.

Fun

Ultimately, playing on a trampoline is fun for children (and even adults)—whether they are doing it independently or with others.

Cons of Trampolines for Kids

Though trampolines can certainly be a source of excitement and active playtime for children, there are some serious risk factors for families to consider before installing a trampoline at home. In fact, most medical health professionals and organizations do not recommend trampoline use outside of supervised training programs for sports such as gymnastics.

Here are just some of the cons of trampolines for families:

Risk of Short-Term Injury

Trampolines pose a high risk of temporary injury for kids, including scrapes, bruises, sprains, fractured or broken limbs, concussions, and more.

Risk of Long-Term Injury

There is also an elevated risk of severe and/or permanent injury with trampoline use, especially those related to the head, neck, and spine.

Protection During Inclement Weather

Protecting and maintaining a trampoline can be an added hassle during inclement weather, such as storms, high winds, heavy snow, etc.

Homeowner Liability

Families can be at risk for liability and homeowners insurance issues if another child/person is hurt due to a trampoline on the property.

Safety Is Essential

Aside from any pros or cons in terms of trampolines for kids, safety is of the utmost importance. This includes the safety and security of anyone who may use the trampoline as well as anyone who may be near it.

Thankfully, there are safety measures that adults can take to mitigate the risks for children playing on trampolines, such as:

• Supervision: children should be carefully and thoroughly supervised at all times when playing on a trampoline
• Proper installation: parents should thoroughly read the owner’s manual for the trampoline for proper installation and use
• Safe location: trampolines should be placed on level ground, away from trees and any structures
• Age minimum: children should be six years old, at minimum, to play on a trampoline
• Limiting participants: trampoline use should be limited to one child at a time to lower the risk of accident or injury
• Limiting actions: stunts or tricks, such as somersaults, cartwheels, etc., should be prohibited on trampolines

In addition to these measures, parents can enhance the safety of a trampoline by purchasing pads that absorb shock and completely cover the metal frame, springs, and hooks of the apparatus. A net enclosure should also be added (kids should not be allowed to climb or hang on the netting). If the trampoline or equipment shows any signs of wear, such as tearing, be sure to replace or repair it immediately.

When weighing the pros and cons of trampolines for kids, parents should conduct thorough research through reputable sites such as the American Academy of Pediatrics. It’s also important to consider your individual children, especially their developmental and physical capabilities.

It’s also valuable for parents to seek potential alternatives to a home trampoline. Many cities and communities have trampoline-park facilities with qualified personnel to supervise activity areas and ensure proper and safe use of equipment.

At Cognisprings, we support parents looking for safe, educational, and entertaining toys that encourage the overall growth, development, and critical thinking of children. That’s why we provide unique games, books, and puzzles that are thoughtfully designed to enhance children’s motor skills, creativity, and confidence in their abilities.

Our products allow children to express themselves as growing individuals, safely away from dependence on screens and digital entertainment. This fosters a healthy sense of identity and self-awareness. It’s more important than ever for families to spend time, connect, and learn with each other. Cognisprings helps create lasting memories by prioritizing excellent options for screen-free fun, healthy development, curiosity, and learning.