While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) continues to actively discourage trampoline use, its updated original policy statement includes guidelines for parents who decide it's OK for kids to take the leap.
1. Only one child should be on the bouncing surface. About 75 percent of trampoline injuries occur when multiple kids are jumping.
2. Smaller, younger children are at higher risk. When there are multiple jumpers, the smallest is up to 14 times more likely to sustain injury compared with heavier ones.
3. Prohibit flips and tricks. Although YouTube is full of wow-inducing video stunts, flips can cause permanent and catastrophic cervical spine injuries.
4. Consider installing netted enclosures and protective padding over springs. (Though the AAP notes that "current data do not appear to demonstrate that netting or padding significantly decrease injury risk.")
5. Adults should supervise children when they're jumping.
Kevyn Burger
