Looking for a kids’ trampoline? Read these 5 DONT’s on trampoline safety
You can frequently find yourself reading lists of things to consider while buying a kids trampoline or suggestions for models. We made the decision to change our perspective and came up with a list of five things that parents should avoid when looking for a trampoline for their children. Let’s get going!
DON’T save on trampoline enclosure
That’s it. Even if you choose to disregard every other recommendation on this list, you should still take this one to heart. The price of an enclosed kids trampoline can be hundreds of dollars more compared to the model without it. Yet, when you are looking for a trampoline for kids (or in fact, for anyone), the enclosure is the safety feature to have. Other features can be considered as extra (although we must admit that paddings are highly important, too), but not the enclosure. Keep your kids safe in an enclosed trampoline to avoid any unnecessary harm.
DON’T allow more than one person to jump on a trampoline at a time
Yes. It stinks to hear this, we know. Have you ever noticed, though, how high and uncontrollably the bounce may be when the weight load is uneven? There is a significant weight difference between a 5 year old and a 15 year old, let alone a toddler and an adult, which could cause mishaps. So, only one person at a time should jump on the trampoline.
So how can a family enjoy a kids trampoline together? Well, the whole family can use the trampoline for a variety of non-jumping activities. Additionally, a variety of games and other enjoyable activities can be played with others while only one person is on the trampoline and the others are close by.
DON’T neglect trampoline care and maintenance
Parents frequently overlook trampoline care and upkeep when evaluating various trampoline models. The fact is, even if you purchase the most costly premium trampoline for kids, you’ll eventually need to upgrade one or two components. So, check that the manufacturer you end up purchasing from provides spare parts easily whenever needed. However, trampoline care is not only about changing damaged parts to new ones. This article, for instance, explains thoroughly on why trampoline care matters and how it should be done. TL;DR: maintaining your trampoline is a key step to safe trampolining!
DON’T forget about the importance of the bounce
So how does bounce factor into trampoline safety? As it happens, it is. Parents frequently have the tendency to believe that anything with bounce is harmless as long as it doesn’t have high bounces. What they fail to understand is that a safe bounce is more about predictability than height. Regardless of height, a gentle and smooth bounce is typically much safer than a strong bounce. Naturally, you need more body control as you jump higher, but height is not the only factor in trampoline safety.
Read reviews, and if you’re still unsure, ask for further details about the bounce of the kids trampoline you’re thinking of purchasing. Please be aware that springless and inexpensive trampolines frequently have a strong bounce, which may be uncomfortable.
DON’T allow your kids to do advanced tricks without proper training and supervision
When your children are older, this shouldn’t be a problem, but sooner or later, it might. When done properly, trampoline tricking is a terrific sport that is exciting to watch. There are dangers, though, as with any sport. Therefore, without adequate instruction, young children shouldn’t attempt any advanced trickery. With your children, establish boundaries about what is and isn’t acceptable, and make sure the rules are followed. Safe trampoline fun should also be possible.
What about the DO’s of kids trampoline safety?
We’ve listed five DONT’s. But how about the DO’s. Well, that list could be a blog article on its own. But if you want a short and sweet answer, here you go:
- Check the warranty policy
- Read reviews
- Go through the certifications the product has
- Teach kids how to use the trampoline safely
- Ask questions from the trampoline manufacturer if needed
And that’s basically it. Trampoline safety brings together a number of distinct elements. Even while features aren’t everything, some of them, like the enclosure and safety paddings, are necessary. The bounce should also be considered. A solid bounce increases safety and extends the life of the trampoline so that it can be used for many more years.