At What Age Can a Child Go on a Trampoline?

Imagine this: it’s a sunny afternoon, the kids are bouncing joyfully, laughter fills the air, and everyone is having a great time. But then—disaster strikes. A little one takes a bad fall and the laughter turns into cries of pain. It’s moments like these that make you think, Was it too soon to let them on the trampoline? Safety is paramount, but understanding the right age for children to engage in trampoline activities is crucial for a healthy, injury-free experience.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has been vocal about their stance on trampolines, especially regarding younger children. According to their guidelines, children under the age of 6 are at a higher risk of injury when using trampolines. Why? Their bones are still developing, their balance isn’t fully refined, and their risk of getting hurt is far higher compared to older children.

The Science Behind It

Studies show that trampoline-related injuries are not just accidents waiting to happen—they are inevitable without proper precautions. Children under six, due to the development stages of their bones, particularly the growth plates, are more susceptible to fractures. Growth plates are areas of developing tissue near the ends of long bones, and any damage here can lead to long-term consequences.

According to the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, trampoline injuries, especially in young children, often lead to fractures and dislocations. The numbers are staggering—over 100,000 injuries annually in the U.S. alone, with children under six making up a large proportion of those. It’s essential to understand the data when making a decision about trampoline safety.

Age Group	Injury Rate (%)	Common Injuries
Under 6	45%	Fractures, sprains, head injuries
6–10	35%	Bruises, sprains, broken bones
11–15	20%	Concussions, broken bones

The Critical 6-Year Mark

The question many parents ask is, “Why six?” Why not four, or why not wait until eight? The answer lies in bone maturity and motor skills. At age six, children’s bones have reached a level of development where they can handle the impact forces of bouncing without causing severe damage to critical areas like the growth plates. They also have better coordination and a greater understanding of safety rules, which dramatically reduces the risk of injury.

However, even at this age, supervision and trampoline safety rules are non-negotiable.

The Role of Supervision

Many parents believe that as long as their child is old enough, they can let them go wild on the trampoline. But this is a dangerous assumption. Unsupervised jumping leads to many injuries that could have been easily avoided. Ensuring that a child is always under adult supervision can prevent risky behavior like double bouncing (where one child lands right after another, amplifying the force of the jump) or attempting flips without proper training.

But What About Trampoline Parks?

Trampoline parks are another factor in this debate. While they may seem safer because they have padded walls and floors, the risks are still prevalent, especially for younger children. Studies indicate that injuries sustained in trampoline parks are not only more frequent but sometimes more severe, due to the high-energy environment and crowded spaces. Just because it's a commercial space doesn't mean it's automatically safer than the trampoline in your backyard.

Safety Guidelines for All Ages

If you’ve decided that your child is ready to start bouncing, regardless of age, it’s crucial to follow some basic safety guidelines:

1. One jumper at a time – Most injuries happen when more than one person is on the trampoline.
2. No flips or somersaults unless the child has had professional training.
3. Safety nets – Installing safety nets around the trampoline can prevent falls and injuries.
4. Padding – Make sure the frame and springs are covered with thick padding to minimize the impact if your child falls.
5. Adult supervision – As mentioned, no child should be left alone on the trampoline without supervision.

The Flip Side: Benefits of Trampolining

Despite the risks, trampolines aren’t all bad news. In fact, there are some amazing health benefits for children who use trampolines correctly and at the right age:

• Improved coordination and balance.
• It’s a fantastic cardiovascular workout that keeps kids active and off screens.
• It helps children develop core strength and muscle control.
• Jumping is also an incredible mood booster. Trampolining can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, making it a fun and healthy way to burn off excess energy.

Alternatives for Younger Kids

If your child is under six and dying to get on a trampoline, there are safer alternatives. You can opt for mini trampolines, specifically designed for toddlers and younger children. These have lower bounce levels and are built to be safer for small, developing bodies. There are also bounce houses and inflatable jumping castles that offer a safer, more controlled environment for younger kids to enjoy without risking severe injury.

Conclusion: Know When to Bounce

Ultimately, deciding when your child is ready to go on a trampoline comes down to balancing safety with fun. Waiting until they are six gives them the best chance to enjoy the activity without major injury risks. However, no matter their age, following safety guidelines and ensuring supervision are key to minimizing potential accidents. Trampolining can be an exciting and health-boosting activity, but only if approached with caution.

The next time you see that shining trampoline in your backyard, remember: it’s all about timing, safety, and supervision. Your child's well-being is in your hands.