Some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around a large, rectangular trampoline in our backyard. I still remember the Christmas when it appeared, transforming my life into a series of joyful leaps and laughter. We played games like “crack the egg” and begged my dad for double bounces, and even though we had no safety pads or nets, we survived countless jumps—often landing near concrete and fences.
Surprisingly, no one broke any bones or filed lawsuits. Our trampoline had rusty springs that, although concerning, kept us on our toes—quite literally. While we did have some minor injuries, we managed to enjoy our adventures without any serious consequences.
For the past few years, my partner and I have discussed the idea of getting a trampoline for our kids, fully aware of the risks involved. We’ve heard horror stories from friends and family, including broken legs and elbows. However, this year, we decided to take the plunge and surprise our kids with a trampoline for Christmas. It was my idea, but I convinced my partner, a medical professional, to go along with it.
Trampolines may carry risks, but they are significantly safer now compared to my childhood. I often chuckle at how perilous they were back then. Despite the American Academy of Pediatrics advising against trampoline ownership due to an estimated 98,000 annual injuries, it’s worth noting that around 50,000 kids visit the ER due to skateboarding and scooter accidents each year. My children also partake in those activities, and according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 192,000 kids went to the ER for bicycle-related injuries in 2013. Should I also ban bikes? That seems quite unreasonable.
I recognize that trampolines aren’t entirely “safe,” but I believe they are safer than when I was growing up. Here’s why we decided to get one anyway:
Creating Lasting Memories
This is the primary reason for me. I spent countless hours on that trampoline with friends and neighbors, laughing until we cried, and sometimes even having little accidents from too much fun. We took sun-soaked breaks, shared secrets about crushes, and attempted gymnastics routines. Setting up sprinklers underneath during the summer turned it into a slip ‘n’ slide, and it provided endless entertainment.
Encouraging Outdoor Play
In today’s world, children face the constant temptation of screens. A trampoline gets my kids outside, engaged in play, and also attracts their friends from the neighborhood, fostering social interaction.
Promoting Physical Activity
Kids need exercise as much as they need water and air, and a trampoline offers a playful way for them to be physically active without realizing it. We’ve established rules for trampoline use to enhance safety, limiting the number of jumpers at a time and ensuring I supervise while they bounce. We also seek permission from other parents—after all, nobody wants legal issues. With a net and pads in place, while risks remain, we could just as easily restrict them from riding bikes.
As a parent, I often find myself worrying, but I’ve learned that living in fear isn’t the answer. You can’t impart those fears on your children. Yes, owning a trampoline carries certain risks, but the joy it brings to my kids is immeasurable. Just two months after we bought the trampoline, my daughter did break her arm—ironically, it happened during gymnastics, not on our backyard trampoline.
In the end, you can’t wrap your kids in bubble wrap, no matter how much you might want to. The memories they create on our “death trap” are worth every penny spent, and possibly even a broken bone.
Summary
In evaluating the risks of trampolines against the joy and memories they create, many parents find value in allowing their children to enjoy outdoor activities, despite the inherent dangers. Balancing safety measures with the importance of play is crucial, and the experience of growing up with a trampoline can lead to lasting fondness and camaraderie among friends.