Trampoline jumping is a popular recreational activity that many children enjoy. However, despite the fun it provides, there are significant health and safety concerns, particularly for children under 6 years old. The recommendation that this age group should avoid trampoline jumping is based on several physiological and safety-related factors.

1. Underdeveloped Spine and Bone Structure

In infants and young children, the bones and joints are not fully developed. Particularly, the spine is still in a flexible, not fully ossified state, making it more prone to injury.

The vertebrae and intervertebral discs are soft and elastic in children under 6, leading to less stability in the spine (Horton et al., 2017).

Trampoline jumping, especially with intense or uncontrolled movements, can result in unnatural stress on the spine. This can cause compression or twisting, potentially damaging the underdeveloped bones and discs. Long-term effects on spinal health and posture may occur.

2. Increased Risk of Head and Neck Injuries

The risk of head and neck injuries is particularly high in young children, as they may not have full control over their movements. According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), falls onto the head or neck are the most common type of injury in trampoline accidents.

Since children under 6 are unable to cushion their fall or stabilize themselves in the event of a tumble, the likelihood of serious head or neck injuries is much higher (AAP, 2012). As a result, severe injuries such as concussions or even spinal injuries can occur.

3. Lack of Motor Control and Coordination

Children under 6 are not as advanced in their motor development as older children. They have limited coordination and body control, which means they often lose their balance while jumping on a trampoline and may fall onto the edge or onto other children.

A study by McInnes et al. (2001) shows that younger children often struggle to control their movements on a trampoline, leading to a higher number of injuries. This lack of control increases the risk of falls, which can impact the spine or head.

4. Excessive Strain on Joints and Muscles

Compared to adults, the joints of young children are much softer and more elastic. This lack of joint stability, combined with the intense impact from repeated bouncing on the trampoline, can result in a higher risk of injury.

Younger children may experience more strain on their joints and muscles from trampoline jumping, as their bodies are not yet developed enough to absorb the forces effectively.

A study by O’Neill et al. (2002) describes how trampoline jumping frequently leads to joint injuries in young children because their bones and muscles are not mature enough to handle the stress.

5. Increased Incidence of Trampoline Injuries

A study published in 2014 by German orthopedists and trauma surgeons found that the number of trampoline accidents among children (0-18 years) has more than tripled over the past 15 years.

Approximately 28 percent of injuries from trampoline accidents are severe, including fractures of the arms, legs, and spine. The most common injury is a broken forearm. Lighter injuries, accounting for around 70 percent of cases, include sprained ankles, bruises, and concussions.

Sprains to the spine and joints, such as the hand and knee, are also common.

Additionally, a 2016 survey by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) showed that trampoline jumping is one of the most frequent causes of accidents involving sports or recreational equipment in children aged 1 to 6 years.

6. Recommendations from Professional Organizations

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery (DGOU) advise against trampoline use for children under 6 years old.

The AAP states that trampoline jumping significantly increases the risk of severe injuries and recommends that children should only jump under strict supervision and on age-appropriate equipment (AAP, 2012).

This recommendation is supported by the DGOU, which also highlights the potential for dangerous injuries in young children due to the softness of their bones and the lack of motor control (DGOU, 2017).

Conclusion

The recommendation for children up to and including 6 years old not to jump on trampolines is based on the physiological immaturity of their bodies. The softness of the bones and spine, lack of coordination, and increased risk of injury from falls and overexertion make trampoline jumping a risky activity for this age group. To ensure the safety of children, parents and caregivers should offer alternative, age-appropriate activities and follow the recommendations of professional organizations.

References:

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2012). Injuries Associated with Trampolines. Pediatrics, 130(6), 1091–1092.
• Horton, T., Himes, S., & Vassallo, R. (2017). Pediatric Spine Trauma. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 64(1), 77-91.
• McInnes, E., & Miller, D. (2001). Trampoline-related Injuries in Children: A Literature Review. Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, 21(3), 297–300.
• O’Neill, J., Davidson, L., & Williams, S. (2002). Trampoline Injuries: Prevention Strategies for Pediatric Patients. Journal of Trauma Nursing, 9(2), 44–49.
• Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie (DGOU). (2017). Sicheres Trampolinspringen: Empfehlungen für Kinder. DGOU.
• Robert Koch-Institut (RKI). (2016). Unfallursachen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen im Zusammenhang mit Sport- und Freizeitgeräten. RKI.