When it comes to deciding whether you should buy a trampoline or not as well as deciding whether are trampolines safe for 3 year olds, you need to factor in a host of possible influences. These could include the type of trampoline, i.e., indoors or outdoors, the type of springs used, and the presence or absence of a handrail or a net in use.
This article looks at the benefits and safety features of trampolines for children to help set parents’ minds at ease with the idea of their children playing on a trampoline.
Benefits Children Get when Using a Trampoline
Using a trampoline helps to improve flexibility as bouncing on the elasticated surface helps to strengthen and lengthen muscles. It also promotes the development of motor skills as they are required to focus on numerous items at once such as stability, jumping, and landing. This engages both sides of their brain as they work to maintain balance and coordination.
They’ll also benefit from a cardiovascular workout, strengthening their heart as well as letting them burn off their excess energy. You’ll also notice that using the trampoline helps to develop an improved posture due to the need to continue having to rebalance; this forces the body to correct its positioning and encourage a healthy posture.
Things to Consider when Purchasing a Trampoline for a Three-Year-Old
Below, we’ve listed an array of factors that should be considered when purchasing a trampoline for your young children. These are common features of trampolines that will make a huge difference to the safety and overall fun that your child will encounter when bouncing on their trampoline.
1. Springs
The most common type of spring used on a conventional trampoline is a high-tension metal spring. The possible danger associated with these types of springs is the possibility of the feet, ankles, or legs getting caught between the springs and the trampoline frame.
In order to avoid this hazard and to protect your children from this discomfort, then you should look for a trampoline that uses tension bands or bungee cords. Both are constructed with a variety of fabrics and pose significantly less risk to your children, should they get any part of their body caught between them.
2. Handrail
Purchasing a trampoline with a handrail is an easy way to drastically increase the safety of your children playing on a trampoline. A handrail provides an unparalleled amount of stability for your children as they bounce away and is a great way to build their confidence as they begin to learn. Handrails are often adjustable and can grow with your children; thus, extending the product’s life expectancy.
3. Netting
Safety netting around a trampoline is a fantastic way of preventing unwanted slips or falls that could result in a nasty scrape or bruise. Even if the trampoline you are looking for doesn’t come with a net, they are quite often available from a third-party manufacturer.
For ease of purchase, it is probably best to purchase a trampoline with a net included as this will also be covered by its warranty. Nets are often fastened to the exterior frame of the trampoline, meaning, there is no need to worry about losing any available jump space.
4. Padding
You’ll want to find a trampoline that offers adequate padding along the handrail and the frame. It’s also a good idea to find a trampoline that uses a no-gap system so that the padding extends over the spring system right up to the jump mat’s edge. Again, this will help reduce the chances of any feet or legs getting caught in the spring system.
5. Trampoline Weight and Size
The weight and size of a trampoline will inevitably dictate its sturdiness of the trampoline. Ideally, you’ll want an all-steel tube construction for enhanced durability alongside a wide base for superior stability.
Each of those will prevent the trampoline from moving around as freely when your child is bouncing away. Arched legs also help to increase the stability of a trampoline thanks to more even weight distribution.
6. Playfulness
As important as safety features are for children’s trampolines, it’s also important to get one that appeals to their sense of fun and adventure since this will peak their curiosity and they’ll be more excited and confident when it comes to jumping on the trampoline.
Some Safety Tips
Trampolines can be a fun activity for children and adults, but it is important to make sure that they are used safely. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your child is using a trampoline safely:
- Make sure that the trampoline is set up properly and that it is in good condition. Check the frame, springs, and mat to make sure that they are all in good condition and that there are no loose or broken parts.
- Supervise children closely when they are using the trampoline. Never leave a child unattended on a trampoline, even if they are using it properly.
- Teach children how to use the trampoline safely. This includes showing them how to properly jump, land, and move on the trampoline, as well as how to avoid collisions with other users.
- Make sure that children are using the trampoline properly. This means avoiding roughhousing, horseplay, or other unsafe behaviors on the trampoline.
- Limit the number of users on the trampoline at any given time. Overcrowding can increase the risk of collisions and other accidents.
- Keep the area around the trampoline clear. This means removing any objects that could be tripped over or bumped into, such as toys, gardening tools, or furniture.
- Use a safety net or enclosure around the trampoline. This can help to prevent falls and injuries.
- Avoid using a trampoline during adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy rain. These conditions can make the trampoline more difficult to use safely.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your child is using a trampoline safely and enjoying this fun activity in a responsible way.
Our Verdict
The answer to the question “Are trampolines safe for 3 year olds?” is 100% yes. Now, we understand that there are some obvious dangers that you can’t completely eliminate, but this applies to every toy your child plays with. As long as you take the necessary steps to ensure that the risks are minimized, then your child will have a great time on the trampoline.
We do recommend that at this age they should be accompanied by an adult, as this will not only help ensure a safer bouncing environment, but will also make them more comfortable while learning how to have fun playing with their new toy.