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Why Letting Kids Bounce on Trampolines Is a Risky Move
Trampolines are a beloved childhood pastime, but many parents may not realize just how hazardous they can be. A recent incident in Indianapolis highlights this danger. A mother, Sarah Thompson, shared the story of her two-year-old son, Ethan, who spent 16 long weeks recovering from a broken leg sustained during a visit to a local trampoline park.
Sarah took Ethan to a “Toddler Jump” event at a SkyZone trampoline facility, hoping for a fun way to burn off some energy before nap time. Unfortunately, their outing ended with a trip to the emergency room. Ethan suffered a fracture in his left femur and ended up with a bright orange cast that stretched from his toe to his waist.
When recounting the incident, many people might think it was just a “freak accident” or that Ethan was being reckless. But Sarah insists that’s not the case. “He was just bouncing around, then suddenly he was screaming,” Sarah explained. “I was right there watching him. He’s only two; how could a little jump cause such a serious injury?”
The truth is, trampoline injuries are alarmingly common. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 104,691 people were treated for trampoline-related injuries in 2014, the last year data was available. Shockingly, around 85% of those injuries were among children, with more than 24,000 occurring in kids aged two to five.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has taken a strong stance against trampolines, advising parents to steer clear of them entirely, whether at indoor parks or in backyards. They note that children under five are especially vulnerable to serious injuries, and the risk multiplies with more than one jumper on the trampoline.
Dr. Mark Johnson, an orthopedic surgeon who spoke with local news, emphasized that pediatric bones are different from adult bones. He believes there’s no safe age for trampoline jumping and warns, “Kids’ bones can break more easily. People don’t realize how severe these injuries can be.”
Trampolines might not seem like a high-risk activity, but the statistics tell a different story. With tens of thousands of injuries each year, it’s worth reconsidering that next trampoline park birthday bash. If you’re looking to keep your little ones safe, consider exploring other fun activities instead! For more insights on parenting and safety, check out this enlightening post on home insemination kits, and for those curious about pregnancy, March of Dimes offers some excellent resources.
In summary, while trampolines may seem harmless, the risk of injury is significant, particularly for young children. It’s time to rethink their status as a fun, safe activity.