Trampoline Use – Children Ages 0-12 Years

• Falls and Collisions:
  • Hazard: Children falling off the trampoline or colliding with each other.
  • Harm: Bruises, fractures, head injuries, sprains, and concussions.
• Improper Supervision:
  • Hazard: Insufficient or inattentive supervision.
  • Harm: Increased risk of accidents and delayed response to injuries.
• Unsafe Equipment:
  • Hazard: Damaged or poorly maintained trampoline.
  • Harm: Equipment failure leading to injuries such as cuts, entrapment, and falls.
• Age-Appropriate Usage:
  • Hazard: Younger children (0-5 years) using the trampoline with older children. Children under 6 should not ‘bounce’ on the trampoline.
  • Harm: Younger children are more susceptible to injury from larger, more forceful movements of older children. Older children are more susceptible to injury from self propulsion.
• Incorrect Usage:
  • Hazard: Children performing risky manoeuvres or not following safety rules.
  • Harm: Increased risk of falls, sprains, and other injuries.

• Supervision:
  • Constant adult supervision.
  • Supervisors trained in first aid and emergency procedures.
• Equipment Maintenance:
  • Regular inspections and maintenance of the trampoline.
  • Immediate repair or replacement of damaged parts.
• Age Segregation:
  • Designated times for different age groups to use the trampoline.
  • Separate sessions for younger (0-5 years) and older children (6-12 years).
  • Only one child on the trampoline at any time.
  • Children below 6 years of age should not ‘bounce’ on the trampoline, as they’re not sufficiently physically developed to control their bouncing. They may walk, lie down, or explore this equipment in other ways.
• Safety Rules and Education:
  • Clear guidelines and rules relayed to staff and children regarding the trampoline.
  • Regular safety briefings and reminders for children.
  • Prohibition of risky manoeuvres such as flips or somersaults.
  • No sticks or toys while bouncing to avoid injury.

• Safe Environment:
  • A 2.5m ‘clear zone’ surrounding the trampoline, to minimise risk from falls.
  • Sunk trampoline design to minimise fall height.
• Health and Hygiene:
  • Regular cleaning and sanitisation of the trampoline.
  • Ensuring children use the trampoline with appropriate footwear.

• Physical Development:
  • Enhances balance, coordination, and motor skills.
  • Promotes cardiovascular health and overall fitness.
• Mental and Emotional Well-being:
  • Provides a fun and enjoyable activity, reducing stress and anxiety.
  • Encourages social interaction, turn-taking, and teamwork among children.
• Cognitive Benefits:
  • Improves focus and concentration through the physical activity.
  • Enhances spatial awareness and body coordination.
• Inclusive Activity:
  • Can be adapted for various skill levels, allowing inclusive play.
  • Offers an alternative form of physical exercise for children who may not enjoy traditional sports.
• Engagement and Learning:
  • Encourages children to learn about safety and risk management.
  • Provides an engaging break from sedentary activities.

Conclusion:

While the use of a sunk trampoline in a daycare setting poses certain risks, implementing robust control measures can significantly mitigate these hazards. The benefits of physical, mental, and cognitive development, coupled with proper safety protocols, make the trampoline a valuable addition to the daycare environment. Regular review and adherence to safety guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all children.

Consent from parents to be sought and placed on child’s profile.