Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyAutismTeam
Powered By
Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does Anybody Know If My Three Yr Old Is Ok Jumping On The Trampoline?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Highland, CA

this is in regaurds to the shaken baby syndrome , my question really is by jumping continuously , does it effect the brain way as the shaken baby syndrome? I am aware they use trampolines In therapys, sensory , etc but it just bothers me because I also am aware of the brain fluid moving around like that can do serious damage so some thoughts would help me out

December 26, 2013
Be the first to like/hug
A MyAutismTeam Member

The danger from trampolines is not from jumping. (They can jump 'till the cows come home.) The danger is from falling off or climbing off improperly. Strains, sprains, head and neck injuries are a lot more common than people think. Here are the general guidelines:

Use safety nets and pads.
Go ahead and install a trampoline enclosure net to surround the trampoline

Cover the trampoline's springs, hooks and frame with shock-absorbing pads. This is no joke. The money you spend on pads and nets will save you the same amount in bandages and doctor visits.

Place the trampoline on level ground.
If you let them, kids will jump from trees (or houses) onto a trampoline. Prevent this at all costs. Also, try to place the trampoline in a pit so the jumping surface is at ground level.

Limit trampoline activity.
Allow only one person to use the trampoline at a time — and never without supervision. Don't allow kids to practice risky moves like flips. That is what gym classes are for. They have safety harnesses and insurance.

Discourage unsupervised jumping.
Don't even install a trampoline ladder, which could tempt young children to use the trampoline alone.

December 28, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

Our children have a small trampoline in they use. It has a handle on it to hold on to and does not let them jump very high. We do limit the amount of time but they both can calm themselves by using it

December 27, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

I agree with MyZett. I just want to add that if your child is fixated on the trampoline it is going beyond therapeutic use into stemming behavior. Setting time limits with the goal of elimination would probably be best. I was advised early on to turn my granddaughter's stemming behaviors into useful actions. She used to tap toys on the corners of tables, chairs, etc. I'd say, "Oh what fun! Let's make them JUMP!" We'd do that for a while then I'd distract her and redirect her into doing something else. When she fixated on ceiling fans I'd turn them off. I'm happy to say she doesn't engage in any self-stimulating behaviors today. Even her Echolalia is improving. It is only apparent when she feels insecure or stressed. For example, when someone bombards her with questions as people are prone to do with small children, "What's that? Is that a new doll? What's her name? Did you get her for Christmas?" I stop them and say, Please give her a chance to answer one question at a time. Excuse my lengthy and somewhat off topic response. Hope all this is useful. I really just wanted to caution you about stemming on the trampoline.

December 27, 2013

Related content

View All

Do Any Of You Have Problems With Your Child Making Themselves Vomit?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Moreauville, LA

How Many Of You Would Recommend A Trampoline With Enclosure?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mount Vernon, WA

Hi There..any Suggestions To Stop My 3year Old From Jumping And Hand Flapping Most Of The Time...

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Brunswick, OH
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in