The Ultimate Guide to Trampoline Safety for Kids

Trampolines are probably one of the best ways of giving your children active exercise that improves essential motor skills and burns off energy. However, according to the Royal Children's Hospital National Child Health Poll, 1 in 6 children who jump on a trampoline have sustained some sort of injury. The same study found that more Australian kids today are jumping on a trampoline than riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.

It's clear that trampolines are more popular than ever, and that they're a win/win for parents and kids, delivering some great developmental benefits. We want your family to be able to enjoy those benefits without having to worry about the safety hazards.

The good news? With the right trampoline, correct setup and clear rules, trampoline safety for kids is very achievable.

This kids trampoline safety guide will walk you through everything you need to know: choosing a safe trampoline, setting it up correctly, setting age-appropriate rules and maintaining it over time.

For more on the benefits of trampolines, learn how they improve balance and coordination.

The 60-Second Trampoline Safety Checklist

Short on time? This quick checklist covers the core kids trampoline safety guidelines every parent should follow:

• ✔ One child at a time on the trampoline
• ✔ Trampoline should be suitable for age group
• ✔ Safety net enclosure securely attached
• ✔ Frame and springs fully covered with padding
• ✔ At least 1m of clear space around the trampoline
• ✔ No overhead hazards (trees, clotheslines, pergolas)
• ✔ Mat is dry and clean before use
• ✔ No flips, somersaults or risky tricks
• ✔ Adult supervision at all times
• ✔ Regular checks for wear, rust or loose parts

For more on anchoring and wind safety, check out our guide.

Why Trampoline Safety Matters (Common Injury Triggers)

Most trampoline injuries don't happen because trampolines are "dangerous," they happen when basic safety rules are ignored. Understanding how injuries happen is the key to preventing them in the first place.

Common injury triggers include:

• Multiple children jumping at once
• Falling off due to missing or poorly installed enclosures
• Contact with springs or frame
• Risky tricks like flips and somersaults
• Worn or damaged parts such as stretched springs or torn mats

Good quality accessories and replacement parts play a big role in the long-term safety of your trampoline safety.

Choosing a Safe Trampoline (What to Look for Before You Buy)

The most important step in kids trampoline safety is choosing the right design from the start.

Size & Shape

• Round trampolines tend to guide jumpers back toward the centre, which is great for younger kids.
• Rectangle trampolines create a longer, more even bounce zone and are better for older kids or gymnastics-style jumping.

Enclosure & Padding

A net enclosure and fully covered springs/frame should be considered non-negotiable for trampoline safety for kids.

Spring vs Springless

• Spring trampolines are the classic type that you'll most commonly see. It creates a bigger bounce and lasts longer.
• Springless trampolines reduce pinch points and remove exposed metal springs, which many parents prefer for younger children.

Edge Visibility

Look for padding that contrasts with the jumping mat. Clear visual edges help children understand where it's safe to jump.

Safe Setup in Your Backyard (Placement & Anchoring)

Step-by-Step Setup Tips

1. 1. Place the trampoline on flat, level ground
2. 2. Allow around 2m clearance on all sides
3. 3. Remove nearby hazards (fences, furniture, garden beds)
4. 4. Make sure you have clear overhead space (no trees or power lines)
5. 5. Keep ladders or steps away when not supervised
6. 6. Use soft ground or grass where possible

Wind & Anchoring Safety

Australian weather can be unpredictable. Anchoring your trampoline helps prevent tipping or movement during strong winds.

Trampoline Safety Rules by Age (The Non-Negotiables)

Clear rules are the foundation of good trampoline safety habits.

Under 6 Years

Do

• Use age-appropriate, lower-height trampolines
• Supervise closely at all times
• Encourage gentle bouncing only

Don't

• Allow multiple jumpers
• Permit flips or high bouncing

Consider smaller options designed for younger kids.

Ages 6-9

Do

• Enforce one-at-a-time jumping
• Jump in the centre of the mat
• Use bare feet

Don't

• Bounce off the net
• Jump off the trampoline

Ages 10+

Do

• Reinforce safe landing and control
• Continue supervision, even if less hands-on

Don't

• Attempt somersaults or flips
• Wear jewellery or carry objects in pockets

Maintenance, Checks & When to Stop Using It

Regular maintenance is an important part of kids trampoline safety guidelines.

Monthly Safety Check

• Inspect the mat for thinning or holes
• Check springs or connectors for rust or stretching
• Ensure padding fully covers frame and springs
• Confirm the enclosure net is intact and secure
• Tighten bolts and fasteners

Stop Using the Trampoline If:

• The mat is torn
• Springs are broken or missing
• Padding no longer stays in place
• The frame shows structural damage

Check out our tips for maintaining your trampoline here.

Shop Safe Trampolines (Safe & Smart Play Choices) at Lifespan Kids

Trampolines should be fun, not stressful. At the end of the day, what matters most is choosing a well-designed trampoline, setting it up correctly and following simple safety rules. If you do that, then you really can't go wrong.

Explore Lifespan Kids' range of trampolines today to find your child's next backyard obsessions. You can also reach out to our team if you have any questions.