What kind of trampoline is suitable for children with autism?
MERSCO SPORTS shares with you recommendations and safe usage guidelines for selecting trampolines for children with autism to ensure their safety and happiness! Let's take a look together.
Trampolines can play a positive role in the management of autism patients, providing many benefits and hours of fun for children with autism.
However, it is important to choose a trampoline that is suitable for them and to follow safety principles when using it. Some trampolines are not suitable for children with autism, such as those that are too enclosed, and the structure of some trampolines poses significant safety hazards for children with autism. These are the key factors we need to consider before choosing a trampoline.
With these questions in mind, let's take a look at the following article so that your child can jump happily and healthily.
Trampolines are safe for children (and adults) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and have many benefits, such as:
- Beneficial for heart health
- Trampolines can strengthen muscles and bones. Children with autism often have lower muscle mass, but trampolines can help children increase muscle mass and build a strong physique while playing.
- Low impact exercise indicates that it will not harm joints
- Very suitable for developing balance and coordination skills.
- Can help achieve weight management goals.
- Develop sensory skills, such as the vestibular and proprioceptive systems.
- Relieve stress and improve emotions. This is very important for children with autism. Jumping on the trampoline stimulates the secretion of dopamine, which is a source of happiness and can to some extent alleviate autism.
Here are some trampoline characteristics and recommendations suitable for children with autism.
Security:
- Fence design: Choose a trampoline with a full fence to prevent children from accidentally falling while jumping. The fence should be sturdy and of sufficient height.
- Anti slip pad: Ensure that the trampoline has a non slip surface to reduce the risk of falling or slipping.
- Soft edge protection: The edges of the trampoline should be well padded or cushioned to prevent children from hitting the hard frame
- Small or medium-sized trampoline: For young or lighter weight children with autism, small or medium-sized trampolines are more suitable for indoor use, making it easier to monitor and reduce excessive stimulation.
- Mini trampoline: Indoor mini trampolines (usually equipped with armrests) are a good choice, especially suitable for children who need extra support.
- Moderate elasticity: Choosing a trampoline with moderate elasticity can help provide appropriate sensory stimulation and help children with autism regulate their emotions and energy levels.
- Specially designed trampolines: Some trampolines are specifically designed for sensory therapy, such as having a softer surface or milder elasticity, which can provide children with a more comfortable experience.
- Easy to enter and exit: Trampolines should be designed to facilitate independent entry and exit for children. For young children or children with limited mobility, a design with slopes or steps can be chosen.
- Durable materials: Choose trampolines made of durable materials to ensure they can withstand long-term use.
- Guided use: Children with autism may require more supervision and guidance, so trampolines should be placed in easily observable areas and ensure that adults can provide assistance at any time.
- Set rules: Educate children on safety rules on trampolines, such as not jumping too aggressively or not using other toys while jumping.
- Indoor trampoline: Indoor trampolines are usually smaller, more suitable for daily household use, and help children obtain sensory stimulation in a controlled environment.
- Music and lighting effects: Some trampolines have music or lighting effects that can help attract the attention of children with autism, but it is important to choose appropriate stimuli to avoid excessive stimulation.
- Auxiliary Armrests: For children who require additional support, choose a mini trampoline with armrests to provide more security and stability.
Children with autism are suitable for using trampolines that are safe, have appropriate sensory input, and are easy to access. Choosing the appropriate size and design, combined with necessary supervision and guidance, can help them achieve happiness and physical exercise in a safe environment. If conditions permit, choosing a professionally designed sensory therapy trampoline can better meet the special needs of children with autism.If your child is between 3 and 6 years old, I would recommend our 55"small trampoline. If your child is over six years old, I would recommend our outdoor kids trampoline.