Trampolines

DGDs (11 and 8) are on their second, larger one. They have one with a safety net and get so much exercise and fun out of it, they wouldn't be without it.

I recommend that you get the safety netting, to stop them falling off and only allow them on one person at a time. If they are little (I.e. under about 10) they should be supervised at all times.

We put a bag of builder’s sand on each leg-stand to stop winds blowing it away.

If you talk to any A&E Consultant they will tell you of the injuries they see to children using garden trampolines on a very regular basis. Some of these are life-changing injuries.
Trampolines are a piece of sports equipment which should only every be used in the presence of a properly qualified British Gymnastics Trampolining coach in a properly set up facility. NOT the sort of place where punters are permitted to jump around on trampolines without supervision!!
If a garden trampoline is purchased despite this advice, then it needs to be firmly attached to the ground, and have a safety net all around, not be fitted near a wall or under a tree AND - MOST IMPORTANT, children should only ever be allowed on it -one at the time - with adult supervision at all times. Two children of different weights on a trampoline is an accident asking to happen.
Unfortunately so many parents think that they can send out their children to use this dangerous equipment by themselves.

Hate the things. So often see more than one child at a time using them, strictly against safety recommendations. You won't find a trampoline school advocating multiple use or an orthopaedic surgeon recommending them, most ban them for their own children. That's all apart from the nuisance value. Goodness, what did children play on before these horrible things became affordable for the masses. Remember, ignore the safety instructions, someone else's child is injured they can sue!

All our DC have had them for the DGC. Age two upwards. The round ones with a safety net. They make brilliant outdoor play pens for really little ones! But for actually playing and bouncing in they were found to be limiting and a passing craze and they really do need constant adult supervision.

They’re also really hard to re-home.

My 7 yo granddaughter broke her arm last year on trampoline in friends garden, its all very well supervising your own kids in your garden, but what about when they are playing with others. I know they are fun but I'm off them now.

trampolines are great- but should not be used without supervision- and never more than 1 child at a time. And of course need to be properly tethered for sure.

Personally, I think they should be banned. Just think yourselves or a child hitting the metal edge with their backs - what sort of injury that will cause? It happens far too often. They are NOT play things -they are highly dangerous pieces of equipment. Amazes me that parents are so willing to allow their darlings on to these - yet think they have to walk - even teenagers - to and from school!!!!