Trampolines are widely known as a great source of joy and physical fitness for children of all ages.
But, in recent years studies have shown that trampolines might also contribute to the early child development of toddlers. In this article, we will explore the benefits of trampolining and how trampolines can contribute to a toddler’s physical, cognitive and sensory development. We will also look at jumping and bouncing as ways to positively impact the growth and well-being of toddlers.
In What Ways Do Trampolines Contribute to the Physical Development of Toddlers?
Trampolines are an exhilarating space for toddlers to engage in physical activity. This promotes the development of gross motor skills, which are fundamental for tasks such as walking, running and jumping.
The repetitive motion of jumping on a trampoline for kids can strengthen the muscles, enhancing coordination and improving balance. As toddlers jump and play on the trampoline, they activate a range of muscle groups including those in the legs, core and arms. This promotes physical development.
Plus, trampolines offer a secure environment for toddlers to explore and experiment with their bodies. They’re in a safety net, on a cushioned surface, in a safe space where parents are watching their every move. On a trampoline, toddlers can move and play freely with minimal chance of injury. This environment and independence can boost your toddler's confidence when it comes to explorative play.
Can Trampoline Use Help in Improving Balance and Coordination in Young Children?
Trampolines can offer a range of physical health benefits, helping young children with balance and coordination. Let’s look at the technical and anatomical effects of jumping on a trampoline.
Walking or bouncing on a trampoline is very different to being on solid land. This changes a toddler’s balance, coordination and centre of gravity. As they bounce or play on the trampoline they will be constantly adjusting their posture and position to stay balanced. This improves their proprioception (that is the awareness of the body’s movement, force and position in space). Good proprioception is essential for mastering physical activities such as walking on uneven ground or climbing stairs.
To get more technical, trampolining is also a great way to support the development of a toddler’s vestibular system. The vestibular system is what detects the position and movement of our head in space. This allows for the coordination of eye movements, posture and equilibrium. Bouncing on a trampoline is stimulating for the vestibular system. This will help toddlers understand their body movements and orientation.
The act of bouncing on a trampoline encourages toddlers to engage in dynamic movements that challenge their balance and coordination abilities. This challenge ultimately leads to improvements in these essential areas of development. As they explore and play on the trampoline they benefit from motor skill development, improved spatial awareness and boosted confidence in their body and its abilities. These trampoline activities lay the groundwork for future physical activities.
What Are the Cognitive and Sensory Benefits of Trampoline Activities for Toddlers?
On top of physical benefits, trampolining also offers cognitive and sensory benefits. Jumping on a trampoline can be calming for the central nervous system. The act of bouncing can regulate sensory input, creating a sense of relaxation. This sense of relaxation is great for the toddler’s emotional well-being, plus, it also creates a good environment for learning and development. When children are relaxed, they are more receptive to new information. So, bouncing on the trampoline can actually help your kids absorb and retain knowledge.
For toddlers with sensory processing challenges, such as hypersensitivity, trampolining can help with sensory integration. The repetitive bouncing motion offers a sensory input that helps desensitise children to certain stimuli. It can also help children who seek out intense sensory experiences by satisfying their sensory needs. This sensory regulation can improve focus and attention, allowing kids to engage more in learning tasks.
Furthermore, bouncing on a trampoline relies on toddlers using cognitive skills such as spatial awareness and problem-solving. As the child navigates the trampoline surface, interacting with their surroundings, they process sensory information to make decisions about body movements.
Occupational therapists often use trampolines in therapy plans for children with developmental delays or sensory processing disorders. Trampolines blend fun with cognitive and physical development, improving attention span, impulse control and self-regulation.
Conclusion
Trampolines offer so many benefits for toddlers. From physical to cognitive and sensory, trampolines can help with toddler development in a range of ways. Bouncing on the trampoline can improve gross motor skills and balance, help with sensory regulation and boost confidence in body movements. This skill development is essential for the toddler’s holistic growth.
As a parent or caregiver, offering your toddler the chance for safe and supervised trampoline play can enrich their mental, physical and social development. So, next time you see your toddler having the time of their life jumping on a trampoline, you know they’re having fun whilst also laying the groundwork for essential life skills!
