Gentle trampoline jumping is definitely a source of entertainment for every individual, especially for children and teenagers. Less well known is the fact that the use of a trampoline is a very effective therapy for children with autism. What is the role of trampoline parks in this case?
Trampolines are a fun and healthy entertainment choice
Jumping on quality trampolines is useful and fun for all children, including those with special needs. The modern sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect children both physically and mentally. It is strongly recommended that children of all ages and opportunities have a healthy way of spending their free time and interesting sports activities as part of their school or educational duties. According to teacher and neurodevelopment counselor Bindy Cummings, jumping and bouncing supports blood flow and provides mental and physical stimulation in a safe environment. Because visual and auditory function is directly controlled by the vestibular system, reflection helps improve vision, visual-motor skills, hearing, and auditory-motor skills.

Interesting opportunities for recreation and games in various trampoline parks can have a very positive effect on the child's development, health, balance and coordination.

For people with autism and for children without mental or physical barriers, these fun jumping exercises can be an important factor in the development of their brains.

What is life like with autism?
Autism spectrum disorders are thought to cause problems with social interaction, verbal or nonverbal communication, and repetitive behavior.

Individuals diagnosed with autism may function well and even be above average academically intelligent. However, they may face more serious illnesses, which hamper them daily and prevent them from living independently.

The spectrum of autism is very broad and has many symptoms. Because they are so different, we need to create a common strategy and approach for each individual.

Children with autism are less aware of their actions. This means that they have trouble understanding the feedback from their muscles, joints and ligaments. For example, they may be less prone to stress or suffer from balance problems.

Children with normally functioning senses feel all stimuli, and this vision can be very limited in autistic children. Her body does not understand the stimuli received during movement. They may also be too or less sensitive to movement and balance, which means they may be looking for excitement or need balance help. Autistic children react negatively to stress and anxiety.

 

How can trampolines help with autism?
Two types of therapy can be performed on a trampoline or in trampoline parks. Occupational therapy includes physical and motor skills, while physical therapy provides coordination, improves their balance and muscle tone.

When a child jumps on a trampoline, the repetitive stimulus produced by hopping helps his body read impulses faster because he cannot interpret them differently.

The jumping rhythm is extremely calming and helps the child adapt to the sensing systems. That is why we often find a small trampoline in the classrooms for children with autism. Students can use it at any time and learn to count jumps and control their direction. For autistic children, the use of trampoline parks can also improve their social skills. It's just that they're withdrawing from their own world, and it's harder for them to deal with their peers. In trampoline parks, they have a much better chance of interacting with other children. The child's learning skills can also be significantly improved.

Autistic children often have learning difficulties. Learning through fun activities is better for them. Trampoline parks are very useful because they can teach children to count, identify objects with maps and engage in many other activities. Therefore, it is very important to use the right equipment for children with autism.

What is the role of trampoline parks in this case?
Children and young people are undoubtedly the most important target group in trampoline parks. When planning an offer for a trampoline park, it is therefore always good to think about connecting schools, including sports and school sports days in the offer.

However, it is not just about attracting new visitors and increasing the number of visitors to the trampoline park. Sometimes it's also good to think about those who need extra care, such as children with special needs. Sometimes it is good to do something for a better world in which we live.