Jolly Jumper Risks

Child Readiness

• Considered safer than walkers, jumpers should not be used until a baby can support his head and trunk and sit on his own; any earlier and a child risks neck and head injury, causing trauma to the spinal chord. Children left in baby gear such as walkers or jumpers for long periods of time are at risk for slower motor development as muscles necessary for crawling and walking are not utilized as often while seated, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Springs and Pinching

• The Jolly Jumper attaches to a door frame with a large clamp and the seat suspended by springs which allows the babies jumping and bouncing action. Caution should be used around the springs as fingers or skin of another child or adult may get pinched as baby jumps and the springs open up and close. Look for jumpers which have cloth- or plastic-enclosed springs.

Risks from Improper Positioning

• In order to prevent the jumper from dropping from the frame and injuring a child, ensure that the door trim is sturdy enough to handle the load of the jumper and baby. Make sure the attachment grip is affixed solidly around your door trim to prevent slippage or detachment and thus injury. Door trim should be a minimum of 3 inches thick, but no more than 6 inches thick. Adjust height straps so that the seat is positioned for baby's growing height and weight. A seat that is too low will cause too much stress on the knees as they jump, too high and the baby's toes won't touch.

Supervision

• Be vigilant when your baby is in the jumper. Never allow other children or siblings to push or pull on the jumper as the baby may accidentally get pushed into a door frame or be swung so high she will fall out. Watch for a baby who slips to the side and be cautious of straps, tangling and tilting.

Risks to Developmentally Delayed Babies

• According to the Children's Hospital at Westmead, Australia, some babies with developmental issues who should not be placed in a jolly jumper. Its advice is based upon clinical experience, not from evidence-based research. In particular, premature babies who are physically delayed and whose muscular and skeletal have not sufficiently developed to endure the repetitive muscle flex and bouncing motion should not be placed in jumpers. Infants with stiffness in their legs may be injured from the repetitive jumping pressure and should avoid usage, as should babies who are toe walkers as the continual toe jumping onto the floor will further increase toe flexation.