Hobbies And Interests
Jolly Jumper Use
The Jolly Jumper consists of a sling-like seat with a clamp that attaches to the frame of an open door. The floor model has a seat that is suspended from a tripod frame. The device is designed for a baby or child not yet ready to stand. The child's feet touch the floor while his body is held in a semi-standing position. Pushing against the floor with the feet allows the child to bounce up and down.
Potential Injuries
Early Jolly Jumpers were manufactured with an open spring system. There was potential for the baby, caregiver or children nearby to get pinched fingers as the spring expanded and contracted while the baby jumped. Today's Jolly Jumpers have springs with a protective cloth coating to prevent injury. Door frames have changed since the Jolly Jumper's introduction. Some are too narrow for the clamps to hold securely. The Jolly Jumper should not be used on a narrow or damaged frame.
Head Injuries
In order to avoid head injuries should a Jolly Jumper fall or break, there are padded helmets available for infant use. Bicycle and baby accessory stores and shops specializing in baby and toddler toys are good places to find a certified protective helmet. Knowledgeable salespeople are able to recommend the age appropriate size and fit for any child.
Safety Musts
A safety fact sheet from the Children's Hospital at Westmead suggests that the Jolly Jumper should not be used with children who are developmentally delayed, toewalkers or children who were born prematurely as these babies may have increased leg stiffness. A child must be able to sit unaided before the device is used or neck injury may occur. The equipment and door frame should be inspected for flaws before the jumper is used. Clamps and straps must be securely fastened.
Other Considerations
The baby should never be left unsupervised in the Jolly Jumper and other children should never push a child strapped into the device. The Jolly Jumper is not a swing. There are no published statistics on Jolly Jumper injuries but improper care and use carries the potential for accidents to occur. The door frame Jolly Jumper should always be removed when not in use to avoid unsupervised use by older children who may be able to climb into the jumper on their own. With the Jolly Jumper, as with any other child's toy, safety is of paramount importance.