For children under 12 using a trampoline in a foster home, what supervision requirement applies?

• A. The caregiver must be immediately present, watching the child at all times.
• B. A caregiver must be within earshot but not actively watching.
• C. A safety plan must be on file with the licensing agency.
• D. No adult supervision is required if pads and springs are covered.

Answer: (A)

Direct, constant supervision is required when children under 12 use a trampoline. Trampolines pose a high risk of injury for young kids, so a caregiver must be immediately present and actively watching the child at all times to prevent dangerous behavior, enforce safety rules (such as one jumper at a time and feet-first landings), and intervene instantly if a fall or other hazard occurs. Being within earshot instead of watching cannot ensure a quick response, since injuries can happen in moments. A safety plan on file does not substitute for real-time supervision, and relying on pads or covered springs does not remove the need for an adult to supervise during use.