Using a Swing

Although using a swing may sound pretty fool proof, consider the following to make swinging time a positive experience for you and your baby.

 

o       Since some babies can be apprehensive of anything that is not their mother’s arms, try not to put a crying baby in the swing initially, or else you will probably end up with a crying baby! Get your baby used to the swing by trying it out when he is awake, alert and happy to get him used to the idea. Follow baby’s cues for whether or not he is enjoying the experience.

 

o       A swing can be a calming place for baby, but it will never replace the contact and stimulation he receives from being held. Use the swing sparingly so that baby will not tire of it and so that the time spent in the swing does not hamper his time spent learning new skills and bonding with the parents.

 

o       All swings come with weight limits that usually range between 15 and 20 pounds. Be sure and check the manual to see what the weight limit is for the swing that you purchase, and remove the swing from the play area once these limits are met.

 

o       There are a few safety tips to follow when using your swing:

o       Always buckle the safety straps so that baby cannot fall out. Also, babies have been known to try and stand up or crawl out on their own, so keep them strapped in at all times.

o       Swings are designed for young babies. Stop using the swing when your baby exceeds the weight limit to prevent the swing from tipping over. Also, when baby gets big enough he can start to grab for objects outside of the swing to bring him to a halt. Be sure and discontinue use of the swing before the baby is able to accomplish such a trick.