Baby swings can be a useful tool to help soothe baby to sleep and to give Mom a chance to free up her hands. Fussy or colicky babies can spend a lot of time in the calming swing. For some parents the only break they get from relentless crying is when baby is swaying contently.
Doctors may even recommend using a baby swing to help establish sleeping patterns. This of course comes with some restrictions. Babies should not be left in baby swings for more than thirty minutes at a time otherwise they could become queasy. It's also recommended that once the child falls asleep the swing should be turned off so they can learn to sleep without motion.
The first time the infant uses the swing the lowest speed should be used. Many babies will find the higher speeds startling and may become agitated by the swing instead of soothed. Especially new babies need to be in a swing that reclines so that they can breathe easily and won't slump over.
Shopping for baby swings can be an all day event. There are many versions on the market from the most basic to elaborate swings with all the bells and whistles. Before the parents should go shopping they should decide on a budget and key features that are important to them. The following is a list of features that many parents find necessary and some that are just plain convenient:
o First and foremost, any swing purchased should be approved by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association.
o The swing should have a sturdy frame with a wide base to prevent tipping.
o The swing should have a five-point harness to securely hold in baby, a simple lap strap will not prevent the baby from slumping or tipping over.
o The padding on the seat should be easily removed and washable.
o Variable speeds is a must, some babies prefer a lower setting while some enjoy a more vigorous swing.
o Consider whether a traditional wind up swing will meet your needs, many parents find the battery operated versions easier and more convenient.
o If the swing will be used with a brand new baby the seat will need to be able to recline.
o Those who travel often or have limited space will love the portable or foldable models.
o Many parents swear by the soothing music or nature sounds that come built into many swings. Some even have womb sounds recorded for playback with just a touch of a button.
o Vibrating seats are also popular for fussy babies.
o A toy bar gives the baby something to look at while swinging, just make sure the mobile or toy bar can be moved out of the way while the baby is taken in and out of the swing.
o Also consider the appearance and size of the swing, there are a number of models on the market that look very tasteful and blend in perfectly with the rest of the furniture in the room.
Some babies love their swings; others may find the motion jarring. It's wise to find out about the store's return policy in case your baby does not delight in the gentle swaying. Families with older children should also keep a close eye on the swing, the big kids find the swings tempting, but they are not built to withstand usually more than twenty five or thirty pounds.
Jennifer R. Scott has been writing for over ten years on a broad range of topics. She has a background that includes such diverse areas as environmentalism, cooking, animal care, and technology. If you would like more information on parenting, please visit baby swings, a place offering support, advice, and products for parents.
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