Baby Swings 101

Prerequisites: Know a baby

Mom and Pop Benefits

New parents are in awe of the miracle bestowed upon them -- this precious, often-demanding little person. Rocking or swinging soothes bored, restless, or colicky babies. Work and other children can often detract from a parent's responsibility; there is never enough time and rarely enough hands to fill everyone's needs. A baby swing gives parents an extra set of hands.

Swing safety regulates that the baby should never be left unattended. But this still allows plenty of room for multi-tasking. Everything becomes easier with a baby swing. Cradled safely in a swing, the baby can enjoy both motion and music while mom and dad do the laundry or cook dinner.

Wee One's Benefits

Make sure to select a swing with a sturdy construction, and one with safety straps. A five-point safety harness system will protect even the squirmiest baby from wriggling her way into trouble. Baby swings with reclining seats are best for infants and put them to sleep faster.

Baby swings come with variable speeds and sounds. Gentle rocking is great for a placid infant, while colicky babies need a more forceful rocking motion. This variability can be a life saver when it is time for bed or a nap. Baby swings come with both music and nature sounds to entertain or relax. Some come with mobiles mounted for the baby's entertainment; others come with trays and bars that have colorful toys attached.

It has been said that swings interfere with the parent/child bonding experience. Others note studies claiming that motions such as swinging stimulate the baby and boost development. In the end, it is a personal decision that you must make yourself, and we think you'll find that outsourcing some of the rocking to a baby swing will pay off in the end.

Know the Limitations

Not all babies love swings. It might be a good idea to try one out first at a friend's house. However, unlike cribs, strollers, and high chairs that can cost upward of $600, baby swings range from $50-$150. In the big picture, we assure you, it will be a relatively small purchase. Since baby swings usually accommodate weights up to about 25 pounds, they aren't meant to be used for years. This may be an important consideration for you. There is at least one model that converts to a high chair and a booster chair for the early toddler stages.