Swing Sets Play

Children have so much fun on them, but they can be dangerous if not used correctly and if necessary precautions are not taken. There are some guidelines you should follow when preparing to install a swing set for your child.

First of all, if you have a child under three years of age, he should be put in a toddler swing set. This type of swing gives your toddler the support he needs because it has restraints that can be fastened and it has support on all sides.

The seats of the swing should be made from rubber or plastic instead of wood or metal because it will not be too hot in the summer and it will be less hazardous because it will not contain sharp points or edges. But you still need to check the seat on a regular basis to make sure that there are no foreign objects protruding from the seat.

The toddler version should be two feet or more off the ground so that the toddler is not able to crawl into it by himself.

The turf underneath it should be either sand, pea gravel or a rubberized matting. These types of materials are less hazardous than dirt or grass if the child should fall because they absorb the impact better.

A toddler swing set should be set apart from buildings or fences by at least six feet (or a couple of meters). This will prevent a toddler from crawling up onto the swing by himself.

Make sure that it is situated so that a child does not have to cross the path of the swing to get to other playground equipment. A landscaping or sand border can be placed around the swing to discourage children from crossing in front of the swing.

Make sure there are no protruding bolts or other items that can harm the child. Make sure “S” hooks are fully closed.

Put it in an area that is shaded in order to prevent the swing’s seats from getting too hot.
An adult should supervise the children at all time to remind them of the “rules” such as to stay seated; do not stand, etc. Tell the child to hold on tightly with both hands while swinging and to stop the swing completely before getting off of it.

Also make sure the children are at a safe distance away from other children on the swings and remind them not to walk in front of a swing set while children are swinging.

There should only be one person in one swing at a time because swings are made to hold only one person safely.

Tell children not to push anyone else in the swing, and of course, remind them not to let other children push them.

Do not swing empty seats or twist the swing chains.