Get into the Swing of Things
Author: Heather Slee
Most babies love motion; strolling, bouncing, rocking, walking around with mom or dad, and definitely swinging. And not only will your baby probably love a swing, but you'll love it, too, when you need to get a few dishes done, do some laundry, eat, or just when you need to give your arms a break.
When looking for a swing, the first thing you'll want to make sure it has is safety straps. Consumer Reports recommends finding one with the five-point strap. I highly doubt any swings come without safety straps nowadays, so you're probably good to go if you're buying new. However, if you're getting a hand-me-down swing or going garage sale shopping, check it out. You may be thinking, "My newborn can barely lift her head." Don't worry-she'll be wiggling and moving about soon enough, and swings are generally good up until about 30 pounds (check your particular swing for its weight limit).
The next thing you'll consider is whether you want a full-sized swing or a portable swing. Full-sized swings generally have the baby a little higher off the ground, which is nice for when you set the baby in it and remove him or her. Portable swings are smaller and sit lower to the ground, but are very lightweight and generally foldable, which makes them easy to move from room to room or to take along to Grandma and Grandpa's. They're also great if you're short on space.
After you've decided whether to go standard or portable, you can start looking at the features you want in a swing. Some swings swing back and forth, while others swing side to side (a few higher-end models do both!). This is where it gets a little tricky because you may not know what your baby prefers yet. If you have the opportunity, see if you can try out a friend's model with your newborn. Otherwise, make sure you read the return policy in case your baby just really dislikes what you've chosen.
Other optional features include music, vibration, dangling toys to watch (or to grab at when they're older), adjustable infant head support (very nice to have for your growing baby!), different reclining positions, and detachable or pivoting snack trays. (The portable swings may not offer as many features, so that's another point to consider.) One piece of advice-if you choose a swing with music, make sure it's something you like, too, because you'll be hearing it over and over and over…
So have fun swing shopping! And remember, if your baby just isn't into swinging, that's fine. Every baby is different. Just keep your receipt to return it, re-gift it to a new mom you know, or trade another mom for a bouncer!
