Most every kid loves to play on a swing, and as a result swing sets are among the most popular outdoor toy items sold in the United States every year. Some sets are as simple as a couple of flat swings and a slide while others include monkey bars, teeter-totters and other specialty play sections.
When I was a little girl our family didn’t own a swing set. My dad simply fashioned a swing from an oak board and a couple of ropes and then attached it to a limb on the huge maple tree that stood in our back yard.
It’s hard to tell just how many “kid hours” my sister and I spent pushing each other on that wonderful home-made swing, but every single one of them was a thrill. Even so, we always dreamed of having a “store-bought swing set” like the one the kids across the street had.
When I grew up and had my first child, one of the first things I bought for her was a swing set. Of course it was a good while before she was big enough to use it, but when that time came it was sitting out in the yard waiting for her to climb aboard and start swinging! I really don’t know who enjoyed that thing more – her or me – but I do know that we both enjoyed it immensely.
If you’re thinking about buying a swing set for your kids, here are a few things to consider:
1 – How many children will be playing on the set at one time? If you have more than two children or plan to invite other kids over, you’ll need a larger set with three or more swings as well as a couple of other play stations such as monkey bars and a slide. Otherwise, just a small two-swing model will be just fine.
2 – Opt for a set constructed using weather resistant wood instead of metal if you plan to keep it around for more than just a few years. If carefully maintained, a quality wooden swing set will last for decades.
3 – Install your new swing set over a thick bed of play sand or wood mulch to help protect the children in the event of a fall. Never, ever place one on an unpadded concrete surface such as a driveway or patio.
4 – Consider hanging a tree swing in a nearby tree if at all possible. In addition to providing an extra swing, a tree swing will offer your children a little variety in their play routines.
About the author: Julie Miller is a stay-at-home mom who loves blogging about raising her children.