For infants, nothing could be better than sending them off to a gentle sleep to the rocking of a baby swing. The comfort that a swing affords is something incomparable, particularly for kids who don’t get sufficient and continuous sleep.
For babies who cry incessantly, worrying their mothers trying to figure out the cause of their cries, a baby swing is an answer to a baby’s peaceful sleep. Since they give the results that mothers look for, often young mothers don’t know how long to keep the baby sleeping in it.
What is a Baby Swing?
Just like a swing for adults, a baby swing too is attached to a frame and is hung onto it. The baby sits in this standalone and raised seats that allow them the chance to sit at a raised angle. In this position, adults can interact with the infant.
The rocking nature of this swing calms the baby and sends him off to sleep. However, great care must be taken to use this swing, as it must be rocked only gently.
Role of a Baby Swing
While a parent is busy with housework, he or she can calm the baby by setting him down in the swing. While the swing gently rocks from front to back, the baby will have a nap. This apart, you can use this swing to amuse your baby when he’s been crying continuously and refuses to calm down.
What’s the Right Age for a Baby to Use a Swing?
Though there’s no particular age at which a baby should be using a swing, normally babies are introduced to a swing at the age of four months.
That’s because pediatrics say that babies below four months should use the most reclined position.
If the swing can be set to a 50° angle, shoulder straps should be used to keep the baby in place. When the baby is in this position, no toys or other accessories should be used, and the infant should be closely observed.
Babies use a swing till they are about nine months old, after which they outgrow them. However, some can be used further with a bit of transformation for toddlers.
Weight Limit for a Baby Swing
Now that you see your baby adjusting well to his swing doesn’t mean that he will always grow within it. There will come a time when you will have to stop him from using it. This is generally when your infant weighs about 11-14 kg or thereabouts.
To be sure, read the product label which offers such information so that you, as a parent, can be prepared to wean your baby off the swing naturally. This is necessary since as the baby grows to be about 14 kg, his rocking motion will also increase in intensity.
If the baby is still under 11-14 kg in weight but isn’t interested in using the swing and starts moving around, your pediatrician will advise you to let go of the swing as soon as you can. Perhaps, the baby is just a little bored by the rocking movements and wants to explore his surroundings on his own.
As an observant parent, you might also see that your baby wants to get out of the swing and crawl on the floor. Do not wait for such a day to come. If the swing can no longer support his weight, get him out of the swing immediately.
Duration of Use of a Baby Swing
Each time a baby is put into the swing, the duration of use should not exceed 30 minutes. If this period is extended, the bond between parent and baby is disrupted. The negative impacts of over-using a baby swing include growth abnormalities, or it could also be fatal due to suffocation.
Must Read This Article: 7 Things Must Know Before Using a Baby Swing.
Safety Measures While Using a Baby Swing
Benefits of Using a Baby Swing
Perhaps you’re busy with an older child, work around the house, or need a little personal time, a baby swing can give you that much-needed time from holding the baby in your arms and rocking it. That’s when a swing is useful.
The rocking motion of a swing lulls a baby to sleep just as a car ride does. So, go ahead and use it during the day for those siestas your baby needs.
Give your arms a break: The convenience of using a baby swing for your little one.
A parent needs both hands to finish work around the house. But that’s not possible if you’re going to be holding your baby. By setting up this swing, you can set your baby in it and do some chores.
This swing is portable, so you can set it out in your garden in good weather, just for a change of environment.
This swing offers stimulation that spurs mental and physical development. By setting up the swing in different environments, the baby sees and learns new things.
Conclusion
A baby swing offers a variety of benefits if used correctly. But parents must take all safety precautions while using it, lest their infant is affected.