The decision to buy a swing set is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are many awesome types and brands out there, meaning it can become overwhelming trying find the right fit for your child – whether they’re an infant, toddler or a middle school student! Kids of all ages love to play on swings.
To help you decide on what’s best suited at each stage of development from birth until age 3+ we’ve created this guide with information about all aspects including cost brackets so read ahead carefully before making any purchases online today!
What kind of swing sets are there?
There are several different types of swing sets. Some are wooden, while others are made of metal. You may also want to choose a swing set based on a theme. For example, you can find swing sets with pirate ship sails. Other types of swing sets can come with picnic tables, sandboxes, and clubhouses. They can also come with tunnel slides, tire swings, and clatter bridges. Some mega-sets combine both types of swing sets. Here’s an example of some of the choices available.
If you are looking for something that will last for your kid’s childhood, you don’t want to choose a wooden swing set made from Chinese “cedar.” These sets are cheaper to purchase, but their wood life is unknown. Chinese “cedar” lumber is also not sawn to standard North American standards, so it is much smaller than comparable lumber. Nevertheless, Chinese “cedar” swing sets have been gaining popularity in recent years. You can find a warranty that covers up to five years of trouble-free use, and many manufacturers provide warranty protection for up to five years.
Wooden swing sets are the most common types of swing sets, but you can find metal ones as well. For a cheap backyard play set, it is best to choose pressure-treated wood instead of non-treated wood. The latter is cheaper, but it lacks in amenities. Wooden swing sets are more durable than plastic swing sets. Keep in mind: A quality wood swing set will be sturdy and last for a while, while a cheap one has a definite shelf life. But if your kid is already in school – how long are you going to keep your swingset anyway? Five years?
It’s a balancing act between cost and quality.
Swing Sets For Toddlers
Before purchasing a great toddler swing set for your child, be sure to look into safety issues. While the AAP’s guidelines can be confusing, they’re essentially common sense. As with any play item, you’ll want to make sure that your child’s swing set is not likely to contain sharp edges or protruding hardware. You also want to make sure that your child can walk away from it when someone else is on it, and never tie things to it. This is an important consideration, but your child will appreciate the peace of mind.
Swing sets for toddlers should include extra fun features that can keep them engaged for hours. A baby seat with a higher back will encourage your child to swing and exercise his or her legs. But most infants will eventually lose interest in sitting still, which means they will want to do something else instead. After all, this age group is all about developing new skills, and they’ll want to jump, slide, crawl, and creep.
Swing sets for toddlers typically consist of smooth plastic. The price range of toddler swing sets depends on their design and material. Generally, toddler swing sets are made of plastic, wood, or metal. Wooden swing sets are the most expensive, so look for those made from insect-resistant cedar. On the positive side, they will last for years and will keep your child safe.
What To Look For – Swing Sets For A Grade Schooler
If you’re in the market for a swing set for a grade-schooler, you can find some great deals during back-to-school sales. These playscapes can become the highlight of a playdate or after-school enrichment activity. In addition to being an ideal place to spend time with friends, swing sets can help young minds develop and physical development. Here are some things to look for when buying swing sets for grade schoolers.
Size is important. Look for a swing set with a reasonable size. For younger children, a plastic swing set is sufficient. But as they get older, you’ll want to pick one of the best models of a wooden swing set. This style features a slide, two swings, and a rope ladder. It also has a cool clubhouse with a wheel. This set is made to last, so you don’t have to worry about accidents. Another feature that you should look for in a swing set for grade school children is a modular design. This feature makes it easy for you to add extra pieces in the future.
When purchasing a swing set for a grade-school-aged child, remember that just like for toddlers, safety is still the number one priority. Make sure you’re choosing a durable set with a safety and weight limit. Remember that swing sets can be dangerous if not installed properly. Also, check the weight capacity of the set and how many children can fit on it at the same time. A sturdy set with safety measures can last a long time, so make sure to buy the appropriate size.
Are More Expensive Swing Sets Better?
Expensive swing sets are not always better than more affordable ones, but the price can be a definite signal of quality. It’s true that a high-quality set can cost more than $500, but it will outlast your kid’s childhood and will probably still look nearly brand new after twenty years. If you have the cash, consider buying a luxury swing set – preferably one with a decade-long warranty.
On the negative side, high-quality swing sets can be difficult to assemble due to their size and heft, and may require some yard preparation before use. A professional assembly company may also be necessary.
To ensure safety, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for child safety. When purchasing a swing set, you should keep it six feet away from low-hanging branches, fences and houses. You should also make sure the slide does not exit in front of moving equipment. Be sure to check the set’s anchors and make sure they are covered. If your child falls, you should always supervise them to avoid injuries.
Many high-quality swing sets are constructed using 4×4 wood, which is virtually childproof (unless they are pyromaniacs!). Cedar is usually the best choice for backyard swing sets, as non-treated wood may be less sturdy. Metal is better for commercial use because it can stand up to abuse a high-traffic setting doles out. But wooden swing sets tend to be less expensive than metal ones.
Swing Set Safety
A swing set is a great way to get your toddler outdoors and active, and it also helps them learn to swing. It’s free standing, meets ASTM safety standards, and includes a single nursery seat with a safety harness. Infants from nine to 36 months of age enjoy swinging on this set, which comes with a safety harness on the single nursery seat for extra safety. You can also purchase a set with a safety harness for your infant. This guide from the CPSC on play sets is helpful as well.
If your child is old enough to use the swing set, you can keep the structure safe by checking for slack in the chains. If your child is too young to jump from it, don’t push them up. Also, don’t leave objects between swing sets and the structure, as this could result in a serious injury. Always follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure your child’s safety. Safety measures are a breeze if you follow these guidelines.
When it comes to swing set safety, keep in mind that children of any age should be supervised at all times. Young children should never play alone on a swing set. The independence of a toddler means they’re more prone to injuries and poor judgment. However, if your child is older, he or she can independently push himself or herself. Remember that children of all ages should never be left unattended on a swing set.
Go Out And Get a Swing Set
Swing sets are a classic backyard toy that can provide hours of entertainment for kids of all ages. When shopping for a swingset, it’s important to remember that safety is the most important consideration. There are different features to look for in swingsets designed for younger and older children. Do you have a favorite swing set? Let us know in the comments below!