How to Keep an Infant Safe in a Baby Swing
A baby swing is an easy way to soothe a fussy infant, and it may even lull him to sleep. While baby swings are loved by parents and infants alike, it̵7;s important to make sure your child is safe while he̵7;s in the swing. According to ConsumerReports.org, one baby dies each year from improper use of a baby swing and 1,800 children were injured in 2005. Give yourself peace of mind by using the baby swing properly when your infant is in it.
Instructions
Follow the manufacturer̵7;s instructions exactly when assembling the swing. Read the user's manual and follow the appropriate weight and age specifications recommended by the manufacturer. Place the swing on a flat, even surface. Avoid putting the swing on any elevated surfaces -- or if you're outside, don̵7;t sit the swing on a slope or hill. Flat, even surfaces help to ensure the swing doesn̵7;t become imbalanced. Strap your baby into the swing correctly with the safety straps provided. Different swing models have various harness mechanisms, but always strap the baby in with all of the straps provided. Position the swing seat into a leaned-back position until your baby is able to hold up his head on his own. Newborns and infants lack the muscle strength to hold their heads up, and a wobbly head while swinging has the potential to block the baby̵7;s airway. Don̵7;t use the swing as a spot for your baby to sleep, regardless of his age. During sleep, the infant̵7;s head can lean forward too much, restricting the airway, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Start the swing on the lowest setting if it has multiple speeds, then work your way up to faster settings as your baby becomes older. Most small babies prefer a slow swinging motion. A faster motion may be too much for the infant̵7;s tiny stomach to handle. Never manually push the swing, and keep older siblings and other children from doing so as well. Limit how long your baby stays in the swing. ConsumerReports.org recommends leaving your infant in the swing for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Excessive swinging time may make the infant dizzy. Take your baby out of the swing before transporting it to another area. Don̵7;t try to move the swing while your baby is it in, and don̵7;t use a portable swing to carry the infant. This is dangerous, as the baby may fall out or the swing may become disassembled during transport. Stop using a baby swing when your child first tries to climb out. If you're using a cradle swing, discontinue use once the baby can push himself up onto his hands and knees or when he can roll over, recommends ConsumerReports.org.
