Homemade Toddler Swing

Toddlers love to swing. For many children, the familiar tire swing and simple rubber swing are staples of childhood. However, toddlers who are just learning to balance and swing will be safer in a swing that supports them on all sides and prevents them from falling. You can buy a toddler swing from any playground equipment store, but you can also make your own.

  1. Wooden Toddler Swing

    • A wooden swing is sturdy, durable, and simple to make. You'll need a strong wood, usually a hardwood like oak or maple. If you plan to hang your swing outdoors, you should use wood with some kind of weather treatment so it will not be damaged by the elements. Use a wood treatment that is nontoxic and safe for use around children.

      Simple 2-inch by 4-inch pieces in different lengths will be all you need to build the swing. Form the back by making a square frame and attaching parallel boards to fill in the middle; do the same for the seat. Arms on the side and a bar across the front will make your seat secure on all sides. Add a single board or a strong strap to go between your toddler's legs to prevent him from falling under the front bar of the seat. Use rope or a chain to hang it securely.

    Cloth Toddler Swing

    • Cloth is another material you can use to build a simple toddler swing. Cloth is less durable than wood, but it will be softer and more comfortable for your toddler. You can use wood to build the frame for your cloth swing and simply sew the cloth to attach it to the frame, or you can build the entire seat out of cloth. Use sturdy cloth that can hold weight; it should have very little stretch and be thick enough to not tear. You should also check the seams regularly to make sure they are not getting worn or weak, especially if your swing is outside and exposed to weather.

      Like a wooden swing, your cloth swing should have a front, a back and two sides to prevent your toddler from falling out. If you use cloth for the entire swing, you can simply sew the cloth into a round bucket shape and then add leg holes. If you use a wooden frame, build the back, sides and front bar as described in the previous section, and then use the cloth to form the seat and back instead of using parallel boards. Connect a strip of cloth from the front of the seat up to the front bar to create leg openings on either side of the strip.

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