Are you buying a child's wooden swing set or already own one? Do you need replacement swings or confused on the different styles available? Think about whether you are buying for a baby, toddler, or older child be careful when choosing the size because it should be based on their age. This article will focus on few key points for consideration when purchasing a swing seat.

What is the age of the kids who will use the swings? Infant, toddlers and older children require different types of swing seats. Babies are not strong enough to hold themselves while sitting so a high back infant swing works best. This type of swing is usually has adjustable harness or seat belts with T-bar locking mechanism. Babies who are 12 months to 24 months should be comfortable in a full bucket swing, like the ones at the park. These are made with leg opening in the front and the child sits straight up in the bucket. Around three years of age the toddlers should be ready for a half bucket. This is very similar to a full bucket but offers the opportunity for toddlers to start learning to pump their legs. The half bucket has a chain across so they still have a feeling of security.

Once they develop self-confidence they are ready for a belt swing and they need to sit in the center of the seat, hold on to the ropes or chains and move their legs. This age range is somewhere between the ages of 4 to 5 and depends upon their comfort zone and ability. Older kids will enjoy the stand up swings, buoy ball styles and trapeze bars for the model of choice. Using this equipment in the manner intended means teaching safety and following the rules. Let them know, that they should not lay on their belly and swing. This is unsafe practice and far too many will try this. Make sure they don't try to swing over the top beams as this is very dangerous. Teach kids not to walk in front of or behind a moving swing.

If you are looking to purchase a brand new set, make sure your investment pays off and purchase a wooden swing set that is intended to last for years. Look for brands that offer a warranty that is intended for long-standing use by children. For practical reason, that you won't be in the market for a new set in a few years because the current one is falling apart! The last thing you don't want to take place is that your child outgrows his or her existing swing set. When deciding to purchase a swing set, look for play value for the dollars spent so that the trade-off is a high quality model.