by Emily Crawford

Created on: August 30, 2008

A baby swing can be a godsend for a new parent. Or not. What's important to keep in mind when considering a baby swing is that every baby is different and they don't all like to swing. Further, babies who do enjoy swinging often have different and very specific opinions about how their swings should operate.

For example, some babies prefer fast swings that play the sound of waves crashing on the beach. Some are partial to slower swings that play a lullaby. Some are best soothed by a swinging motion combined with a vibration feature.

So, unless you're feeling as lucky as BreAnna Helsel, the Michigan teen who earlier this year survived bring struck by lightning and then won the lottery the next day, you will probably want to wait to select a swing for baby until you meet your new bundle of joy and spend some time becoming acquainted with one another. In fact, for first-time parents, many of my "been-there-done-that" mommy friends, myself included, recommend leaving the baby swing off the shower registry altogether.

Before purchasing a swing, familiarize yourself with your options. As with anything baby sits in, there are weight requirements and restrictions - most swings will not accommodate a baby weighing more than 30 pounds. Ask friends and family what swings they have used and what their babies' favorite features are. Look online at the popular swing manufacturers' web sites (major brands include Cosco, Evenflo, Fisher-Price, Graco, J. Mason, Kolcraft, Safety 1st, and Simplicity). Identify a few swings you want to see in person.

Then, stock the diaper bag and prepare for an adventure with baby as you head out to "kick the tires" on a few swings. Make sure to bring your own batteries (C, D or AA, depending upon the model) so you can test drive (uh, swing) the floor models - let baby experience the different swing features while you compare models in person and find out what swings are easiest for getting baby in and out of the seat. Another great way to determine what baby likes is to try out friends' or relatives' swings.

- Safety is Paramount -
Regardless of you and baby's preferences, safety comes first. There are two types of restraint systems in swings - a fixed restraint system that either consists of a waist and crotch belt (three-point harness) or a passive crotch restraint (such as a tray with a crotch post) and a waist belt, or a five-point harness with straps that go over baby's shoulders as well and prevent him from wriggling out of the seat. A swing

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