A swing set in your backyard without trouble

Today’s parents have so many choices when it comes to finding a safe and fun swing set that it can be overwhelming. I thought I would share a few lessons my family has learned from our own swing set purchase and installation. I call them my “Golden Threes of Swing Set Placement”.

Rule Number 1 of Swing Set Placement: Before you open the first catalog, visit the first website, or go to the home and garden center – measure your backyard. Don’t forget that swings are meant to swing. Add at least 6 feet in all directions for people to walk and Daddies to push swingers; otherwise you might find yourself dragging a half-assembled swing set across the yard and begging it to not fall apart. The kids and pets will think this is quite exciting, but trust me – your back will hate it.

Rule Number 2 of Swing Set Placement: Leave the kids out of the actual buying decision. What kid wants the “budget” model swing set when the “deluxe” model also has a cool fort? Remember, extras may increase the space required for safe play. That tall oak tree may become irresistible for climbing once the fort puts the lowest branch within reach.

Rule Number 3 of Swing Set Placement: That crooked screw will impale itself in someone’s body no matter how hidden you thought it was. Make sure all the screw heads are flush, and routinely check to make sure all screws and bolts remain firmly in place. Swing sets set up on uneven ground will be more apt to rack out of shape and make it harder to properly secure the connecting bolts and screws.

Smart Idea 1 for Better Placement of Swing Sets: Select the flattest part of your yard. Make sure where any support beams go into the ground, the slide ends, and those pushing swingers will stand is particularly flat. If you trip over that exposed root, it’s doubtful Daddy will be able to get out of the way before the swinger comes back.

Smart Idea 2 for Better Placement of Swing Sets: The area you have set aside to place your swing set may be too small. Larger pieces may require additional room in order to be set into place than they will once the swing set is fully assembled. No matter how much we may wish it, wood and metal simply won’t bend to clear trees, fences, and existing yard ornaments.

Smart Idea 3 for Better Placement of Swing Sets: Select an area of the yard where you are willing to forego having grass. Putting down a layer of wood chips or sand makes for softer landings. It’s amazing how hard grass can be when you fall after catching your little one who suddenly thinks swings make great human rocket launchers and Daddy is a giant catcher’s mitt. Be honest, you know every kid tries this at least once. If your children are more apt to make contact with the ground, you might also want to consider adding shock-absorbing rubber matting or try some of the new mulches made from old tires.

Suggestion Number 1 – Avoid My Mistakes: Send the kids to grandma’s or school before attempting assembly. You’re less likely to get hurt and more likely to actually place the swing set where you want it to be.

Suggestion Number 2 – Avoid My Mistakes: Place the swing set where it can be seen from the windows inside your kitchen and/or primary living areas. Children will be more likely to obey the house rules for using the swing set if they know parents can see them.

Suggestion Number 3 – Avoid My Mistakes: When you assemble the swing set, make sure the swing set is capable of supporting your adult frame before you do any “testing”.

Reminder Number 1 – Never Forget: Trees, bushes and other plants grow. Make sure that sweet little sapling doesn’t become public enemy number one as it grows into a hazard for swingers. Be sure to select a location for your swing set that will remain free of natural hazards.

Reminder Number 2 – Never Forget: It’s amazing how many places kids will try to put their heads. Make sure any gaps in railings or the support structure are either too small for curious heads or too big to be interesting.

Reminder Number 3 – Never Forget: Metal and wood can get hot in direct sunlight. Place your swing set in a somewhat shaded location out of the mid-afternoon sun.

Always read the documentation and instructions that come with your swing set. And by following my Golden Threes of Swing Set Placement your children will enjoy many years of safe play on their swing set.

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• Buying and installing a Swing Set