Being outside is an important part of our life. In the warm months, our backyard becomes an extension of the spaces we have inside our home. We want our children to have the same access they have inside when outdoors. While the Montessori activities outdoors are a bit different, we still want them to allow for (1) the freedom of movement (2) be accessible (3) promote independence.
This post contains affiliate links at no cost to you.
We recently made a simple change in our backyard in order to give Gus some more freedom while outdoors -- we added a low swing! I originally got the idea on Instagram and knew that Gus would love it. It's so simple, it gives him freedom and takes away the need for me to facilitate swing time. He no longer has to ask me to lift him into a baby swing, or ask to be done. He can simply follow his own desires and carry out this work independently.
In order to make this low swing a reality, we used this baby swing. It provides a bit more support for a younger child, and is more forgiving than an open backed swing as Gus is learning to get in and out. I loved that the straps also were designed to clip under the swing so we didn't have to worry about those getting in the way. Then, we had to add some chain extensions to bring the swing low to the ground. This swing's rope is designed for an adult's convenience not the child's. Adding some extra chain did the trick!
We hung the swing from our swing set but this swing could be hung from a tree, ceiling hook, laundry line or other spot, depending on the space you have available! I think it could also be a great addition to a larger space indoors. So far, Gus loves this little low swing of his! And, he is learning the natural consequences that come with swinging, but in a safe, child-led way.
Are you interested in creating an outdoor space for your children?
---
