SWING

Play that encourages gross motor skills should be a daily part of every child's life.  One way we develop gross motor skills in our home is through the use of our swing support bar and all its attachments.  Not only does this encourage strength, coordination, and an active lifestyle, but it also translates into patience, confidence, competence, perseverance, problem solving skills, etc. 
(Our swing was once in our playroom, but we moved it to the garage for a greater swinging range.) 
Here are our attachments that bring all the fun....

Our platform swing.  This swing allows for several different positions that are fun and beneficial for ALL children.  Sitting helps develop balance and trunk control and lying down is great for increasing shoulder strength and head control. Its also fun to climb around on as it swings - great for coordination and kinesthetic awareness.

 For do it yourself instructions on how to make a platform swing, CLICK HERE.

Also check out our fun SWING PAINTING post.

Climbing rope - helps develop bilateral coordination, grip and forearm strength, arm and back strength, etc

Trapeze bar and rings.  He loves to flip over the corn pit.  Building confidence, strength, and coordination.

Climbing ladder with a bell at the top for ringing helps develop balance, agility, strength, confidence, etc.

Infant swing - yes, he still fits in it.  A nice, relaxing ride.

"Regular" swing.  While he went through a fluke period of being able to swing himself using his legs, he's not doing it anymore.  When he learns how, though, it will provide a great workout for his entire body.

Chair swing - a comfortable ride stimulating the vestibular system.  Ahhhhhh - what fun!

Have you been inspired to install a swing in your home yet??  We love ours - all the benefits are just a bonus!

- AK (MESE, MECD)