How to Pump a Swing

Teaching a child to pump a swing is harder than it appears. For kids below age three, understanding the sense of balance, coordination and timing may not come easy. Follow these steps to teach your child to master this motor skill and pump a swing independently.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Place your child in a secure swing that is appropriate for his age. Let him move around and tug on the rope or chain that is holding the swing to get a sense of balance.
2. Stand in front of her and swing her gently by holding her legs. Bend her knees as she comes forward while describing the action clearly. Explain to her to lean back by pulling at the chain while going forward and to lean front while swinging backward.
3. Have another person stand behind while you stand in the front. Teach him to reach for the person standing in the front with his toes and the person behind with his heels to understand the pumping action.
4. Demonstrate pumping yourself by occupying the swing next to hers. Narrate your actions slowly and clearly as you are pumping. Having someone along motivates a child to enjoy learning while playing.

Tips & Warnings

• Pay close attention to kids using swings for the first time. Many childhood head injuries are caused by falls from swings and slides.