Question 1

What factors influence the stability of a swing frame?

Accepted Answer

The stability of a swing frame is influenced by three key factors: the combined weight of the user and swing, the length of the swing arc, and the force of the swinging motion. On slick floors, legs may shift, so selecting the right frame is essential. For heavier users or vigorous swinging, our VLF model provides enhanced stability and safety. Browse our range to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Question 2

What is a Sensory Room?

Accepted Answer

As you probably know: A Sensory Room is a room, or a quiet spot somewhere in the house, with all kinds of items (therapy tools, toys, decorations) which are helpful in decreasing sensory overload.
 
To be honest, not so long ago I thought a Sensory Room was just too much, too overdone. Little by little I realized that Sensory Integration Therapy, like once a week, is doing my son very well, but he actually needs it every day. Sometimes even more times a day. And I kept on hearing and reading encouraging stories of other parents. I just had to give it a try.
 
It is more wonderful than I imagined. The room is our very special spot with very special rules. The kids call it the ‘Swing Room’ because they love swinging the most. The room even has another name: the ‘Whisper Room’. When one child is relaxing on a swing, we don’t need to have the other kids running and racing around, how much fun that can be. So, the time in the Swing Room is one of quiet. When one of the kids is swinging, the others are sitting cozily on a soft mattress with some cushions, re

ading books, and they all enjoy this ‘quiet time’! Often I play a CD with nice soft music, the light is not bright (definitely no fluorescent lighting) and the colors in the room are soft toned.

My room is ‘simple’ but nice and peaceful with the least distractions. I still have a list of things I want to add, like a lavalamp and an indoor trampoline, but ‘simple’ as it may be, the room is already a success.

Question 3

What are the therapeutic benefits of using swings?

Accepted Answer

Swinging plays a vital role in Sensory Integration therapy, helping the brain process sensory experiences like touch, movement, and sound. This therapy lays the groundwork for learning and behavior by enhancing motor planning and adaptability. While many children naturally develop sensory integration, some require additional support. Swinging offers a fun and effective way to foster calmness, focus, and overall well-being.

Question 4

What are the dynamics of swinging?

Accepted Answer

Some important information about the dynamics of swinging and keeping a portable swing frame stable.
 
As our therapy swing frames are now being used more for a post adolescent population, we want to address the needs of these older swingers who are also stronger, heavier, and (hopefully) more independent.
 
Keeping a swing frame stable and safe is effected by 3 main dynamics of swinging:
  +Combined weight of swinger and swing
  +Radius of the arc (length of rope)
  +Force of the swinging (how high up they are swinging
Also, please note; the more slick the floor the more likely the legs will wander.
 
Your overview; what kind of swinging are you looking for and how big are the people, for now and in the future, who will be using the equipment? The vigorous swinging of an older heavy person will need a sturdier frame. Another heavy person may need only slight motion and can do well with either a Homestand II or HPSI frame.
 
For instance, here is a picture of several kids, about 650 Lbs total on the Homestand II. The frame is taking the weight, but the swinging is very light. This is very static swinging, back and forth well within the spread of the legs. Also, note the Plywood Platform swing is about 2 feet off the ground for a shorter radius and the legs are less likely to move around in the front lawn. On the same setup a 50 or 60 lb. child on a light weight swing (like the 20 Lb Plywood Platform pictured here) can pretty much have any safe swinging movement they desire, even on a hardwood floor, just don’t bang into the legs. A 150 lb person can swing just to the spread of the legs, go outside and the frame will want to shift. Here we are most concerned with swinging front to back. Circular swinging (not spinning) like on a tire swing is not recommended, the frame will shift and feel unstable. However both the frames are made for spinning off the center swivel.
 
So, we have decided to be more prudent and lower the weight capabilities of the Homestand II, to now 250 Lbs and the HPSI model is now 275 Lbs. and to develop the VLF model portable swing frame to address the needs of this growing population. The VLF (Very Large Frame) is twice as wide, a little taller, heavier, still portable, and built to take a variety of swinging motions.
 
With this important explanation of stability we hope you can make a better informed choice and enjoy a safer swinging experience with equipment that will work for you now and in the future .
 
Now that you’re an expert in choosing a swing frame, you must visit our store and explore our selections. Of course, you can also contact us by email or phone if you have any questions on how to proceed.

Question 5

How do I decide which swing frame to choose?

Accepted Answer

When choosing a swing frame, consider who will use it and how it will be used. We offer helpful categories to guide your decision: Suitable for Adults or Juniors, Easy Setup or Needs Installation, and Portable or Mounted. Download our 'Help Me Choose' PDF for more detailed information.

Question 6

What makes portable swing frames special?

Accepted Answer

Portable swing frames stand out for their sturdy yet movable design, making them perfect for various settings. At Take a Swing, our frames support up to 600 lbs, accommodate motorized wheelchairs, and ensure a stable swinging experience. Stability depends on factors like the combined weight of the user and swing, the swing arc length, and the surface it’s on. Unlike playground swings, portable frames require proper setup for safety. For vigorous swinging or heavier users, our heavy-duty models like the VLF and Swing All are excellent choices. Check out our guide for more tips on selecting the right frame.

Question 7

What do I need to know when replacing my feet for my swing frame?

Accepted Answer

Here is everything that our customer need to know when replacing the feet to their swing frame.

Manuals

Frequently asked questions

What factors influence the stability of a swing frame?

What is a Sensory Room?

What are the therapeutic benefits of using swings?

What are the dynamics of swinging?

How do I decide which swing frame to choose?

What makes portable swing frames special?

What do I need to know when replacing my feet for my swing frame?

Take a Swing How-to Videos

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder

Read Tom's Article About Understanding Portable Swing Frames

Portable and Attached
Frame Info-graph

Manuals

Frequently asked questions

What factors influence the stability of a swing frame?

What is a Sensory Room?

What are the therapeutic benefits of using swings?

What are the dynamics of swinging?

How do I decide which swing frame to choose?

What makes portable swing frames special?

What do I need to know when replacing my feet for my swing frame?

Take a Swing How-to Videos

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder

Read Tom's Article About Understanding Portable Swing Frames

Portable and Attached Frame Info-graph

Portable and Attached
Frame Info-graph