How My Daughter Helped Me Design Our First Wooden Swing

It all began in a quiet corner of my home.
That little girl is my daughter, Zaara, and she’s the reason MotherWood Toys exists today.

A Mother's Search for the Right Toy

Zaara was just learning to walk, climb, and explore the world around her. I searched for toys that were safe, meaningful, and allowed her to move freely. But what I found in the market didn’t sit right with me—too flashy, too plastic, too dependent on adults for play.

What I wanted for Zaara was simple:
Something natural.
Something she could access independently.
Something that offered movement, joy, and a sense of freedom—all while keeping her safe.

That’s when I decided to make it myself.

From a Thought to a Swing

I began experimenting with wood. I picked Maha Neem (Malai Vembu)—a beautiful hardwood known for being non-toxic, sturdy, and naturally insect-resistant. My goal was to create a swing that was not just strong and beautiful, but truly child-led in its design.

Zaara was involved every step of the way—
She tried sitting on the first frame I made (it was too wide).
She figured out how to climb in by herself when I added a lower front bar.
She beamed with joy the moment she could swing without holding my hand.

That was it. I had found the design that worked for her, and it filled her days with giggles and confidence.

Why the Shield?

As a mother, safety was my first thought. I wanted Zaara to swing without me hovering all the time. So I added a gentle, full shield around the swing—enough to keep her secure, but open enough for her to feel free.

That shield made all the difference. She could climb in on her own, sit comfortably, and swing safely—even when I stepped away for a moment.

From One Swing to Many

What started as a personal project became the first product of MotherWood Toys. It was never just a swing—it was a piece of my motherhood journey. A reminder that sometimes, the best designs are the ones shaped by watching our children closely and listening to what they truly need.

Even today, every swing we send out carries that same intention:
Freedom within safety. Movement with meaning. And a touch of love in every corner.

From One Child to Many

This swing was born for Zaara. Now, it’s for every child who deserves a safe place to swing, explore, and smile.