Babywearing 101

Interestingly enough, I have never done a babywearing 101 post before! I've been all over cloth diapers and other stuff, but neglected to post the basics about one of my favorite baby things.

Of course, being pregnant, I'm totally pumped thinking about wearing our next baby. Today a fellow blogger and friend, Rosey, asked if I would post about babywearing. Definitely!!!!

Gurumama Ring Sling

First of all, there are just so many benefits to babywearing. It's really amazing what just keeping your baby close to you can accomplish! Here are some of the benefits, and I have to give credit to a fellow babywearer, M'Liss from http://thebabywearer.com. She has put together some fantastic information that she has passed on to me to share with other moms.

~Babies who are worn cry less! Research has shown that babies who are worn more than three hours a day cry 43% less overall, and 54% less during the evening hours!

Now, you might think, 'Well, of course they don't cry, you're spoiling them!!". But I beg to differ. If a baby knows that they are cared for, loved, and Mommy will attend to their needs right away, they will definitely cry less! They need that security. I'm not saying I'm an expert at actually doing this, but I can agree with it 100%.

~It's good for baby's mental and emotional development. Babies spend more time in a "quiet, alert state" when carried--the ideal state for learning. When carried, your baby experiences the world from where you do, instead of at knee-level from a stroller. Furthermore, research shows that carried babies are more likely to develop a strong sense of security and trust, and often become independent at an earlier age.

~It's good for baby's physical development. Research shows that carrying babies helps newborns (especially premature babies) to adapt to life outside the womb. By being so close to mama's body rhythms (heartbeat, breath, voice and warmth), newborns find their "rhythm" much more quickly.

There are also many benefits for the mother, just so you don't think this is all about the baby :)

~It frees mama's hands! Unfortunately, parents' responsibilities don't stop when the new baby arrives. By wearing the baby in a carrier, you are free to clean the house, prepare meals, tend to another child, shop, or attend a party, while keeping baby happy and well-rested at the same time. With a carrier, baby's, parents', and siblings' needs can be met simultaneously.

~It's a simpler alternative! Wearing your baby allows you to run errands, travel on a bus or subway, eat out and enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of a stroller. No longer do you have to struggle through doorways, crowds, or up and down stairs!

~Nurse your baby on the go! Newborns like to eat frequently. Many new mothers feel a bit tied down. "Baby-wearing" allows you to nurse discreetly, hands-free, while playing with older siblings, shopping, preparing meals, or socializing.

~It's a gift to the whole caregiving family! Father, older siblings, grandparents, and babysitters now have a powerful tool with which to comfort and bond with the baby.

So that's a long list of benefits, and I would venture to say that it is not limited to these. Each mother will have her own experiences to add.

When I share a presentation, I usually after share the background information, and maybe some real life stories, and then I go into the types of carriers and how they are used.

First of all, many of you probably have Snugglys or Baby Bjorn type carriers. Can I ask you an honest question? Do you find yourself more frustrated than anything, trying to get it comfortable, and actually be hands free?

The problem with these carriers is that they don't properly support the baby, or you! The baby's weight is not distributed evenly over your torso, which causes major pressure points, limiting the time you can actually wear your baby.

The baby also suffers in these carriers due to the fact that their growing spines are not supported by the carrier. They are sitting there, legs dangling, in a very uncomfortable position. Their backs are bone straight, and this does not promote healthy spine development!

So while these carriers have become widely popular, they don't necessarily have a great success rate.

Instead, I would like to offer you the following suggestions.

Ring Sling

Micki's Wing

A ring sling is a very simple carrier that anyone can use! Basically a long piece of fabric with two rings sewn into one end. By threading the fabric through the rings, you form a pocket for your baby to sit in.

These carriers are easy to use, very portable and are for the most part a one size fits all. They are great from newborn to toddler, though I found with Bria that my shoulder got sore pretty quickly as she got heavier.

Some favorite brands include:
Lil Peeper Keepers - Made from strong, yet lightweight, natural fabrics like linen, tencel, and silk, these are gorgeous, well-made slings.  I own one, and it's very tempting to order another, in a different color, lol.

Micki's Wing - This was my first ring sling, and I loved it!! Sadly, I passed it on to a friend.  Micki is also a blogging friend, and she's a really fun, crafty, BUSY mom.  So, for now, that means that her shop is closed :(  But maybe, if you send her a really sweet message, she'll whip up a sling for you :)

Pouch

Gurumama

A pouch is similar to a ring sling, except that it is sewn into a circle, so there is no adjusting. There are some that close with snaps or zippers that are adjustable, but in general these are fit to the wearer. Very quick in and out, perfect for quick trips to the store!

The Sling Sisters - Actually, now that I think of it, this would be my favorite! These two sisters are amazing!! They custom make each pouch to fit the wearer, and they take their job seriously. Love them! I've met them in person too, and I highly recommend them!

Gurumama - These are very high quality, beautiful pouches. I got to try one out for a while, and it was really really nice! Gorgeous.

Mei Tai's

Homemade Scandi Mei Tai

These are Asian inspired carriers, and are very comfortable. Basically a square of fabric with four straps attached to the corners. This was my favorite carrier with Bria. It might not be the best for a newborn, but it does work. It is especially great for back carries. *Pictured is a homemade Scandi Mei Tai*  I personally find the Scandi to be an awesome design, and so comfy!

Some Brands:
Kozy Carrier - These are the 'original' if you will. They started it all in the US anyway. They have a fairly large body, and a padded headrest. A favorite of many!

Babyhawk - Probably the most popular Mei Tai out there. Available in fun prints and colors, very customizable. Really nice headrest as well. I would love to try one of these out someday!

Soft Structured Carriers

Ergo Baby

There are quite a few to choose from, including Boba, Beco and Ergo. I used to own the Ergo, but I currently own a Boba. I never really loved the Ergo, but the Boba is awesome! This would be the most 'manly' looking carrier. Something that you can share with your husband if he is so inclined to carry the baby. They have buckles and straps, much like a Baby Bjorn, but are made ergonomically correct for both you and your baby. These carriers are designed to be really comfortable.






Stretchy Wraps

Boba Wrap

Brands like Moby Wrap, Cuddly Wrap, and Boba Wrap are very popular. They are made from a jersey cotton most times. Perfect for newborns! These wraps are very cuddly and keep your baby close to your heart. Not so great for older kids though. You have to wrap them incredibly tight to avoid sagging. After your baby reaches a certain point, you will likely find that it isn't supportive enough. *Pictured is my friend Drea and the Boba Wrap*







Woven Wraps

Girasol Donau

These are similar to stretchy wraps, except that the fabric is woven and not stretchy. They are amazing for any age or size of baby. Great for back carries or front carries. These wraps are incredibly supportive and comfortable. There are many many brands, but probably the most popular is a German wrap called the Didymos. Not cheap, but also having a good resale value. If you buy one used, you can save a lot!  I own a gorgeous Didymos that was gifted to me. I used to own a Girasol that I bought second hand from The Baby Wearer forum.  I highly recommend both!  Though I did find the Girasol to be much softer, and I used it more often.


Obviously not everyone will love every type of carrier, and that's OK! If you have one that you love, then use it. And I must mention too, that it is possible to make your own carrier, which makes babywearing even more economical! I have made many, and in fact, most of mine have been handmade. From a simple piece of cloth, to an elaborate Mei Tai, use your imagination! For some great sewing instructions, check out Jan Andrea.


Whew. Now that was a post!

*Updated August 2012*