Slings and Babywearers
There is nothing quite like the feel of a new baby in your arms. And from the first moment that you feel him in your arms, it will be hard to imagine a time when you will ever want to put him down. Still, there will come a time when the need to fold laundry, or eat a meal will require that you do in fact put your baby down.
The Benefits of Babywearing
Many new parents use a sling or other babywearing device to combine the joy of holding their babies with the reality of needing their hands free to accomplish tasks throughout the day.
BABYWEARING:
Aids in bonding between parent and baby
Provides a safe and secure environment for baby
Offers a convenient way for parents to hold baby
Helps to soothe and comfort a fussy baby
Helps new moms shed baby weight
Studies show that babies who are carried cry an average of 43 percent less overall and 54 percent less during the evening hours than those who are not.
Types of Babywearers
A few things to keep in mind when looking for a babywearer are the product's ease of use and adaptability to differing situations and positions. A traditional sling is nothing more than a long piece of fabric that can be worn around the body and tied in such a way that it provides a safe, snuggly cocoon for the baby. Depending upon the situation and the baby's preferences, slings can be worn on the front, back, or side, with the baby laying down or sitting in an upright position.
If you've never worn a sling before, it may seem cumbersome or confusing to use. Talk to friends, family, or your midwife about the best ways to secure a sling properly and safely. Online, check out The Babywearer (www.thebabywearer.com) to learn about diagnosing and solving common sling-wearing problems.
Other popular babywearers are the front packs that can be worn across the chest and allow babies to sit upright in either a forward or backward position.
Going for the Green
Once you've decided on the style of babywearer you'd like to use to carry your baby, go for the green by lessening the impact of the item on the planet. Look for a gently used babywearer from friends, family members, the local thrift store, or a yard sale. You could also try posting a request on Freecycle (www.freecycle.com) to see if anyone in your local area is interested in giving one a way.
If you do decide to purchase new, look for a babywearer made from 100 percent natural fibers such as cotton or hemp, which are certified organic. Check out Pretty Momma Sling (www.prettymommasling.com), the Sling Station (www.theslingstation.com), or ERGObaby (www.ergobabycarrier.com), for slings and baby carriers made from organic fibers.
