People sometimes correlate baby wearing with dippy hippies and granola. But you don't have to wear dreadlocks and have a compost to recognize how awesome baby wearing can be. Your Dr will tell you baby wearing is shown to help with colic, reduce postpartum depression and improve intelligence. Mom's will tell you it's easier than lugging out a big a stroller on a quick errand, you can vacuum without being bothered, and even put a flailing screaming toddler in time out. All this without upsetting the newest addition...aka the tyrannical dictator who has taken over what was once your peaceful kingdom. Having tried almost every baby wearing option out there I thought I'd list a few of my fav styles.
Baby Bjorn
- It's easy to use and adjust, relatively inexpensive, baby can face in or out
Ergo and Becco Butterfly
-Cadillac's of baby wearing, a little more complicated (and spendy), but well worth it. Baby can be worn in front, on your back or hip. Good for big babies, has extra padding!
Moby Wrap and Ring Sling
-The most traditional style, wraps and pouches, allow for front, back, hip positions. Best of all... hands free breastfeeding! Ever tried to discretely feed a newborn at soccer practice/karate class/ballet lessons? Not so easy. But in one of these, add a hooter-hider for extra coverage and you are good. Yeah this why we LOVE these styles. No more creepy Joe eyeballing your side boob, or sitting in a disgusting bathroom stall while baby decides it's time to reeeeeaaaaalllllly enjoy her meal.
Baby wearing has been in the news lately, and not because of how great it is for you and your child. The sad deaths of two newborn baby's got national attention when they were smothered inside pouch slings. I remember shopping for my first and considering the exact style! Yikes. It's no longer sold, and I hope this will not deter Moms and Dad's from wearing their baby. Before you are sucked into the vortex of worry I refer to as "The Fear" remember that people have relied on baby wearing for centuries. Talk yourself off the ledge. It's safe. Embrace your inner earth mother and try a few on for size. Once you know what you like... wear that child! Birkenstocks and patchouli ARE optional.
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