your baby. What works perfectly for one parent or baby or situation may be completely impractical for another, and you may be very surprised by how something feels when you actually try it, so be open-minded. Whatever product you’re considering, the following are basic requirements that you should expect from a good sling, wrap or carrier:
* Safe, comfortable support for a baby’s spine, head, and airways. Your baby should always be held high and snug on your body with their face visible at all times. For babies under 5 months the safest support is achieved when they are held in an upright position, facing your body.
* Weight comfortably distributed for the carrying adult. Carriers that distribute the weight across both shoulders and evenly into your torso and hips will be the most comfortable for longer periods of carrying. But don’t assume that structure and padding make a carrier more supportive; less structured options can contour to your body for super comfortable weight distribution!
* Straightforward to use. What you find easy to use will differ from what other people find easy. Try things out and check that you can get your carrier safe and comfortable by yourself.
* Hands Free. This should go without saying, but if you’re not able to safely and confidently let go of your baby when they’re in your carrier, then you won’t be able to enjoy all your
outdoorsy activities. If you're struggling, then it may be worth getting help using your sling correctly, or finding a better option for hands free carrying.
The best way to discover what feels right for you is to try things out for yourself. Borrow a carrier from a friend, visit a Baby Show or find a local babywearing group. For more specialist help, Sling Libraries offer carrier advice, demonstrations and hire out slings and carriers too. Borrowing a carrier gives you the perfect chance to try out a new carrier and find out whether it will really work for you, and whatever adventures you and your little ones want to have together. Happy slinging! x
Emily Williamson runs the South London Sling Library. For more info about everything slingy, visit www.southlondonslings.co.uk