Baby Carriers and Slings

Arabella Greatorex asked:




Help! My baby is growing and my baby sling advertised from birth to toddler isn't as comfortable as I had hoped. What shall I do, buy another one or give up on 'babywearing?'

As an avid babywearer, I always feel disappointed when a parent feels they have to give up on carrying their child because they can't find a comfortable fit. Before packing your baby carriers away, give them one more chance with these simple steps.

1 - Read up

Take a moment to read the manufacturer's instructions. Is your baby sling suitable for your baby's age, weight and development? Some baby carriers can only be used from a certain age, or require an infant insert for young babies. Others are only suitable up to a certain weight. Just because a sling has been safety tested up to a certain weight doesn't mean that it's the easiest to use for an older child.

2 - Make it snug

Baby should be held snug. If you rock gently from side to side, he should stay tucked into you. If need be, push his weight up with one hand while you adjust the baby sling with the other.

3 - Wear it high

'Close enough to kiss' is the right position for your baby. Simply tilt your head forward to kiss his forehead. He should not slip down even after a few hours of carrying. If you find that he does then go back to step 2 and tighten your carrier.

4 - Slow down

Take the time to read the manufacturer's instructions, use the babywearing videos available on the internet. If need be, contact the shop where you purchased your baby sling to ask questions. Then put on your baby carrier step by step, there's no need to rush.

5 - Meet up

Find a sling meeting locally. Experienced 'babywearers' will share their tips and help you adjust your baby carrier to find a comfortable fit.

If you are struggling to find a comfortable fit with your baby sling, don't give up just yet. Don't rush to buy yet another one. Follow these simple steps to learn to use your baby sling comfortably.