You want to hold your baby, but you’d also like to get things done, right? Right. This is where baby-wearing comes in handy. You can take a stroll, shop, check your email, eat a sandwich, even mingle at a party…while keeping your baby close. If the slings seem too complicated, there are plenty of other baby carriers to choose from. Here is a list for those of you who feel that “the sling is not my thing.” Many are adjustable (to fit both mommy and daddy) and offer great back and shoulder support. We recommend you try them out and see what is most comfortable for you…and what works with your budget.
• Baby Bjorn – the baby is worn in the front but can snuggle with you or face outwards.
• ERGO Baby – great ergonomic design for baby and parent comfort.
• Baby Hawk – Asian-inspired carrier that can be worn on your front, hip, or back.
And once babies are a little bigger, there is a wide selection of backpack carriers. All of this may seem overwhelming, but the idea is for you to find a way to be hands-free and comfortable.
Related reviews on Kidoinfo:
Baby on Board: Baby Wearing Beyond the Bjorn
In This Ring: A Sling for Every Occasion
Kanga Knew: Fitted Pouches for a Happier Roo
Kristen Kardos, MA Ed., and Kathy McGuigan, MSW, the co-founders of RI New Moms Connection, provide affordable, accessible pregnancy and new mom groups throughout Rhode Island. In “Tips for New Moms” they share their knowledge, resources, and helpful ideas for moms just beginning their journey into motherhood or moms who may need a little refresher.
Editor’s Note: Although “Tips for New Moms” is written with the new mom in mind—to support women in their journey through motherhood—it is certainly not the authors’ intention to exclude dads. Every new parent will find their tips, resources, and insights helpful. I invite all moms and dads to share ideas on how they manage their new role as a parent with Kidoinfo in the comments below.
I have the bjorn. IT is awesome. But, baby only tolerates it awhile. It is snug. Can’t wait til 6 months when you can turn the baby facing out. But, can’t do that yet as she is 4 months. IT is expensive though, we paid 170. I think before taxes
In response to the Ergo with child facing in… I too had the same problem, so wound up not buying the ergo. I did however, buy the moby wrap, which I can have my son face out it. Since it is one piece of fabric, it is a little daunting at first, but now I love it and it is much more comfortable than my Baby Bjorn (with lumbar). It is not too expensive, so it might be worth considering also.
The Ergo is very comfortable, but before purchasing it, I somehow missed that when the child is in front, they can only face in. The result is that I rarely use mine, as my son always wants to face out so he can see what’s going on. So, I got the Baby Bjorn with the lumbar support, which isn’t terrific, but is better than no support at all.
The Ergo is fantastic! It is also very gender neutral so dad’s tend to be happier to use it.
Erin
http://www.momandbabyboutique.com