The babywearing information thread

[beanie]

I notice there are lots of threads from people asking which sling to get so thought it would be useful to have an info thread that could be stickied. That way people can find it easily and see all the information without having to search.

First of all, why babywear?
Babywearing has got a list of benefits including

1. Sling babies cry less. Parents in my practice commonly report, "As long as I wear her, she's content!" Parents of fussy babies who try babywearing relate that their babies seem to forget to fuss. This is more than just my own impression. In 1986, a team of pediatricians in Montreal reported on a study of ninety-nine mother-infant pairs. The first group of parents were provided with a baby carrier and assigned to carry their babies for at least three extra hours a day. They were encouraged to carry their infants throughout the day, regardless of the state of the infant, not just in response to crying or fussing. In the control, or noncarried group, parents were not given any specific instructions about carrying. After six weeks, the infants who received supplemental carrying cried and fussed 43 percent less than the noncarried group.

Anthropologists who travel throughout the world studying infant-care practices in other cultures agree that infants in babywearing cultures cry much less. In Western culture we measure a baby's crying in hours, but in other cultures, crying is measured in minutes. We have been led to believe that it is "normal" for babies to cry a lot, but in other cultures this is not accepted as the norm. In these cultures, babies are normally "up" in arms and are put down only to sleep – next to the mother. When the parent must attend to her own needs, the baby is in someone else's arms.

2. Sling babies learn more. If infants spend less time crying and fussing, what do they do with the free time? They learn! Sling babies spend more time in the state of quiet alertness . This is the behavioral state in which an infant is most content and best able to interact with his environment. It may be called the optimal state of learning for a baby. Researchers have also reported that carried babies show enhanced visual and auditory alertness.

The behavioral state of quiet alertness also gives parents a better opportunity to interact with their baby. Notice how mother and baby position their faces in order to achieve this optimal visually interactive plane. The human face, especially in this position, is a potent stimulator for interpersonal bonding. In the kangaroo carry, baby has a 180-degree view of her environment and is able to scan her world. She learns to choose, picking out what she wishes to look at and shutting out what she doesn't. This ability to make choices enhances learning. A sling baby learns a lot in the arms of a busy caregiver.

3. Sling babies are more organized. It's easier to understand babywearing when you think of a baby's gestation as lasting eighteen months – nine months inside the womb and at least nine more months outside. The womb environment automatically regulates baby's systems. Birth temporarily disrupts this organization. The more quickly, however, baby gets outside help with organizing these systems, the more easily he adapts to the puzzle of life outside the womb. By extending the womb experience, the babywearing mother (and father) provides an external regulating system that balances the irregular and disorganized tendencies of the baby. Picture how these regulating systems work. Mother's rhythmic walk, for example, (which baby has been feeling for nine months) reminds baby of the womb experience. This familiar rhythm, imprinted on baby's mind in the womb, now reappears in the "outside womb" and calms baby. As baby places her ear against her mother's chest, mother's heartbeat, beautifully regular and familiar, reminds baby of the sounds of the womb. As another biological regulator, baby senses mother's rhythmic breathing while worn tummy- to-tummy, chest-to-chest. Simply stated, regular parental rhythms have a balancing effect on the infant's irregular rhythms. Babywearing "reminds" the baby of and continues the motion and balance he enjoyed in the womb.

SLING TIP:
The womb lasts eighteen months: Nine months inside mother, and nine months outside.


What may happen if the baby spends most of his time lying horizontally in a crib, attended to only for feeding and comforting, and then again separated from mother? A newborn has an inherent urge to become organized, to fit into his or her new environment. If left to his own resources, without the regulating presence of the mother, the infant may develop disorganized patterns of behavior: colicky cries, jerky movements, disorganized self-rocking behaviors, anxious thumb sucking, irregular breathing, and disturbed sleep. The infant, who is forced to self-calm, wastes valuable energy he could have used to grow and develop.

While there is a variety of child-rearing theories, attachment researchers all agree on one thing: In order for a baby's emotional, intellectual, and physiological systems to function optimally, the continued presence of the mother, as during babywearing, is a necessary regulatory influence.

4. Sling babies get "humanized" earlier. Another reason that babywearing enhances learning is that baby is intimately involved in the caregiver's world. Baby sees what mother or father sees, hears what they hear, and in some ways feels what they feel. Carried babies become more aware of their parents' faces, walking rhythms, and scents. Baby becomes aware of, and learns from, all the subtle facial expressions, body language, voice inflections and tones, breathing patterns, and emotions of the caregiver. A parent will relate to the baby a lot more often, because baby is sitting right under her nose. Proximity increases interaction, and baby can constantly be learning how to be human. Carried babies are intimately involved in their parents' world because they participate in what mother and father are doing. A baby worn while a parent washes dishes, for example, hears, smells, sees, and experiences in depth the adult world. He is more exposed to and involved in what is going on around him. Baby learns much in the arms of a busy person.

5. Sling babies are smarter. Environmental experiences stimulate nerves to branch out and connect with other nerves, which helps the brain grow and develop. Babywearing helps the infant's developing brain make the right connections. Because baby is intimately involved in the mother and father's world, she is exposed to, and participates in, the environmental stimuli that mother selects and is protected from those stimuli that bombard or overload her developing nervous system. She so intimately participates in what mother is doing that her developing brain stores a myriad of experiences, called patterns of behavior. These experiences can be thought of as thousands of tiny short-run movies that are filed in the infant's neurological library to be rerun when baby is exposed to a similar situation that reminds her of the making of the original "movie." For example, mothers often tell me, "As soon as I pick up the sling and put it on, my baby lights up and raises his arms as if in anticipation that he will soon be in my arms and in my world."

I have noticed that sling babies seem more attentive, clicking into adult conversations as if they were part of it. Babywearing enhances speech development. Because baby is up at voice and eye level, he is more involved in conversations. He learns a valuable speech lesson – the ability to listen.

Normal ambient sounds, such as the noises of daily activities, may either have learning value for the infant or disturb him. If baby is alone, sounds may frighten him. If baby is worn, these sounds have learning value. The mother filters out what she perceives as unsuitable for the baby and gives the infant an "It's okay" feeling when he is exposed to unfamiliar sounds and experiences.

from Dr Sears

Types of slings

There are different types of slings and one of the most common questions is "what type of sling is best". This is a really individual choice, what suits you might not suit someone else. The best thing you can do is to see if there is a sling library near you so you can try on the different types before buying.
Basically the different types are:

Pouch Sling
This is a loop of fabric which is sewn together at the ends and folded to form a pocket. They go over one shoulder like a sash, and the baby sits in the pouch either on the front or back. These are ideal for newborns, but not as hands free as the others. However as they are none adjustable you have to get the correct fit for each person who will use it, and it can be tricky to get a very snug carry.
Examples of pouch slings include : – Brightsparks Coorie, Hotslings Everyday Pouch Sling,


Ring Sling
This consists of a length of fabric which is secured through threading through two rings which then forms a loop (looks similar to the pouch sling)is a piece of fabric which threads through two rings, forming a loop, with a "tail" of fabric. This tail is great for discreet breastfeeding. As these are adjustable, one sling will usually fit all, though some people do feel put off by the length of fabric. Also with it only going over one shoulder there isn't the even weight distribution you get with other slings.

Examples of ring slings include - Ellaroo,Mayawrap, Oopa baby, Bara Barn

Wrap Sling
Basically a length of fabric which is wrapped around your body and baby, holding baby securely in place. There are two types:
Stretchy made of a material which has a slight stretch in it. This makes it ideal for newborns as you can tie the wrap and then pop baby in and out when they need feeding. However due to the give of the material it is not really suitablefor bigger babies and will not be as supportive.
Woven wraps
These are more supportive and hold baby more securely to you as they get older. Due to the material they tend to be less "slippy" and will hold a wriggler better.
Both types are good for weight distribution, and are comfortable even for long periods. They can look complicated at first which puts people off but with a little practice it is easy to get the hang of them. These are also the most versitile, and can be tied in a number of ways.
Examples - stretchy wraps: Hug-a-bub, Moby Wrap, Moby D, Calin Bleu Fleece, lotties botties
- woven wraps: Didymos, Storchenwiege, Bara Barn, Girosol, Calin Bleu Gauze

Soft Carriers - this is the biggest group and each type has their benefits so not going to go into these too much. These tend to be spereated into two groups, tie on or buckle.
Buckle are made up of a panal of fabric which is secured around the waist and over the shoulders using buckles. These tend to be best used as back carriers, though not all of them are suitable for newborns. Types include Beco Butterfly, Pikkolo,Patapum.
Tie on are more commonly known as mei tais, and are a panal of fabric secured around the wait and shoulders with straps which are tied. This means they are more adjustable. Examples of these include babyhawk, Ellaroo, SimplyMeiTai

What carrying positions to use

from the babywearer

Important Note. Suggestions are made here for positions that may be appropriate for your baby at a particular age. This guidance is of a general nature only. If you wish to try a particular carry, make sure that your babycarrier is appropriate and use specific instructions that are designed for your babycarrier.

Newborns

The most appropriate positions for newborn babies are:

Lying down or semi-reclining on your front. Slings, pouches, rebozos, some torso carriers and wraparound carriers are suitable. In a sling, pouch or rebozo there are two variations - the Cradle Carry where the baby's head is nearest the carrying shoulder, and the Nursing Hold where the baby's head is opposite the carrying shoulder. In the Cradle Hold you can move your baby's head further up towards the carrying shoulder (towards the rings, in a sling) into a semi-reclining position.
In the Newborn Snuggle Hold/Tummy to Tummy Carry your baby is upright and facing you, either with knees up (froggy-style) or feet tucked under. Wraparounds, slings, pouches, rebozos, some torso carriers and some Asian-style soft carriers can accommodate this position while keeping the baby's back and head well supported and minimising slouching. For an Asian-style carrier to be suitable, it must specifically designed to prevent the baby from sliding sideways, or worse, falling out of the carrier.
The Shoulder Carry or Burp Position. This is a very natural position to use with a young baby, one that we frequently assume without a babycarrier. It is comforting for your baby by putting gentle pressure on her tummy and it prevents reflux. It can be achieved with an unpadded sling (with the rings down on your hip) or a rebozo but these options do not provide a secure "hands free" carry. To be secure, a second sling (or rebozo) on the opposite shoulder can be added (again with rings on your hip). Both slings should be secured very tightly.
The Reclining Back Carry. In traditional cultures it is common to wear a baby reclining on the wearer's back. This is born of necessity for women who must resume manual work while their babies are still quite young (often from 6 weeks onwards). The baby is carried on the back while the mother works and when the time comes to nurse, the baby is swung around to the front. Wearing young babies on the back is not common in our culture, but if you wish to try this position, a traditional African-style carrier or rebozo is likely to be the most suitable. See our How To page for links to instructions for this carry with a rebozo.


Young babies with head control

Once past the newborn stage, when your baby can hold his head up well, he will probably enjoy being more upright.
The Snuggle Hold (or tummy to tummy) is a very popular position, giving great security and comfort as well as more visibility. The name "tummy to tummy" is misleading as your baby should ride with her legs around your waist, so that her centre of gravity is above your own. Young babies often prefer to have their feet inside the carrier and tucked underneath them. Others are more comfortable with their legs straddling your waist. In a sling, pouch, rebozo, torso carrier or wraparound, it is easy to move from the Snuggle Hold to a reclining position for nursing or sleeping. Structured soft carriers can also be used for the Snuggle Hold; make sure that the seat area is wide enough to support your baby's bottom with her legs straddled around you, so that you are not kicking her legs back as you walk.
The Buddha Carry. Once your baby becomes more inquisitive and adventurous, he will probably enjoy facing out to see the world, at least some of the time. This is sometimes called the Kangaroo Carry, although you may also see that term referring to a carry with the baby facing in. To avoid confusion I will use the term Buddha Carry. You can achieve a Buddha Carry with a sling, pouch, rebozo, wraparound carrier (using a wrap cross carry) or an Asian-style soft carrier with extra straps (or long straps) as for the newborn upright position, above.
Your baby's legs can either be crossed, Buddha-style; knees up, froggy-style; or feet tucked under. Your baby's centre of gravity is a little further out from your body in this position, so some people find it more tiring than the Snuggle Hold. Unless your baby is very gregarious, this position is not a great choice for outings to new places or where there will be a lot of people. The stimulation is unavoidable for your baby and can be overwhelming, with no place to turn his face away.
The Sideways Kangaroo Carry is a variation on the Buddha Carry with the baby sitting sideways and legs outstretched. The baby's head and bottom are at the higher end (in a sling this is the side with the rings) and baby's legs may stick out the other side if they are long. This position is possible with a sling, pouch, rebozo or wraparound carrier. The sideways kangaroo has the advantage that the baby has a great vantage point, but can also retreat to safety and comfort by snuggling into your chest.
Upright Back Carry. Carrying your baby upright on your back is possible at this age with an Asian-style carrier or wrap.
The sitting baby

Some new positions are added to the repertoire once your baby can sit well. Positions listed above for young babies are also still appropriate.
The Hip Carry is one of the most popular and "natural" carries and can be achieved with a sling, pouch, rebozo, wraparound carrier (one-shoulder carries only), hip carrier, and some soft carriers (the manufacturer will state if this is an option). The term Hip Carry refers to any carry where the baby straddles you, that is not directly on your front or back; it is most often slightly to the front of your hip, or slightly to the back. This is a comfortable position for your baby as she can see out as well as being able to see your face. She can also snuggle into you and retreat when overstimulated. Babies can sleep in this position with the head resting on your shoulder, but naturally this will reduce the mobility of your arm. Some mothers find it convenient to nurse in the Hip Carry.
Upright Back Carries are quite secure with a podegi, torso carrier, soft carrier or wraparound carrier, once you have learned how to get your baby into this position. An upright back carry is also possible with single shouldered babycarriers: slings, pouches, rebozos and some hip carriers (check the manufacturers specifications), but these are less secure. Babies vary considerably in how much they wriggle, arch and move around; you will need to make a judgement about whether your baby is secure on your back in a single shouldered carrier, especially if you want to carry him there for long periods. If you have your baby on your hip and need him out of the way for a minute, you can temporarily move him to your back (or to a back-Hip carry). If your baby is wriggly and you would like to carry him on your back using your sling, one possible option to increase security would be to add a second sling on your other shoulder; this should also add to your comfort.
The Sumo Hold is also possible for this age group. In this position you baby is upright on your front (or back) and facing away from you. There is some debate about whether this is a healthy position for babies' hip and back development. It can be achieved with a wraparound carrier and some structured soft carriers (check the manufacturer's specifications). It can also be achieved by wearing two slings or rebozos used on opposite shoulders, to form a cross on which your baby sits. A sumo hold on the hip is possible with some hip carriers.
Front and hip carries are the most poppable (easy to get your baby into and out of), which is essential during the up-down phase. This will most likely start some time between 6 and 12 months. Older babies often prefer the Hip Carry to the Snuggle Hold as they can see more. Through their straddling action, both carries transfer some weight downwards onto your waist/hips.


Toddlers

Most positions are developmentally appropriate for carrying a toddler; the key factor is that you are both comfortable.
Front and hip carries are still recommended for poppabiity. Most toddlers will prefer the Hip Carry to the Snuggle Hold for visibility. As your child gets older and bigger, you will also find that the Snuggle Hold becomes less convenient.
The Sumo Hold and Buddha Carry are both possible but likely to be less comfortable for you now that your baby weighs more. In both positions you baby's centre of gravity is away from your body and is likely to cause strain on your back.
The Back Carry is the position of choice for many parents of toddlers. Your baby will most likely have outgrown a structured soft carrier by this age, but unstructured ones can still be used, as well as all of the babycarriers mentioned above for back carries. Frame back-packs are also a popular option.


to find out how to do these carries:
wrap instructions
pouch instructions
ring slings
meitai instructions

One last link safe babywearing

 

[daftscotslass]

 

[beanie]

that took me aaaaaaages,my hands hurt

 

[charlie84]

Oooh interesting. I am looking into wearing my little madam but was worried that she may not take to it this late a stage. When she was a newb i tried her in a ring sling which she didnt seem to like much so ditched that and havent tried anything since.
Mei Tai's look gorgeous but not sure as LO would probably love to be facing outwards. Hmm what to do, what to do?

 

[beanie]

they don't need to be facing outwards to see lots. In fact a lot of sling makers are actually saying not to carry them facing out. Cally can see all around her in a back carry but if she needs to sleep she just snuggles into my back.

 

[Bee]

Great thread!


Charlie - try it. You will be surprised. LO will love being next to you rather than in a pram

Finlay prefers to be facing outwards but in a Mei Tai he's fine and thats with him on my front. Haven't tried the back hold yet.

 

[charlie84]

Well i think i will treat Calleigh to a Mei Tai, OH cant complain as he has recently bought himself an xbox
*off to search internet as we speak *

 

[lea m]

Thanks for the thread Beanie!

 

[Magic Monkey]

Brilliant thread Beanie, it has answered all my questions. I would love to babywear, but I have really weak/bad shoulders and can't seem to find a way that I can do it without it hurting. I think maybe I will wait for the next one and then I can gradually get used to it, rather than attempting to start with a 20lb baby!

 

[Becky]

I'm interested in this too so thanks Beanie!!

One question, are any of the slings better/worse for getting on by yourself? I just worry that I'd end up struggling to get it on right.

 

[Betula]

I'm interested in this too so thanks Beanie!!

One question, are any of the slings better/worse for getting on by yourself? I just worry that I'd end up struggling to get it on right.

I just bought a mei tai carrier and was surprised by just how easy it is to put on. I haven't been able to put a real baby in yet of course, but it was very straightforward when I tried it on.

 

[Squiglet]

Wow beanie this is awesome.. But you just made me want to get another funky carrier...lil miss won't be in them much longer now

 

[christmasbabygirl]

Hiyaa
Great thread!!
i have a question
When walking with a pram the changing bag can hang on the buggy so no need to lug it around
So with a baby sling isnt it a nightmare with the changing bag to carry about? id be worried about being in town struggling with bag and shopping and the sling lol id look like a riggght wally haha!!!! so how do u cope lol?? xx

 

[Bee]

Hiyaa
Great thread!!
i have a question
When walking with a pram the changing bag can hang on the buggy so no need to lug it around
So with a baby sling isnt it a nightmare with the changing bag to carry about? id be worried about being in town struggling with bag and shopping and the sling lol id look like a riggght wally haha!!!! so how do u cope lol?? xx

I usually put the bare minimum in my bag Or leave it in the car and send OH back to get it

Finlay isn't too bad and doesn't usually need much. I cram a muslin into my bag and a spare bib but apart from that we are normally ok

 

[moss]

I wondered about the bags too because I haven't been out on my own much yet! Still! I need to take nappies (cloth ones so even more to take), wipes, a terry and my stuff (at least a wallet). I'm not sure how to do that comfortably with my carrier. I wear bags diagnoally across my body, too, because it is better for your back so that's even harder!

 

[christmasbabygirl]

yeah and because if i go out visiting sumbody or sumthing i normally go for the whole day so dont think a tiny bag is an option!! no car so will be walking aswell! xx

 

[daftscotslass]

For longer trips out in about we just use a backpack. We have a Baby Bjorn backpack but any one will do.

 

[christmasbabygirl]

ooh i didnt think of that lol! thats a good idea much more comfy then lugging around a shoulder strap changing bag... well i think ill get a sling when LO is here and see how i get on and if i love it as much as some other mums then ill invest in a backpack, thanks for the idea

 

[daftscotslass]

This is the one we have (in blue) - http://www.babyequipmentcomplete.com/pr ... 1Aodq2Qu_A it's half price on this site though we only paid just over £20 as I remember. BARGAINOUS! As I say, any old backpack will do but I like all the compartments in this one as I'm a bit of an organisation freak

My original changing bag has barely seen any use at all.

 

[beanie]

I just have a big bag from ASDA that I jjst throw everthing in and its comfy to wear. I am going to get an onbag when I win the lottery though