16 Feb 2008
Choosing the right sling for yourself………
The practice of carrying your baby in a sling (‘Baby-wearing”) is finally gaining more popularity amongst the Western society, as more parents discover the many benefits it has for both wearer and baby.
Some of the many benefits, from convenience to development
reasons include:
Holds baby close, providing warmth, pleasure, security & comfort
Keeps parents/wearers hands free – especially useful if you have a toddler to chase!
Meets the baby’s needs of love & security – they can smell, feel, see & hear the parent. When against your chest, the comfort of the heart beat.
A natural pacifier – the baby is soothed by the rhythm of your body movements, just like in when in the womb for 9 months.
The baby/child learns from the environment around them in a state of quiet alertness as they participate in the actions, conversations, walking, laughing and working of the parent.
Breastfeeding is easier, and more private, in a sling
Studies have shown, babies who are worn, cry less and can have a reduced incidence of colic
Enhances the child’s motor skills by stimulating the Vestibular system used for balance
One study found that a baby’s nervous system can be permanently altered if they are left to cry for periods of time, as the developing brain is flooded by stress hormones.
We all need human touch for healthy development. It is a known fact, if a new born does not receive touch & love, they do not live for very long. Slings promote this closeness and the baby/child experiences human touch and movement which have been shown to have a positive effect on the baby’s development.
There are definitely benefits with prams also, however, the amount of parents I see pushing a tiny new-born in a pram, facing away from them, concerns me. The new born cannot be protected from stimulation and power of the fluorescent lights, or sunlight nor the fast-pace environment around them especially when in a busy shopping centre. The squirming & crying, to me, indicates an unsettled, unhappy, uncomfortable little bubba.
There are many fantastic slings out there today, and finding the right one can be tricky. Some tips and things to consider are:
- Your body – do you suffer from back problems, are you round-shouldered etc? Finding a good supporting sling/carrier that will give you full support around the waist, back, shoulders will be important to avoid further pain/discomfort for you. (Working on your posture will also benefit you for life if you can incorporate yoga or exercise into your day/week).
- What things do you plan on doing whilst carrying your baby? Are you using it for daily living – washing, cooking, general chores? Or is it for outings, going shopping or walking?
- Will other people be using it? For most couples, the male partner is broader and taller than the female partner. Do you want a carrier that you can both wear and adjust for size easily?
- Consider the weather, and the fabric the carrier is made from. Some carriers/slings can be too hot for your climate causing discomfort for wearer and child. You can keep the clothing to a minimum with your bubba, and cover them lightly with a light-weight muslin sheet to shelter them from the sun.
- Can you take your baby out of the sling easily without disturbing them too much? Can you breastfeed easily in it?
- Do you want 1 sling, or maybe a couple of different ones to cover everything?
The best thing to do is try a few different ones on. There are some people who are drawn to the many beautiful fabrics of a sling, some are drawn to practicality, and others who are after simple & easy, no buckles & clips. Whatever you choose, do make sure it is comfortable.
I am endeavouring to bring you a variety of slings/carriers that have proven to be high quality in design and fabric.
Please visit our ‘Mothers Shopping Cart’ at www.angelmothers.com
I am also available for “Mamma Metta” gatherings where women can come together to try on the slings and find what suits them. (See below for locations).
Happy baby wearing!!
© Tara Yewdall
I am willing to travel to the following areas for gatherings:
Kingaroy to Gympie; Kingaroy to Toowoomba; Sunshine Coast area, around Cooran, Eumundi, Noosa.
For gatherings, please call 0413 835 587 or email shopping@angelmothers.com.
All enquiries welcome.
Tara Yewdall
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