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Follow the directions for the hip carry but place baby against your belly instead of on your hip.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
Snugli Baby Carrier
13 years ago
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Belly to Belly
A favorite, for sure. Your baby's gonna love looking up adoringly at mama's face in this carry. For babies who can hold up their heads well.
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Follow the directions for the hip carry but place baby against your belly instead of on your hip.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
NGJ9M6R2ZBZB
Follow the directions for the hip carry but place baby against your belly instead of on your hip.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
The Hip Carry
This is a simple position in which your baby is resting on your hip. Good for babies that can hold up their heads well.
1. Begin by opening the pouch over one hip.
2. Place your baby's bottom in the sling on the seam, facing you. This makes a little seat for him. Be sure to hold on to him with one hand until you feel he is secure.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
1. Begin by opening the pouch over one hip.
2. Place your baby's bottom in the sling on the seam, facing you. This makes a little seat for him. Be sure to hold on to him with one hand until you feel he is secure.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
Kangaroo Carry
This over the shoulder baby holder is great for babies that just want to soak up the world. They are very stimulated by the sights, sounds, and smells around them, but the stimulation is regulated by you. This over the shoulder baby holder is appropriate for babies that can hold their heads up well and are in a wakeful state. Be careful to always support your baby while bending over.
1. When putting on your over the shoulder baby holder, be sure the seam in in line with your belly button. While holding your baby directly in front of you, scrunch up his legs and open the pouch.
2. Place your baby, bottom down, into the sling. Voila!.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
1. When putting on your over the shoulder baby holder, be sure the seam in in line with your belly button. While holding your baby directly in front of you, scrunch up his legs and open the pouch.
2. Place your baby, bottom down, into the sling. Voila!.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
The Cradle Carry
The Cradle Carry
This position is great for little babies and naptime. We still use it to put our 9 month, 20 pound chunker to sleep!
1. Begin by folding your sling in half and placing it over your non-dominant arm.
2. After pulling the carrier over your head and resting it on the opposite shoulder, place your baby's feet into the pouch.
3. Gently lay your baby's head down in the carrier. Notice how Elijah is still right there on my belly just like the womb! Tip: Your baby's head should always be nearest the shoulder the pouch is resting on.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
This position is great for little babies and naptime. We still use it to put our 9 month, 20 pound chunker to sleep!
1. Begin by folding your sling in half and placing it over your non-dominant arm.
2. After pulling the carrier over your head and resting it on the opposite shoulder, place your baby's feet into the pouch.
3. Gently lay your baby's head down in the carrier. Notice how Elijah is still right there on my belly just like the womb! Tip: Your baby's head should always be nearest the shoulder the pouch is resting on.
source: www.mykarmababy.com
Make your own over the shoulder baby holder!
It is so easy to sew a your own over the shoulder baby holder or baby sling. You just need some basic sewing skills and fabric and this basic baby sling pattern. Wearing a baby in a sling is one of the best ways to bond with and nurture your little one.
How to make your own baby sling: Baby Sling Pattern
1. Picking out your fabric. This is the best part. There are so many fabulous prints out there, it may be hard to choose. My favorite baby sling fabric is the kind found in the home decor section of your local sewing store. These come on large rolls. People are often tempted by the beautiful selection that quilting fabric offers, but this is not strong enough fabric to make a baby sling out of unless you double it up. Some people love fabric with a bit of stretch, so look for a 97% cotton/ 3% lycra blend.
Over the shoulder baby holder fabric resources:
As always, I feel it is very important for mothers to support other mothers, so if you can, try to buy from a work at home mom (wahm). Here are some fabric resources I pulled together, but if you are or know of a wahm that has an online fabric store please tell me so that I can add it!
Be sure to prewash all your material!
Quilting (good if doubled up): Sew Mama Sew. They have a huge selection of very stylish fabrics-definitely what I would use for one of our slings if we used this weight.
Home Decor: Try here, they have good prices and you can get swatches, too. We like to use Waverly prints, they are so gorgeous.
Stretch: This is always a challenge. Beautiful prints in this kind of fabric are always hard to come by. Try this website. Be sure to get fabric that stretches widthwise and not lengthwise. You do not want your baby sling to stretch out too much as you wear it.
Fleece: Fleece is the best baby sling for winter. It is so soft and cozy for your baby. Try here to buy it by the yard. Be sure to see how much it stretches. You can hold the fabric down with your knee and stretch it alongside a ruler. However much it stretches is how much smaller you should cut it. Fleece is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.
Minky fabric: This is that oh so soft material that baby blankets are made out of. Nothing in the world is softer, I wish all my clothes were made out of this! Buy it here: MINKY, you'll be working with a wonderful wahm. Minky is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.
Solarveil: It protects your baby's skin from 95% of the sun's harmful rays if you double it up. Always double layer it: it is too thin for just one layer. It is great for the pool, shower, or any kind of water, and dries in just minutes. A great summer baby sling. It is a bit scratchy at first, but softens up with every wash and will soon become your favorite sling. Beware: sizing is easy for someone that is on the small side. If you are small, you can cut the fabric widthwise, making the stretch go along the width. If you are above a 26" shoulder to hip measurement you will have to cut lengthwise, so be sure you cut the fabric about 1"-2" shorter. Also, when you make a baby sling out of solarveil, remember that you will be wearing this without clothes on, so you may want to cut it a little bit shorter. If this is confusing at all, feel free to email me here. Find Solarveil here. Solarveil is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.
Other than the above mentioned, you will want to avoid synthetic materials for babies. Polyester is just awful for a baby sling. We want your baby to be as comfy as possible in the sling!
With this pattern, you'll need about two yards of whatever fabric you choose for your baby sling. You will be able to get two slings out of this so make one for a friend or an extra one for yourself while one is being washed (or, if you are like me, you may have to save that fabric for when you mess up the first piece!).
2. Cut your fabric lengthwise to about 22". You should now have a 2 yard by 22" piece of fabric.
3. Fold fabric in half lengthwise, then fold up so that all four open corners are to the right.
4. Measure the top edge of the sling. This should be 1/2" longer than your shoulder to hip measurement. (see our sizing page for more info on the shoulder to hip measurement) Mark that (in my case, 25") on the upper right edge of the folded fabric. Now, measure the bottom edge. The measurement for this should be the top edge measurement + 3 (in my case 28").
Now, cut a half smile from the bottom mark to the top mark.
5. Unfold fabric widthwise and sew the two ends together along the curve that you just cut.
6. Now, turn the pouch inside out. You will now encase the seam that you just made. Be sure that all of the excess fabric from your seam on the other side is encased in your new seam.
Next, sew the encased sling down. Voila, you have made your first french seam.
7. Now that your french seam is done, you will sew the raw top and bottom edges of the sling. Simply make a 1/4" hem on each side, being careful when you get to the part where your french seam is, you may have to adjust your machine for the thickness of the three layers of fabric there.
And that's it! You should now have a beautiful new over the shoulder baby holder a.k.a baby sling.
Extras:
My design for the Karma Baby Sling also includes a pocket lined in bias tape and a handy toy ring.
The pocket: If you are not an expert seamstress, I would recommend staying away from the bias tape that we use to line our pockets. It is sometimes difficult to work with. Instead, you can simply cut a square whatever size you want your pocket to be, hem the sides, and then sew it on. We put ours on over the french seam so that the pocket is right in the middle of the sling.
The toy ring:
We use cotton webbing and a d ring for our toy ring. Both of these items can be found at your local sewing shop.
original source: www.mykarmababy.com
Monday, March 1, 2010
Different Types of Baby Slings
Backpack carrier: a backpack carrier where the child is strapped at the back of the carrying adult is a very comfortable baby carrier. With the child secured in it, the parent can work without any obstacles in front. Kitchen chores like chopping, whipping etc. can be done with a baby strapped at the back, though it is best not to go to a lighted stove with the child, even though he will be covered from it by the carrying adult. These are very useful for those want to carry a child during a long walk or even a minor trekking expedition.
Backpack baby carrier is available in several sizes including those designed for carrying grown children. Some come with padded straps, others with metal frames, or may have head rests or sunshades. The larger ones could be a bit heavy and with a grown child in it, it is not something suitable for a frail mom, or a dad with a not very strong back.
Front carrier:
This is generally simpler in design and is better for smaller infants. A front baby carrier is also referred to as classic carrier. It comes in different sizes and adjustable straps. The straps of front baby slings go over the users shoulders, then around the waist, and lock in front. The baby can be placed in it both facing inward and outward. It is extremely useful for nursing mothers.
Wrap carrier:
Also known as Asian baby carrier, or just as wrap-around, a wrap carrier is just a long strip of strong fabric. These are just wrapped around the body of the mom and the babe in a complicated design going around the moms waist and shoulders and finally knotted on the shoulder or at the front. Users can be creative with it and change knotting patterns or position. Wrap carriers are generally made of quilted, colorful material. This is the conventional mode in which women have kept babies tied to their bodies long before factories started churning out baby slings.
Sling carrier:
A sling baby carrier is quite similar to a wrap carrier and basically consists of a long swath of cloth that wind round the mother and child and remain supported by a strap on the shoulder. This in itself has several modifications. In some sling carriers the end points are passed through rings to make securing easy.
Beco baby carrier:
This is a baby carrier with a very flexible design, which can be worn at the back or at the front. Its main advantage is that the same carrier can be used for carrying a newborn as well as a toddler. It has got an infant insert that will let the newborn remain in a raised position. The insert can be removed when the child outgrows its need. These baby slings can be strapped on and off pretty fast and can be folded very compactly when not in use so that transporting it is never a problem.
Backpack baby carrier is available in several sizes including those designed for carrying grown children. Some come with padded straps, others with metal frames, or may have head rests or sunshades. The larger ones could be a bit heavy and with a grown child in it, it is not something suitable for a frail mom, or a dad with a not very strong back.
Front carrier:
This is generally simpler in design and is better for smaller infants. A front baby carrier is also referred to as classic carrier. It comes in different sizes and adjustable straps. The straps of front baby slings go over the users shoulders, then around the waist, and lock in front. The baby can be placed in it both facing inward and outward. It is extremely useful for nursing mothers.
Wrap carrier:
Also known as Asian baby carrier, or just as wrap-around, a wrap carrier is just a long strip of strong fabric. These are just wrapped around the body of the mom and the babe in a complicated design going around the moms waist and shoulders and finally knotted on the shoulder or at the front. Users can be creative with it and change knotting patterns or position. Wrap carriers are generally made of quilted, colorful material. This is the conventional mode in which women have kept babies tied to their bodies long before factories started churning out baby slings.
Sling carrier:
A sling baby carrier is quite similar to a wrap carrier and basically consists of a long swath of cloth that wind round the mother and child and remain supported by a strap on the shoulder. This in itself has several modifications. In some sling carriers the end points are passed through rings to make securing easy.
Beco baby carrier:
This is a baby carrier with a very flexible design, which can be worn at the back or at the front. Its main advantage is that the same carrier can be used for carrying a newborn as well as a toddler. It has got an infant insert that will let the newborn remain in a raised position. The insert can be removed when the child outgrows its need. These baby slings can be strapped on and off pretty fast and can be folded very compactly when not in use so that transporting it is never a problem.
At La Stella Blu we have searched the world far and wide to provide you with the safest, most well made, and stylish baby slings available. With so many baby carriers to choose from like Beco baby carrier and Ergo baby carrier, its a difficult choice.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Punjabi
Baby Slings - Padded Vs Unpadded
There's a debate going on, almost as intense as digital vs. analog, satellite tv vs. cable. It's padded vs. unpadded. No, it isn't referring to women's underwear. It's the baby sling debate.
For those of you who haven't been up on the Hollywood news of how stars like Julia Roberts, Brooke Shields, and even Brad Pitt carry their children, baby slings are worn over the head and shoulder and often have a ring sewn into the end for adjustability. They are used to carry newborns through tots 4-years old. The slings have been proven to simulate a more womb-like environment for the young child, promoting a happier baby and one more closely bonded to its parent.
But even with such a basic design, there are many variations. One of the biggest differences is whether the sling contains batting sewn into its layers (padded) or is simply fabric without batting (unpadded).
There are pluses and minus to each, it really comes down to these three issues: comfort, ease of use, and support.
For those of you who haven't been up on the Hollywood news of how stars like Julia Roberts, Brooke Shields, and even Brad Pitt carry their children, baby slings are worn over the head and shoulder and often have a ring sewn into the end for adjustability. They are used to carry newborns through tots 4-years old. The slings have been proven to simulate a more womb-like environment for the young child, promoting a happier baby and one more closely bonded to its parent.
But even with such a basic design, there are many variations. One of the biggest differences is whether the sling contains batting sewn into its layers (padded) or is simply fabric without batting (unpadded).
There are pluses and minus to each, it really comes down to these three issues: comfort, ease of use, and support.
- Comfort Padded baby slings typically have padding where the sling hangs on the parent's shoulder. This makes carrying the child more comfortable, which is especially important for extended periods. One brand has side rails sewn together over the shoulder pillow; which doubles their padding and prevents the sides from falling down toward the parent's elbows or pressing into his/her neck, thus keeping the whole sling in better proportion for the wearer. One criticism of the padded baby sling is that the extra batting causes it to get warmer than its unpadded counterpart, especially in the summer months, although cotton batting and fabric will stay cooler than polyester.
- Ease of Use Advocates of the unpadded sling prefer being able to slip the non-bulky sling into a purse. It is also more adjustable than the padded version since padding cannot fit through the ring.
- Support The batting of the padded baby sling serves to support the child's head and legs, simulating how a parent would hold a child. This is important for an infant, and also allows for hands-free nursing. The padded side rails are an extra safeguard against the baby falling out.
To find out more about the Over the Shoulder Baby Sling, which contains twice the padding of the leading brand, visit Baby Slings Direct.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S._Duff
Why a Baby Sleep Schedule Works and How Baby Slings Help
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Labels: How Baby Slings Help, Info, Why a Baby Sleep Schedule Works and How Baby Slings Help
Labels: How Baby Slings Help, Info, Why a Baby Sleep Schedule Works and How Baby Slings Help
The single most effective method to help a baby sleep is a sleep schedule. Baby slings offer a great tried-and-tested trick to help arrange this schedule. Effective tips make this an easy-to-do way to help your baby sleep well.
In the first months a baby sleep schedule may not easily be arranged, often because many babies have difficulties soothing themselves to sleep. A baby sling makes a good practical solution: baby is easily soothed to sleep at a chosen 'schedule' nap or night bedtime. Once the sleep schedule is well established, putting baby to sleep alone at these times will be much easier.
A sleep schedule for good sleep
Our body - babies and adults alike - reacts optimally to well-timed regular bedtimes. A natural drowsiness helps with falling asleep at the right bedtime and the regular schedule improves the quality and length of sleep. And isn't that what we all want for our babies?
A baby is not born with a well established sleep rhythm. Her body does not even have a day-night rhythm similar to ours, let alone a regular sleep schedule. This explains most of the baby sleep troubles so many sleep deprived parents know all too well. Although some babies do appear to adapt rather quickly to 'life on earth', most do not. As parents, we can help our baby adapt by cleverly supporting her natural sleep patterns and guiding her with a well suited sleep schedule.
How to find the right baby sleep schedule?
The best schedule will be very close to your baby's natural sleep patterns: your baby will go to sleep when she's getting tired and sleepy. Unfortunately, not all babies show us clear signals of when they are becoming tired. What we all do pick up is when a baby gets cranky and starts crying: but then it is really too late. She is then overtired and more difficult to soothe to sleep.
So when trying to find good nap and night bedtimes, look for early sleepy signals:
Even with the right schedule bedtimes, most young babies don't just go to bed with a smile, kiss you good night and are off to sleep...
Also, there are other factors to finding the right schedule too. Your work and family situation, tasks, activities and older siblings all influence baby's schedule. So what do you do if your baby is sleepy exactly at her older brother's school pick-up time?
A baby will take a couple of naps during the day and then go to sleep for the night in the (late) evening. It is helpful to check the typical baby sleep schedule by age as a guide.
Then you adjust according to your baby's sleepy signals and to your family's schedule. To help baby learn to doze off to sleep at these times, a sling is a great aid.
Help instill baby's sleep schedule with a baby sling
Carrying your baby in a sling or other type of baby carrier has many benefits. And you don't have to be an all natural parent to enjoy them. Carrying your baby makes her feel secure, increases bonding and makes her cry less.
But it's also simply a very practical accessory. To help your baby sleep at your chosen sleep schedule times, put her in the sling at that time. Most babies sleep very easily when carried. You can go out for a walk or stay in the house. In any case, you have your hands free so you can go about your usual activities - computer work, chores, errands, school pick-up...
If you do this Baby Sling Trick consistently for a while, at nap times and/or at night time, you will establish a regular sleep schedule. Then, typically after a few weeks, put your baby down to sleep at these times. Most babies will now find it much easier to go to sleep.
To improve this technique further, you will also want to have a bedtime routine in place: a set of fixed activities and words you do with and say to your baby right before bedtime. If you repeat the same things each time, your baby will come to recognise them and associate them with sleep. This is again an ideal cue for the body to get ready for sleep.
Do this bedtime routine also before putting your baby in the sling, and then later when putting her to bed.
Frequently asked questions
Do all babies need a sleep schedule?
Going to sleep at regular times is the proven way for our body to be ready to sleep and therefore the best sleep inducer. That is why a schedule helps so many babies - and adults - sleep better. However, some do not need it all and will even be better off when allowed to sleep when they choose. If your child has this skill, you will know and as long as your are happy with that, there is no need to force a schedule.
Is a sling safe for my baby, and for myself?
Yes a quality, well-fitting sling is safe for your baby and ergonomic for you. Choose the type of baby carrier you need from the different types of baby slings.
Can I also use a stroller to help my baby sleep?
Yes most babies fall asleep very easily when in a stroller or car seat and that can help introduce the sleep schedule as well. It all depends on your preference. However, there are two main disadvantages:
In the first months a baby sleep schedule may not easily be arranged, often because many babies have difficulties soothing themselves to sleep. A baby sling makes a good practical solution: baby is easily soothed to sleep at a chosen 'schedule' nap or night bedtime. Once the sleep schedule is well established, putting baby to sleep alone at these times will be much easier.
A sleep schedule for good sleep
Our body - babies and adults alike - reacts optimally to well-timed regular bedtimes. A natural drowsiness helps with falling asleep at the right bedtime and the regular schedule improves the quality and length of sleep. And isn't that what we all want for our babies?
A baby is not born with a well established sleep rhythm. Her body does not even have a day-night rhythm similar to ours, let alone a regular sleep schedule. This explains most of the baby sleep troubles so many sleep deprived parents know all too well. Although some babies do appear to adapt rather quickly to 'life on earth', most do not. As parents, we can help our baby adapt by cleverly supporting her natural sleep patterns and guiding her with a well suited sleep schedule.
How to find the right baby sleep schedule?
The best schedule will be very close to your baby's natural sleep patterns: your baby will go to sleep when she's getting tired and sleepy. Unfortunately, not all babies show us clear signals of when they are becoming tired. What we all do pick up is when a baby gets cranky and starts crying: but then it is really too late. She is then overtired and more difficult to soothe to sleep.
So when trying to find good nap and night bedtimes, look for early sleepy signals:
- Losing interest in playing or socialising
- Staring
- Not finding a comfortable place to sit or lie down
- Rubbing eyes
- Yawning
Even with the right schedule bedtimes, most young babies don't just go to bed with a smile, kiss you good night and are off to sleep...
Also, there are other factors to finding the right schedule too. Your work and family situation, tasks, activities and older siblings all influence baby's schedule. So what do you do if your baby is sleepy exactly at her older brother's school pick-up time?
A baby will take a couple of naps during the day and then go to sleep for the night in the (late) evening. It is helpful to check the typical baby sleep schedule by age as a guide.
Then you adjust according to your baby's sleepy signals and to your family's schedule. To help baby learn to doze off to sleep at these times, a sling is a great aid.
Help instill baby's sleep schedule with a baby sling
Carrying your baby in a sling or other type of baby carrier has many benefits. And you don't have to be an all natural parent to enjoy them. Carrying your baby makes her feel secure, increases bonding and makes her cry less.
But it's also simply a very practical accessory. To help your baby sleep at your chosen sleep schedule times, put her in the sling at that time. Most babies sleep very easily when carried. You can go out for a walk or stay in the house. In any case, you have your hands free so you can go about your usual activities - computer work, chores, errands, school pick-up...
If you do this Baby Sling Trick consistently for a while, at nap times and/or at night time, you will establish a regular sleep schedule. Then, typically after a few weeks, put your baby down to sleep at these times. Most babies will now find it much easier to go to sleep.
To improve this technique further, you will also want to have a bedtime routine in place: a set of fixed activities and words you do with and say to your baby right before bedtime. If you repeat the same things each time, your baby will come to recognise them and associate them with sleep. This is again an ideal cue for the body to get ready for sleep.
Do this bedtime routine also before putting your baby in the sling, and then later when putting her to bed.
Frequently asked questions
Do all babies need a sleep schedule?
Going to sleep at regular times is the proven way for our body to be ready to sleep and therefore the best sleep inducer. That is why a schedule helps so many babies - and adults - sleep better. However, some do not need it all and will even be better off when allowed to sleep when they choose. If your child has this skill, you will know and as long as your are happy with that, there is no need to force a schedule.
Is a sling safe for my baby, and for myself?
Yes a quality, well-fitting sling is safe for your baby and ergonomic for you. Choose the type of baby carrier you need from the different types of baby slings.
Can I also use a stroller to help my baby sleep?
Yes most babies fall asleep very easily when in a stroller or car seat and that can help introduce the sleep schedule as well. It all depends on your preference. However, there are two main disadvantages:
- Although it does not harm once in a while, sitting in a stroller or car seat for longer periods is not advised. The sitting/half-lying position may hamper baby's motor skills development. A well adapted sling however, guarantees a good body position and promotes optimal motor development.
- With a stroller you will probably need to go out for a walk each time, whereas with a sling it is easier to stay in and go about most activities since you keep your hands free.
Having researched sleep independently for 10 years +, Heidi Holvoet, PhD is a seasoned mother of two and certified breastfeeding counsellor who gives effective sleep advice to parents on Baby-Sleep-Advice.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heidi_Holvoet,_Ph.D.
Should Daddies Wear Baby Slings Too? Well of Course!
Ladies, it's time to include your man in the fun of baby-wearing!When daddy carries baby in a sling the baby is now experiencing the world through daddy's eyes. Baby will experience the conversations and viewpoint of Daddy. This is a great learning experience for baby to see interactions through each parent. Most importantly, this simple act of carrying baby close builds important lifelong bonds. Baby hears dad's heartbeat, and daddies voice and feels the vibration when he speaks. Baby feels safe and secure in daddy's arms, a connection that will last for life.
Baby wearing has become a new occurrence to many people now-a-days but it is something that has been done for centuries all over the world. This ancient practice does not have to be limited to only mommies. Men are finally starting to realize the great benefits of baby wearing too! There have been many recent celebrity sightings of men carrying their babies in slings. Even out in everyday life, take a look around and you will probably spot a few proud dads carrying their baby in a sling too.
Carrying your baby in slings or wraps have been proven to reduce the overall crying of babies by 50 percent. This is because you can tend to your baby's needs much quicker. It's also due to the fact that babies just feel much more content being close to the ones they love. So, if daddy is worried about that fussy baby, have him pop on a sling, put the baby in and watch that little one quickly relax.
What kind of sling should daddy be using? Well just like purchasing a sling for mom, daddy needs to pick the right size for him. Usually the taller and wider a person, the larger the sling will need to be. There are sizing charts at most places that sell slings. Slings come in a multitude of designs and fabrics. Most dads tend to go for the plain, neutral colored slings. My favorite style for daddy baby slings is the Dark Blue Denim fabric. It's plain and simple and comfortable, like a good pair of jeans. But for those daddies out there looking to showcase a more unique style there are plenty of slings out there with prints and designs tailored for men.
Always remember to first learn the proper way to carry baby in the sling. It is quite simple, but it is always good to make sure you are doing everything correctly to increase safety for your baby. Most reputable baby sling companies include instructions on how to safely carry your baby. Some even include DVD's with each order. Always ask the company or other baby wearing parents if you have questions. Happy baby slinging!
Baby wearing has become a new occurrence to many people now-a-days but it is something that has been done for centuries all over the world. This ancient practice does not have to be limited to only mommies. Men are finally starting to realize the great benefits of baby wearing too! There have been many recent celebrity sightings of men carrying their babies in slings. Even out in everyday life, take a look around and you will probably spot a few proud dads carrying their baby in a sling too.
Carrying your baby in slings or wraps have been proven to reduce the overall crying of babies by 50 percent. This is because you can tend to your baby's needs much quicker. It's also due to the fact that babies just feel much more content being close to the ones they love. So, if daddy is worried about that fussy baby, have him pop on a sling, put the baby in and watch that little one quickly relax.
What kind of sling should daddy be using? Well just like purchasing a sling for mom, daddy needs to pick the right size for him. Usually the taller and wider a person, the larger the sling will need to be. There are sizing charts at most places that sell slings. Slings come in a multitude of designs and fabrics. Most dads tend to go for the plain, neutral colored slings. My favorite style for daddy baby slings is the Dark Blue Denim fabric. It's plain and simple and comfortable, like a good pair of jeans. But for those daddies out there looking to showcase a more unique style there are plenty of slings out there with prints and designs tailored for men.
Always remember to first learn the proper way to carry baby in the sling. It is quite simple, but it is always good to make sure you are doing everything correctly to increase safety for your baby. Most reputable baby sling companies include instructions on how to safely carry your baby. Some even include DVD's with each order. Always ask the company or other baby wearing parents if you have questions. Happy baby slinging!
Nala Jones is co-owner of http://www.BabySlingSite.com and has a commitment to spreading the word of baby wearing and the many benefits it includes. Offering a blog community for baby wearers and a variety of baby slings too.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nala_Jones
Baby Slings Benefit Both Parent and Child
Visit any park or mall and you will see them: parents with their babies strapped securely to their chests in a baby sling. Baby slings are chic and vogue today, so they almost seem like a new invention in the world of baby gear. However, baby slings are not a new invention. They have been used for centuries by women across the globe who needed to have their hands free while caring for their infants. Today's baby slings simply offer a comfortable evolution of these older versions.
Benefits of Using a Sling for the Parent
Parents who use baby slings benefit from having their hands free while they care for their babies. This allows them to interact with their other children, shop, do certain types of housework, or even sit at the computer while holding their babies. They also benefit from developing a close, trusting relationship with their new babies.
Another benefit of baby slings for parents is the fact that today's baby slings are easy on the back. Carrying your baby constantly on your hip or shoulder is very trying on the muscles of the back. When used properly, a baby sling distributes the baby's weight more evenly, and even takes some of the weight in the fabric of the sling. This means you could carry your baby all day long without feeling muscle strain in your back. As a side benefit, new mothers' backs get a break when using a baby sling because they are not constantly bending over to pick up their babies.
Breastfeeding mothers benefit from using a baby sling because they provide a way to nurse in public while remaining discrete. Also, holding a baby close to the skin helps the mother produce the hormones that lead to proper milk production.
Benefits of Using a Sling for Babies
Baby slings benefit the infant as much, if not more, than they benefit the mother. Today's baby slings provide the proper support for a new baby's neck and back. Unlike front and back carriers, a sling does not force the baby's legs into an unnatural position, which is very important in the first few months.
Babies benefit from being held in a secure, cozy position that imitates the womb. This can help them transition much more peacefully from the world inside their mothers to the world outside. They also develop a positive bond with their parents or main caregivers, which help them develop emotionally. Babies who are worn in a sling cry much less often than other babies. They can sleep while close to mom, and once they are soundly sleeping mom can transition them easily into their crib for a good nap.
Parents of fussy babies find that a baby sling helps them calm their crying child. When a child is carried in a baby sling, he is constantly moving, much as he was in the womb. This, accompanied by the secure, close hold that is created with a baby sling, allows the baby to calm himself and often fall asleep. Babies who need to be held frequently due to gas or colic can be held without completely limiting the mother's ability to function as a member of the family.
Some parents may wonder if carrying their baby in a sling will make them too attached. This does not happen. Surprisingly, toddlers who were worn in baby slings as babies are usually much more comfortable separating from their parents when they need to do so. Experts believe this is because of the many emotional benefits of using baby slings.
If you're a new parent, a baby sling should be on your list of necessary baby gear. Most slings are relatively inexpensive, the benefits are many, and the bonding it provides is a great way to show your affection to your baby.
Benefits of Using a Sling for the Parent
Parents who use baby slings benefit from having their hands free while they care for their babies. This allows them to interact with their other children, shop, do certain types of housework, or even sit at the computer while holding their babies. They also benefit from developing a close, trusting relationship with their new babies.
Another benefit of baby slings for parents is the fact that today's baby slings are easy on the back. Carrying your baby constantly on your hip or shoulder is very trying on the muscles of the back. When used properly, a baby sling distributes the baby's weight more evenly, and even takes some of the weight in the fabric of the sling. This means you could carry your baby all day long without feeling muscle strain in your back. As a side benefit, new mothers' backs get a break when using a baby sling because they are not constantly bending over to pick up their babies.
Breastfeeding mothers benefit from using a baby sling because they provide a way to nurse in public while remaining discrete. Also, holding a baby close to the skin helps the mother produce the hormones that lead to proper milk production.
Benefits of Using a Sling for Babies
Baby slings benefit the infant as much, if not more, than they benefit the mother. Today's baby slings provide the proper support for a new baby's neck and back. Unlike front and back carriers, a sling does not force the baby's legs into an unnatural position, which is very important in the first few months.
Babies benefit from being held in a secure, cozy position that imitates the womb. This can help them transition much more peacefully from the world inside their mothers to the world outside. They also develop a positive bond with their parents or main caregivers, which help them develop emotionally. Babies who are worn in a sling cry much less often than other babies. They can sleep while close to mom, and once they are soundly sleeping mom can transition them easily into their crib for a good nap.
Parents of fussy babies find that a baby sling helps them calm their crying child. When a child is carried in a baby sling, he is constantly moving, much as he was in the womb. This, accompanied by the secure, close hold that is created with a baby sling, allows the baby to calm himself and often fall asleep. Babies who need to be held frequently due to gas or colic can be held without completely limiting the mother's ability to function as a member of the family.
Some parents may wonder if carrying their baby in a sling will make them too attached. This does not happen. Surprisingly, toddlers who were worn in baby slings as babies are usually much more comfortable separating from their parents when they need to do so. Experts believe this is because of the many emotional benefits of using baby slings.
If you're a new parent, a baby sling should be on your list of necessary baby gear. Most slings are relatively inexpensive, the benefits are many, and the bonding it provides is a great way to show your affection to your baby.
Learn more about baby slings and find out why a baby sling may be the best choice for carrying your child.
David Cummings is General Manager of Bustling Baby, a business devoted to providing baby mobility, comfort, and convenience to active families.
David Cummings is General Manager of Bustling Baby, a business devoted to providing baby mobility, comfort, and convenience to active families.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Cummings
So Many Slings, So Little Time! How to Pick the Right Baby Sling For You
Ring slings, pouch slings, or wraps. What is the difference between these baby carriers, and which one should you choose? Depending on your life style and the places you plan to take your baby depend on the type of sling you will want to have.
If you have a lot of errands to run with your little one and seem to visit more than a few stores in a day, the baby sling - pouch style, seems to be a very convenient choice. You can keep it folded in your purse and quickly put it over your shoulder and place baby inside easily and quickly. You don't have to worry about buckles, ties, or rings. Just over the shoulder and baby goes in the holder. Easy as that!
The baby sling, pouch style, is pretty versatile for all situations, and offers easy and discreet breast feeding. When breast feeding, the baby is already in the perfect position while placed in the sling. The sling has just enough fabric on the edges to accommodate a private feeding area for baby and mommy.
The baby wrap, which is different than a regular sling, involves a little more setup time but can be done quickly as well, once you get the hang of it. It is a long piece of sturdy yet soft fabric that you wrap around your body and baby in a specific way that encloses baby safely. This might be a good solution if you plan to be out at an event for a few hours and you don't need to take baby out for a while, because of the time it takes to re-tie. It could be used if you're at a fair or concert for example.
Ring slings are very similar to the baby pouch style but you can adjust the slings length, therefore making the pouch area more or less snug. This is also a good sling for quick on and off situations, but a few extra moments might be spent getting the fabric through the ring and some may not like the extra piece of fabric that hangs through the ring. This could cause annoyance for some people. Although this piece of fabric could also serve as an extra cover during breast feeding.
People can own several different baby carriers to account for these different situations, but usually one baby sling can be used for all situations easily; it simply depends on what you find works best for you.
If you have a lot of errands to run with your little one and seem to visit more than a few stores in a day, the baby sling - pouch style, seems to be a very convenient choice. You can keep it folded in your purse and quickly put it over your shoulder and place baby inside easily and quickly. You don't have to worry about buckles, ties, or rings. Just over the shoulder and baby goes in the holder. Easy as that!
The baby sling, pouch style, is pretty versatile for all situations, and offers easy and discreet breast feeding. When breast feeding, the baby is already in the perfect position while placed in the sling. The sling has just enough fabric on the edges to accommodate a private feeding area for baby and mommy.
The baby wrap, which is different than a regular sling, involves a little more setup time but can be done quickly as well, once you get the hang of it. It is a long piece of sturdy yet soft fabric that you wrap around your body and baby in a specific way that encloses baby safely. This might be a good solution if you plan to be out at an event for a few hours and you don't need to take baby out for a while, because of the time it takes to re-tie. It could be used if you're at a fair or concert for example.
Ring slings are very similar to the baby pouch style but you can adjust the slings length, therefore making the pouch area more or less snug. This is also a good sling for quick on and off situations, but a few extra moments might be spent getting the fabric through the ring and some may not like the extra piece of fabric that hangs through the ring. This could cause annoyance for some people. Although this piece of fabric could also serve as an extra cover during breast feeding.
People can own several different baby carriers to account for these different situations, but usually one baby sling can be used for all situations easily; it simply depends on what you find works best for you.
Nala Jones is co-owner of http://www.BabySlingSite.com and has a commitment to spreading the word of baby wearing and the many benefits it includes. Offering a blog community for baby wearers and a variety of baby slings too.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nala_Jones
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