Prior to birth, I have been reading about “wearing your baby” and I thought it might work for me. This is how they used to do it back in the old days and becoming popular again nowadays. The term “babywearing” was invented by renowned pediatrician, Dr. Sears in the 1980′s.
Humans around the world have been carrying their offspring for centuries. And it has been proven that such a method of caring for a baby is actually good for them, as it stimulates their brain development more quickly as opposed to just leaving them in their crib or playpen to entertain themselves. They get to observe and be involve in what the carer is doing, not just watching.
There are variety of slings or baby carriers out there, I wished they are available here so I could actually try and pick one that works for me. I wanted something that will fit both my husband and I. So, since I am new to this, I thought I’d try something that isn’t so expensive, and I can use with my newborn. I initially bought one that is called a ring sling from eBay. It was worth a dollar more but I persuaded the seller to give it to me less since I don’t have much left on my PayPal, $22. I struggled a bit as it was not made for my size. It had lots of excess fabric at the end. Overall, I was not happy with the ring sling (or maybe it was just a cheaper version). I find it a little challenging to use, there was no padding, and my baby doesn’t seem comfortable in it.
Ring Sling Baby Carrier
Then a few days later, I saw a pouch sling in one of the stores here. It was easier to use, comes with a mid size and I can carry a newborn in it. They also have the Bjorn Baby Carrier, which I could have chosen but Daniel is still too small to be put in it, so I ended up buying the pouch instead, cost me around $60 (probably cheaper in the US).
I was right. It was much easier to use. I choose the next size up so my hubby can use it as well. He needs it when he is working from home and I need to get my hands free when I do some house work (our baby wants to be held a lot). I am only able to carry Daniel in it using cradle hold, for 0-3 months. It looks as though he is squeezed too tight but really not. Surprisingly, he loves being in it. He feels safe and actually falls asleep in it. I remember Dr. Sears mentioned the 18 month gestation period, nine months inside the womb, and nine months outside the womb, which practically made sense considering that with the baby carrier, the baby is nestled close to my heart and tummy.
Pouch Sling Baby Carrier
What I really wanted to buy is the Manduca Baby Carrier, German made, and designed to cater to newborns and toddlers, even up until 4 years old. It looks easier to use as well and safer for smaller babies. It is of course way expensive compare to a regular sling but I really wanted to buy one. It is not available here so I am looking at how I can get one online and find a good bargain. Hopefully, I can persuade my husband to get me one really soon. Daniel is growing really fast and the pouch is becoming too restricting for him.
Manduca Baby Carrier
