|
Choosing a Baby Carrier
Most parents find a baby carrier to be invaluable
during the first year of their baby’s life. There are many
types and styles to choose from. The different types of baby carriers
fall into three main categories: slings, front packs and backpacks.
Slings
These are made of fabric and are available in a
wide variety of styles. They “sling” sash-style over
your shoulder to hold baby in front of you. Slings offer many
benefits to both baby and parent. Here are some of the most commonly
cited by experienced sling-users:
- A sling is perfect for the newborn months, when Baby needs
to be held often in your arms, as opposed to being pushed
at arm’s length in a stroller.
- A sling is an excellent way to carry your baby around the
house because it keeps your baby happy while leaving your
two arms free to go about your daily tasks.
- Sling carriers are multi-purpose. You can use them to carry
your baby, to create privacy for breastfeeding, and to cover
your sleeping baby. Some feature a tail that can double as
a blanket or coverup.
- Putting your baby into (and getting him back out of) a sling
is a breeze. You can even get a sleeping baby in and out of
one of these soft carriers without waking her.
You can carry your baby in a variety of positions.
- Slings are small, lightweight and easy to transport.
- Slings are wonderful to use when a stroller would be inconvenient,
such as up stairs, through large crowds or narrow aisle ways,
or over rough terrain ? or when you’ll be going in and
out of the car frequently.
- Slings put your baby at the height of people’s faces
instead of at their knees.
- You can use a sling right up through toddlerhood, when little
legs get tired of walking.
An important note about baby slings: They can be
confusing to use at first, and your baby can slide out of the
bottom if not positioned correctly. Try to find an experienced
sling-user, a how-to video, or a knowledgeable sales clerk to
help you master the art of baby slinging. Your local La Leche
League leader may be able to offer pointers, too.
Slings are very much worth the effort. I bought
a sling when my second baby, Vanessa, was born. I couldn’t
figure it out, so I left it in the closet. When my third baby,
David, was born, I attended a mother-baby class, learned how to
use my sling ? and was immediately hooked! I used slings extensively
with my third and fourth babies and found them to be a marvelous
baby care tool.
PARENT TIP
“I put my newborn in the sling so I could sit in bed at night
with my toddler and read books. It kept us all together, my hands
free and gave reading time to BOTH boys!”
Amy, mother of AJ (4) and Ryder (2)
Front packs
Front pack carriers are similar to slings in use but are more
complex in their structure. They have a seat that attaches to
the front of you with straps that crisscross behind you; these
straps secure the carrier to your body. Here’s what you need
to know about front packs:
- The benefits of front packs are similar to many of those
of slings, such as their light weight and portability, and
the fact that you can carry your baby while keeping your arms
and hands free.
- Some allow you to choose between carrying your baby facing
inward toward you or outward, facing the world – which
is often fun for older babies.
- Settling the baby into and out of the carrier require more
steps than a sling does.
- Moving a sleeping baby into or out of the carrier is difficult,
unless the seat unbuckles separately from the harness.
- Front packs are better suited to a baby who is strong enough
to hold his head upright.
Backpacks
A back carrier is similar to a camping backpack. It has a seat
for your baby that attaches to your back with a frame and straps
that cross over your shoulders. A few things to know about backpacks:
- They’re perfect for an older baby who loves to look
around and be carried high on your shoulders.
- Many backpacks have pouches for holding supplies.
- Some models have a canopy for inclement weather or sun protection.
- Getting a backpack off (and putting it on) are typically
two-person tasks.
- Backpacks are best for an older baby who can sit up well.
- They’re great for an all-day trip, such as hiking,
shopping or visiting an amusement park
How do you decide which carrier to use?
No single baby carrier is perfect for all parents.
Every parent has different needs, preferences and proportions.
Many people actually begin with one type of carrier and move on
to another when their babies get older.
First, think about how you plan to use a carrier.
Will you use it primarily at home, instead of a stroller while
away from home, or both? Do you already have a stroller, or must
your carrier fill all your baby-carrying needs? Defining its purpose
will help you choose which carrier is best for you. Read the package
information (or talk to other parents who own a similar carrier)
to learn which purposes it serves best and to determine if it
matches your needs.
The very best way to decide? Try carriers on ? either
at the store or with a friend who owns one. Actually putting your
baby in the carrier will give you the best idea as to fit, but
if you are shopping without your baby (or don’t have your
baby yet!) try using a stuffed animal from the toy department.
PARENT TIP
“A baby carrier can help new adoptive parents to decline
politely those who want to hold your baby while he still needs
exclusive Mommy or Daddy contact. The carrier can be especially
helpful in difficult situations such as visits to your child's
orphanage or former foster parents.”* Laurel, mother of 16-month-old
Crystal
* This is also an excellent idea for parents
who blanch at the thought of their tiny newborn being passed around
the room from person to person!
Points to consider when purchasing a carrier:
- Comfort. Does the carrier feel good to you?
- Fit for your baby. Does it seem to suit your baby well?
- Fit for you. Does it fit your size and body type? Can you
carry the baby without strain?
- Safety. Will the baby be secure and well supported?
- Features. Does it meet your needs?
- Usability. Can you easily get your baby in and out of the
carrier? How about putting it on and taking it off? Keep in
mind that some models require practice.
- Construction. Does the fabric suit your wardrobe, climate
and needs (i.e., lightweight for summer, weatherproof for
outdoor use)?
- Care. Is it machine-washable or easy to wipe clean?
- Flexibility. Can you carry your baby in various positions?
- Adjustability. Can it be tightened or adjusted to fit you
when you are at home in indoor clothing or outside wearing
a coat? Can you adjust it easily for use by others?
- Adaptability. Will it work for your baby now as well as
six months from now?
- Appearance. Do you like the style? Will you enjoy wearing
it?
This article is a copyrighted excerpt from Gentle
Baby Care by Elizabeth Pantley. (McGraw-Hill, 2003)
Re-printed with permission by Elizabeth Pantley
2007.
|
