Monday, December 01, 2008

Baby Front Carriers

By Carol J Pearson

If you have been wondering about baby carriers and if they can help you, then let me tell you they absolutely can! The alternatives are seemingly endless as you start your search, from the conventional front carriers readily available to the fashion slings being made vogue by actresses. By doing a little research, you can find the perfect carrier for your lifestyle.

Before you buy a baby carrier try one on first. Without trying one on, you can't actually get a feel for what is going to work best for you, so ask other moms what they have used, and what has worked for them. Once you get a great review, ask if you can try it with your baby.

The front and back carriers leave babies in an upright position, so may not be great for newborn infants, but they are good when you are going through the food store and your toddler decides he wants to grab at everything. It keeps your baby secure and happy since they can't go anywhere, and they leave your hands free. If decide on a front carrier, look for one that you can change over to a backpack when your child gets older, as most kids love the backpack until the age 4 or 5. It also makes it fun and safe for introducing your child to hiking, or any other activity where a pram may not endure the terrain.

Baby slings are versatile, and can be used for any age infant. Some convert for a sitting position to help you have your arms free if that is your child's chosen method of being carried. Slings are my personal favourite, but you do have to adjust them a little to get them adjusted and to be comfortable. The only bad thing I can think of with a sling carrier is that one hand needs to be available if an active baby tries to make an escape.

Sling carriers are popular for some very good reasons. As well as the practical aspects of having your hands free, being next to your baby increases bonding. It also comforts baby, and the rhythm of moving with you is comforting to your child. Being at eye level with you (such as when they are in a backpack) gives the baby or toddler an opportunity to see things from a another perspective. This is good stimulation and can help with brain development.

When you find a carrier you like, make sure you give yourself a little time to adjust to it. Sometimes you are using muscles you hadn't used before; but once you get used to having your baby next to you, safe and happy, you wont want them anywhere else. Your carrier may well become your most important piece of baby equipment.

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