Plan Ahead

It helps if you have already made up your mind to carry your baby before he arrives. This will give you time to research the best sling for you, meet like minded parents-in-waiting and introduce the concept to your family and friends.

Choose Carefully

When deciding on a sling or carrier make sure it offers the best possible support for your newborn baby. Ideally it should cradle the baby’s bottom, back, neck and head. Also consider whether it is comfortable for the wearer. Wide straps that fit over both shoulders will help distribute the baby’s weight and allow you to carry your baby for longer.

Practice Makes Perfect

Practice putting on the sling before D Day and try out the various positions with a doll or teddy that way you’ll be super confident when your baby arrives.

Talking Positions

Some babies have a distinct preference for one position over another. If he doesn’t settle lying down try positioning him upright, or vice versa. The best way to settle your crying baby is to get out and about. A walk in the fresh air with your baby in a sling will do you both the power of good. Babies love to be active and it sooths babies with colic.

Involve Everyone

Babies whose care is shared between loving adults are shown to be more secure and confident toddlers. Don’t be afraid to ask other carers to carry your baby.

Tune In

Don’t get hung up on routine – the best thing about baby wearing is that you both work in tune with each other following life’s natural rhythm. If you do manage to breastfeed than so much the better. With a bit of practice you can feed your baby on the go!

Looking Good!

Don’t feel you have to compromise on looking chic. There are some gorgeous slings on the market. Just check that they are soft against your baby’s skin, machine washable and in a colour that will go with everything in your wardrobe.

Wearing Down!

Young babies are often more grizzly in the evening. Instead of struggling to get your reluctant napper to sleep at night, why not nestle the baby in his sling and stroll around the house until he falls asleep. Once they’ve gone to sleep it’s a good time to catch up on phone calls.

Check out www.closebabycarrier.com and www.clairescott.info

Happy parenting!
from Claire

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