Baby Backpacks – Front – Back – Sling
If you have decided to get a baby carrier you need to choose one suitable for your purpose. There are three main types of Baby Carrier to choose from Front Carriers (baby in front of you), Back Carriers (baby on your back) and Slings (baby cradled in front). Some are very inexpensive and others carry a designer label.
Be sure to try a few different types on with your infant inside that way you can get a feel for whether your going to be able to use it for long periods of time. Also take the time to ask other Mothers what they think about their baby carrier. You may be surprised at some of the responses.
The front and back carriers leave babies in an upright position, so may not be suitable for newborns, but they are good when you are going through the grocery store and your toddler gets the grab-its. It keeps your baby safe and happy since they can’t run off because you are carrying them, and your hands are free. If you go with a front carrier, look for one that you can change over to a backpack when your child gets older, as most kids enjoy the backpack until the age 4 or 5. It also makes it fun and safe for acquainting your child to hiking, or any other activity where a stroller may not survive 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 preference, but you do have to adjust them a little to get them adjusted and to be comfortable. The only downside I can think of with a sling is that one hand needs to be available if an active baby tries to make a run for it.
Why are slings and carriers so popular? In addition to the practical reasons 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 child or toddler an opportunity to see things from a different perspective. This is good stimulation and can help with brain development.
Once you have decided on your carrier, make sure you give yourself a little time to adjust. 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.
I agree with the comment that you need to persevere with a baby carrier. I tried several and just could not get to grips with them. Eventually I bought and stuck with the Bjorn baby carrier and nor I wouldn’t be parted from it for a day. Just keep wearing it and you’ll get the hang of it.