Baby Wearing
I’m a huge fan of baby wearing, and toddler wearing. As a busy mamma with three boys it was the only way to get anything done some days! But with so many carriers and slings to choose from it can be a minefield to choose the right one for you and your baby. Myself and Tricia first met when we trained as GentleBirth instructors many years ago and she now runs Snugglebugs as a Baby Wearing educator. Here’s some tips from her!
What is Babywearing?
Babywearing is carrying your baby in a sling or carrier. For centuries cultures from all over the world have worn their babies in a wide variety of slings.
When can I start Babywearing?
You can wear your baby from birth. If you or your baby has special needs please do get in touch with me so that I can offer your advise that for your particular situation. Many people discover babywearing when their child is older and have really enjoyed their babywearing experience at this stage. So really there is no time as too early or too late
Who can Babywear?
Anyone who wants to keep a baby close: Mums, Dads, Grannies, Grandads, Aunties, Uncles, siblings, childminders and friends.
Is Babywearing Safe?
Yes babywearing is very safe. We always recommend following the TICKS guidelines.
Tight
In view at all times
Close enough to kiss
Keep chin off the chest
Supported back
Please visit Snugglebugs Sling Safety section for information on sling safety.
I'm confused about babywearing, I keep hearing loads of names and I don't know what anything is!
There are 5 main types of slings “Stretchy Wrap”, “Ring Sling”, “Meitai”, “Soft Structured Carriers (Buckles)” and “Woven”. All the other names you hear are brands, for example “JPMBB” and “Kari Me” are stretchy wraps.
Stretchy Wraps are long soft stretchy pieces of material about 5 meters long. They are lovely and soft and can be used from new born. While there is a little bit of learning in how to tie a stretchy wrap correctly, once you master it, it is very easy to use. You can tie it on you and pop your baby in and out as needed throughout the day. We always recommend the Tummy to Tummy hold. Most people choose to move onto another type of sling around 5/6 months even though stretchy wraps can hold much heavier weights.
Ring Slings are made from material about 2 meters long and are held together by 2 rings sewn into the material. They are suitable from newborn and can be used with an older toddler as long as it is comfortable for the wearer. There is a bit of learning in how to adjust the ring sling but once you learn it, it is so quick and easy to us. As it takes the weight on one shoulder most people use a ring sling for quick journey’s like popping into the shop or for around the house.
Mei dai are made from a panel of material with 2 short straps that tie around your torso and 2 long straps that tie around the shoulders. Most Meitai’s are suitable from birth and go up to preschool size. Mei tai can be used for front and back carries and are very easy to use.
Soft Structured Carriers (SSC/Buckles) are made with a panel and 2 short straps that you buckle around your torso and 2 shoulder straps that you also buckle. They can be used for front and back carries and some can do hip carries. Some types can be crossed at the back and some go on rucksack style.
Woven Wraps are long pieces of woven material of varying lengths and they are numbered according to their length (size 2-8). Which size you want depends on what carry you want to do and what size you are. For example a size 2 is approx 270cm and can be used for hip carries. A size 6 is approx 470cm and can be used for front, hip and back carries. It is a good idea to try the sizes to see what size will suit you.
Tricia runs Snugglebugs from Unit D4, Ace Enterprise Park, Bawnogue Rd, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 and operates by appointment only to ensure individual attention. There is no charge to make an appointment if you just want to try on a sling, take a look at fabrics and she will help you to fit on the sling to ensure it suits you.
She recommends only ergonomic slings, this means that the slings she stocks are all supportive of the baby’s natural position & hip development as well as supporting the users back. You can contact her info@snugglebugs.ie/ snugglebugs.ie