Slings
Baby carriers
Backpacks
birthTIPS
Most parents will invest in some type of baby sling, carrier and/or backpack as part of their essentials when buying for baby. They are great to take your baby for walks, to help shop 'arms free' or as a wonderful way to soothe and calm your baby when they are unsettled and upset, especially during the early evenings (often known as the 'mothering hours').
Most newborn babies enjoy being carried and seem reassured by close contact with their parents, or the sound of their parent's heartbeat and voice close by. Slings and carriers can make travelling on public transport much easier and less stressful (compared with strollers and prams) and grocery shopping may be less complicated, by not having to negotiate a pram and a shopping trolley! (However, it may be a little more complicated if you need to try on clothes or go to the toilet!)
Slings and pouches are not a new concept and neither is the practice of carrying babies. This is something that has happened for thousands of years and still remains the preferred practice in many indigenous cultures. The American author Jean Liedloff coined the term 'continuum concept' in her popular book, which advocates close physical contact between babies and parents day and night (through
co-sleeping). She believes western culture lacks this element, one which is necessary for babies to achieve optimal physical, mental and emotional development and something our species has adapted to it during a long process of evolution.
Slings
Baby slings are generally made from cloth or a washable material. They can be a large piece of material that wraps around the baby, or more tailored with clips and fasteners. Slings are usually worn so that the baby is carried in front of you, against your chest, but some are designed to wear on your back (although this is not generally recommended for small babies under 6 months of age who have little neck control).