Slingz and Thingzfeaturing the Lightly Padded Maya Wrap
Carrying your baby in a sling, is often called "babywearing"...
Babywearing has become a 'growing' trend and I am thrilled to see more moms and dads keeping their little ones close! Wearing your baby in a baby sling or baby carrier has several benefits:
Less Crying - Babies who are carried cry less on average than those that are not. Research has shown that babies who are carried cry (on average) 43% less overall and 54% less during the evening hours .
Smarter Babies - Babies spend more time in a "quiet, alert state" when carried - the ideal state for learning. When carried, your baby sees the world from where you do, instead of the ceiling above his crib or people's knees from a stroller.This extra stimulation benefits brain development.
Emotional Development - Babies are able to develop a sense of security and trust when they are carried. They are more likely to be securely attached to their caregivers and often become independent at an earlier age.
Physical Development - By being close to your body's rhythms, baby "gets in rhythm" much more quickly. Research has shown how this helps newborns (especially premature babies) to adapt to life outside the womb.
Eases the strain - Carrying your baby in a sling or pouch puts less strain on babies spine and your back!
Frequently Asked Questions...
How soon can I start wearing my baby?
Most newborns can be worn right away. If your baby has any health challenges, is low tone, or premature, you should discuss babywearing with your health care practitioner.
Will I spoil my baby if I wear him/her too much? How old id "too old" to wear my child? Toddlers over one year love their sling time! Developmentally, they are at a push-pull stage with mama...they want to be independant but want to be a baby too! Slings are wonderful for close time with mama as well as trips into the store when a stroller is not practical (are they ever? LOL) and neither is a wandering touching toddler. Slings are great for younger siblings too! If you have a preschooler in the stroller, you can have the baby in the sling. This is an ideal way to walk for exercise, go to the park, and for family outings! Bottom line? You can carry your child comfortably and safely until they are about three years old!!!
I have a sling but have never used it! Can you show me how even if I did not buy it from you? A 50 minute consultation is $25. If after our visit, you go off and still do not love your sling...we can meet again! Your second visit is only $20 for 50 minutes. In either case, I can come to you or we can meet at the park or even at McDonalds!
No. In fact, research has shown that babies are quickly able to develop a sense of security and trust when they are carried. They are more likely to be securely attached to their care-giver/s and often become independent at an earlier age.
What if my baby is fussy in the carrier?
If you are confident that your baby is not upset due to hunger or other variables, and is clearly unhappy while in the carrier, begin by trying different positions. Some newborns prefer to be held vertically versus laying down. Try walking around indoors or outside while wearing it or swaying in place. Soon your baby will recognize the sling as a place of comfort and security. Often babies like to fall asleep in the carrier. Always keep a close watch on your baby, even when sleeping, to ensure they are getting proper airflow.
Our slings carry children of any age up to 35 pounds. Slings are wonderful for restless babies under a year old that want to crawl, walk, touch, play, or even sleep or nurse while you are trying to get things done. Whether it be cleaning or shopping, your older baby can be right there with you under your constant snuggle and supervision.
Absolutely! If you buy a sling from me, it comes with a free instructional DVD and a free 50 minute visit to get you started loving your sling. If you have a sling or pouch (no matter what brand or style) and need some help with positioning, comfort, proper wear, safety, getting your little one happy and comfy, nursing in the sling, or just basic babywearing techniques, I offer babywearing demonstrations, coaching, and will get you and your little one ready to sling confidentially and comfortably.