Sunday, December 28, 2008

Baby Carrier Backpacks

By Carol J Pearson

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.

If you intend to buy a baby carrier make sure you try it on before you buy, that way you can get a feel for what is going to work best for you. Also, ask other mothers what has worked for them. When you get a great review try it with your baby.

The front and back carriers put babies in an vertical position, so may not be appropriate for newborns, but they are great 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 convert to a backpack when your child gets older, as most youngsters love 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 pushchair may not endure 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 favourite, but you do have to adjust them a little to get them adjusted and to be comfortable. The only bad thing I can think of with a sling carrier is that one hand needs to be available if an active baby tries to make an escape.

Why are slings and carriers so popular? As well as 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 baby or tot an opportunity to see things from a different perspective. This is good stimulation and can help with brain development.

When you've decided on your baby 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.

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