Thursday, February 19, 2009

Slings and Carriers Transport Your Baby in Style

By Ashley King

For many centuries, parents have carried their babies in slings on their backs or close to the chest. They haven't been commonly used in most Western societies for much of that time. But these days they're all the rage among trendy parents.

Baby slings offer a safe and convenient way to transport your little one. They provide comfort and flexibility for both parent and infant. In addition, they allow for the baby to feel the warmth of the parent's body so he remains comfortable. As well, they allow for physical contact between parent and child that's beneficial to both.

Some baby carriers are like a wrap that is patterned after early Asian styles. They loop around the parent's back and waist, forming a sling in which the infant is able to lie or sit securely. Other carriers are similar to a backpack. The straps sit securely on the shoulders and a safety belt is fastened around the waist.

Both styles allow a baby to be carried on either the back or the front. Experts agree that both positions have their advantages. In the front, the infant is positioned near the chest, where it can look at or reach for the parent's face. When placed on the back, there's more even distribution of the load. This makes it more comfortable for a parent to carry the baby for a longer time.

Front or back, the baby can be positioned to face either towards or away from the parent. Both positions have their advantages. Facing the parent, the baby will feel more secure. Facing out, they can observe their surroundings. This encourages the baby's development, and also keeps him occupied and content.

Backpack-style carriers have some advantages over the sling. As a rule, they're sturdier and can be fastened to your body more securely. The more rigid frame of this piece of equipment will maintain your baby in an upright position.

Backpacks make it simpler to reposition the weight load to your shoulders, where the child can be carried for extended periods of time. This is especially useful if you're going for a long walk or on a lengthy shopping trip.

Baby carriers are available in a colorful assortment of shades and patterns. There are any number of styles and patterns that will appeal to just about anyone's tastes.

Car seats and strollers will always have their place in your lineup of necessary baby safety gear. But backpacks and slings have some advantages that those products don't. Most parents are happy that they added one to their collection of baby supplies.

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