Jillian- (I apologize for the length of this)

I used a Heart 2 Heart (H2H) ring sling with padded sides. I found it very comfortable and easy to use. Mine came with a booklet and video, but I found the best help was just to keep using it. I actually met with the creator of the sling when my daughter was only a few weeks old and she helped me a lot to gain confidence in using it.

I had to practice several times with a heavy doll or a teddy bear to get used to the positioning of how the sling “sat” on me. Slings should be worn higher up, rather than low toward the belly to prevent neck and shoulder pain. The diagonal “sash” portion up by the ring needs to be placed right on the ball of the shoulder, not toward the neck, otherwise you will likely feel strain. It’s not something you can really explain, you just have to practice.

I felt discouraged at first with using it with my daughter, because it didn’t feel quite right. It turned out I wasn’t wearing it tightly enough or high enough on me. This brand of sling comes in several different sizes, and allowed me a really great fit, based on my height and build.

I preferred this non-stretchy sling to the stretchy wrap (like Courtney has) because the wrap fabric was hot and it felt confining to ME. I kind of felt like I was bandaged up in a tensor bandage, lol. Wraps are also pretty difficult for me to put on alone, while holding onto a baby. I agree, the babywearing sites are a big help. I know there are also groups out there to try many different brands and get help with fitting.

Good luck to you!

only 3 months until I can wrap a newborn like that again…can’t wait And for those who wondered, if you could peek inside her wrap you’d see that the baby isn’t nearly as squished as it looks from the outside, he’s got plenty of room to breathe, and at 10 weeks old is probably sleeping and not in need of any more stimulus other than that which his mother is already providing. Good to see a celebrity wearing a wrap properly (baby’s probably not heavy enough for her to need to spread the fabric much) and getting some fresh air. Though I, too, thought it was a cigarette in her hand at first glance!

RE: Jillian -

it’s wonderful to read of your interest in those slings or wraps! and it is truly wonderful to be able to wear a little one, and then enjoy the benefits of a worn baby who’s calmer and happier in general which then helps in the baby’s overall development

slings and wraps do have specific sizings, though there are some one-size/length fits all

you might wanna check out thebabywearer.com for more information and help!

cheers!

I have to say that my daughter at that age, and still today loves being carried. The closer and more “squashed” the better at that age for many babies. I could pop her in the sling, bounce for a minute and she’d be out yet scream the whole time I carried her in her infant seat. It is so much healthier for babies to be close to their mother especially during the first 3 months of life (many pediatricians consider this to be the 4th trimester). Being near the mother’s chest also helps regulate temperature, breathing and also can help a baby’s proprioception (movement sensations and balance). Actually the baby bjorns are not as healthy and safe for a growing baby’s spine and hips as say a ring sling, wrap, or other more “bohemian/peasant/hippie” styles.

At 10 weeks he’ll be getting all the visual stimulation he needs looking into mamas eyes while he feeds, noting the light changing around him as they move.. all natural, peaceful stimulus for a brain that is beginning to put it’s world together.

As for overheating/SIDS issues. Being next to mum is going to mean that his body temperature will self regulate alongside hers. Studies have shown that body temperature and oxygen saturation rates of worn babies are fantastic. Physiologically, our babies bodies work *best* when next to their mothers skin. Being carried in a cloth carrier against a parent is far, far safer than being left in a room with static temperature, and blankets that could smother unnoticed.

I believe she’s using a Baby Pouch (http://babypouch.biz/).

Those of you that defended Courtney did so very eloquently. Nice job! It’s so sad that some people put so much effort into degrading someone just because they’re famous. Many people use baby carriers. Many don’t. NO BIG DEAL!! I barely used a snugli for my son, and didn’t see the need to spend tons of money on a bjorn. For my daughter, I have used both a ring sling and a pouch sling. I’d like to try a mei tai now that she’s older, but I want to try it before buying.

Jillian, you asked about which is the best, and it’s just like footwear. You have to decide for yourself. I’ve found thebabywearer.com to be a great resource. You can search for groups in your area that might let you try their slings before having to commit to one.

How is that baby getting fresh air or any visual stimulation? They tell you to make sure your babies room is not overheated and nothing should be over the face to prevent SIDS. Can someone explain to me how this way of carrying a baby is safe and beneficial? He certainly has to be overheated in that carrier.

I have a 13 week old son, and I have been using a baby sling/carrier with him since his birth. I love the baby ktan baby carrier it’s super comfortable. I used the baby bjorn with my first baby but it would always give me a back ache. With the Baby Ktan I am much more comfortable and so is my son. It’s perfect, especially when I have to chase after his sister all the time.

i thought it was a cig too LOL. i wasn’t sure at first, but looking at the pic again, he looks cozy. what sort of sling is it?

Sarah’s note: It’s a wrap. We haven’t been able to find out the exact brand.