In good hands – mobile with baby

Baby slings, baby carriers, backpacks and baby carriers: When it comes to mobility with babies and toddlers, parents are spoiled for choice. Mum’s scent, dad’s deep voice – especially in the first year of life, babies need to feel their parents’ reassuring closeness. However, anyone who has carried such a bundle of joy in their arms for a long time knows how heavy even the tiniest baby can become in the long run.

Benefits of a sling

For example, we recommend a sling that can be used in the first few weeks of life. Advantages: The parents have the child close to their body, their hands are free, and their back is spared. The child can be tied in the cradle-carrying position or the so-called spread-squat position (“frog pose”) in front of the parent’s stomach.

The spread-squat position is natural, in which the baby’s thighs are flexed to at least 90 degrees. It helps his hips to develop well and minimizes the risk of hip misalignment. The carrying strap supports the baby’s head and back; the movements promote balance and the back muscles.

However, the changing technique requires some practice from the parents. Many manufacturers of high-quality slings offer good instructions. But there are also courses, for example, by birth centres, midwives or lactation consultants. When buying, parents should pay attention to the fact that

• The material does not contain any harmful substances such as formaldehyde, pesticides or other substances that are harmful to health. Be sure to wash thoroughly before use.
• The fabric gives way to a certain extent but does not stretch out. Double stitched edges of the cloth also prevent cutting into the skin.
• The sling is big enough for other tall people to carry the child.

 

Carrier bags are more accessible than swaddles.

Carrier bags are usually easier to handle than swaddles. When buying, parents should ensure that the child’s head is well supported and that the bridge between the legs is wide enough to ensure the spread-squat position. This also applies to other baby carriers. Also, Never carry babies with their backs to their stomachs. Otherwise, they will stretch their backs, be at the mercy of many new impressions, and lack healthy body and hip posture.

Children can now be transported in a suitable back carrier from the age of four months. The weight should be distributed over the shoulders and hips, like a backpack, so that parents do not get back pain or tension from the carrying aids. Properly adjusted shoulder and lap belts help.

backpack for hiking

A back-carrying frame is suitable for hikes with a child who can already sit up well (from about eight months). The stable frames are well suited for outdoor use because there is little risk of bumping into something or getting stuck. However, caution is required when setting down the backpack frame – do not place the children alone with it, as they can tip over easily.

 Baby carriers in the car

Baby car seats are primarily intended for transport in the car – they are usually too heavy to be carried for extended periods and cause a bad posture. Some manufacturers offer so-called travel systems where the baby seat can be attached to a mobile frame or converted into a buggy.

Baby carriers are suitable for babies up to a weight of 13 kilograms. Your advantage:

• The child can be transported quickly from A to B.
• There is no cumbersome assembly of the stroller.
• The shell is also very suitable for sleeping.

Use a stroller if you have back pain.

With all the advantages the baby has when being carried, the needs of the parents must not be neglected. If you get back pain or tension, it is better to pack your offspring in the pram or buggy.