Thursday, March 25, 2010

New Information on Slings

The juvenile product world is experiencing another product recall. Deep pocket slings, like the Infantino, may cause respiratory problems in babies under four months. According to the news, three babies have already died as a result. The sling product to avoid is one that puts the baby too far away from your face, making it hard to see what's happening. Also, if the baby is 'buried' under a lot of fabric, they may not be receiving enough fresh air. Another concern is the type of sling that puts the infant in a curve where their chin is forced to their chest, making it harder to draw in air. According to several blogging baby experts, if your baby is grunting, that may mean they're experiencing oxygen deprivation.

The goods news? There are lots of slings and carriers that hold baby high in a seated position with their face clear of the fabric. Check online with other parents and baby wearing advisers, but check for yourselves as well, and make sure that the sling or carrier that you are using meets that criteria.

While I'm on the subject, I do have a recommendation:) The babyTrekker newborn position seats baby facing inward, and there's plenty of room between your chest and your baby's face. Plus, you can see your baby easily. The carrier is open on the sides so lots of air flows between you. Go to wearing instructions on our website and follow the link to Youtube. Our two part instructional video shows the newborn position very clearly.

Notice that the seat is a comfortable width for your infant. Even when facing outward, your child stays in the seated position, their legs a comfortable distance apart. In essence, you become an easy chair for your baby, with their favorite person in the world attached! Every part of the carrier that touches your baby's body is soft and padded. The straps on your shoulders and waist are very padded as well, ensuring that you don't feel the presence of the buckles or snap hooks at all.

The babyTrekker allows your little one to sit in five positions. This versatility is a good thing, because babies like change. I would often start with my little one in the front, switch to the nursing position and then put her on my back. The backpack is especially useful for housework, gardening and hiking. All questions about the babyTrekker baby carrier may be directed to me, judy@babytrekker.com Happy Trekking!