Babywearing 101: why every momma should try it, and resources to help

I didn't start using a baby carrier with my first son until he was 4 months old, simply because I didn't know about them. Rather quickly, I discovered what an asset they were! Our first trip through an airport was actually enjoyable. We could "pop in" to the store quickly and conveniently. Teaching piano lessons while soothing a fussy infant became possible.

I'm here to tell you that, regardless of your "style" of parenting, babywearing has something to offer you. I thought I'd share a few resources to help you along.

Why try it?
There is a nice chart here, and a concise 10 reasons here.

My reason is simple: it's a two-fur ("two for the price of one")! My baby is soothed while I get things done.

What kind do I get?
Almost anyone who wears their baby for awhile ends up getting more than one type of carrier, so don't sweat it too much. Peppermint.com has a wonderful summary to walk you through the different types.

I have discovered that I like different carriers for different purposes. I would suggest going to the Peppermint link, look at the differences, assess what (outings, around the house) and who (baby or toddler) you will use the carrier for, and once you've narrowed it down, go with what you gravitate towards.

Right now, I own a Maya Ringsling, a linen Kalea Ringsling (I like ringslings right now!), a New Native pouch (like these for older babies), a Beco Butterfly (comfy for longer outings, especially once they get beyond 20lbs or so), and I had a Moby Wrap with my first son.

Wow, they are expensive!
Yes! You may be hesitant to invest in a carrier if you have not used one before. What if you decide you don't like it?

Fortunately, baby carriers have a great resale value. You can buy/sell/trade on several forums including:

TheBabyWearer
Diaperswappers
Ebay

Many of my carriers were purchased (and sold LOL!) through the forums on TBW and DS. You do have to have a minimum # of posts in order to list things for sale, but you can purchase items regardless, though it helps to have links to positive feedback on Ebay or some other b/s/t place.

As I finish writing this post, my son is laying in my lap in a ringsling. Yesterday I got an hour's worth of cleaning and picking-up while the baby slept in the Beco. When I was pregnant with baby #2, my toddler would ride on my hip (yes, preggo belly and all!) while we popped in to the grocery store for milk.

I'm so glad babywearing has come such a long way in the past 10 years or so. It's "hip" to wear your baby! But more importantly, it's a wonderful way to bond while having your hands free to do what you need to get done. It works for me!