Close Enough to Close Issue 5 by Close Enough to Kiss

Issue Five

Double Trouble

A personal story of tandem carrying

Slinging With No Nappy Elimination Communication tips

Sling Lingo

Get up to speed with the latest lingo

Battle Of The Carriers

Boba 4G and Beco Soleil go head to head

How Much Should You Pay?

We find out if more actually buys you better

Advice 路 Shopping 路 Babywearing 路 Reviews

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A Word From The Editor With spring round the corner and hopefully the wet weather too, we are looking forward to some warmer babywearing walks to enjoy the outdoors with our carried babies. This issue we delve into woven wraps, looking at tandem wearing and what you really need to pay for a woven wrap, and for the smaller baby, how to do a front double hammock. We also take a look at "what you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to give up when babywearing" (on page 26). Babywearing is such an empowering experience and of course allows parents both hands free to do things non-babywearers struggle with. While all carrying has an element of learning, wrapping is no doubt a skill that takes time to master, and with this skill comes the knowledge of sling lingo (on page 32), so we have given you a lowdown of what the terminology means, which will hopefully help you learn your cross pass from your hammock pass. There is plenty going on in the babywearing community too, from birthday celebrations, baby shows and also a fantastic new peer supporting school opening in Ipswich! So if you would like to further your knowledge to help with a sling meet you hold or the thoughts of starting your own local library why not have a look on page 36. We also have our regular features, Ask Lorette, Sling Baby Diaries as well as our fabulous new series of features looking into woven wraps in more depth. There is much to be learned this issue, so enjoy the spring air and relax with your latest read! Our next issue will be out in June, so keep your eyes peeled!

If you would like to contribute to our magazine in any way please contact info@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk Enjoy x

Renee Duffin, Editor

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Contents 6

06 Breaking In Your Woven Wrap

26 What You Don't Have To Give Up

08 Slinging With no Nappy

28 Would You Wear A Sling?

13 Double Trouble

30 How Much Should You Pay?

19 Ask Lorette

32 Sling Lingo

20 Explore Wrapping

34 Rules For Safe Babywearing

22 It's All In The Blend

35 Babywearing Northern Ireland

24 Slingbaby Diaries

36 Peer Supporting Courses

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5 Editor Renee Duffin Front Cover Jon Clifton www.joncliftonphotographyanddesign.co.uk

Design & Artwork Colin Jeffery Dee Tree Digital Designs Renee Duffin Photography Happy No Nappy,Rose McAfee Nikky Ginns, Leanne Campbell Kim Wright Photography Sarah Jane Gregory Proof Reading Rosie Knowles Writers Katie Mairis, Anne McEwan Lorette Michalon, Tim Barnes Clay Featured Writers Sarah Jane Gregory, Vicky Bellamo Kitty Forrest, Samantha Herder Caroline Williams, Rose McAfee

37 Battle of the Carriers 38 Car Review 40 Sling Library News

Editorial Vicky Bellmano,Tim Clay-Barnes Ben Fentem, Eve Kirkham-Boyce Contact Us by Email info@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk advertising@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk Find Us Online www.closeenoughtokiss.co.uk www.facebook.com/closeenoughtokiss www.twitter.com/closeenoughmag www.pinterest.com/closeenoughmag www.instagram.com/closeenoughtokiss www.plus.google.com/+closeenoughtokissCoUk Disclaimer

43 Community News 44 Sling Library Directory 49 Sling Meet Directory 50 You Will Have To Buy A Buggy Soon

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All information in Close Enough to Kiss Magazine or website is intended for entertainment purposes only and professional advice should be sought for those who are in anyway unsure how to carry their children in a safe manner. The publisher, contributors, editors and related parties are not responsible in any way whatsoever for the actions or results taken by any persons, organisations or any parties on the basis of reading information, stories or contributions of Close Enough to Kiss Magazine or website. The publisher, contributors and related parties are not engaged in providing professional advice or services. The publisher, contributors, editors and consultants disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any persons or parties, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication or not in regards to the consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of Close Enough to Kiss Magazine. The publishers, editors, contributors and related parties shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by any other contributor, consultant, editor or related party. Whilst we try to ensure all advertising in Close Enough to Kiss Magazine is relevant to our readers, we do not necessarily endorse the products shown. No part of this magazine is to be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission from the publisher. All views expressed in this publication are those of individuals and not of Close Enough to Kiss or the companies we represent. All information included was correct at the time of being published online.

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Breaking In Your Woven Wrap

We have all been there, your latest wrap addition lands on your mat, you excitedly open it only to find it’s stiffer than an over starched shirt! The term ‘breaking in’ means to soften up the wrap and can take anything from a few days wearing to quite some time beating it into submission, depending on the brand or fibres of the wrap. Wrapping with an unbroken in wrap can be harder, it doesn’t tend to mould as well and has a tendency to dig.

Braid your wrap There are a few ways you can braid your wrap, but its a fun (and pretty) way to soften up the wrap fabric.

Wash your wrap One of the quickest ways to remove the crisp of a wrap is to wash it, although always read the instructions before doing so.

Roll it on a bannister

Or a clean pole, to create friction and in turn soften up the fabric of the wrap, always be careful the area is smooth to ensure you do not snag the fabric.

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7 Tumble dry the wrap After washing tumbling the wrap can help not only dry but soften up the wrap, adding drying balls will help to beat the wrap into submission too. Some manufacturers do suggest this can reduce the life of your wrap.

Jumping on the Wrap Take your frustrations out by jumping up and down on the wrap. Or like we have, get the kids to do it, it's a huge amount of fun for them.

Make a table hammock This one is super fun for the kids. Tie the wrap either length or width ways with the knot on the table and let the kids laze underneath.

Iron the wrap Not only does ironing the wrap give you a great sense of pleasure but it also helps to soften up the fabric. It's best to use a steam generated iron to really get into the fibres.

Send the wrap travelling If you want the laziest way to super soften a wrap send it travelling. Not only will the wrap have a great history but will be super soft when it comes back to you. Twitter: @Closeenoughmag

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Slinging With No Nappy An Introduction to Elimination Communication The terms Elimination Communication, EC, Infant Potty Training or Nappy Free Baby tend to either generate blank stares, ridicule or fear when mentioned in conversation. My husband, a father of 2 from a previous relationship, was sceptical when I first mentioned EC during my pregnancy. Nevertheless on the face of it I am glad to say EC is the best parenting decision we have made so far. My daughter is now nearly 2 and a half and we have such a fantastic bond and I genuinely believe that EC has contributed to that in no small part. I was already convinced I wanted to try, but the “aha” moment for my husband was “So if we do this, does it mean we don’t have to do potty training when she is older?” Having gone through conventional potty training twice – he was now sold. I am an advocate of all things AP, but EC was the thing I knew the least (read nothing) about. Having convinced my husband to support me in trying, we started researching how to go about it. Image courtesy of Themio Schuff

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10 How to get started:

The EC method capitalises on building and encouraging your baby’s natural born instincts and reflexes, so starting young is important. It is of course possible to start later but between 0-6 months is ideal, and the earlier the better. It is said that a baby who has consistently worn nappies for over 6 months will have been weaned off his reflexes and toileting intuition. He has been reconditioned that it is ok to soil himself.

Step 1: Your EC journey begins with observation. During feeding, changing, playtime, and especially whilst wearing your baby, try to spend as much of that time as possible nappy free. Not only does it make observation easier but also it stimulates your baby to “go” freely without being inhibited by the nappy. (How many times have you witnessed a baby doing a wee on the changing table as soon as the nappy comes off? Proof: they can and want to hold it). Step 2: Keep a journal of your findings - chances are that all major inputs like sleep and feed times remain equal, you will start seeing a pattern – like a body clock of needs. Step 3: Introduce cues: Choose a sound or gesture you are comfortable with, anything will do but consistency is key. When you notice you baby eliminating, introduce the cue word regardless of whether you catch it. In time this cue word will act as a trigger they associate with releasing wee or poo.

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Finding and reading the cues: The nuances of your baby's cries are at first inaudible to most new parents, you guess until you figure it out. Eventually the cries for hunger, discomfort, tiredness all become easy to tell apart, however, there always seem to be that one cry where you think, "I have tried everything I don’t know what he wants!" Pee is most likely going to be the answer. (See DunstanBaby.com for more on this). During observation time, start looking for signs that your baby is trying to tell you something. These signs normally precede crying. Some of the common body language signs are: eye contact popping off the breast or bottle and fussing mid feed. (Often confused with colic symptoms) squirming / trying to get away from you while being held or carried fussing in general blank stare “into space” crying for no apparent reason This list is not exhaustive and you might notice something else individual to your child but whatever it is go with it.

Benefits of wearing your baby: Babies are not only born with the instinct not to soil themselves but they also do not want to soil you. By wearing your baby, you have gained so much already in terms of closeness, being able to pick up on your baby’s signs and communication, even if you are occupied by physically doing other things. By wearing your baby you become more in tune with their bodies and body language, which is half the battle. Read more at http://katesurfs.wordpress.com You can practice EC full time, part time or just when you feel like it. Every wee you can catch helps emphasise their instincts so don’t feel bad about not having the time or potential to go full time. Let EC fit into your lifestyle and don’t be pressured. Start by practising at home, place the baby in the sling after he has done a wee so you know he can settle in and relax. A good starting point is to wear your baby for their naps and take him out and offer timing wee upon waking. Tip: use something easy and quick to operate like a Ring Sling, Mei Tai or a Soft Structured Carrier as small babies need to go frequently. With a small baby hold them in a frog position (almost like a squat) or for slightly older babies support them sitting on a potty or toilet insert.

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What do you need? Not a lot. A potty, sink or other receptacle, a bush, tree or patch of grass if you are outside. A sling is great. Easy access clothing, (anything with poppers up the legs becomes infuriating) and plenty of patience and intuition. What to expect? EC is not performance based, competitive or an overnight success to a toilet trained baby. It is baby led and gentle, not coercive and forced. It is a learning / teaching process that changes and takes new shape during its course, which makes it difficult to teach. It is up to you as the parent or caregiver to be open minded, alert and patient during your EC journey. The best tip I have is to view EC as another aspect of parenthood. They will eventually “get it” like they do everything else and become toilet trained in their own time. However as a guide: Depending on the age of your baby when you begin, how often and how religiously you practice EC you can expect some degree of daytime dryness between 6-20 months. As an example we started at 4 months, by 15 months she was out of back-up nappies at home and at 19 months she was reliably dry and we could confidently leave the house without bringing a spare set of clothes. Just give it a go. EC does not have to be a commitment for life. Give it a try – if it’s not for you there is no shame in going back to nappies. Fair warning though, the first catches and the realisation that your baby is actually communicating with you are very addictive. I found I was spurred on through the more frustrating phases by the fact that once I knew what she wanted and what she was capable of I couldn’t un-know, and I couldn’t bring myself to ignore it. For more in depth information and support see our App Happy No Nappy, 69p on the iTunes App Store. www.happynonappy.com Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Double Trouble

When we are pregnant, all mums carry our babies. With just one baby the transition from carrying your baby inside to outside you is seamless, even if it's just in arms. With twins that's not the case; when they are small it's hard to carry the two together in arms with adequate support, and as they get older, and can support themselves, they are bigger, heavier and more unwieldy.

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The first time I carried my twins together in a carrier, something in me just went "ahhhhh that's better" - finally a way to have them both close, to comfort them together and to carry them again as I had for the past 40+wks. My first experience was using a Weego twin carrier, but my twins were very big and probably at the upper comfort limit of the Weego (which for me was about 10lbs each) by about a month old. As “high-street carriers” go it's not too bad ergonomically, and it can take babies from 3lbs so it is a way to tandem carry premature twins. However, although it is extremely accessible - being very easy to use and get both babies in by yourself - its structure prevents skin-toskin contact which is so vital with small and premature babies. My wife and I both had Kari-Me stretchies that we carried them in separately so after some advice from the Facebook babywearing community I decided that two in a stretchy was preferable to the Weego - but again at 10lbs each, not for long. We tried alternating between a FWCC hip variation for two and a no ring Jasmine's hip carry; these look fab but aren't great for getting anything done, these can put a fair amount of strain on your back. Finally at about nine weeks, with a bit of help from my local library, I got the courage to put my wee boy on my back in a simple ruck and then I was away. It was such a revelation to have them back and front. It felt more balanced, I could do household chores more easily and I could even go to the loo (challenging in a tandem hip carry!) It's also the best way to comfort them when they are both upset - not an easy task with twins. Tears stop instantly when I carry them like this and it's also one of the few ways I can get them to sleep at the same time; with practice I have even learnt how to put them both down whilst asleep so I can have a rare moment to myself.

At first I would wrap my little girl in a FWCC on the front and then put my boy in a ruck on the back, but she didn't like me leaning even a little forwards to get him on and the problem with this combination was whoever woke first it didn't matter because I couldn’t get to my boobs to feed them!

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So I settled with my current favourite a ruck on the back and a shorty through the ruck straps, or a DH on the back and shorty through ruck straps. This sort of carry can replicated using just one size 7 wrap with both babies in a ruck tied Tibetan; one baby in the ruck and one in the Tibetan ties - but it takes a little more practice to get it tight. I'm fortunate enough to have quite a variety of wraps to play with, but if you could just afford only one wrap you could get by pretty well with a 7. Of course it’s fun to try other combinations. Torso carry on the back and buckles on the front, mei tai on the back and buckles on the front, stretchy on front, woven on back, two mei tais – you name it, it’s possible. There are tandeming combinations for every kind of wearer. That being said I often carry them individually as does my partner. You can still carry your twins even if you don't want to tandem carry them. Tandeming is not for everyone and as they get bigger it's physically demanding. It’s important to remember, as with many things with twins, that you don't have to be equal with your carrying. One twin may prefer it to the other, or one may need it more at a particular time. All in all, tandeming my twins is one of my favourite parts of being a mum and some of my most beautiful memories.

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Rose McAfee is a Slingababy Trained Consultant living in Oxford with her wife and 6 month old twins. She has a Facebook group Twin Sling which is a source of information, advice, help and support for anyone wanting to carry twins or know more about it. She also helps with the Oxford Sling Library & offers consultancy under the name Wrap-A-Bye Baby.

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Ask

Lorette

Dear Lorette, my toddler is getting really heavy to carry, do I need to buy a linen wrap? Claire Hi Claire, it is an urban myth that linen wraps are more supportive than the 100% cotton ones. There are many different factors that will influence how supportive a wrap feels. First of all, check your technique. If you have a consultant nearby, it is really worth paying him/her a visit. A snuggly adjusted wrap job around an optimum position makes a world of a difference! Secondly, there are many variables for the supportiveness of a wrap: the weave (twill, jacquard...), the tightness of the weave, the density of the fabric (g/m2), the quality of the thread, the origin of the thread, the processing of the thread, how well the fabric is "broken in" etc etc... It is near impossible to compare 2 wraps on the blend only. I hope this helps. PS: if you just wanted an excuse to get a new wrap, please go ahead and ignore all said above

Dear Lorette, I have been going to my local sling meet for a while and I don't feel like a hard-core babywearer because I can't wrap for toffee. Please tell me I am just being silly! Sarah Hi Sarah, you are just being silly! Joke apart, being a babywearer means you carry your child. Whether in a buckle carrier, a mei-tai, a wrap, a scarf, a towel or a rope, whether all day long or once in a blue moon, you are one of the gang. Wrap users can become really addicted to the different wraps and the different carries and can be pretty vocal at sling meets. You could try challenging them to find variations on other carriers and see if they like it too. And if you want to become a wrap user, ask a mama to talk you through the basics of one carry and stick to this one. You can also go and get help from a pro to ensure your technique is correct and that you get some pointers on where things are not working for you. If you don't want to wrap, that's OK, you are still a babywearer. And you can always share about the special cuddles with the other meet attendees, as after all, that is one thing we all have in common â&#x2122;Ľ

Dear Lorette, my child is a leg straightener and I can't ever do a ruck! He pops the seat every time, even when I tuck the wrap in his trousers as I was told at the last meet. Please help! Debi Dear Debi, first of all, the age of your child would make a big difference here. At around 8-10 months, babies turn into giant worms and want to see and move everywhere, which makes any wrap job a challenge. So if your child is in this age bracket, please cut yourself some slack. This too shall pass. As far as pointers to help you move forward, try and stand as straight as you can and secure the top part of your wrap. Then keep one arm behind you, reaching for the knee pit furthest away and hold the wrap (and knee pit) there whilst you tighten the wrap, then bring it around and overlap the bunched pass and the pouch and then secure it in front of you. Repeat on the other side. By holding the wrap and knee pits where you want, the seat will appear by magic. Tucking the wrap in the trousers is counterproductive I'm afraid. It seems to create a great seat but then as soon as the carry is tied, if you haven't moved the slack around, it will mean you have a lot of slack exactly where you do not wish to have it: under the knee pits... This slack will give enough space for baby to wriggle his legs and straighten them. I hope this helps and I am looking forward to some pictures soon.

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Explore Wrapping

In this series we will be exploring some of the different wrapping methods and how it is possible to adapt each carry to your preferences. Wrapping is an art and taking the time to fully explore the different carrying methods can make all the difference in the amount of enjoyment and comfort you and your baby achieve when using a wrap.

How to Tie a Front Double Hammock

The front double hammock (FDH) is less a well known front carry, it is more open than a front wrap cross carry (FWCC) when all 3 layers are used, so is excellent for babies that do not like the wrap too close to their face. It has 2 layers, rather than 3 and the wrap is flipped at the shoulder to cup the wearer's shoulders. It can also be used with a stretchy wrap. Unlike the more well-known ‘double hammock’, the FDH doesn’t have any cross passes, it relies on a deep seat and its unique tightening method to keep the baby snug against the wearer. It’s a wonderfully comfortable carry, looks very pretty on the wearer and makes the most of showing off a beautiful wrap. The FDH unlike the FWCC can be slightly harder to get the hang of especially if you have been used to wrapping in FWCC, however once learned it is the wrapping style of preference due to how comfortable it is. Due to the high nature of both passes this carry is very supportive throughout the whole upper body and spreads the weight all over the wearer’s upper torso with minimal weight bearing in the shoulders. The flipped shoulder helps to reduce any digging and helps maintain the wrap in the knee-pit for optimum positioning.

Variations on the front double hammock include: No tie Pre-tied No shoulder flip Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Issue Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014 Issue Four

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Its all in the blend

Cotton

Many people start with a cotton wrap – and for good reason. Cotton is generally a good all rounder. It sits at a very accessible price point, and is very easy to care for. Most cotton wraps can be washed at 40 or 60 degrees, tumble dried and steam ironed. Cotton is arguably the most popular fibre to weave a wrap from, and so cotton wraps vary widely. Hand-wovens tend to have a more loose weave and therefore a more accentuated diagonal stretch (bias) that makes a wrap really easy to use and tighten, whereas dense machine wovens may not have as much of a diagonal stretch, but they will be more supportive for bigger kids owing to the combined strength of their tightly packed threads. The weight of the wrap is therefore usually a pretty good indicator of how ‘toddler worthy’ it may be; it also will give you an idea of how easy or hard it will be to break-in the wrap. Girasol are one of the most famous wrap manufacturers in the world and their wraps are exclusively 100% cotton. Indeed some will argue that with a good level of wrapping skill it is never necessary to use a different blend. Cotton is the most pesticide intensive crop in the world so if you’re the type of consumer that favours products which are produced ethically and have a small ecological impact, it is best to keep an eye out for organic cotton. There are 2 types of cotton which are becoming more prevalent in higher value wraps – both combed and mercerised cotton are stronger and smoother than regular cotton, so they feel very different to regular cotton to use, and that level of luxury is reflected in the price: Combed Cotton is softer, having had the shorter, more coarse cotton fibres and impurities removed before it is spun into thread. Mercerised Cotton has been treated with sodium hydroxide in order to make it smoother, shinier, and stronger than regular cotton – it also takes dyes better than regular cotton and tends to be less likely to shrink. Cotton is of course a plant fibre, and therefore can be dyed using fibre reactive dyes such as Dylon machine dye or iDyes without much difficulty. Cotton wraps are great for converting into buckle carriers etc. as they tend to be easy to sew, easy to iron, and not too light or slippy to work with.

This is how Cotton is grown and looks before harvest

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Supportiveness 3/5 Temperature 4/5 Ease of care 5/5 Time to break in 4/5 Luxury 2/5

Amy Louise Towers: I love my LL mint lace, very mouldable and that gives it just as much support as a thicker other blend. Katrina Shepherd: If it's OK for a consultant to comment I think 100% cotton wraps are incredibly underrated, nine times out of ten I would recommend starting with a cotton and going on from there if you want to. I think width and thickness often have a bigger impact on how something wraps rather than its blend. Rachel Wood: I have 3 100% cotton wraps and I love them, they wrap really well, just as well as my other which are mixes. I see lots of people telling me they wont be supportive enough but I an inclined to disagree, think they are given a bad rep they don't deserve Emily Taylor: I've had some 100% cotton that I found unsupportive after my son got bigger and one which is at least as supportive and comfortable as my blends. I think it's so much more about the weave, the thickness etc than just the blend

What do other babywearers think?

Kirsty Jolly: We love 100% cotton here at b2boutique! Easy to wash and not fussy. There's such a variance within the range of cotton wraps you can get; some are thinner, easy to handle and perfect for beginners - others thicker but wonderfully sturdy for heavier babies/older toddlers. Don't disregard cotton! Hana Keylock: I have only ever had 100% cotton wraps, and each one has felt completely different, even from the same manufacturer. Gill Travis Hopkins: I love 100% cotton, my daughter is past 25lb and my current go-to is 100% cotton. It depends on the weave. I think it is probably more forgiving than some other blends which is great if you are new to wrapping or have a fidgety wrappee.

Laura Howes: I like to think of it like a comparison between a t-shirt and a pair of jeans, both are cotton but have very different properties. As a newbie I would pick wraps based on blend, but now I choose whatever I like since in my opinion the wrap job and particular carry matters more in Keep Calm and Carry Them: The sett, weave, mercerization, width, wrapping ability... There are so terms of support. many factors that play into the thickness and grip of a wrap. Brushed cotton gives a completely different Antonia Gorman: I think the weave plays a huge part in how supportive a cotton wrap is, think about feel to mercerized, and small-scale jacquards feel a muslin and a tablecloth for example, both are very different to large scale, twill different to cotton, 100% cotton but a muslin had much more 'give' etc, with handwovens in a very different category than a tablecloth, the same applies to wraps. to machine wovens. It's such a wide range to say By Samantha Herder - Geeky Sweetheart "100% cotton".

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Issue Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014 Issue Four

‘The Slingbaby Diaries Parenting Under Wraps’ Monday Being a mum to 6 children, constantly running around after them makes you realise just how invaluable a sling is. My week is going to be a busy one with lots of toing and froing. With my Monday morning rush over with, I headed home for a morning of cleaning and tidying away toys before my busy afternoon sling salsa class. After a busy weekend I always find that Monday mornings my house looks like a bomb has hit it, so kids all tucked away nicely in school I get to work on having a lovely show house, NOT. Cleaning and lunch over with, I head off to my sling salsa class with library slings and baby in tow. Every Monday afternoon I attend sling salsa with the library to hire slings to mums who want to salsa but don't own a sling. Most women try different ones each week so I usually take along quite a variety, although it takes me a good 20 minutes to set up before class. A trained dancer friend of mine set up the class at the beginning of the year with my help and classes are going from strength to strength. This week the local newspaper came along to write an article and take pictures because this is one of a kind in our area. The babies were all really well behaved, although Dara decided today she would run away from me while I was trying to pick her up to do a back wrap with my woven. Everyone laughed as I chased her round the hall with a trail of woven wrap, while the photographer frantically took pictures. Lots of sweat and dancing later, the class finished and we all stayed to eat oranges and drink tea, but my evening didn't end there. This is the time when I find I use my buckle more rather than my woven wrap, mostly for quickness. School run, doctors’ appointments and girl guides while preparing tea, bath then bed. I finally sat down at 9.30pm with a well-deserved glass of wine.

Tuesday Tuesday is farm tots day and although it's fun at this time of year, it's cold and very wet. After having a discussion with Archie my little boy about not taking the iPad we arrive at the farm with lots of layers on, wellies and raincoats. I always put my Manduca in the car on farm tots days just in case Dara gets tired, but today she decided to be Peppa Pig and join in with all the puddle jumping, only to fall into one. Good job I always carry spare clothes, I just know what's coming next. Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

25 Muddy puddle jumping finished, we ended up on the food shopping run before the school run. At this point I had a tired baby so the Manduca came in very handy and I was able to run around the supermarket just in time for the school run. At home later on I endured more Peppa Pig this time on television, fortunately then with a tired but not co-operating baby I put her in the woven and rock to sleep. Bliss, dairy free chocolate as a treat tonight. Wednesday I love Wednesdays, I get a few free hours to myself. Wednesdays are my radio show days so after doing the school run, I head off for a few quiet hours in the studio. After the show I sneak in a crafty swim at my local gym and feel refreshed to head back into a busy stressful week. On my way home I realise I need to take two of my daughters shoe shopping, not my favourite thing in the world. I have two if the fussiest children when choosing shoes. I pick up Dara, complete the school run and reach the shoe shop in record time, hoping there's more choice due to the size, so we definitely come home with shoes. Dara likes pulling my hair at the moment, so when she

wakes up from a slingy sleep the hair tugging begins. This amuses the kids and the shop assistant but not my scalp. I need a hat! We leave the shop with shoes and wellies for Dara, so a success shop, albeit with considerably less hair. Wine AND chocolate tonight and to think its only half way through the week. Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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When you babywear you don’t have to give up… so many things!

There are so many changes when you welcome your baby into your life. Your priorities change, your relationships change and the ways in which you grow and adapt are unending. In so many ways, so much more is achievable, a sudden and overwhelming love that can spur you to face deep fears, scale new heights and plumb fresh depths.

You don’t have to give up… using the stairs or the escalator!

With such a huge change, there will always be gains and losses. There will be wonderful additions to your life, and some things will have to be set aside. But, we’re here to tell you, there are some things you just don’t have to give up! You don’t have to give up… holding your partner’s hand., or your child’s hand. Or, for that matter, anyone’s hand that you fancy grasping! The intimacy that can come with holding hands is special and very restorative; with a new arrival, older children and even partners can feel displaced by this new little person. Holding someone’s hand whilst pushing a pram can be challenging – you can feel less in control, and the wheels take on a life of their own. Babywearing gives you both your hands back, meaning that you are able to connect with your companion - a quick squeeze of a hand has gentle but powerful healing qualities. You don’t have to give up… using the stairs or the escalator! We remember it well. You spent those first precious days and weeks at home, getting used to the new little bundle that has joined your world. But, finally, bravely, the time has come to leave the house; to do the shopping, to meet a friend for a Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

You don’t have to give up… Travelling by bus

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27 coffee, to re-enter the human race. But, agonisingly, your plan for a stress-limited trip has been foiled by… escalators! Everest may have looked smaller to Edmund Hillary! A traipse round half a shopping centre, looking for a lift, can be avoided by using your preferred sling – you can hop up the stairs or escalators just as you always have.

You don’t have to give up… holding your partner’s hand. Or your child’s hand.

When you’re in town, you don’t have to give up… being able to enter a busy café, or even the changing rooms of a shop, without feeling like you need Moses in front of you, parting the Red Sea on your behalf. Babywearing means you can navigate busy rooms far more effectively, whilst at the same time offering your baby your reassuring presence in these alien environments. We’ve found that trying on clothes can be slightly inhibited by having your baby attached to you, but all you need to do is make a little nest in the corner of the room, using your wrap or sling, and you’re good to go! At least you can get into that tiny cubicle – not so possible when you’re lugging a chuffing great big buggy with you! You don’t have to give up… using both pieces of cutlery. We have lost count of the amount of parents we have seen with a little one in one arm, trying to saw through a piece of meat using only the side of a fork. We feel compelled to give these struggling parents one of two things – a baby carrier to use, or a pair of chopsticks!

You don’t have to give up… Doing the shopping

Most importantly, you don’t have to give up… the bond you created with your little one when they were inside your body. The unceasing holding, the gentle movement of your body, the sound of your heartbeat, the constant, comforting warm temperature. These are the conditions you provided for your baby inside your womb; with babywearing, you don’t have to give any of that up. In fact, you get to share that bond with your babywearing partner, as they finally get an insight into how it feels to carry something so precious, so close to their heart. Have Child, Will Carry are a babywearing collective

Have Child, Will Carry are a babywearing in Kent; they encompass West Kent Sling Meet and collective in Kent; they nationwide encompasspostal Westhires. Kent Sling Library, and offer Meet and Library, and offer nationwide postal hires. Find Findthem thematatwww.havechildwillcarry.co.uk www.havechildwillcarry.co.uk By Kitty and Vicky Have Child, Will Carry

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Issue Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014 Issue Four

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Would You Wear A Wrap As Clothing? 'Oh my goodness!

Have you seen that wrap?! It is just so me. I need to have it in my life!' Do these words ring true for you? They do for me! I am just as guilty as the next person to spot a stunner and sell everything that isn't nailed down to fund it.

dough and apple juice, with stickers stuck in places I can no longer see, the most time I spend actually on me involves fumbling around for a relatively clean t shirt. I no longer spend money on clothes for me. If I'm off out anywhere I select a wrap, or Ruby chooses for me. You see, babywearing means more to me than just carrying my child. My wraps define me. They express my love of fabric. They show my emotions and moods.... AND they keep my child close to me too.

Have you stopped to think about exactly who the wrap is for? Who do you buy your wraps Before having children I would spend for? Are they for you or the child you will be considerable money on clothing, footwear etc. – an image. A way of projecting me. using them with? Now, I'd rather play with a bowl of shaving foam or paint dry pasta with my children. A very good friend of mine, near the start of my babywearing journey offered the My image is less important. I need to be following pearl of wisdom; 'Wraps are for dressed appropriately, but I can choose to the wearer. Wrapping is for the child!' accessorize with a fabulous scarf. This made a lot of sense to me back then, Do I mind that my wraps clash with my and still does today. It frequently springs to outfit? Not at all!! I wouldn't choose a mind when I read a thread along the lines of 'can I carry my son in a pink wrap...?' My specific wrap according to colours of an thoughts are – yes!! Of course you can! You outfit, its more about what they mean to me are wearing the wrap, you are carrying your and how I am feeling at the time. child. Of course, have wraps specifically for your child – its very special, emotional even, This has become much more important to me over the past few months as when a child chooses or identifies with a my daughter is fast becoming more wrap or carrier. independent. I still need to carry a wrap, yet As a parent who spends the vast majority of more often than not it remains unused. So, her days covered in a mixture of dried play the answer for me is simple; a shorter wrap.

Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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They can be used as a shawl, shrug, scarf, cover up on the beach/sarong. Not only a shorter wrap, but a doll wrap could be used as a smaller scarf too and some companies even sell scarves in wrap fabric! Genius! Am I alone in my decision to use a wrap as diversely as I appear to be? In short, no. It would appear that many other people do similarly. A good friend of mine feel completely in love with a certain wrap. She couldn't imagine it not being in her life any more. Her solution? Make it into a skirt. So, she did. It looked utterly fabulous, it was totally unique. No one else would have one the same and every time that skirt is worn she can have that warm cosy feeling while remembering the special times had with that wrap. There are an increasing number of people using wraps as dresses, albeit for strictly at home purposes. Scrolling through a particular babywearing group was, at one stage, like a fashion show as mamas designed dresses and outfits using their stashes! They were awesome. What a great way of making a wrap really work for you! Every child may have a legacy wrap to call their own, but what about a wrap for the parent?!

Twitter: @Closeenoughmag

I recently won some wrap scrap buttons. What an amazing prize. The perfect way to dress up a jacket or a pair of shoes! There is so much that can be done with buttons on an outfit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; add them to bags or hats even.... wrap scrap wallets and purses, key chains and even backed mirrors. Can't decide which wrap to use? Take a whole eclectic mixture! Wear a wrap scrap hairband with a bracelet of a different wrap! Have a wrap scrap bow tie made for a special occasion... Keep all your ephemera together in a customised babywearing bag. Of course, it's not just parents that can literally wear their wraps. There are so many super skilled parents who work from home nowadays who make no end of stunning customised pieces of clothing for babies; bibs, pram shoes and even wrap scrap nappies. So, when you're stuck for something to do, why not make a list of all the wraps you have used throughout your journey. Try to collect scraps from them all and make yourself a miniature wardrobe of accessories to go with even the dullest of outfits. I know which wraps I would use any hesitation whatsoever.... which would you use and why?

Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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How Much For A Good Sling?

We all know it is possible to get slings ranging from ÂŁ5 (second hand pouch sling) to ÂŁ500+ for a Hard To Find Wrap at auction. How much should we pay though for a good sling? Do we have to spend ages looking out for a bargain or chasing a specific limited edition sling for weeks, months or maybe even years? The first question to ask here is: "What is a good sling?". Of course the answer to this question is going to vary slightly for everyone. For me a good sling meets at least the following criteria:

My ability to use it or learn to use it Safe to be used Comfortable for carrier and child Appealing to me and any other user My ability to use it or learn to use it

When you choose a sling it is important to consider whether you know how to use it already and if not how you will learn how to use it. Most slings are sold with instructions. There are online videos and sling meets and learning from consultants are some of the other ways you can learn how to use a sling.

Safe to be used

Does the sling allow for the TICKS (see page 42) to be followed? Is the construction safe? Does anyone using the sling have any special or additional needs which need to be taken into account? Comfortable for carrier and child. It can be hard to figure out exactly what will suit you when you are just starting out. You can check out the UK Sling Library Network (UKSLN) site to see if there is a library near you where you can hire a sling so you can try before you buy. Hiring may appear to add to the costs yet having to return or resell a sling that did not work after all will cost more.

Appealing to me and any other user

If you do not like the look of a sling you are less likely to pick it up and have a look. Most sling users love sharing pictures of themselves with slings so luckily there is enough out there online to get an idea of what look you want to go for. Once you have decided what criteria your good sling needs to meet it is time to set a budget. As mentioned before the price range in which slings are available differs dramatically. Just like you can put up a poster or a Monet on your wall with both filling the same space, some slings are like artworks and some are more functional. ( and of course some people like to take their Monet to a muddy park and have a picnic on it *blush* ) Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Just to give you an idea here are some prices of slings available new right now:

Napsack Baby Carrier £70.99

Connecta - Standard £62, Toddler £72

Hoppediz Long £53

Note that this is a sample of slings available and prices and availability may vary amongst online retailers. By Anne McEwan Twitter: @Closeenoughmag

BB Sling £45 Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Sling Lingo

Do you know your Rebozo from your Torso pass? Or your Lexi Twist from your shoulder flip? If not check out our quick fire explaination for wrapping terms.

Hammock Pass (also know as a Rebozo pass)

Goes over both legs of child and one shoulder of adult.

Cross Pass

Any pass going between child’s legs (so a pass that goes over one leg, and then under the other). Can go under one or both of the parent’s shoulders

Spread

The fabric is spread knee-pit to knee-pit, and/or knee-pit to arm-pit and uses as much of the width of the wrap as possible

You mak as a ‘po pits to kn The c

Unspread, Bunched, Gathered & Sandwiched The ways the wrap can be placed on the shoulder to make it more comfortable

Reinforcing

Anything that goes over the first pass of a carry to reinforce and add security or support to the carry

Bottom Rail

The long edge of the wrap that is lowest at the start of wrapping and will be tucked under the child’s bottom kneepit to knee-pit

Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Top Rail

The long edge of the wrap that is highest at the start of wrapping, and will be spread to the top of the child's back

Straight Pass

(also known as a Torso pass)

Goes over both legs of child and under both arms of adult

Chest Belt

Pocket

ke a pocket for your child to sit into can also be known ouch or a deep seat’ and will be spread fully from kneenee-pit fully covering the back to at least the shoulders. child should be placed into the middle of the wrap with knee higher than their bottom

Used in back carries where the ends of the wrap are knotted or twisted around each other on the adult’s chest. And adds extra support to help take the weight of the carry off the shoulders and distribute it more evenly around adult’s torso

Rope Pass

The fabric of a wrap, ring sling is bunched into a ‘rope’ to be placed into the child’s knee-pits to get a good seat, once in knee-pits the child’s bottom can be lowered to achieve a good early seat, the fabric can then be brought up the child’s back

Ruck Straps

Each shoulder pass will sit over the shoulder similarly to a rucksack strap and go back under the same arm before crossing under the child’s knee-pit. This can be also be reversed, so the strap goes under arm then over shoulder.

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Flipped Shoulder

The wrap fabric is spread, but flipped over once so it cups the shoulder making it easier to add tension to the rails and tighten the carry

Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

BROUGHT TO YOU BY WWW.

ruleS for KEEP

YOUR

BABY

TIGHT IN VIEW AT ALL TIMES CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST SUPPORTED BACK

CLOSE ENOUGH TO KISS YOUR BABY’S HEAD SHOULD BE AS CLOSE TO YOUR CHIN AS COMFORTABLE. BY TIPPING YOUR HEAD FORWARD YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO KISS YOUR BABY ON THE HEAD OR FOREHEAD.

TIGHT

.CO.UK

SAFE babywearing CLOSE

AND

KEEP

supported b a c k IN AN UPRIGHT CARRY A BABY SHOULD BE HELD COMFORTABLY CLOSE TO THE WEARER SO THEIR BACK IS SUPPORTED IN ITS NATURAL POSITION AND THEIR TUMMY AND CHEST ARE AGAINST YOU. IF A SLING IS TOO LOOSE THEY CAN SLUMP WHICH CAN PARTIALLY CLOSE THEIR AIRWAY. THIS CAN BE TESTED BY PLACING A HAND ON YOUR BABY’S BACK AND PRESSING GENTLY - THEY SHOULD NOT UNCURL OR MOVE CLOSER TO YOU

50% LESS FUSS AND CRYING WHEN CARRIED FOR 3 HOURS OR MORE A DAY

SLINGS AND CARRIERS SHOULD BE TIGHT ENOUGH TO HUG YOUR BABY CLOSE TO YOU AS THIS WILL BE MOST COMFORTABLE FOR YOU BOTH

KEEP CHIN OFF THE CHEST

ANY SLACK/LOOSE FABRIC WILL ALLOW YOUR BABY TO SLUMP DOWN IN THE CARRIER WHICH CAN HINDER THEIR BREATHING AND PULL ON YOUR BACK

A BABY SHOULD NEVER BE CURLED SO THEIR CHIN IS FORCED ONTO THEIR CHEST AS THIS CAN RESTRICT THEIR BREATHING

YOUR

BABY

SAFE

your baby is able to take in its surroundings, stimulating brain growth

promotes bonding and a secure attachment between you and your baby

the carriers allow the dads/partners/care givers in helping to calm and relax the baby a baby sling supports the natural development of your baby’s spine and hips

In View At All Times IF YOU CHOOSE TO CARRY IN A CRADLE POSITION YOUR BABY SHOULD FACE UPWARDS AND NOT BE TURNED IN TOWARDS YOUR BODY

YOU SHOULD ALWAYS BE ABLE TO SEE YOUR BABY’S FACE BY SIMPLY GLANCING DOWN. THE FABRIC OF A SLING OR CARRIER SHOULD NOT CLOSE AROUND THEM SO YOU HAVE TO OPEN IT TO CHECK ON THEM.

THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN SOURCED FROM T.I.C.KS CONSORTIUM OF SLING MANUFACTURERS / DESIGNED BY MEGAN SILCOCKS

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Babywearing Is Blooming In Northern Ireland! + Slings and cloth nappies go together like girasol and rainbows, maybe not least because a nice big fluffy bum makes it easier to get a good seat, so it made common sense for Sling Library Northern Ireland to team up with the newly established Cloth Nappy Library Northern Ireland for a series of ‘Nappuslingo’ events. These introduce both babywearing, under the guidance of Eve and other Trageschule trained consultants, and nappies to parents over a cup of coffee, and also provide a forum for existing users to ask questions or just meet up for a natter. As well as several local events throughout Northern Ireland the two organisations will be helping run ‘Blooming Babies Expo’, a baby show for modern parents, to be held in Belfast on 26th April 2014 which is expected to attract over 1500 people. Sling Library NI organiser Eve KirkhamBoyce explained ‘The show aims to promote choice in parenting and will be attended by a big, diverse audience so is a great way to

share the joys and practical uses of babywearing with people who might have only heard about it via the Peaches and Katie scrap recently in the media. With Oscha, Firespiral, Manduca, Lillebaby and Sling Heaven in attendance it will also cater for experienced baby wearers, there will even be specially commissioned show wraps from both Oscha and Firespiral (as yet the designs are top secret). With over 60 exhibitors there will also be talks and stands to cater for every baby related interest or necessity – from baby books to baby swimming ’. Tickets for the show are available from www.bloomingbabiesni.com or contact Eve at www.slni.co.uk for more information.

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New Peer Supporting Training School Opens Up!

Tribal Babies provides rich and varied training opportunities, which are tailored to the individual participants needs, and have an organic development. Do you have a passion for babywearing? Do you find others are drawn towards you for carrying support? Or have some experience but want to gain more knowledge? Maybe youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a health professional or birth worker, wanting to add more tools to your toolkit? Or are you an experienced wearer who is interested in delving deeper into this many-faceted parenting experience? The Tribal Babies Babywearing Supporter course could be for you! The course is focused on skills and information that can be put to use at a sling meet or library. Groups limited to 6 people maximum, to give participants a good quality learning experience. It also gives the participants access to the appropriate insurance often required when starting up a library or meet. Taught by the highly experienced Melissa Cyrille, who has trained with 3 UK training schools and an active member of BABI, Tribal Babies is an excellent choice in furthering your babywearing support experience.

What participants say I found the course very informative. I met some lovely mamas and loved the fact we could all input ideas and our own experiences. Mel clearly has a wide knowledge and passion for the subject and was able to infuse us all with the facts and myths of babywearing. I feel much more confident now showing friends how to use the carriers and can now pass on the correct information to anyone interested in babywearing. Charlene Dyer Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Battle of the carriers Who wins? You decide

Beco Soleil

Statistics Weight Range

7- 45lbs

Newborn Insert

Insert Sold Separately

Waist Width

28 - 60 inches

Strap Positioning

BOBA 4G Statistics Weight Range

7 - 45lbs

Newborn Insert

Comes with Insert

Waist Width

25 - 58 inches

Ruck and Cross

Strap Positioning

Ruck Only

Body

W 16" x H 17"

Body

W 13.5" x H 17.5"

Sleep Hood

Detachable

Sleep Hood

Detachable

Additonal Features

Safety Buckles

Additional Features

Foot Straps

Price

From £90 - £110

Price

From £90 - £100

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Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

Just For Dads

Audi Q5

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If I had over £35,000 I would happily buy the 2.0 TFSI quattro S line version of the Audi Q5. You see, the styling of the Q5, with its coupelike roof line and wrap-around tailgate, has been subtly refreshed. The design of the headlights has been changed, and the sparkling xenon units are now framed by new-look LED daytime running lights that form a continuous band surrounding more of the lens. Inside, the Audi Q5 is pure understated refinement. The controls are trimmed in chrome, and the narrow panels of the centre console are finished in high-gloss black. The hi-tech central media component, MMI navigation plus, has very few buttons, so you don’t need a degree in Rocket Science to work out how to use it. Other touches such as heated seats, air conditioning and a multifunction steering wheel make the Q5 a dream to drive. The car is as solidly made as an oak table and yet seems as light as a feather. There’s a reason for this: the bonnet and tailgate are crafted from aluminium, while the car’s structural elements integrate ultra-highstrength steels; they reduce weight and improve crash safety. The result is that the Q5 handles like an executive saloon and takes off like a bat out of hell when you dab the accelerator. Indeed, the performance totally matches the looks of this Germanic road warrior: top speed is 138mph and the 0-62mph sprint is done in a satisfying 7.1 seconds. Another explanation for this awesome performance is the updated Q5’s TFSI petrol engine, which combines direct fuel injection, while the eight-speed tiptronic automatic powers the 2.0 TFSI Quattro up the cogs effortlessly. Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

The chassis of the latest Audi Q5 also adds a great dollop of refinement and comfort, thanks to changes to the spring, shock absorber and anti-roll bar settings. The new power steering system gives you a better feel for the road too. The Q5 driving experience is further enhanced when the optional Audi drive select system is specified. Audi drive select lets you vary the

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Just For Dads

system if they are fitted. These include adaptive cruise control, damper control and dynamic steering. During higher speed cornering, it compensates for understeer and oversteer by intervening with slight steering pulses. I’m not saying you’ll ever get sick of driving the Q5, but when you’ve had enough of all that commuting to work and driving the kids to school malarkey, the Audi will thrill you off road. It may look a bit bling but it actually performs well on rugged terrain. Its maximum climbing angle is 31 degrees and its approach and departure angles are each 25 degrees. And you won’t rip anything off the Q5’s underbelly because the vehicle’s ground clearance measures 20 cm. This is truly a motor for everyone – but you’ll have to have a decent bank balance, or a boss who’s nice enough to put this on the company car list to drive one.

PROS ‘N’ CONS Looks √ Performance √ Build √ Expensive X

FAST FACTS

operating characteristics of the throttle pedal, the shift points of the automatic transmission, the degree of power steering assistance and the operation of the automatic air conditioning system via four modes, including an efficiency mode. In addition, three optional components can also be controlled by the Audi drive select

Twitter: @Closeenoughmag

Max speed: 138 mph 0-62 mph: 7.1 secs Combined mpg: 35.8 Engine: 1984cc 4 cylinder 16 valve petrol Max. power (bhp): 222 at 4500 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 258 at 1500 rpm CO2: 184 g/km Price: £35,350

By Tim Barnes-Clay www.carwriteups.co.uk Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

Sling News From

Sling Libraries UK is a new Facebook group for all sling libraries' owners & runners as w could come together in real time for advice, support and general chit chat. If you wo Launch of new East London Sling Library! Wednesday 12th March, 10am-2pm, Flat 5, 303 Queensbridge Road, E8 3LX. Contact Marinella on hackney@eastlondonslings.co.uk for more information

Norwich Sling Library will be holding a babywearing catwalk show during The Norfolk Bump, Baby and Toddler Show in April to pre-book tickets visit: www.norfolkbump.co.uk

Save the date Carry On London, 1st November 2014 Sling Show & Sling Social Advance Tickets ÂŁ3 per family

WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE

Please bookmark www.carryon-london.co.uk

Carry Me Slings Owner Katie Richards is now the on-site consultant for Kiddicare Rachel Coy (North East Sling Library) is now the in-house consultant for Calin Bleu Rosie Knowles (Sheffield Sling Surgery and Library) is the in-house consultant for Slumber Roo

Issue Five - Spring 2014

To find out more when the site launches in a few weeks

m Across The UK

well as consultants and lending services. It was set-up so all sling associated people ould like to be part of the group please contact renee@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk

Sheffield Sling Surgery and Library Is opening its doors fortnightly in a new City Centre location for hires from 27th March A brand new library is opening in Worthing. Worthing Babywearers www.apworthing.co.uk

Chester Sling Library is under new ownership from 17th March. It will now be run by Amanda Brookes and Lucy Price www.chesterslinglibrary. weebly.com

For more details see: www.sheffeildslingsurgery.co.uk www.facebook.com/sheffieldslingsurgery

West Kent Sling Meet and Library has rebranded to Have Child, Will Carry and celebrated their first anniversary in February. If you are in the West Kent area and want more information see: www.havechildwillcarry.co.uk www.facebook.com/havechildwillcarry

Derby Sling Library has Launched www.facebook.com/groups/derbyslinglibrary please contact derbyslinglibrary@yahoo.co.uk or for more information checkout www.derbyslinglibrary.co.uk launching soon

Issue Five - Spring 2014

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Twitter: @Closeenoughmag The T.I.C.K.S For Safe Babywearing Supplied By Becky Ward Issue Three - Autumn 2013

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Community News

Have child will carry

After a busy first year, West Kent Sling Meet and Library have re-launched as Have Child, Will Carry; the new name and branding acknowledges their success and growth over the last twelve months. What started as a small sling meet with fourteen carriers has grown to a busy sling meet and library, with over fifty carriers available for hire, and nearly a hundred successful hires... in just a year! Have Child, Will Carry continues to encompass West Kent Sling Meet, and they still host their monthly meets in Tunbridge Wells. They also offer a sling clinic and private consultations, a nationwide postal hire service with online support; and there are plans to offer weekend sling meets soon. Kitty and Vicky both trained with the School of Babywearing, and are passionate about spreading their love of babywearing to as many people as possible! For more information, please visit www.havechildwillcarry.co.uk

Sling Dad Camp 2014

This July all babywearing dads (and their families) will be spending a weekend camping with like minded families. Taking place at Sherratt's Wood Camping Ground in Staffordshire, they will hold a weekend event from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th of July.

Prices are yet to be finalised, but the weekend event will host family activities, catering options for those not wishing to cook and on Saturday will be holding a 'market' where families can pick up lots of lovely babywearing related items.

Sling Dad Camp 2013

Either visit www.slingdads.co.uk or join their facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/slingdaduk

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Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Sling Library Directory Greater London

Hertfordshire

Central London Sling Library

Harpenden Sling Library www.badgerslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/harpendenSL enquiries@badgerslings.co.uk East Herts Slings www.easthertsslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/easthertsslinglibrary siobhann@easthertsslings.co.uk

www.facebook.com/CentralLondonSlingLibrary Harrow Sling Library www.harrowslinglibrary.com www.facebook.com/HarrowSlingLibrary harrowslinglibrary@gmail.com South London Sling Library www.southlondonslings.com www.facebook.com/SouthLondonSlingLibrary Twitter: @SLSlingLibrary info@southlondonslings.co.uk North London Sling Library

Norfolk Norwich Sling Library www.norwichslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/norwichslinglibrary Twitter: @norwichslingers info@norwichslinglibrary.co.uk

www.northlondonslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/northlondonslings East London Sling Library

West Norfolk Sling Library www.westnorfolkslings.com www.facebook.com/WestNorfolkSlings

www.eastlondonslings.co.uk hackney@eastlondonslings.co.uk East of England Cambridgeshire Cambridge Sling Library www.cambridgeslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/Cambridge-Sling-Library /476174319080835

Wrap my Baby Consultancy & Lending Service www.wrapmybaby.co.uk www.facebook.com/anne.wrap.my.baby anne@wrapmybaby.co.uk Suffolk Lowestoft Sling Library www.faceboook.com/LowestoftSlingLibrary lowestoftslinglibrary@gmail.com

enquiries@cambridgeslinglibrary.co.uk Sling Babies www.sling-babies.com info@slings-babies.com Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

Suffolk Babywearing Group www.suffolkbabywearing.co.uk www.facebook.com/SbgSlingLibrary info@ suffolkbabywearing.co.uk

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www.closeenoughtokiss.co.uk Suffolk Sling Meet www.natureandnurture.co.uk www.facebook.com/NatureandNurture Twitter: @ NurtureMama Lincolnshire Lincolnshire Sling Library www.lincolnslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Lincoln-Sling-Library/187190531374651 lincolnslinglibrary@yahoo.com Stamford and Peterborough Sling Library www.stamdforsandpeterboroughslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/stamfordandpeterboroughslinglibrary stamfordandpeterboroughslinglibrary@live.co.uk Midlands Birmingham Sling Meet and Library www.facebook.com/birminghamslingmeet www.birminghamslings.weebly.com

45 Nuneaton Consultancy www.snuglibub.co.uk 07960 149455 Slingababy Library & Consultancy www.slingababy.co.uk www.facebook.com/Sling.a.Baby Rugby Sling Meet www.facebook.com/Rugby.SlingMeet Warwickshire Sling Lending Library www.jellybeanslings.weebly.com www.facebook.com/pages/JellyBean-Slings-Warwickshire-Sling-Library Worcestershire Malvern Sling Meet www.facebook.com/malvernslingmeet malvernslingmeet@hotmail.com North East England County Durham

Derbyshire Chesterfield Sling Library www.chesterfieldslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/cfieldslings Twitter: @cfieldslings Glossop Sling Meet and Library www.glossopslinglibrary.webs.com www.facebook.com/GlossopSlingMeet www.facebook.com/GlossopSlingLibrary Leicestershire Leicester Sling Library www.carrymybaby.co.uk/sling-library.html www.facebook.com/carrymybaby Twitter: @ CarryMyBaby Staffordshire Staffs Sling & Nappy Library www.facebook.com/staffsslingandnappylibrary

The North East Sling Library www.northeastslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/northeastslinglibrary Twitter: @NESlingLibrary info@northeastslinglibrary.co.uk East Ridings of Yorkshire Hull & East Riding Sling Library www.herslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/HullSlingLibrary herslings@gmail.com Northumberland NCT Hexham & Tynedale Sling Library www.nct.org.uk/branches/hexham-tynedale/slinglibrary www.facebook.com/pages/NCT-Hexham-Tynedale/159555194077784 ali@birthspring.co.uk South North of the Tyne Library www.snott.org.uk www.facebook.com/slingssnott Twitter: @slingsnott

Warwickshire North Yorkshire North Warwickshire Sling Library & North Warwickshire Sling Meet www.northwarksslinglibrary.webeden.co.uk www.facebook.com/NorthWarwickshireSlingLibraryandNuneatonSlingmeet Twitter: @nwslinglibrary

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Selby NCT Sling Library www.nct.org.uk/branches/selby www.facebook.com/SelbyNctSlingLibrary Twitter: @SelbySlings Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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46 South Yorkshire Doncaster Sling Library www.doncasterbabywearing.co.uk www.facebook.com/DoncasterBabywearing Twitter: @Donbabywearing doncasterbabywearing@live.co.uk Sheffield Babywearers www.sheffieldbabywearers.org.uk www.facebook.com/groups/sheffieldbabywearers Sheffield Sling Library & Consultancy www.slinglibrary.org www.facebok.com/slinglibrary Sheffield Sling Surgery and Library www.facebook.com/sheffieldslingsurgery www.sheffieldslingsurgery.co.uk sheffieldslingsurgery@gmail.com Sunderland Sunderland Sling Library www.sunderlandslinglibrary.webs.com www.facebook.com/SunderlandSlingLibrary West Yorkshire Huddersfield Sling Library www.slinglibrary.com www.facebook.com/theslinglibrary Twitter: @SlingLibrary Wakefield Sling Library www.facebook.com/GiftWrappedCuddles Giftwrappedcuddles@hotmail.com The West Yorkshire Sling Library www.wyslinglibrary.com www.facebook.com/pages/The-West-Yorkshire-SlingLibrary/201658303196137

Frodsham & Helsby Sling Library www.frodshamslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/SaleSlingLibrary Twitter: @ Harmony_BW Mid Cheshire Sling Library www.midcheshireslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/midcheshireslinglibrary Twitter: @MCslinglibrary midcheshireslinglibrary@hotmail.com Warrington Sling Meet www.facebook.com/WarringtonSlingMeet Lancashire Blackburn & Darwen Sling Library & Meet www.bdslinglibrary.com www.facebook.com/bdslinglibrary bdslinglibrary@mail.com Lancaster Sling Library www.facebook.com/lancasterslinglibrary Manchester Manchester Sling Meet www.manchesterslingmeet.com www.facebook.com/pages/Manchester-Sling-Meet/123976837681133 manchesterslingmeet@hotmail.co.uk

Oldham and Rochdale NCT Slingmeet & Library www.nct.org.uk/branches/oldham-rochdale/sling-library www.facebook.com/OldhamAndRochdaleNctSlingLibrary Sale Sling Library www.saleslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/SaleSlingLibrary Twitter: @Harmony_BW The Sling School Manchester www.theslingschool.com www.facebook.com/theslingschool Twitter: @TheSlingSchool Merseyside

North West England Cheshire Chester Sling Library www.chesterslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/chesterslinglibrary info@chesterslinglibrary.co.uk 07403 285858 Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

Liverpool Sling Library www.liverpoolslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/liverpoolslinglibrary info@liverpoolslinglibrary.co.uk The Wirral Sling Library www.facebook.com/thewirralslinglibrary wibkehott@gmail.com

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www.closeenoughtokiss.co.uk South East England Buckinghamshire High Wycombe Sling Library www.highwycombeslings.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/groups/345901125449900 Dorset Poole Sling Meet www.facebook.com/pages/Poole-Sling-Meet/419348201463791 East Sussex Eastbourne Sling Library www.eastbourneslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/eastbourneslinglibrary www.facebook.com/eastbourneslingmeet Twitter: @EbourneSlingLib info@eastbourneslinglibrary.co.uk Hampshire Fareham Sling Library www.hampshirebabywearing.com www.facebook.com/farehamslingmeet Hambledon NCT Sling Meet www.facebook.com/HambletonNctSlingMeet

47 Southsea Sling Library www.southseaslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/SouthseaSlings info@southseaslings.co.uk Surrey & Hants Sling Library www.sandhslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/SurreyHantsSlingLibrary Twitter: @SHSLingLibrary Kent Medway NCT Sling Library www.facebook.com/groups/307424612637070 slings@nctmedway.org.uk North West Kent Sling Library www.nwkslings.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nwkslings nwkslings@btinternet.com West Kent Sling Meet & Library www.westkentslingmeet.co.uk www.facebook.com/WestKentSlingmeet Twitter @WKentslingmeet Oxfordshire

IOW - Isle of White Sling Library & Consultancy www.isleofwightslinglibrary.com www.facebook.com/isleofwightslinglibrary Twitter: @iowslinglibrary isleofwightslingmeet@yahoo.co.uk 07751 239803

Abingdon Sling Library www.thenappyfairy.org.uk weezedeville@yahoo.co.uk

Meon Valley Slingmeet and Library www.meonvalleynaturalparent.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Meon-Valley-Slingmeet/502471756433181

Dorking NCT Sling Library www.nct.org.uk/branches/dorking/branch-sitemap/babywearing-slingcarrier-library

Milton Keynes Sling Library www.facebook.com/mkaplibrary. sam@mkattachmentparenting.com

Farnham Sling Library www.farnhamslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/farnhamslinglibrary Twitter: @FSL_Mish

New Forest Sling Meet, Sling Library & Consultancy www.newforestslingmeet.com www.facebook.com/NewForestSlingmeet Twitter: @NewForestSlings Portsmouth and Southsea Sling Clinic www.hampshirebabywearing.com www.facebook.com/psslingclinic Ringwood Sling Meet & Consultancy www.facebook.com/ringwoodslingmeet Lucie@ratmad.com Southhampton Sling Meet www.southamptonslingmeet.com www.facebook.com/SouthamptonSlingMeet info@southamptonslingmeet.com

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Surrey

Great Little Sling www.facebook.com/greatlittleslings www.greatlittleslings.co.uk lisa@greatlittleslings.co.uk Redhill Reigate and Horley NCT Sling www.facebook.com/NctRedhillReigateAndHorleySlingLibrary slings@redhillnct.org.uk Surrey & Hants Sling Library www.sandhslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/SurreyHantsSlingLibrary Twitter: @SHSLingLibrary Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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48 Sussex

Swindon Sling Library www.swindonslinglibrary.co.uk

Brighton Sling Babies www.facebook.com/pages/Brighton-Sling-Babies/320317146988

www.facebook.com/swindonslinglibrary Twitter: @SwindonSlingLib slings@optimumdoula.co.uk

AP Worthing Sling Library www.apworthing.co.uk worthingbabywearers@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups.worthingbabywearers South West England

Warrington Sling Meet www.facebook.com/WarringtonSlingMeet www.facebook.com/groups/278720585297 Somerset

Bristol Sling Library www.bristolslinglibrary.wordpress.com

Taunton Sling Library www.facebook.com/TauntonSlingLibrary www.facebook.com/Taunton.Babywearing

Cornwall

Isle of Man

Cornwall Natural Parenting & Slingmeet www.facebook.com/groups/395984093769304

Isle of Man Sling Library www.iomslingmeet.com www.facebook.com/IOMSlingMeet iomslingmeet@hotmail.co.uk

Cornwall Sling Library www.cornwallslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Cornwall-Sling-Library/368847079881295 contact@cornwallslinglibrary.co.uk Upfront Saltash Babywearing www.facebook.com/upfrontsaltashbabywearing

Wales, Scotland & Ireland Cardiff & Caerphilly NCT Sling Library www.nct.org.uk/branches/cardiff/sling-hire www.facebook.com/CardiffNCTSlingLibrary

Dorest

Flintshire Sling Meet & Library www.flintshireslingmeet.blogspot.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/flintshireslingmeet

Dorset Sling Library www.dorset-sling-library.com www.facebook.com/dorsetslingllibrary

Ty Melyn - The South West Wales Sling Library www.ty-melyn.co.uk www.facebook.com/tymelyn

Devon

Ayrshire Sling Meet and Library www.ayrshireslinglibrary.moonfruit.com www.Facebook.com/ayrshireslingmeet ayrshireslingmeet@hotmail.co.uk

Isca Sling Library - Exeter www.devonslingers.wordpress.com.isca-sling-library www.facebook.com/iscaslinglibrary www.facebook.com/groups/exeterslingers Plymouth Sling Library www.plymouthslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/PlymouthSlingLibrary South Devon Sling Library www.babytiponi.co.uk/sling-library www.facebook.com/SouthDevonSlingLibrary Wears my Baby www.wearsmybaby.co.uk www.facebook.com/wearsmybaby wearsmybaby@gmail.com Gloucestershire Cheltenham Sling Meet www.facebook.com/cheltenhamslingmeet Serenity Supplies Sling hire, consultancy and sales www.serenitysupplies.weebly.com/sling-library Stroud Sling Meet www.stroudslingmeet.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/stroudslingmeet stroudslingmeet@gmail.com Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

Edinburgh Sling Meet and Associated Group www.facebook.com/EdinburghSlingMeet www.facebook.com/groups/224090304386891 Edinburgh Consultancy www.showmeslings.co.uk www.facebook.com/ShowMeSlings Twitter: @ShowMeSlings susan@showmeslings.co.uk Highland Sling Library www.facebook.com/pages/Highland-Sling/454539757933441 slinglibrary.highlandsislands@gmail.com Orkney Sling Library www.facebook.com/groups/144874522224919/ lauren_chic@hotmail.com BabyWearing Ireland www.babywearingireland.ie www.facebook.com/groups/182364631890918 Northern Ireland Sling Library www.slinglibraryni.co.uk www.facebook.com/slinglibraryni Twitter: @SlingLibraryNI Jersey Jersey Sling Library www.facebook.com/groups/527048620651169

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Sling Meet Directory Greater London

South East

Hillingdon Sling Meet www.facebook.com/groups/hillingdonslingmeet

Kent

East of England

West Kent Sling Meet www.facebook.com/westkentslingmeet www.havechildwillcarry.co.uk

Norfolk Norwich Slingers www.norwichslinglibrary.co.uk www.facebook.com/norwichslingers info@norwichslinglibrary.co.uk

West Sussex

Midlands

Chichester Slings www.ChichesterSlings.co.uk ChichesterSlings@sky.com

Derbyshire

South West

Derby Babywearers derbybabywearers@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/derbybabywearers

Gloucestershire

Nottinghamshire Nottingham Slingmeet www.nottinghamslingmeet.co.uk hello@nottinghamslingmeet.co.uk West Midlands Coventry Sling Meet www.facebook.com/CovSlings Warwickshire Rugby Sling Meet https://www.facebook.com/groups/337191456406385/ North East South Yorkshire Sheffield Slings Www.facebook.com/sheffieldslings Www.facebook.com/groups/Saturdayslings www.sheffieldslings.com @sheffieldslings North West Lancashire West Pennine Slings www.wpslings.com www.facebook.com/bdslinglibrary info@wpslings.com

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Avon Sling Meet www.carrymesling.co.uk www.facebook.com/carrymeslings Wiltshire Swindon Sling Library Meets @SwindonSlingLib www.swindonslinglibrary.co.uk slings@optimumdoula.co.uk Wales, Scotland & Ireland Ayrshire Ayrshire Sling Meet www.facebook.com/groups/ayrshireslingmeet Flintshire Flintshire sling meet www.flintshireslingmeet weebly.com flintshireslingmeet@live.co.uk Dumfries and Galloway Slinging Around www.facebook.com/groups/188291644688034 Monmouthshire Abergavenny Babywearing abergavennybabywearing@gmail.com www.facebook.com/groups/abergavennybabywearing Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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You Will Have To Buy A Buggy Soon

I sometimes get referred to as a hippy, which couldn’t be further from the truth, I love nothing better than a half mooing, juicy slab of sirloin and the fact I have faux leather shoes says more about my penchant for Primark than my love for animals. I have to admit owning a pair of bell bottomed trousers, but in my defence they were highly fashionable in the 90’s and haven’t seen the light of day since then, ok so maybe because I haven’t been that slim in 10 odd years but that’s not the point.

"There is something about personal space that seems to dissuade this sort of behaviour" I am as likely to dreadlock my hair as I am to shave it bald and join a monastery (even when the kids are playing up). It's true there is a certain stigma attached to babywearing, I am often referred to as mother earth or sniggered at in the street whilst I carry my toddler on my back. I have a rhinoceros thick hide, so I never really notice unless its pointed out. And I laugh it off when I am called mother earth, half the time I am just saving money, being shrewd or avoiding what the majority do. I like to trend-set, be one of the first and then watch the sheep as they follow behind. Babywearing makes so much sense to me and it definitely bodes well with my need to be in control of all situations, allays my fears and stops any unwanted person mauling my poor baby, (you know how well-meaning people do when you have a pram or a pushchair) they stick Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

their nose in without so much as a ‘may I’? And your child gives out that blood curdling scream to the stranger that is 5 inches from their face saying ‘coochicoo’ and blowing raspberries like a primate.

"My Mei Tai has been referred to as a new fangled contraption" There is something about personal space that seems to dissuade this sort of behaviour, those brave enough to come close turn into obtusely polite individuals, requesting permission to look. Equally empowering and comical. As my babies have gotten older the comments haven’t changed, it’s true to say that I get quite bored of the same lament coming from those who risk their lives and comment. Despite the fact that man has been carrying their children since the dawn of time, my Mei Tai has been referred to as ‘a new-fangled contraption’ and I have been told ‘you will have to buy a pushchair soon’ suggesting my son will be too heavy to keep on carrying. There was even the person who retorted I was wearing a curtain. My beloved Oscha wrap was referred to as a curtain!

"Buying a sling costs an eighth of what a pram costs" I guess babywearers are in the minority and folk just don’t understand the benefits of babywearing versus pushing a pram. For example a recent study showed that worn babies cried 40% less than their prammed counterparts, it promotes physical and

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developmental growth, helps to encourage babies' communication skills and even helps to regulate a new baby's heart rate, temperature and breathing. It also helps to strengthen a mothers core muscles (I can boast an amazing set of tummy muscles all due to wearing my children). If that’s not incentive enough, buying a sling can cost an eighth of what the average pram costs. Of course that won’t be the case if like me you have a slight addiction for pretty slings and have one in each size, colour and style to match every occasion and outfit. But, hey, if you can show restraint (unlike me) well done.

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Children grow all too quickly and before you know it are teenagers who choose to be as far away from you as possible and not only SAY to your face you are a hippy but are surprised when you sing along to the latest club tune, because at 35, you are just not cool anymore – and you are old! Cherish the times you can keep your child close and build an iron strong bond, you will need it to get through years 13 - 19. So perhaps next time you see someone carrying their child, rather than judging them or even commenting negatively, see it for what it is – a parent making an informed choice in baby transportation. Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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Rainbow Au Pairs Rainbow Au Pairs are an established, trusted Au Pair Agency, dedicated to providing an efficient yet personalised Au Pair Services for both families and our candidates. We understand that finding the right fit when it comes to Au Pair Agencies can seem daunting for both the family and the Au pair or Nanny, which is why we are committed to providing streamlined convenience and full peace of mind. The key to a good childcare experience is matching the needs of a family with the attributes of the Au Pair or Nanny so that everyone is happy. As a leading Au Pair Agency in the UK, we offer a fresh approach to finding and placing Au Pairs and Nannies. We offer a genuinely tailored and caring service, based on the principle of taking time to understand people’s individual requirements, skills and motivations. Our Intelligent Matching processes are truly setting new standards across our Au Pair Services. Rainbow Au Pairs place quality candidates across the spectrum of Au Pair Services from all over Europe, particularly from Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Austria, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic and Romania. While we are strongly focused on providing placement in London and the South East of England, we are also experienced at serving other parts of the UK. Popular demand for our expert Au Pairs and Nannies include the counties of Kent, Surrey and Sussex - towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Lewes, Brighton, Woking, Kingston upon Thames, Weybridge, Sevenoaks, Epsom, plus attractive rural and semi-rural locations like Forest Row, Sharpthorne and Edenbridge. We have also placed Au Pairs and Nannies further afield, such as Leeds, Ipswich, Bristol, Basingstoke, Wiltshire, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Hampshire. As an Au Pair Agency, UK, city, town and rural placements are all within our reach and expertise. Whatever area you are based in, please feel free to contact us so that our dedicated team can get the ball rolling on finding you the most suitable match.

WHY CHOOSE RAINBOW AU PAIRS & NANNY AGENCY? Trust – we take the time to thoroughly understand your needs and family situation. Quality – we provide a carefully considered choice of candidates. Reliability – we ensure candidates are completely vetted and profiled. Transparency – your family will be able to make an informed choice based on comprehensive candidate information. Care – we provide dedicated pre and post placement support. Ease – our service is fuss-free and tailored to your personal needs. www.rainbowaupairs.co.uk Issue Issue Four Five- -Winter Spring2013/14 2014

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