Issue 10 Close Enough To Kiss

Autumn / Winter 2017 | Issue 10

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STYLISH BABYWEARING LOOKS with style my wrap

CARiFiT ViRTUAL

get fit in the comfort of your own home with a course certified by industry and medical professionals

Meet The Maker We chat to Chimayie of Soul Slings

Didymos Celebrates 45 Years Advice · Shopping · Babywearing · Reviews

A Word From The Editor 2017 has come with numerous challenges for our family, but like all families we have faced these challenges head on, together and overcome them.

Babywearing has been a huge benefit to us over the second year of our fifth childs life. As she grows in confidence and ability to walk further, slings and carriers are being used less and less. However we are not sad about this, we are thankful that she has grown in independence, knowing if needed, the sling will continue to be there.

We have continued to evolve the Close Enough To Kiss Brand, working hard to diversify the website, to be as inclusive as possible whilst appealing to the majority of families. Hopefully increasing those who see babywearing as a real option.

If you haven't already please visit our website, which has daily posted content on not only babywearing, but also parenting, pregnancy, women's health and breastfeeding.

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

Front Page Credit Renee Jeffery Carrier Credit Luluna Slings

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www

closenoughtokiss.co.uk closeenoughtokiss @closeenoughtokiss @closeenoughmag @closeenoughmag Close Enough To Kiss 3

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07 Didymos, Behind The Brand 32 Exploring Carries 12 byGraziela Cult Design

34 Safety Checks

17 Ask Lorette

36 European babywearing Week

18 Style My Wrap

38 Luluna Slings Review

20 Babywearing When It's Wet

40 Babywearing Covers

24 Carifit Virtual

44 Bundlebean Giveaway

26 Meet The Maker

46 Special Circumstances

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Contents 24

Editor Renee Jeffery Design & Artwork Colin Jeffery Renee Jeffery Photography Terri Mills, Taianna Novakova, Brano Novak, Helen Tuck, Ebony Duffin, Charlotte Filcek, Renee Jeffery, Claire Smythe Features Didymos, Soul Slings, Carifit, Bundlebean Writers Emily Williamson, Rachel Coy, Lorette Michalon, Dawn McKie, Anne McEwan Promotions BundleBean

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Advertising 01603 327704 advertising@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk Find Us Online closeenoughtokiss.co.uk facebook.com/closeenoughtokiss twitter.com/closeenoughmag pinterest.com/closeenoughmag instagram.com/closeenoughtokiss youtube.com/user/closeenougmag

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Disclaimer 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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DIDYMOS

DIDYMOS - The Brand and its Story...

DIDYMOS was born out of one woman’s desire to carry her newborn twins as much as she wanted. Every solution starts with a problem. For Erika Hoffmann, her problem was having four children, but only two arms. She needed a way to carry her babies, but also have some freedom to manage her daily routine.

worldwide where mothers pursued their daily work in a most simple way, all while intimately carrying their children in shawls and carriers.

She remembered that friends had sent her such a shawl and it was then that she started to experiment with “wearing” her own babies. When articles about her and her “new” When reading the book “Die Mutter parenting style were published, und ihr Kind” (The Mother and Her parents from all over Germany Child), Terra Magica, published in 1963 by Reich Verlag, Luzern, she learned about cultures

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showed a great deal of interest, many a business, with no capital, in the wanting a baby wrap of their own.

1970s. Raising start-up capital with no collateral was no small feat.

She never intended to be a groundbreaker but she instinctively But with that intention and a mill understood the benefits of parents came the first DIDYMOS wraps. The wearing their children. She had the first wraps that Erika made were strong wish of making babywearing named after her four children, Tom, accessible to all parents and she Anna, Lisa and Tina. approached weaving mills, looking to make her own wraps.

During the first 25 years of the company, spreading the knowledge This was how the story of DIDYMOS and benefits of how and why all began, back in 1972, with Erika carrying babies close to the body Hoffmann’s strong passion for was a huge task. Some treated carrying her babies close and her Erika with hostility and abuse, saying desire to make it a possibility for that she was encouraging babies those around her! A woman, starting being pampered. >> erseverance, foresight, and tenacity, Erika Hoffman

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Through her perseverance, foresight, and tenacity, Erika Hoffman created a company that has helped to popularize babywearing worldwide.

DIDYMOS continues to promote this philosophy by making significant contributions to many organizations and charities which care for children and their education worldwide such as Doctors without Borders.

To purchase from Didymos visit: didymos.com

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byGraziela and DI Cult Design meets Baby Wrap Sling Babywearing forever!

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IDYMOS In the 1970s, Graziela Preiser’s DIDYMOS baby wrap sling designs conquered the hearts of began and how it brought about a revival of the old young and old! babywearing tradition in Europe.

Her colourful designs were present in almost all German byGraziela designs are back, the homes, they were printed on DIDYMOS wrap sling has always fabrics, children beddings been there and they both go together perfectly well. and dishes.

We love working together They are associated with the with byGraziela and will childhood memories of an start with two favourite entire generation. designs, Hearts in red and Little Apples in green and turquoise.

It was also back in the Woven into the wrap fabric 1970s that Erika Hoffmann they are a real eyecatcher. (the founder of Didymos) received heaps of letters Both designs are now from parents from all over available by Didymos they will create many beautiful Germany. babywearing moments and be They all showed great the tender childhood memories interest, many wanting of tomorrow. a sling of their own.

This amazing sling that The high DIDYMOS quality allowed parents to carry standard applies to ALL our and carriers.

We their little ones close to wraps them all while having exclusively use pure organic both hands free to keep cotton or other organic fibres. up with chores, work and life.

This the

was how story of the DIDYMOS Erika Hoffman GmbH Close Enough To Kiss 13

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Ask

Lorette

Dear Lorette, I have a new baby who is 6 weeks old and has congenital talipes is there a sling or carrier that would be better for him? Jennifer Hi Karen, depending on the treatment your new baby is currently undertaking, there might be different possible options. If you have a removable bar for example, you may be able to use most options available on the market. If the bar is not easily removable, you may favour something unstructured so you can thread it between the legs. Depending on your body shape, some options will fit your bodies more than others but you are likely to still have plenty of options available. Do go and see a carrying consultant to explore all your options and above all, enjoy keeping your new baby close!

Dear Lorette, I get so hot when wearing a carrier. Any tips to stay cooler? Séverine Hi Séverine, there are many options for you! Have you discussed your issues with a consultant? There are often tweaks and tricks that can make a world of a difference!

There are many techniques in terms of handling of both baby and wrap that can lead to a greater success. At 9 months, you have a very curious little one, exploring his/her newly found muscles. You may find that wrapping with baby awake or asleep will be different.

You may find that different carries can help. Another option is to convert your wrap into structured carriers, then you still get to enjoy their prettiness whilst not having to worry about seat popping! I hope this helps.

Dear Lorette, It’s been 12 weeks since my baby was born and I really want to get back to exercising and saw a local group for mum’s who babywear. I am kinda worried about all that bouncing around. Is it safe to exercise whilst baby is in a carrier? Talitha Hi Thalitha, congratulations! 3 months into motherhood, you might start to feel out of the head fog of this “fourth” trimester. I can understand wanting to go back out and about and reclaim your pre-pregnancy strength. First of all, I would encourage you to remember that your body is still transitioning back into your standard self. It took 9 months for things to change which is fairly rapid whilst being a gentle transition, do allow your return to exercise be as gentle to your body as possible too!

Regarding exercising with a baby, you want to adapt your level of activity in terms of jerky movements (see how necks are moving), angles at which you lean on, varying tension in your sling adding potential pressure on your child's developing body, temperature regulation, responsiveness to both yours and baby's needs for safety etc...

A serious class will have training both in postpartum body, child's physiology and sling use. They will proudly discuss how they took all aspects into considerations and how they adapt the class to each dyad's needs. And remember that whilst learning the new moves you need to remember to focus on how they affect your baby. Ultimately, it is your baby and only you can decide what is safe. I hope this helps Close Enough To Kiss 17

my wrap e l Sty

Create a chic and on trend look to match your wrap!

Luluna Slings DRAGONA PINK SUNSET from €90

Oasis Purple Glitter Roll Neck from £26

East Purple Chunky Necklace from £23

M&Co Maroon Bow Gloves Scarf from £14

F&F Merlot Boots from £25 Close Enough To Kiss 18

Simply Be Cowl Neck Cowl Dress from £45

M&Co Purple Patterned Scarf from £12 Bon Prix Handbag from £24

M&Co Straight Leg Jeans from £16

F&F Ankle Strap Merlot Heels from £20

Debenhams J by Jasper Conran Purple Coat from £150

Vision Express Purple Instyle Glasses from £111 Close Enough To Kiss 19

Babywearing When it's Wet Using a sling or carrier offers real practical benefits in wet weather, allowing you to boldly go where no buggy can! On foot, you can easily get across wet or muddy ground (do wear appropriate footwear) and you’ll have your hands free to support yourself or a bigger child or to hold an umbrella. So how do you keep everyone dry and comfortable when using slings and carriers in wet weather?

Carriers with long straps can feel impractical when the floor is wet and muddy. You can always bundle up dangling strap ends and tuck them into your pocket or waistband to stop them from trailing on the ground, but you might not want to risk it with your favourite sling.

DIY waterproofing ideas include simply using your child’s own waterproof jacket over your carrier

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"

Soft Structured Carriers don’t have regularly then it’s practical to use one dangly straps and can solve this that will dry quickly too. really successfully.

Though your carrier will give you For back carries a short-woven wrap a free hand to hold an umbrella to can also be quick and practical to shelter from wet weather, if it’s cold or use. Slings or carriers that can be put windy too, then an umbrella may not on before you leave the house and not be the most practical thing to use. need to be re-tied while out can also work well, though will generally limit DIY waterproofing ideas include you to front or hip carries. Options for simply using your child’s own these include Stretchy Wraps, Ring waterproof jacket over your carrier Slings, Pouches and some methods - tuck the jacket arms around or of using a Woven Wrap or Wrap-Tai. through your carrier straps with the body of the jacket hanging down and If your carrier’s likely to get wet or the hood up (if it has one). muddy, then you’ll probably want to use one that’s not too precious or that If you can spend a bit more, then a can be washed easily. If you carry purpose designed waterproof >> Close Enough To Kiss 21

babywearing accessory might be the ideal wet weather solution for you. Some will attach to your carrier or tie around your body and can be used over coats for any carrying positions that your carrier allows.

These include the Hoppediz 3-in-1 Cover, Caboo Cocoon, Bundlebean Cover and the Mamlila All Weather Cover.

If you’re mainly front carrying then you might prefer to carry your baby inside your coat (which will also keep you snuggly and warm when it’s chilly).

You could try a waterproof coat designed for babywearing, or an accessory like the Zipusin Insert which fits into your existing raincoat.

You could also adapt an extra-large waterproof jacket or rain poncho to wear over you both, adding a widebrimmed rain hat for your baby to keep them really snug and dry.

And if you don’t mind your sling getting wet then just invest in decent waterproofs for you and your baby and just enjoy being outside!

In the end you’re the one who’s in the best position to find out what will work best for you, your baby and your carrier. There are no rules about which carry or accessories you should use for wet weather wearing, as long as you’re all safe, supported and comfortable Close Enough To Kiss 22

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CARiFiT ViRTUAL

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Safe, fun and results-driven post-natal body changing workouts that are done whilst wearing the baby. The CARiFiT method is now available for new mothers everywhere.

CARiFiT ViRTUAL, an online subscriptionbased workout programme dedicated to reengaging the post-natal body in a fun, safe and challenging way.

A totally new innovation, CARiFiT has been carefully created for post-natal women with babies aged six weeks to 1 year. This structured cardio-resistance method encourages the reintroduction of exercise whilst enjoying the physical bond of cradling the baby.

For the first time, new mothers can now participate in safe, carefully structured exercise whenever it suits them and wherever they might be, all the while being able to bond with their precious bundle. The ethos of CARiFiT encourages overall physical and mental wellbeing for new mothers whilst safely restoring core strength, improving posture and re-energising the body.

Filmed against a stunning backdrop with a rhythmic soundtrack, each of the matrix workouts focuses on specific muscle groups and can be seamed together to safely cater for the post-partum new mother. Each section includes safety instructions and guidelines to ensure appropriate positioning and alignment. Members also receive email support to offer guidance and assistance to achieve the best possible results.

CARiFiT has been carefully created to bring safe exercise to the post-natal mother. CARiFit has been certified by top industry and medical professionals and now CARiFit ViRTUAL means the post-natal mother can exercise anywhere, anytime with her baby in the knowledge that not only are they safely exercising, she bonding with her baby too.

“CARiFiT ViR TUAL has been prof essionally developed an d of approved to pr ficially ovid personally tailo e a red re-introductio n to exercise.

The matrix pr ogramme respects the individual need s of the new mot he but challengin r, with fun g to condition th sections e body, area by area and in their ch environment.� osen

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Meet The Maker Chimayie of Soul Slings

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What inspired you to start Soul What is the ethos behind the brand?

Slings?

As a parent I loved the idea of ‘babywearing’, using carriers to keep my little ones physically close to me.

The first ever carrier I bought was thick, padded and my baby was sweaty and uncomfortable.

It didn’t suit us or our climate at all. However, for my second child I bought a ring sling and fell in love with it. My newborn son was comfortably napping on me while I read books or went out for walks with my 5-year old daughter.

Soul believes that babywearing can make the world happier.

Babywearing is a way of life, a philosophy that helps to create independent, healthy, secure, loving and sensitive little people. We work to build and support this happier world.

We believe that every parent should be able to access beautiful, ethically-made, locally sourced and ergonomically safe baby carriers.

Thus our carriers suit a variety of pockets and babywearing tastes, so that every parent can find something Every time he was crying, all I needed that suits their family best. to do was to wear him in my ring Is there anyone who you feel has sling and he would settle down in been most inspirational in your minutes. I never stepped out of the life? house without one. I remembered my life when my daughter was a My family has been an immense newborn and realized that with a source of support and inspiration to good ring sling those days could me. From the beginning I have striven have been a lot less stressful for both to create carriers that are comfortable of us. and appeal to my children as well as my own aesthetics. Above all, I credit That’s when I decided to start Soul. my husband Ravindra for pushing me I knew I could make a difference in to build on a small home business every parent’s life by introducing them and helping me take it around the to safe and affordable babywearing. globe.

As my son and I explored different In addition, I am hugely inspired by styles of babywearing, Soul grew and the rich textile history of India. All increased its options for babywearers Soul fabrics are carefully developed everywhere. by us to ensure that the best of our When we started out I searched in vain for baby carriers which were locally made, well-constructed and elegant. So, I decided to do it myself.

weaving traditions can match the unique requirements of baby carriers for families around the world. In the future we look forward to building further on this too. >> Close Enough To Kiss 27

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When designing a new product, how do you come up with your idea?

We start by working to understand what our customers are looking for. This helps us narrow down on features and materials.

We are very receptive to every bit of feedback we get on our products because we think it’s very important to listen to these voices.

Once we have a clear vision of what we wish to create and what we want to put into it, we design and re-design until we have an entirely original, new, Soul product in our hands.

When you were a child was this how you envisaged your career unfolding?

I was always interested in art and design from a fairly young age, so that’s what I chose to study in college. I love that this world allows me to merge my love of design and fabric with my passion for babywearing. >>

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If you could offer one tip about Babywearing what would it be?

I would advise new users to research, research and then research some more. There is a perfect carrier out there for every user, and we have wonderful communities willing to share their experience and knowledge on and offline.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and don’t be intimated by all the choices out there. In the end, it’s just about you and your baby, so enjoy the closeness that babywearing brings you both.

You can purchase a Soul Slings Carrier by visiting: soulslings.com

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Exploring Carries

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 time to fully explore different carrying methods, can make all the difference in the amount of enjoyment and comfort you and your baby achieve when using a wrap.

The Front Wrap Cross Carry The Front Wrap Cross Carry (FWCC) is the carry which most people using a woven wrap use as a starting point.

It is a carry which when following the most basic instructions gives you a safe and comfortable starting point for your wrapping journey and you can use many of the basic skills learned and apply them to different carrying methods both with wraps and with other carriers.

The FWCC has the potential to be a three-layer carry and can also have only layer over your child giving maximum adjustability. It is a semi pre-tie meaning that you wrap the wrap around you before you place your child into the wrap. It is possible to knot the wrap loosely if you need to travel somewhere before finishing the wrapping.

Most wrap instructions leaflets have instructions for the FWCC. There will be minor differences but the basics will be the same.

You form a pouch with the middle of the wrap on your front cross the wrap on your back and then again on your front with the child in the wrap.

Most people will tie a knot behind their back, yet if there is enough wrap left to come back to the front then that is a possibility as well.

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Sa fe ty Checks

The only way to be sure that your carrier is safe is to check it EVERY time that you use it. It’s quite possible that sections of your carrier could be gradually weakening with each use. How do you check your sling or carrier?

Fabric Condition

Check all seams, especially where straps or buckles are secured. Look out for any stitching which is loose, broken or missing. Check hems (this includes wraps).

Any stitching coming undone on the hem may make it more likely for other rips or tears to appear.

This applies to all types of slings and carriers.

Carefully check the whole of the carrier looking for any tears, holes, broken threads, or any other problems with the fabric. Any of these problems cause weak points, so it’s worth regularly checking the whole Condition of buckles, of the carrier. clasps, rings or other fastenings Remember to not only check the main This applies to all types panel of the carrier, of carriers EXCEPT but also any straps those which ties on and webbing.

A (wraps, mei tais etc.) small hole or tear Check the condition may not look too of any buckles, clasps, serious, but due to rings, Velcro or other the weak point that fastenings. Look out this causes, it makes for any breaks no it more likely to matter how small develop into a more on ANY part of the serious problem. buckle or fastening.

Integrity of seams Remember to not and hems only check the part of the fastening This applies to all that clips, but also types of slings and where the fastening carriers. is attached to the Close Enough To Kiss 34

carrier. (i.e. on buckles, check the male and female parts of the buckle, but also the bits where the webbing is threaded through or attached) Sling rings: Make sure that there are no splits or breaks (acrylic or welded rings are more prone to problems and are better avoided).

For any carriers which use Velcro as a fastening such as the Bondolino or Ergo 360, ensure that the stitching attaching the Velcro to the carrier is intact on both sides.

Security of any trimmings and / or embellishments Although these items are likely to be for decorative purposes only, it’s important to check that all items are adequately

secure. Any small loose pieces of fabric, beads etc. may present a choking risk to your child.

What to do if you find any problems?

The best thing to do is to discontinue using your carrier immediately, and to seek advice from the manufacturer who should be able to advise you regarding any repairs or replacement.

However, if you’re out and about and the carrier is your only mode of transport it is really a matter of being sensible about how you continue to

use the carrier.

at your own risk. The above suggestions There may be ways to are intended as a temporarily adapt a short-term solution carrier to enable it to only, and may not be used. provide adequate safety for your child) This may involve changing the Whatever carrier carry that you do, you’re using, your repositioning your child’s safety is your child in the carrier, own responsibility, doing a front or hip so please remember carry rather than a to check all of your back carry (so that slings and carriers your arms can help regularly to avoid secure your child) or any unfortunate being inventive about accidents. how you use straps or other items that You can also you have with you to contact your local provide additional B a b y w e a r i n g support.

Consultant for expert help and advice if (Please note that you are unsure if a damaged carrier damage is integral to should be adapted the carrier or not.

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Celebrating the

FIRST

European Babywearing Week 2017 Earlier this year we celebrated Europe. The theme was 'i carry you the first ever European always' and was translated into Babywearing Week.

32 different languages. With a banner that was downloadable in A hugely successful week right all 32 languages used to promote across Europe saw Hundreds the week. of companies, educators and babywearers celebrating all over Twitter, Facebook and Instagram Close Enough To Kiss 36

lit up with babywearers all joining in with the festivities. It was an exciting week and really brought togther the European babywearing community We celebrated with a weeklong wrapping challenge and got an amazing response from both Facebook and Instagram of babywearers sharing their beautiful babywearing pictures.

The next European Babywearing Week takes place from 7th 13th May 2018 and is already promosing to be bigger and better than 2017!

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Luluna Slings

Luluna slings are a Polish Wrap 49 Euros. Great price for such Company, who produce the a prefect wrapping experience. most visually stunning and comfortable wraps.

The wrap takes a few wash and wears to really break in.

If you thought you didn't have the funds to own a limited Once you're there though, they are -edition wrap. Think again. As perfectly bouncy and mouldable Luluna wraps start from only for a new baby and equally Close Enough To Kiss 38

supportive for older more heavier are a person prone to unwittingly children. pulling threads you will need to take extra care.

The wraps have a perfect amount of diagonal give in them to hug The colours and patterns curves and slip seamlessly across complement each other and it's in multi-layer passes whilst clear the designer has a huge gripping just enough to reduce understanding in wrap aesthetics. any slippage.

If you would like to purchase your The weave on both the Sisi Azure own Luluna Woven Wrap visit: Story and the Drogona Pink Sunset has a small risk of pulling. So if you luluna.com

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BABYWEARING Covers

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(and siblings, grandparents and friends) carrying. So, made the covers extendable, fully universal for front or back carriers and work regardless of who was carrying.

Bundlebean is a range of waterproof and warm covers a modern take on the traditional foot muff but can be used on a variety of products such as buggy, pram, wheelchairs for children, baby carriers and car seats.

Emily’s recalls the inspiration for starting Bundlebean was the sheer amount of kit new parents need and how restrictive it’s usage often can be. She wanted to create an affordable universal product that was useful to parents and made life easier.

Bundlebean covers are aimed at anyone who wants to get outside with their family.

undlesbean launched in 2011 after 2 years of product designing and planning.

Emily the founder of Bundlebean had to learn about everything from manufacturing to VAT and contend with a new baby at the same time.

They even have a Babywearing It’s a product that suits all kinds range that came about after the of parenting lifestyles, especially original bundlebean could only fit those out in adverse weather. on a carrier for a smaller baby.

Emily quickly realised parents were babywearing for longer and often owning more than one type of sling or carrier – as well as a growing trend for both parents

Bundlebean has a brand-new range of Babywearing rain covers coming out.

The silky-smooth and super >>

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I love hearing from customers and seeing pictures of gorgeous little bundles on their everyday adventures. I have met many parents of children with some very challenging needs and their joy and resilience is so inspiring. I have been so lucky in my business journey to be inspired by so many tenacious, professional and kind-hearted people.

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lightweight covers pack down in to a tiny bag and are perfect for everything from the damp British summer to monsoon downpours!

Their new Polar Bear pattern is available across the babywearing range and feature supercute bear cub ears on the hood!

To purchase one of the new Bundlebean Babywearing covers please visit: bundlebean.com

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BundleBean Giveaway BundleBean are giving away a babywearing cover!

To be in with a chance to win one visit our Facebook Page

Opening date October 2nd 2017 Closing date March 30th 2018 Close Enough To Kiss 44

Ca

tional .com rna

Aid Int g n i e rry

The Babywearing World United For Refugees We organise and coordinate the collection, shipping and safe distribution of much needed baby carriers to refugees arriving in Europe.

WE NEED YOU! We need donations of carriers and funds to cover shipping We need people to set up collection points in their local areas and we need volunteers to work on the ground supporting existing organisations and fitting carriers

To donate or get involved please find us here:

www.carryingaidinternational.com www.facebook.com/carryingaid carryingaid@hotmail.com Close Enough To Kiss 45

Special Circumstance Babywearing Child disability shouldn't be a reason not to babywear. In most cases carrying an infant or older child with a disability will have profound benefits for the child.

Increases Bonding Carrying will help to form strong emotional bonds to the caregiver wearing them.

During the act of carrying a raised level of oxytocin ( the love hormone) will be released impacting positively to the child and wearers closeness and relationship.

Increases Confidence Allowing a child to explore the world and become independent on their own accord will help to promote confidence, leaving them free from worries of abandonment.

Shyness in children that are worn are significantly lower than those not carried.

This confidence stands the child well in the future.

Reduces Isolation Having a child with a disability, especially and older child who will need a wheelchair to get around can lead to isolation as accessibility will always be reduced.

A sling can help lower these barriers and Close Enough To Kiss 46

in some cases, remove them completely. If you can carry a child there isn’t anywhere that you cannot reach on foot.

Viewing the perspective

world

from

another

Wearing a sling or carrier will give the child a higher vantage point. They will see this that those in a buggy or wheelchair would not see.

They also will benefit from the ability to talk to and be close to their caregiver who will be able to communicate with them easier.

This positively affects their language and understanding and in the cases of nonverbal children can help a caregiver to identify any needs as they arise.

Muscle Memory Carrying a child in a sling can help promote strength and muscle memory, especially useful for children who have low tone.

It can be a challenge to help a child with poor head and neck control remain upright without the aid of specialised wheelchairs.

However through carrying you can easily support a head and neck through positioning or using the carrier hood.

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www.babybjorn.com