Close Enough To Kiss Issue 7

Issue Seven

Spring / Summer 2016

Summer Slings

How to keep cool in the sun

Consultant Courses

We bring you the latest on consultancy courses in the UK

Chat and a Cuppa

We talk to Rosie Knowles

Explore Wrapping How to BWCC

Special Circumstances

When wearing your child isn't simple

Advice 路 Shopping 路 Babywearing 路 Reviews

An interactive resource to help you find your local sling library across the UK. NEW for 2016 FREE online resources for library start-ups.

www.ukslinglibraries.co.uk UKSLNetwork

A Word From The Editor It has been 18 months since our last issue and I would like to thank everyone for their patience and support since we announced we were back.

I took a sabatical from working on the magazine to get married, however that Sabbatical lasted a lot longer than anticipated, as shortly after I got married I found out i was expecting. I do not do pregnancy well and I suffered badly with Hyperemesis Gravidarum . Thankfully, despite many stays in hospital, I gave birth to a little girl in August 2015.

Adjusting to life as a family of seven was a challenge and it took me six months to find my parenting feet. Once I had it wasn't long before I was once again hard at work on another issue.

In 18 months the babywearing community has changed considerably, as friends have come and gone as their babies have grown up. The biggest change is the sheer amount of sling libraries that have popped up, three within my own region. Its brilliant to see that carrying our babies is becoming more acceptable.

With this fresh influx has been a new view on babywearing and hopefully you will see this within the articles in the coming issues.

We are truly blessed to have such a wonderfully diverse community and so many amazing people willing to share their ideas and experiences. A huge thank you to all those who have contributed on issue 7. It was a pleasure working with you.

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

Renee

Get Social

closeenoughtokiss.co.uk closeenoughtokiss @closeenoughtokiss

Front Page Credit: Peter Filcek Wrap Credit: Didymos Goldfische

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Contents 6

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36

30

42

6 JPMBB - Physiocarrier

24 Explore Wrapping

39 Sling Show Scotland

9 Bank Buster

27 How to Start a Sling Library

41 Big Camp

10 Big Camp 2016

30 Why it's Good to Babywear

42 Made in Britain

11 Carrying Aid International

32 Chat and a Cuppa

46 Summer Slings

12 A day in the life of...

33 Pelvic Girdle Pain

48 The Up Project

14 Penny Saver

34 Special Circumstances

49 Ask Lorette

15 Consultant Schools

36 Why Positioning Matters

Editor Renee Jeffery Design & Artwork Renee Jeffery, Colin Jeffery Sales Jordan Duffin Photography Peter Filcek, Siobhan Thompson, Vikki Herbet, Olga Nyugen, Lorette Michallon, Olga Nugyen, Victoria Ward, Rachel Coy, Rosie Knowles, Janine Ebling, Abbie Kennedy, Bob Allen-Betts, Josephine Holt, Lizzie Start, Emma Taylor, JMPBB, Lindsay Rosschauer, Natasha Wheeler, Hazel Salt, Vivienne Cruddence, Caroline Osbourne, The Up Project, Yolanda Kenyon, Emily Dickinson, Roamy Hunt, Lindsay Morgan Writers Alison Brown, Rachel Coy, Jeni Atkinson, Vikki Herbet, Joephine Holt, Melissa Branzburg, Charlotte Ashley-Roberts, Kerry Ellis, Emma Taylor, Lorette Michalon, Lizzie Start

Contributors Sling Show Scotland, Carrying Aid International, L'Ecole a Porter, Slingababy, Trageschule UK, School of Babywearing, Carry on London, Wrapamore, It's a Sling Thing, The Up Project, Natural Mamas, Shire Slings, Born to Carry, Joanna Mockford Supplied Images Becky Ward, Baby Bjorn Promotions Shire Slings 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.uk.pinterest.com/closeenoughmag www.instagram.com/closeenoughtokiss www.plus.google.com/+CloseenoughtokissCoUk

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 any way 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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JPMBB The Physiocarrier

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In 2015 JPMBB launched the new PhysioCarrier, they are renowned for their amazing stretch wraps and the introduction of the physiocarrier was an exciting time.

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7 Breathable Padding The Side Straps These are found at the front of the panel on each side of baby and are used for various reasons according to age. For a younger infant these are perfect to adjust the height according to the growing baby's need and to ensure the carrier is always sitting at optimum level to support the child's neck. It also is used to ensure the lines of tension holds the baby upright and not slouch to either side, maintaining a clear open airway. For a larger infant these give support to the knees, keeping them in a deep seated squat, with a wide open pelvis making it easier to tilt. Lastly, they can be used to shift weight distribution from the belt of the wearer to the shoulders.

The carrier has the perfect amount of padding on the belt and shoulder straps, with a mesh covering making it cooler when wearing.

Newborn Headrest The newborn headrest is ideally positioned to give a smaller infant much needed head and neck support gently, with a cushioned rest that can be poppered into place securely.

The Mesh Back Panel This function allows baby to be kept cooler in hotter weather whilst still supporting the infant's position, it also providing visibility of the child’s positioning.

Dual Tightening The straps have a dual tightening fuction, which enables the buckle to sit in the most comfortable place for the wearer, and also helps with those who struggle to tighten straps.

Curved Seat The seat of the carrier itself is curved allowing the knees to assume a seated squat enabling a deep M position.

www.jeportemonbebe.com

The Booster This is a rounded cushion that brings a small infant up towards the top of the carrier, ensuring its head is close enough to kiss and allowing the airways to be kept open, whilst also keeping baby in a seated flexion position, ensuring that the child’s knees are not overspread. The booster is also really useful for older children to be higher and see over the wearer's shoulder when back carried.

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n k a B u st B er

Looking to splash out on a bank busting wrap? Why not try a Lovaloom? A bespoke Jacquard woven wrap made by a designer with the experience of French fashion houses.

Pentalon Noir, 52% Pima Cotton and 48% Mercerized Cotton.

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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

Carrrying Aid International

Back in the summer of 2015 the media began to flush with images of refugees piling onto the shores of Greece in tiny inflatables. The iconic images of the washed up body of little Aylan Kurdi lying face down in the Greek sand shocked everybody. On the Greek islands there were groups of locals and volunteers who rallied round to offer help and support to those arriving. They sent out lists of the items they needed, and several included baby carriers.

When you start to understand the situation and conditions that people making the refugee journey face, you can see why a baby carrier can make so much difference. Making it across the Mediterranean is just another leg of a long and arduous journey.

They still have thousands of miles to navigate, multiple boarders to pass, crowded unsuitable trains to try to board without being crushed or separated from children and family members. Hours of waiting at check points and in registration lines. Everything they have is all they can carry.

As Rosie of Sheffield Sling Surgery said “Small children get lost in crowds of massed desperation. Small children are scared of all the chaos around them. Small children need to nurse (breast milk is safer for babies than formula made with dirty water that can make them very ill). Small children need to be carried somehow, especially on long and arduous journeys across a continent where snow is on the way. The arms of their parents provide safety, reassurance, familiarity, comfort, nutrition.

But these same arms grow weary as the miles pass

by. These same arms need to carry supplies. These same arms need to hold the hands of toddlers who can’t walk far… A sling will make a real difference where arms are all that is available; car seats are heavy, pushchairs may struggle on rough terrain.

Carrying Aid International was set up to try to coordinate the efforts of the multiple carrier collection initiatives that were set up in response to the crisis. We have a working group of babywearing professionals from all over the world, and as a community, we have sent thousands of donated carriers to Greece and the transit routes since September.

We coordinate and support collections, and have developed simplified pictorial instructions with Arabic and English translations and safety instructions for all the main types of donated carriers. We work directly with the volunteers on the ground, giving support and advice and doing our best to ensure a steady stream of carriers to where they are needed. Many of us have also volunteered ourselves, spending time working with the organisations on the ground in Greece, and directly distributing carriers.

To donate, or get involved www.carryingaidinternational.com www.facebook.com/carryingaid Issue Seven

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A day in the life of ...

Rachel Coy is a mum of 2, a carrying consultant and babywearing trainer for Born to Carry and also runs the very successful North East Sling Library in Durham.

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As a Carrying Consultant and Sling Librarian I am extremely lucky. I get to help individual families find carrying solutions for their individual carrying needs. In addition to this I am also a trainer for Born to Carry, a training initiative which aims to bring together instructors from across the UK under one banner in order to provide high quality local babywearing peer support

training.

As a Born to Carry instructor it is my role to give those who wish to help others (whether they run a sling meet or are an enthusiastic parents, midwives or health visitors etc.) with slings and carriers the skills and knowledge to do so safely. Each of our trainers are highly experienced babywearing consultants and each of us have additional

courses and we have tutors across the country. I am based in Durham City but have run courses in Scarborough, Grantham, Nottingham and York.

All our tutors are self-employed and we arrange our courses independently. As a tutor my role starts from when I decide to arrange a course or am approached to do courses. I then need to arrange number of participants, take deposits, and find a venue unless the group are arranging this themselves. I also send a pre-course questionnaire so that I can start to get to know each attendee before the event, arrange their Certificate of Attendance (allows them access to a number of insurance schemes) and course booklets. On the day of the course I may have to prepare lunch and refreshments (provided for the courses I arrange personally), as well as set up the room we will be working in with slings, posters and demo dolls.

Each attendee receives a course workbook and I also include a variety of safety flyers.

skills which allow us to train others. I am a qualified teacher for example. All our trainers work closely with Born to Carry to ensure that the same principles of teaching and learning are adhered to throughout.

Each of our courses are unique, as after all each tutor is unique. There are set elements we must cover, with safety being the main one, but as instructors we are able to tailor our courses to meet the

individual needs of the groups we are working with, very much in the same way I do as a carrying consultant. There is no rigid scheme of work. This flexibility allows us to give our clients the skills they want and need, while still allowing them to access various insurance schemes once they have completed our course. The courses we offer are one day

on the day but I also like to send candidates a copy electronically. There is no set date for completion of these but for those that do I need to check their answers, clarify any misunderstandings and finally post a Certificate of Completion.

Our course may be one day long but the support we give starts from the minute we are approached and has no end date. We will support for as long as groups or individuals need our help and that is why I enjoy being a Born to Carry tutor so much.

After the course day my work is not finished. There is the option for attendees to join a specific group for Born to Carry Peer Supporters and as their tutor I need to approve their admission. Once in the group they can get support from all our tutors and peer supporters, and I pop into the group regularly to help answer any queries. In order to assess the learning that has gone on during the day there is a post-course assignment to complete. This is given Issue Seven

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The Lowdown on Carrying Consultant Training Courses Written by Melissa Branzburg is a mum of one who runs Wear-a-bye baby and West London Sling Library

Babywearing consultants are a great resource for all things babywearing related. With a special interest in carrying, they have gone through a training course to become qualified in how to teach new parents and carers the safe use of a variety of carriers.

Within the UK there are four main courses your local consultant may have trained with, but what’s the difference?

If you’re reaching out for help or thinking about becoming a consultant yourself, it helps to know the different styles and approaches, so you know what to expect. Let’s take a look at the different schools to see how they compare and talk with past participants on what they thought.

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Je Porte Mon Bebe L ecole a porter

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Keren Sales-Nissim founder of jpmbb and L'Ecole à Porter.

You may know Je Porte Mon Bébé (JPMBB) as a French company that makes a very stretchy stretch wrap. According to Sophie Huard, Sales and Marketing Director at JPMBB, they found that many schools were not teaching the use of stretchy wraps in all of their variety, especially their own wrap.

“As parents,” says Sophie “we could not find a carrying tool that was offering us what we needed, therefore we became developers, manufacturers, consultants and trainers.” So in 2010, they founded L’Ecole à Porter, a three-day course, which has grown from teaching just their unique tool. According to Sophie “beyond the technical aspect of the JPMBB wrap, we developed in L'école a Porter the notion of ‘Dynamic Babywearing’ where carrying a child involves the observation of the parent, the interaction between their two morphologies, the consideration of the baby's muscle tone, the developmental stage and needs of the moment, using in-arms carrying and holding as a source of inspiration.” In fact, much of the focus of the course is based on JPMBB’s research on how to teach. “We teach through gestures based on what a parent would do intuitively and according to their motor skills,” says Sophie. Using simple language, “we pay particular attention to the small details that make learning fun and accessible, and yet ensure parents have a strong base of knowledge to allow them to gain an autonomous practice of babywearing: observing their own carry and adapting it to different situations is a value.”

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Suzanne Pearson, of Sling Stars, took the course, having previously done Slingababy. “Because the JPMBB course only deals with their products, there is room on the course to really talk in depth about mother and baby physiology, early baby development, motor development and how to support that in a natural and respectful way. That interested me.”

She would agree that it helped her understand “Dynamic Babywearing.” “It's helped me to be mindful of respectful baby handling, of working with

the parent and baby dyad and of the importance of understanding different people's learning preferences.”

Corinne Rooney, the Sling Lady, was drawn to the modern and open-minded approach she saw in others who took the class. While on the course, besides the excellent catering, she found that it was indeed flexible. “There seemed to be less rules to carrying but also deeper focus on physiology and I found that empowering for helping the variety of clients and babies that I work with.”

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Trageschule UK Olga Nugyen Trageschule facilitator for the UK

Trageschule UK, Ireland, and Russia is affiliated with Trageschule Dresden in Germany, which has been running since the late 1990s. Trageschule UK started with Olga Nguyen taking the course with founder Ulrike Hower in 2008 in London and the certification in Dresden. After training, Olga started Trageschule UK formally in 2011, to facilitate courses outside of Germany and make them more easily available.

Trageschule is comprised of three levels: Foundation, Advance, and certification.

Some have completed all three in 6 months, whilst others take 2 years. In the Foundation Course Olga says "the goal is to teach participants how to teach a number of carries and how to teach one-to-one in a variety of situations" in addition to business-related questions. In the Advance Course Olga says "the participants focus on special circumstances, teaching workshops and groups of parents, tailoring to participants’ needs."

In the Certification Course, Olga sees a real improvement in teaching skills and "I know that after Foundation and Advance, what they can offer in terms of oneto-one teaching and group support is fairly great and it’s an effective technique that works with a 'variety of parents, babies and situations' ". Trageschule is unique for "all round comprehensive support beyond teaching and babywearing", says Olga.

This support has come in a variety of ways. Olga hopes that graduates will learn not only babywearing techniques, but be able to know the safety and theory behind them, to be able to explain and teach them, and offer an emotionally safe learning environment, be it in a group or one-to-one situation.

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Olwen Rowe, of Born to be Carried, has trained to get her Medical Trainer License, an extra level of completion. She was drawn to the course partly because of the teaching method, but also because of the support." I loved the emphasis on really supporting parents, working with them respectfully and meeting them where they are at. The very foundation of Trageschule is that compassion, connection and empathy are vital in supporting

parents of young children."

Méabh Lyons, of Snugglebugs, had a career change after attending the Foundation Course, and found value in having the course broken into multiple parts.“I really like the staged training as I feel you gain experience and knowledge in between each stage and this really helps you grow in the profession of Babywearing Consultancy. Each course brings more to the table and adds to your knowledge and skill set.”

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School of Babywearing Victoria Ward founder of School of Babywearing

Victoria Ward and Karen Hunt founded the School of Babywearing in 2010 using their combined experience with sling manufacturers and as retailers and educators. According to Victoria, she “was keen to create a course that could be accredited as a qualification in the UK, to acknowledge the importance of babywearing education.” After a year-long accreditation process, School of Babywearing launched both a Peer Support and Babywearing Consultancy qualification. The two courses offer different levels of competency. Victoria says “the Peer Support course aims to give people confidence in demonstrating slings and carriers in a group setting; to understand babywearing safety and some of the positive effects of babywearing; to assess slings and carriers for wear and tear and to understand the role of a peer supporter”. The consultancy course aims to give learners further confidence in assessing the needs of parents and to demonstrate a greater range of slings, carriers and different carries. It aims to understand the principles of babywearing, including the history and cultural aspects of babywearing; to understand and explain the physiological benefits of wearing babies correctly; to understand adult learning principles and how these apply to parents learning how to use a sling or baby carrier, and to reflect on the role of a Consultant.”

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21 After the course, Victoria hopes their participants “feel confident in promoting the practice of babywearing using whatever kind of sling or carrier parents choose.” The network of School of Babywearing graduates also have access to research articles and continuing support.

The School of Babywearing stands out because of its formal accreditation and board-level participation with the Baby Carrier Industry Alliance, says Victoria.

Linda Barrack, owner of Baby Bliss, was attracted to the School of Babywearing because of the accreditation. “I felt it was important to obtain an accredited qualification given the amount of money that was being invested in the course.

When reading the pre-course information, I was interested in the course content. It was also convenient that there was a course scheduled in my home city.”

Having taken both School of Babywearing and Slingababy, she found both courses worthwhile. “I have taken a lot away from each school and feel I am a better consultant for having the insight to the ethos of each.”

Kimberly Goudie Mitchell, of East Lothian Sling Library, attended both the Peer Supporter and the Babywearing Consultancy course.

“I loved the course and thought it was very well balanced. I think what I most took from it was the approach to teaching families and the scientific back up to explain things to parents.”

Magz Madden, of the Oslo (Norway) Sling Library, was also attracted to School of Babywearing because it is accredited. “I felt by doing coursework you ended up with a better grounding of where babywearing came from and some of the history behind it and how it evolved.”

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Slingababy carrying the gift of love Lorette Michallon is a mum of 2, a carrying educator and the founder of Slingababy

Slingababy is a Rugby, Warwickshire-based course founded in 2011

by Lorette Michallon. Since starting courses in 2013, she has run 50 courses that have grown and adapted ever so slightly with each session.

Slingababy courses run over 4 days and a flat fee allows a participant to retake the course as often as she likes. Michallon also offers two continuous professional development days a year. According to Lorette, the course “is built in such a way that new attendees and experienced consultants alike can increase their learning every time they attend.”

Participants can also choose to complete a voluntary completion certificate that includes feedback from their clients and the completion of a project that helps the wider community. Lorette says those that undertake this typically take 8 months to finish it. Much like JPMBB, those on a Slingababy course also work on understanding the “dynamic dyad of carried person and wearer” but also “understanding the mechanics of all carrier types and how to optimise them, understanding safe practices and how to pass this message clearly to the end-user, understanding the importance of baby handling and holding in ways that promote natural motor development and attachment,” says Lorette Slingababy is special because “we work from our hearts.”

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23 Noting the care they place on kindness and support of both consultants and their clients, she says “We care about free thinking and questioning everything.

We care about strong foundations, which bear safety as a prime concern and connection second.” On the horizon, Lorette says Slingababy is hosting a family camp this summer and working on creating a mentorship program, in addition to a code of conduct.

“Learning how to teach people in a respectful way that works for them is a big part of Slingababy,” says Sally Sycha of SlingSally. “My previous career involved teaching students so I was used to tailoring my teaching to their learning style, but Slingababy added a lot more on top of this and

I particularly like how they teach you to demonstrate, so that initially it looks very easy, and then you slowly build in the different element so that they are not overwhelmed and feel they can achieve the task.”

Dr. Sophie Messenger, a babywearing instructor, had trained with Clauwi and Trageschule UK

before Slingababy. “After Slingababy I completely changed many aspects of my teaching for the better.

I also felt that I knew many more carrier optimising tricks and that I could handle pretty much any carrier I encountered. I also stopped thinking that I knew what parents needed, but became much more led

by them.”

Ruth Webster, of Continuum, really appreciates the continuing professional development. “I don't intend to undertake any other UK based consultancy courses, as the ability to return to the Slingababy course again and again means I can always take away something new each time.”

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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 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.

How to Tie a Back Wrap Cross Carry - BWCC The bwcc is carried low on the back, and is a very secure owing to the cross passes starting from the shoulder and fanning out to the legs. If you are new to wrapping I would suggest that this carry is an intermediate carry option. So go back to practising a simple ruck before attempting this.

When choosing your wrap you will need to use your base size, an average base size is a 6, but depending on your proportions you may have to go up or down a size.

Starting with the centre of the wrap on their back, get your baby on to your back in your preferred method and make a good seat, tightening strand by strand before moving on with the next step. Twisting the wrap before bringing the passes under your arm can help to secure tightness across baby's back and make it easier to keep there whilst passing back over your arm.

To tie the bwcc rather than going over your shoulder under your arm, you go under and over. There are 3 passes to this carry, a torso pass, and 2 cross passes. This method allows you to get a good knee to knee position and can help to pin a wiggly baby in place. Depending on your finish it can look a very pretty carry also.

Variation of the BWCC include: Sweetheart Tiebetan Tied Tied in Front Candy Cane Chest Belt Issue Seven

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Images By Bob Allen-Betts

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10 steps to starting a sling library Charlotte Ashley-Roberts is a mum of 2 and runs St Neots sling library and consultancy

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I found babywearing before having my first child.

I bought a stretchy wrap and when she was born, off I went, down the rabbit hole so to speak.

Two strange things happened: 1, I started to see more and more people babywearing in my local area and 2, people kept asking my advice. This led me to do set up a social meet and get myself on a babywearing consultants course. On the Slingababy course I learnt about sling libraries, a great idea I thought to myself, but where to start?

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What is a Sling Library?

Well, like a library where you borrow books, a sling library is a place you can borrow slings.

Some people like to ‘try before they buy’.

Which is something I highly recommend as each carrier works and fits each individual differently, like a pair of jeans!

Some come for help with a sling they own or to borrow a sling for a specific occasion, like a water sling to go on holiday with, which saves buying something you would only use once.

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What is your Purpose?

My purpose is to make babywearing accessible to the local community and ensure they wear their children safely. As such we run as a not for profit (this is not an official term, but rather means you are running to cover costs and not to make an income) I am a volunteer (not paid), but I am a sole trader and own all the slings. If you wanted to run it as a business there are options to do this. Whatever you choose you will still need to fill in a tax form, even if you are not for profit.

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Where to Meet?

Choosing a venue can be a minefield and will depend on the documentation you have (see above).

We run one in a Tesco community room as it's free of charge and has good parking and facilities.

How Many Slings?

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We have around 30 slings, though I started with 5 of my own: 2 stretches, a mei tai, a manduca and a woven. All my slings are preloved but you can also approach vendors and distributors to see if they can help with donations or reduced price carriers. I reinvest hire fees to buy more slings and I have tried to get ones we are asked most about or the most popular ones.

We have carriers suitable for premature babies all the way up to preschoolers. A beginner's stash might include: 2 types of ring sling (gathered/ pleated), 2 wovens (long/short) Mei tai/onbu, One buckled carrier, 2 stretchy wraps and/or Caboo. This allows you to demonstrate the differences between carriers. You don't need it all to begin with, as the value lies in your experience, not the number of carriers you have.

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Training and Insurance

In the UK you are not required to have any formal training or insurance. However it would be advisable to have both. Some venues require you to have proof of both and a DBS. I bought my insurance through the British Association of Babywearing Instructors (BABI) but there are other insurers who specialise in babywearing insurance.

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Frequency?

How often are you going to meet? This may depend on other babywearing services in your local area or how much interest you have.

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Marketing?

How will people find out about you? Will you have a website?

Will you be on Social Media, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram?

Will you have flyers or posters? Will you advertise within local baby groups or rely on word of mouth?

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7 8 9 10 Hire charge

It is entirely up to you how long you hire for, whether you charge or take deposits. It's different for each library and there are no rules.

We hire for £15/month plus a small refundable deposit to cover any damage but many other libraries charge a standard deposit or full cost of replacing the carrier. Another option is to pay to join the library in a membership type scheme and hire for free or at reduced rates.

Support

What support is available to the hirer and how are you supporting yourself.

Will you have volunteers? Who will you refer to if you cannot help?

The Paperwork

I have a very simple set of terms and conditions, which I ask the hirer to read. Some libraries take their address and other contact details, I ask for a phone number. I use a little book as we have a relatively small library and keep an excel sheet of transactions and hires.

Many libraries are using My Turn, an online solution for booking, hires and notifications, others have a paper version.

Expect the Unexpected

Each session brings something or someone

different. You may have some regulars or people who only attend once, mums, dads, grandparents, carers, pregnant mums and people who have had their babies, from high dependency babies to independent preschoolers.

It’s all in day's work for a sling librarian,consultant or peer supporter!

The main thing to remember is that your library can be big or small, you can meet when and where you want to, Informally or formally. Do what works for you and your community.

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Why is it so good to

Photo Credit: Pan America Health Organisation

Babywear?

by Alison Brown

Babies have an innate need to be held. It’s instinctive for parent and baby to be close, and everything from something as basic as breathing to hormone release is affected as a result.

There is proven research to show that when parents hold their baby on their chest, skin to skin helps to regulate their breathing and consequently kangaroo care is now recommended for premature babies in particular who struggle to regulate their breathing pattern. (1)(2) The bond created when babies and young children are carried is created naturally due to the security and love both parent and baby Issue Seven

experience when babywearing. Hormones such as oxytocin are released when mother and child are so close, creating a calmness for both mother and child.

(3)(4) This helps not only soothe young children, but can also help with milk production and increase the success of breastfeeding. (5) All in all, babywearing is an excellent way of sharing love and security and building strong family bonds – get out there and snuggle!

31 Hormones such as oxytocin are released when mother and child are so close creating a calmness for both mother and child.

水

水

(1)Feldman et al (2014) Maternal-preterm skin-to-skin contact enhances child physiologic organization and cognitive control across the first 10 years of life.

(2)Gregson, S. and Blacker, J. (2011), Kangaroo care in pre-term or low birthweight babies in a postnatal ward, British Journal of Midwifery. September 2011; Vol. 19, No. 9, P. 56 (3)Moberg, K. U. (2009), The Oxytocin Factor, London: Pinter & Martin Ltd. (4)Moberg, K. U. (2013), The Hormone of Closeness, London: Pinter & Martin Ltd. (5)Aghdas et al (2014) Effect of immediate and continuous mother-infant skin-to-skin contact on breastfeeding

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32

Chat and a Cuppa with

es l w o n K e i s o R

Give us a brief run down of your qualifications for those who are not familiar with you?

I am a practising GP in Sheffield, and I am also a BABI registered babywearing consultant, a sling librarian in Sheffield (the Sheffield Sling Surgery) and author.

When did you first decide to write a book?

I have always loved writing and sharing knowledge that empowers people. I've written numerous articles for my website about various aspects of safe carrying, as well as articles for magazines. I thought it would be lovely to collate a lot of these articles into a book, but it was really just a dream; so you can imagine my excitement and gratitude when I was approached by Pinter and Martin to write the book as part of

understand why we should carry our children, how normal it is, and be encouraged to do so for themselves, with the support of a good sling.

their Why It Matters series.

Was there a part of the book you felt was more challenging to write?

How long did it take to write?

It was hard to balance the need to be easy to read and engaging, with also wanting to present some of the science and research behind it all.

A long time! I have two very busy jobs and a young family, so the book had to be written in between normal life. I wrote during evenings and weekends and while on the occasional holiday. It was hard work, as writing a book is very different from writing

Who do you most admire in the babywearing community?

stand-alone articles for magazines. It needs to have more of a flow and a consistent structure. Choosing which research to use (and there is not very much directly relating to slings themselves) was also difficult. I began writing it in 2015!

What was your objective with the book?

My objective was simply to tell the world why carrying matters - to help people to understand why children need to be kept close to those that love them in their early lives. Loving, close contact is one of the bedrocks of secure emotional health for parents and children alike. The culture we live in now in the West has become disconnected from our human origins. We are losing sight of how important is is to build secure bonds and foster healthy relationships, as our society seems to value early separation and productivity far more than good mental health. Babywearing can help families to meet their childrens needs for closeness, while still being able meet the demands of living in our busy culture. I hope my book will help people to

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I have a great deal of love for a handful of people in the community who really shine with wisdom and integrity. I admire their strong commitment to their vision and their unswerving dedication to the welfare of families. Some of them are well known figures, some are my local volunteers, but I am proud to call them all my friends.

Do you have any plans to write another book?

Not for some time!

Rosie's new book is out in April, and is published

by Pinter and Martin as part of their Why it Matters range. It will retail at ÂŁ7.99 and be available to buy through Pinter and Martin, Amazon, and Rosie's online shop Sling Spot.

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Pelvic Girdle Pain

Did you Know?

Pain effects 1/5 of women in pregnancy and over 7% reported long term pain.

Pelvic Instability Network Scotland

Pelvic Girdle Pain or its technical name, Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD/PGP), is a condition that causes excessive movement (either anterior or lateral) of the pubic symphysis resulting in pain. During pregnancy the Relaxin hormone can cause the ligaments that support a stable pelvis to relax, increasing the likelihood of SPD. Symptoms include: pain on the joint at the front of the pelvis (the pubic symphysis) as well as radiating pain in the lower back, lower abdomen, legs and pelvic girdle.

As a sufferer of SPD, investigative MRI’s, X-rays and Osteopathy treatment helped me, but it is a condition that still persists 3 years post partum. Babywearing has enabled me to do things I thought I would not be able to do.

ˮ

Advice By Fiona Terry - Professional Osteopath Recovering from birth can take time, Regaining fitness and tone is an important aspect of care for postnatal and SPD mums. The pel vis can be supported with a support belt or a stretchy /woven wrap around the bump /lower back. Babies love to be held close and being upright can ease colic and reflux. Osteopathy for postnatal mums is very effective at aiding recovery from pregnancy related mechanical problems that persist.

If you are suffering symptoms of SPD avoid sitting in low chairs, heavy lifting in awkward positions and keep your legs together as much as possible. There are ways to adjust activities to make them work for your disability, includeing babywearing

ˮ

There are many support belts on the market to help support the pelvis during this time. At Wrapamore we have developed a Woven Support belt (made by MamasGo), recommended by babywearing healthcare professionals and sufferers of SPD. For more information about this article, (including detailed pictures of how to support the pelvis with or without babywearing) or the Wrapamore Support Belt visit our website. www.wrapamore.com Issue Seven

g n i r a e w

34

y b a B Special Circumstances

In this series we look at babywearing in special cases. We will learn a bit more in-depth about each special case and troubleshoot the ways in which we can still babywear through it.

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Despite knowing before birth that my son had Talipes, to see it when he was born was upsetting. Wearing him in a sling whilst in a cast gave me a sense of freedom I thought I would never achieve.

ˮ

Talipes is the technical term for club foot. The deformity presents as either one or both (bilateral) feet pointing down and inwards, with the soles of the feet facing backwards. Whilst Talipes causes the infant no pain, it can cause difficulties and pain when walking as the child gets older, if it is left untreated.

Treatment for Talipes is normally started within a week of birth, with a technique called the Ponsetti Method being often used.

This involves putting the feet in casts to gently manipulate the foot into a better position, for around 5-8 weeks.

Very often after this the child 's Achilles endon is cut in a minor operation (a tenotomy) which helps release the foot into a more natural position.

The final stage is where the child has to wear a set of boots and bar to keep the feet in their new position.

Each stage of the treatment for Talipes has its challenges when babywearing and depending on the severity of the child's feet some or all of the above will be needed, however it’s possible to wear even during these stages. As the child gets

older it will be easier to get the knees up into a more M position. However it may still be a challenge and shouldn’t be forced.

s t s a C

This stage can cause swelling so a child may spend more time lying flat with feet elevated to reduce this. Sideways seated in a Ring Sling or short woven wraps can be useful.

r a B d n

a s t Boo

During the boots stage many parents find they struggle to wear as the bar gets in the way. So it’s a good idea to wear a sling that can be passed through between the legs, but is also narrow enough not to overstretch the child. Connectas, Beco Geminis and Lillebaby (on narrow setting) are great for this as they are easily passed between the legs but also very easy to cinch to the desired width. Similarly, Mei Tais that are not too bulky and ring slings or wraps in a hammock style carry.

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WhyPositioning Matters Does positioning a baby well in a carrier really make a difference?

The airway: In young infants 3 months and under the focus on positioning, especially where the airway is concerned, is of utmost importance. Young infants have very poor head and neck control, so it’s the wearers job to ensure the airway is open and clear at all times.

This can be done by ensuring the carrier the child is in is carried high and tight on the wearer, that the baby is upright and it's head, neck and spine are aligned.

M Position: The importance of the M position can be debated as there is no official research to indicate that the use of it will produce a better outcome than not. However, using anecdotal evidence and human evolution we can surmise that using the M position when carrying has several benefits: 1. Babies sit naturally in a foetal position, so utilising this can only be positive and help baby feel safe and secure.

2. Comfort for the wearer. Most established babywearers will tell you that narrow based carriers that do not provide knee to knee support can be uncomfortable and by introducing this position the child’s weight becomes more comfortable to carry.

3. Most people have heard of hip dysplasia, and whilst for the most part there is no risk in not using this position, if your child does have any underlying hip issues, the M position is most definitely going to be of benefit.

All Aligned and Pelvis Tucked: For comfort and also a good open airway it’s important that the head, neck and spine are all aligned, straight, and the pelvis is tucked, not dissimilar to the shape of the letter J. this can be promoted by ensuring the carrier is high and tight. Baby will be in a gentle incline towards the wearer and the head will be resting on the wearers body.

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u y

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Sling Show Scotland Sling Show Scotland is a celebration of ‘All Things Sling’, which is a bit of a motto here at Sling HQ. We are hosting the event on the 24th September 2016 at James Watt Conference Centre within Edinburgh's Heriot Watt University Riccarton Campus. The campus gardens are beautiful and we will be making the most of this with planned photography sessions, and an onsite library to try out some amazing carriers. The event is aimed at everyone, from those new to carrying to Woven Winglets.

The thought process behind organising the show was to try and bring slings to the masses, and normalise carrying your child. Baby wearing is gathering more popularity, but still remains fairly ‘different’ to some people. The benefits of carrying your children are varied and amazing, and we see it as a responsibility to introduce this tool to as many parents and carers as possible. It has been a journey and we have met some amazing people, and the community of baby wearers is wonderful.

We have a really exciting programme planned including the UKs finest sling manufacturers, including; Nova Carriers, Woven Wings, Firespiral Slings, Oscha Slings, Connecta and many more.

We have ’Meet the Maker’ sessions planned, and wonderful exclusives from our exhibitors. We also have various workshops, seminars and demonstrations that will all be announced soon at: www.slingshowscotland.com.

The exhibition will be child friendly with activities for the littles. We are also lucky enough to have the support of NHS Scotland who will be there on the day in our Community Area. This is a huge project for us, but one that is very close to our hearts and that we feel very passionate about. We hope that you can join us in what will be an awesome weekend, where most of the baby wearing community feel like friends already.

SATURDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER 2016 HERIOT WATT UNIVERSITY, EDINBURGH 10.30 - 15.30 Sponsored by:

What's On: • • • •

Huge Range of Exhibitors Sling Library & Advice Seminars & Demonstrations Find us on Facebook & Twitter

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NatraSan is 300 times more effective than bleach but it is no more dangerous to human skin than water.

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Available at www.natrasanuk.com NatraSan costs ÂŁ10.00 for 250ml and ÂŁ7.00 for 100ml

Rigorous laboratory tests have found Natrasan to be more effective than bleach for killing bacteria, with the added bonus of being natural and kind to skin.

Images by Abbie Kennedy

41

Natural Mamas

Big Camp

It's back for the fifth year and it's bigger than ever!

Natural Mamas is an vibrant online community who, once a year, get together for some camping fun. Set in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, Big Camp gives like-minded parents a chance to get together in once place and enjoy each other's company.

This year camping takes place from August 5th - 7th with more activities than you can shake a tent pole at.

There is something that will suit everyone from Yoga to singing round the camp fire and Saturday shopping with lots of your favourite babywearing and natural parenting companies attending.

Tickets will be on sale soon and you can find out exactly when by joining the event on Facebook Natural Mamas Big Camp 2016.

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It took many “testers to hone our product

“

Made in

In the UK there is a wealth of amazing homegrown babywearing companies and in this issue we interview Yolanda Kenyon of Shire Slings.

Shire slings officially

opened in 2014 after 4 years of research.

During this time Yolanda, the company founder, experimented with Issue Seven

quality of cotton and weave until she was happy. It took “many testers to hone our product” tells Yolanda, who plays a vital role in

the designing process by coming up with the wrap ideas to begin with.

Yolanda goes on to say, “I get the basics down on the PC, it then goes to

the mill for a test weave, we check the sample for any idiosyncrasies once woven, then we usually go back and forth a few times before we are

43

strive to source everything “ We as close to home as possible,

from spinning, weaving through to sewing the end product, everything is sourced locally.

“

happy with the weaves and the way the design looks in fabric”.

A lengthy process and one that Yolanda freely admits is her least favourite, “I'm not very patient, and because we are using very small micro companies the turnaround time from approving the weave and dye colours to getting the finished product in our hands can seem like forever”.

Yolanda draws her inspiration not only from the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, but also her children, love, nature and science. It’s not hard to see these inspirations reflected in Shire’s designs, with wraps like Rose and Hornbeam you can almost imagine what Yolanda was viewing at the time inspiration came to her.

Yolanda concedes it’s hard to pin down her most favourite design, but Love Geek would be her overall favourite.

Shire clearly strive to be as ethically robust as possible and its companies like Suma - a local ethical food cooperative that Yolanda holds in esteem. When asked about how important being British made was Yolanda said,

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44 Made in Britain Cont...

“We strive to source everything as close to home as possible, from spinning, weaving through to sewing the end product, everything is sourced locally.

We are very lucky to live in the weaving capital of the world and we are proud to be helping to keep the weaving industry here alive”. She describes Shire as “passionate” and it’s hard to disagree, with such a conscientious business model. www.facebook.com/ShireSlings www.twitter.com/shireslings @shireslings

baby carriers

with character www.sleepynico.com | info@sleepynico.com

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29/03/2016 15:17

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Issue Three - Autumn 2013

46

By Emma Taylor Worries about babies overheating, and everyone getting damp with sweat in the hot weather can put people off using slings in the warmer months, but there are lots of carriers and tricks that will enable you to use your sling even in the hottest of heatwaves.

If you’re looking to buy new or hire for a holiday then it’s worth considering a carrier made especially for wearing in hot weather, such as the Boba Air, Connecta Solar (which also has UV resistant fabric), Kinderpack with the KoolKnit mesh panel, Lillebaby Airflow, Ergo Performance Ventus, Moby Aria, JPMBB Physiocarrier, the new Gemini Cool and Ergo 360 Mesh.

These carriers are designed to have less fabric, and be made of fabrics that are cooler, so that you don’t feel the heat. They often also have the advantage of packing up small – the Boba Air, for example, folds down into a package that will fit into a handbag easily so won’t take up valuable suitcase space on holiday.

Conventional carriers can also be cool.

Look for as little padding as possible, and styles where you can maximise airflow, such as a mei tai or buckle carrier with open sides like a Connecta, or use a ring sling which is a single layer of fabric.

If you like a woven wrap, look at a lighter fabric such as a gauze, or linen. It may seem obvious, but if your favourite wrap is a wool blend then you might get too warm in it.

There are also some slings made out of what appear to be unconventional materials, which are really cool to wear, such as mesh ring slings designed for wearing in water which can also be useful as a summer sling, and the Fil’Up Issue Seven

wrap which resembles a string vest and allows plenty of airflow to keep you and your little one comfortable.

If you’d prefer a wrap that’s cool but not only for summer, then have a look at lighter weaves. These include Ellaroo, Vatanai, Didymos Waves, Wrapsody Breeze, Hoppediz Light, thinner Girasols, and the diamond weave Storchenwiege. They will all be just as useful in winter as in summer, although sometimes aren’t strong enough for a heavy toddler or pre-schooler.

Sum Em

You can also make your wrap cooler by using a different carry with less layers.

Single-layer carries such as kangaroo on the front will reduce the heat, and older babies and toddlers may well be cooler worn on the back in a simple ruck – this is certainly less sweaty for the parents – or a hip carry where there is less body contact.

With a young baby in a carrier, such as the Close Caboo, you can try replacing the third layer with a muslin so that the support needed is still there, but it’s as cool as possible.

Muslins can also be used between you and your child in a front carry, to absorb sweat and help wick it away from your bodies.

Don’t forget that sweating means you need to drink more; make sure you drink plenty of water and offer your child drinks of water or milk regularly to combat thirst.

Also remember to ensure you apply sunscreen regularly, put a hat on you and your child, and be wary of the sun when it’s at its strongest between 11am and 3pm.

Choosing the right carrier, and following the usual sunsafe rules, will mean a cool and happy summer for you and your little one.

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mmer Slings mma Taylor

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The Euro

pean

Babyweari ng con ference 2015

The Up Project started late in 2014 and was set up to offer disadvantaged families in the UK baby carriers and skills to use them effectively for free.

It is run by a wide range of both paid and volunteer staff.

Launching officially in 2015, The Up Project ran a hugely successful Crowdfunding campaign, raising over double what they had hoped, thanks to the generous contributions of many businesses, consultants and libraries across the UK. Renee Jeffery, one of the founding Directors said "Setting up an organisation from scratch takes a lot of hard work, but with thanks to the consistency and dedication of our directors and volunteers, we managed to do this in record time.'

Kerry Ellis, the brainchild behind the venture said 'We helped 22 families last year with our pilot scheme. We learned a lot about what families needed, how they prefered to apply for help and how many families would need more comprehensive help. All in all it was a very successful year.

In 2016 they are hoping to help another 75 families.

Suzanne Pearson, the most recent addition to the directing team said, 'We have helped 13 familes already this year. And we expect this to carry on increasing as throughout 2016.'

The Up Project are currently looking for further funding to allow them to continue rolling out across the UK and are hoping to access smaller localised funding to help specific areas within the UK, focusing on the most disadvantaged within the UK. Renee said, 'It's very important that we look at offering our service to the most vulnerable families, especially given the financial climate in the UK currently. With cuts being made within benefits, social care and disability provisions, we really need to be there to help those families that need us and offer a helping hand to continue to interact with their communities and not become isolated.'

If you would like to become an Up Champion please apply on www.theupproject.org.uk/apply-to-volunteerfor-the-up-project

49

Ask

Lorette

I have a baby boy who is 2 months old, when my husband uses our buckled carrier the back of it seems to gape, is there anything I can do to fix this? - Sally Ann Dear Sally Ann, thanks for your message and congratulations on the arrival of your baby boy.

The first thing to try is to see whether he has some "flopping slack" left. To check and correct it if needed, tell him to lift his strap where it meets the panel until baby feels snugger and bring any slack towards the buckle and then adjust it.

If the panel still seems too gapey, it may mean that it is too wide for your baby. He can try to have the straps on the edge of his shoulders to help them become a bit more horizontal. If your carrier is floppy enough and has crossable straps, he can try to have the straps go under his armpit and then over shoulder before buckling them up. The other solution is too visit your local library to get a different carrier until your son is older and fills the carrier a little more. I hope this helps!

How do I handle the negative comments I get from family when I wear my 2-and-a-half-yearold? - Jennifer Dear Jennifer, ooooh that is a tricky one! It depends so much on your family and your relationship.

The first thing I would like to say is that whatever you choose to do, people will always have an opinion: too big for the carrier, too big for the pushchair, too slow when walking, too fast when running.... So the first question is would you ever win in their eyes? Now, what are your options? you could laugh it off, cry (either real tears or over-acted 'you've hurt my feelings'), try and explain with a well-researched argument with a Powerpoint presentation, ignore it, ask them to pass the butter, or, and I think this one might get you out of future comments, connect on their level. Ask them questions to understand what is behind the comments. Are they worried about you? about your child's future? about what other people think? What do they suggest? Let them talk and get it off of their chest, listen with empathy, acknowledge their feelings and then thank them for opening up and for caring. Then give them a hug and ask them whether they are offering to take over parenting so you can have a break? Let us know how you get on!

I am a very large male who wants to carry my 4 month old daughter, however the stretchy wrap my wife uses seems quite complicated, what other ‘man friendly’ carriers are there?

Tom Dear Tom, I hear several things in this question. You say it seems complicated. Are you worried that you won't master it or that you will enter a competition with your wife? Because I promise you, it is no more complicated than tying shoe laces. In case this changes your mind: middle of the wrap in front of you, then the wrap goes under both armpits to cross at the back, then over the shoulders and they cross at the front by threading them under the horizontal and then out of the way behind you and tie. It gives you three layers at the front: two make a cross and one comes horizontally. Baby goes legs either sides of the cross (and then spread the two passes) and then the horizontal goes over the legs and is spread from the back of the knees to the nape of the neck.

Man friendly? This really confuses me. Carriers are not gender specific, no genitalia are involved in the use of carriers. Are you talking colours? because there are all the colours in all the designs.

Are you talking camouflage and trekking gear? then you may like some of the buckle carriers that have a lot of engineering but you may find that these are rather complicated with all the fine tuning possible. I think the least complicated of options would be for you to head over to your local library or consultant to see the options in the flesh. Have a look at the Sling Pages to find your local helper. Otherwise, there is always gaffer tape.

Issue Seven

Advertise Here Get your advert in front of 30,000 potential customers advertising@closeenoughtokiss.co.uk

51

Flying With

Slings

Lizzie Start is an expat Brit living in Norway she has flown over 40 times with her now 21-month-old, and approximately half of those flights were just her and her child. She gives you her experience on traveling with slings.

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What is the best sling to use in the airport?

This very much depends on the age and weight of your baby. For newborns, you cannot beat a stretchy wrap. You can pre-tie it before you even leave for the airport, there is no metal to set off the detectors at security, no additional bulk, and you can easily and comfortably sit down in the airport and ultimately on the plane without needing to do anything. On a longer flight you can use the wrap to help secure baby on your lap or give you some support while feeding. A hybrid carrier such as a Close Caboo or Baby K’Tan can work well too, but be aware that the metal rings on the Caboo will cause alarms to go off at security!

useful in these situations.

On long journeys, you may wish to take a couple of different slings with you - not least because you may want several at your destination! I often use an SSC to get myself through check-in and security, and I have a ring sling (RS) in my bag for emergencies. A RS can be handy on a long flight to help get a little one off to sleep (and comfier to sit down in than a more structured carrier) and is great for quick ‘ups and downs’ with a toddler who wants to run around in the airport during layovers. It also allows you to carry a large bag on one side and baby on the other.

Will I have to take it off at security?

For an older baby, a good soft structured carrier (SSC) is a great option - our favourites are the Beco Soleil (approx. 4-18 months), Buzzidil (from newborn to toddler) and Tula Toddler (18 months +) although any SSC will do! If you can, choose one without any metal components (the KiBi carrier, for example, has metal clips to adjust the size of the panel, and the Manduca has a metal zip) as that can be annoying at security.

This is entirely at the discretion of the security guard on duty. In my experience, 90% of the time you will not be asked to remove baby from the carrier. If you are asked to take baby out and you are on your own, ask for help. Some airports have highchairs or car seats that you can put your baby in while you sort out your belongings, or if you need to be searched. Keeping hand luggage to a minimum can help ease the stress in this situation.

If you are accustomed to using woven wraps, you may choose to use one in the airport, but this is not the time to try one for the first time!

For experienced wrappers, a short wrap (size 3 or 4) used in a simple carry (e.g. Rebozo, Short Cross Carry, Ruck) is a good choice, as you can quickly take baby out if need be. ‘Poppable’ carries (where you can take baby out and put them back in without having to re-tie) are really

If you are using a sling or carrier with metal rings (ring sling or Close Caboo, for example) then you will set off the metal detector and need to have a body search - this can also happen randomly at any time! You can usually be searched with baby still in the carrier. They will feel between you and your baby, as well as checking you over and running a hand over baby's back. At this point, they may ask you

Issue Seven

to remove baby and put the sling through the scanner. Again, ask for help if you need it.

How will I manage on my own with my baby or toddler?

With a carrier, anything is possible. I tend to stick to front carries when travelling on my own, even now that my baby is a toddler, as it means that I can carry a backpack and keep both hands free. Back carrying is also an option, but choose your carry-on bag carefully if you know that you intend to do this. A bag that you can carry comfortably on one shoulder, or a backpack that fits comfortably on your front (avoid big bulky ones in this case!), can work well.

Keep snacks and drinks (or milk if you are bottle feeding) near the top of your bag, so that you can easily get to them to keep your little one happy if you are stuck in a queue. If you are breastfeeding, it is worth learning how to do this in your chosen carrier so that you can pacify your hungry baby or toddler at a moment's notice. When my son was small and I found feeding in the carrier a bit tricky, I would always have a small bottle of expressed milk in the side pocket of my backpack so that I could feed him standing up while queuing for security, passports or to get on the plane.

Can my baby stay in the sling on the plane?

In general, you will be asked to take baby out of the sling or carrier for take-off and landing, and during periods of turbulence. They should be on your lap, secured with a seatbelt extender, ideally facing out (although most airlines will allow a cradle position for newborns and if you are feeding), or in their own seat (under 2s should be in an airline-approved car seat or using a CARES safety harness). Different explanations are often given for why it is not recommended for a child to remain in a sling, often related to positioning in case of sudden movements, but the most common answer given by cabin staff is that in an emergency situation, should something happen to you (the parent), the child could easily be removed and taken to a place of safety. Occasionally you may find that staff turn a blind eye to a baby in a sling, or allow you to put the seatbelt around them while still in a carrier, and this can be particularly tempting if they have just fallen asleep, but do think about possible emergency situations and make an informed decision accordingly.

Is it possible to travel without a buggy?

The short answer to this is of course, yes!

However, it depends on where you are going, what you will be doing, and why you are Issue Seven

53

54 considering leaving it behind. Airport policies vary hugely, but in many instances you will be asked to check in your buggy at the same time as your bags.There is huge inconsistency with these policies, and being allowed to keep your buggy on one trip does not necessarily mean you will be able to do the same the next time you travel. Some airports have strollers available after security, but these are rarely suitable for small babies and may well bear the evidence of previous toddlers' snacks! If you are allowed to take your buggy to the gate (and you choose to do so), make sure you don't have lots of extra ‘stuff’ hiding underneath that you will have to take onto the plane with you when you fold it up. Even if you manage to get your buggy all the way to the gate or door of the plane, there is no guarantee that it will be returned to you immediately at your destination. The moral of this story? Always have a carrier with you, just in case!

Whether you will need a buggy at your destination depends on a combination of factors. Will you be eating out in the evenings

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and want somewhere to put your baby or toddler down to sleep? Will you be visiting family who want to help out with baby but won't want to use a sling? If you are sightseeing, is the town buggy-friendly or are there lots of steps? If you rarely use a pram at home, you are unlikely to use it any more on holiday. A cheap travel stroller can be very handy if you just need somewhere for your little one to nap and you won't worry about your Bugaboo being damaged in transit! If you know that you will be using a car upon arrival, then a travel system comprising a pushchair frame and car seat can be a good option for a smaller baby (up to 12 months), as long as baby will not be spending long periods sitting in the seat.

What are the best carrying options for hot weather?

If you are lucky enough to be travelling somewhere warm, there are certain carriers that work well and others that are best avoided. Ring slings and pouches are fantastic in hot weather as there is minimal fabric covering both of you.

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Some people like to avoid woven and stretchy wraps in hot weather, but if you are going to wrap, then a bamboo stretchy such as Hana Baby will keep you cooler than thicker brands such as Moby or Tricot Slen., and shorter, lighter woven wraps such as Calin Bleu or Ellaroo are preferable to thicker, heavier blends.

Some carrier manufacturers have specific models for use in hot weather; - the Connecta Solarweave, Lillebaby Airflow/All Seasons, Boba Air and Beco Toddler Cool are all designed to keep you and your baby as cool as possible.

The Boba and Connecta also fold up very small so are perfect for travelling. Carrying on your back can help both of you to stay cooler, as long as you have someone with you to keep an eye on baby and try to avoid too much direct sunlight.

If you just want to use your regular carrier, wear minimal clothing yourself (a vest top will keep you cool while giving you the flexibility to breastfeed) and dress baby very lightly. I usually use a thin cotton onesie or playsuit to avoid the carrier rubbing, which can be an issue if baby is just in a nappy. You can use a light scarf to protect your child's head from the sun, particularly if they fall asleep, and of course, make sure your regularly apply sunblock (although be aware that certain brands can stain carriers and wraps permanently).

How many slings should I take with me?!

Even for the die-hard babywearers among us, there has to be a limit on the number of slings you can take on holiday. Like the decision to take a buggy or not, the final number of carriers in your suitcase will depend on a number of factors. If space is limited, then stick to one good SSC (if you will be doing a lot of carrying), stretchy wrap (for newborns) or ring sling (if you just need something for quick up and downs).

If you know that family members or friends will want to carry your little one, then choose something that can be easily adjustable and can fit people of varying sizes - a mei tai can be a good option, or again, the trusty SSC. If you are a wrapper and you know you will be carrying your baby lots, particularly on long walks or sightseeing trips, then choose a well broken-in and comfortable wrap, probably in your base size so that you have the option of using different carries. If you have more than one child to carry, then an adjustable carrier such as a Buzzidil, KiBi or Kokadi Flip will allow you to switch between children without too much trouble.

Travelling with a baby or toddler can be a very overwhelming prospect, but as on so many other occasions, slings and carriers can help make life that little bit easier.

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