BB (Before Baby)

Like many people without children, we had solid ideas about how we would raise our baby and what she would be like. Visions of a blissfully happy child cooing from our arms were the order of the day. Of course we had done plenty of research and knew exactly what to do. Then our wonderfully alert, beautiful, intelligent (no that isn't just parental pride speaking), high strung and extremely sensitive daughter arrived.


THE SAVIOR

In the early days it was the New Native Carrier sling. Oh and one dad willing to walks miles carrying a baby. In our modern world the local baby stuff warehouse probably offers bouncy seats, swings,rockers, car seat carriers and all manner of parent substitutes so the idea of simply carrying your baby may seem odd or unusual. But for some babies it's just what they need. Our daughter was one of those babies and a sling was the perfect way for us to keep her close and content.


PROS

- Very minimalist. For my husband this was very important. The New Native Carrier is essentially a loop of fabric with a pouch that holds the baby.

- Easily transported. Just fold into a small square and pack it in a corner or pocket of the diaper bag. Also, because it is so lightweight just wearing it as part of your clothing is an easy option.

- Natural fabric. All New Native Carriers are 100% cotton. There's even an organic cotton option!

- Multiple holding positions. Unlike some carriers, there are many different way to carry a baby in the New Native Carrier. Including lying down when young, sitting on either hip, "kangaroo" carry and back carry.

- Hands free holding. This was particularly important for me when I wanted to get things done around the house in the early days. A baby can comfortably and safely lie in the New Native Carrier without the use of the wearer's hands.

- Bonding. A baby that is held often tends to bond more securely with his or her care givers making for a content and happy child.


CONS

- Adjustable. Essentially it is not. If you do not get the correct size you are out of luck. We figured out two months after daughter was born when she was heavy enough for me to notice, that or New Native Carrier was to large for me. She hung to low to be
comfortable for my back. It was the perfect size for my husband though.

- Size of baby. If your child is large the lack of padding on a New Native Carrier could become a problem. Basically the hefty weight might cause pain in your shoulders.

- Someone might think you are carrying a cat. Really! I was once asked if I had a cat in there.



Integrating a new baby into your life is probably one of the most joyous and potentially difficult things anyone can do. Will a New Native Carrier be the answer for everything in the process? Probably not but it can sure go a long way. Use a little wisdom from cultures around the world past and present ... carry your baby.









Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 36 - 46