As a new mother, I quickly realized that along with all the new skills that need to be developed are PHYSICAL skills: changing a diaper, breastfeeding, installing a car seat, etc. Sometimes, it just gets overwhelming.

Enter the New Native sling.

BENEFITS
I needed a simple (key word) way to carry my 8 week old baby. The Baby Bjorn carrier I own took too much time to put on, made her face me instead of looking out at the world, and made her legs spread out in an unnatural (and probably not healthy) way. I had tried the Nojo sling and found it cumbersome, difficult to adjust (perhaps due to the fact that I am short), and unattractive, but saw the calming effect it had on my daughter. After doing research, I chose the New Native based on its ease of use-- who needs more complication in a life with a newborn?

The day the sling arrived, I tried it on and plopped my daughter in. Even for the mechanically challenged, it is extremely easy to use. It happened to be the day my daughter got her shots. Although she is not normally a "fussy" baby, nothing calmed her that day (even nursing) except the beloved sling.

Wearing the sling at home helps me accomplish much more than I could without one. My daughter sleeps more soundly in it than any other place, making her content (she rarely cries while in it) because she is so well-rested. Using the sling out of the house, I think the feeling is mutual between my daughter and me-- we love being together, instead of her being isolated in a stroller. I always know that she is safe and won't get kidnapped (my new mom paranoia). Plus, we both get tons of compliments! This is one baby item that will suit even a chic mom.

CONCERNS
I have experienced both back and shoulder pain (depending on how the baby is positioned) from the sling, but have not yet washed it as recommended. This could help it shrink, which might make it fit better. It looks fine according to the guidelines, but a short person like myself may need it to be the shortest fit possible. The Baby Bjorn carrier also causes me to have back pain.

Since my main fashion statement is black clothing, I ordered a black sling. The dark color and cotton fabric are the perfect combination to make it a lint magnet! I always de-lint it before going out in public.


Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 39