BABYWEARING guide

WHICH BABY CARRIER SHOULD I CHOOSE? That depends on how you intend to use it. Some parents use a baby carrier for convenience, others want a more full-time babywearing experience. Whichever your preference, you’re sure to find the right carrier for you in our babywearing boutique. Here are a few of our favorites:

RING SLINGS WRAPS SOFT MEH DAI Composed of a single These offer multiple STRUCTURED This traditional Chinese piece of fabric and a carry options that With the look carrier has a rectangular- ring, this carrier fits over secure with a tie. of a backpack, shaped body with four one shoulder to create a Wraps allow for these carriers are straps attached to each pouch for a front carry versatile carrying worn in front or side. The straps can be position. Secured with a positions and most back carry positions. tied in various ways for ring. Ideal for newborns. will fit both babies These carriers shine multiple carry options. and toddlers! with babies 6 Recommended for babies months+ and toddlers. 6 months+ and toddlers.

THE #1 PLACE PARENTS REPORT 83% 20% WEARING THEIR BABIES OF PARENTS REPORTED OF PARENTS THAT THEY OWN REPORT THEY OWN IS THE STORE 2 OR MORE 6 OR MORE OR WHEN CARRIER TYPES.* CARRIER TYPES.* SHOPPING.*

*based on a 2016 Cottonbabies Facebook group survey.

According to the journal of , researchers found BABYWEARING for THREE HOURS A DAY REDUCES CRYING by: INTERNATIONAL BABYWEARING WEEK 43% 54%DURING EVENING OVERALL IS CELEBRATED IN HOURS* EARLY OCTOBER

*(1) Hunziker UA, Garr RG. (1986) Increased carrying reduces infant babywearinginternational.org/events/international-babywearing-week/ crying: A randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics 77:641-648

WHEN YOU USE A BABY CARRIER, SOMETIMES IT COMES NATURALLY AND SOMETIMES IT TAKES A LITTLE PRACTICE TO SEE WHAT WORKS. ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND THE ABCS OF SAFETY (1) WHEN BABYWEARING: A B C AIRWAY BODY COMFORT With a newborn, keep the infant in Body – Make sure your baby’s body is Comfort – The baby carrier should be view at all times – close enough to supported for what’s appropriate for comfortable for both you and your kiss. Make sure baby’s airway stays their age. Consider their neck and baby. If you do not feel confident and open by not letting her chin squish up trunk control and don’t let them comfortable, have a spotter help make against her chest. Just like you would “slump” into the baby carrier. adjustments. If needed, ask your like, be sure fresh air is circulating pediatrician to recommend a certified around baby’s face. babywearing consultant. (1) http://babywearinginternational.org/what-is-babywearing/safety/ Babywearing International, Inc.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS TO BABYWEARING: HAPPY BABIES Being close to mom builds a strong connection between and child. When baby is worn in a carrier, they feel the warmth of your body and become one with your movements and breathing rhythm.

HAPPY PARENTS EASE WITH Building a strong bond with your baby and toddler helps you become a confident Keeping baby near your skin parent. Wearing your baby allows you and baby increases milk supply and cues a to become mutually attached, all while being baby to on. Like riding a bike, hands-free. The convenience of babywearing breastfeeding in a baby carrier may cannot be overlooked. With a good carrier, you take a little time to perfect, but can care for older children, complete chores, with perseverance and support, run errands without a car seat carrier, and you’ll get the hang of it soon! maneuver anywhere with ease.

(1) Hunziker UA, Garr RG. (1986) Increased carrying reduces : A random-ized controlled trial. Pediatrics 77:641-648

WHICH BABY CARRIER IS RIGHT FOR ME?

RING SOFT MEH SLINGS WRAPS STRUCTURED DAI EASE OF USE • • • ALLOWS BREASTFEEEDING • • • • COMFORT • • • WEIGHT LIMIT • • • • TODDLER • • SHOULDER SUPPORT • BACK SUPPORT • • MULTIPLE CARRY OPTIONS • • • • COMPACT • •

LEARN MORE AT WWW.COTTONBABIES.COM