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Practical Considerations for Baby Carriers

by Susan E. Davis
reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.
When I was pregnant with my first child, I felt pretty sure that I would spend every moment possible holding her in my arms. That's a common fantasy, and a noble one: After all, babies do thrive on bodily contact.

But providing constant contact is not always practical. Humans, even superhuman parents, have only two arms. And if you're holding a baby, it's tough to do the other things that are necessary in this life, like taking a shower, washing the dishes, carrying bags of groceries--even just getting from one place to another without seriously straining your back and arms.

Slings, front packs and backpacks all let you keep that vital, physical intimacy with your baby while at the same time freeing up your hands and arms. And as a temporary fix for the all-too-common infant sleep problems, they also can be a great help in soothing a cranky, wakeful baby; I myself have covered many miles with an infant in a front pack or a toddler in a backpack just to help her get some shut eye. Which style of carrier works for you will depend somewhat on your anatomy--for example, how strong your back is--and your baby's temperament. But each option also has several other practical points to consider. Read all about them to find the best choice for you.
 RELATED INFORMATION
*  Playing with Your Infant
*  Transporting Your Baby
*  Baby Supplies


Created January 29, 2001
Reviewed August 15, 2004
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