Mother, These Tips for Choosing a Sling According to the Baby's Age

A baby carrier has a number of benefits, especially in helping you take care of your child. In order for your baby to feel the maximum benefits of the sling, let's see tips on choosing the right sling. The sling is not only useful to help the mother to move while still caring for the baby, but can also be used to help calm the baby when crying, increase the baby's ability to learn new things, and strengthen the bond between Mother and Little One.

Tips for Choosing a Baby Carrier

Choosing the right baby carrier can not be considered trivial, because if the wrong choice, can interfere with growth and development. Therefore, before buying a baby carrier, you need to pay attention to the following:

• Adjust the size of the baby

Make sure you choose a sling that fits your baby's body size, age and weight. Do not let the sling is too loose or too tight, because it can interfere with the development of the baby's body.

• A safe and sturdy sling

Make sure the sling you are using is safe and sturdy, especially for the front and back slings. In addition to the safety of your baby when held, also so that the baby's sling is durable. Before buying, Mother and Father must first ensure the strength of the baby's seat and straps.

• The sling is comfortable to use

Make sure the sling used is comfortable for all needs, especially breastfeeding. Do not forget to also choose a sling made of material that is not too thick and easy to wash. For mothers who have premature babies, you should consult a doctor first before buying a sling, so it is not wrong to choose a sling that can actually endanger your child.

Type of baby carrier according to age

To be safe and comfortable to use, Mother is advised to choose a sling according to the baby's age. The following are some types of baby carriers that are commonly used, along with the recommended age:

• Sling

This type of carrier is familiar in Indonesia. A sling or commonly called 'cukin', can be a sarong or other traditional cloth. In addition to holding a baby, you can also breastfeed your baby comfortably using this sling. How to use it easily, Mother just wrap the cloth around the body, then adjust the position and tighten it to be as comfortable as possible. Sling is suitable for babies aged 0-2 months, because the baby's weight at this age is still light.

• Sling sling

Sling (sling carrier) is usually made from cotton or linen fabric. This sling has a shape similar to a sling. But the difference, this sling has two straps that can be adjusted to the comfort of the Mother and the Little One. Sling sling suitable for babies aged 0-2 months or babies weighing 4.5-6.8 kg. Besides making it easier to breastfeed, this sling also keeps the baby warm while in the arms of the mother.

• Front sling

Front carrier (front carrier) is somewhat different from the two previous slings. This sling allows the Mother to hold your baby in a sitting position, because there are pads to support him. The front sling has the shape of a backpack facing forward. Front sling allows the baby to sit in two directions, namely facing forward or back facing the carrier. This sling is suitable for use by babies who are 5-6 months old, because the baby's neck is stronger and can hold its head upright.

• Rear sling

A back carrier (backpack carrier) is a sling that is used like a backpack. This type of sling is usually used for mothers who will move long time behind the sling suitable for babies who are 1 year old.

Things to note

In addition to understanding the type and method of choosing the right sling, Mother must also pay attention to several things in using the sling, namely:

• Practice using a sling

To be safe, Mother can practice using a sling first with a doll or plastic filled with rice. If you feel you are safe and confident, then Mother carried the Little Child with the sling.

• Learn to adjust the position of the sling

It aims to find a comfortable position for the baby. Make sure you can see the baby's face clearly and the baby can breathe freely. Do not let the baby's face covered by a sling.

• A sling should not be too tight

If you use a sling or sling, don't wrap it too tight. If it is too tight, the baby's hips will be depressed and pelvic joint disruption can occur (pelvic dysplasia).

• Baby's feet don't hang

When using a baby carrier, make sure the baby's feet do not hang straight down. Position the cloth or sling so that you can support your legs from the groin to the knees. You can also adjust your baby's legs so that they are wrapped around you. If the legs are left hanging, your baby will be more at risk of pelvic dysplasia.

One more thing to remember, avoid using a baby sling while driving a car, jumping, jogging, or doing other activities that can make a baby shake. After understanding the right type of carrier according to age, as well as tips on choosing and things that must be considered when choosing a sling, Mother is not expected to buy the wrong sling for your child.