International Babywearing Week 2009 is Here!

(Maya Tie)

Welcome to the kickoff of International Babywearing Week!  Here at baby, naturally LLC we are kicking off the celebration with a brief introduction to the benefits of babywearing. Throughout the week, we'll be sharing a bit about the various types of carriers out there, so if you have questions, let me know and I will try and answer them in an upcoming post!  We also have two (TWO!) exciting giveaways planned, so be sure to follow along on our blog, Twitter, and Facebook for more information!

So..... why babywear?  Isn't it hard on your back/shoulders?  Won't the baby resist?

The reality is that yes, if you have a poorly designed carrier, your shoulders and back WILL get sore.  If you have a carrier that is uncomfortable for the child, they WILL resist.  But, the reality is also that it doesn't have to be that way.  There are fantastic carriers available that are designed to evenly distribute weight, meaning you can wear your child for hours or while doing doing activities such as hiking, housework, shopping with no pain.  Many carriers are so comfortable that your child may even be lulled to sleep.  

(Moby Wrap)

Ok... but what are the benefits?  Why not just use a playpen?

Many parents, desperate to get something done around the house or even get a shower, rely on the playpen to keep baby safe while starting the laundry, etc.  The beauty of babywearing is that you can still do all those things, but your baby will be with you.  You don't have to worry that they are getting into something they shouldn't, or that they are bored or lonely, because they are along for the ride!  When I wear my son, I always notice how intently he watches what I am doing.  He is up at my level, so he is able to see more of what goes on.  He is able to tune into my speech because he is near my voice.  If you have to run to the grocery store, you can wear baby in a sling and avoid hauling in the car-seat or messing with a germy cart.  Bring your baby along on a hike--a wonderful way for them to enjoy nature and places a stroller can't go!

Which type of carrier should I use?

The type of carrier you decide on can vary from person to person.  Important questions to consider:  when will I be wearing the baby?  Only around the house?  Out and about?  How old is my child?  Do I want a carrier that will grow with baby, or several different carriers?  Many families choose to buy a few different carriers for different situations.  For example, I like to keep a pouch carrier in my car for quick trips into the post office or store.  When I am doing work around the house, I like a soft structured carrier or mei tai.  When my son was a newborn, I relied on a ring sling.

(BabyHawk)

During the week, I will go into more details on what the different types of carriers are.  For now, though, let's get on to the good stuff!

baby, naturally LLC is pleased to announce that we are FULLY STOCKED with a wide variety of baby carriers, just in time for International Babywearing Week 2009!  Brands you will find:

• BabyHawk mei tai
• Ellaroo Wraps
• Ellaroo Podaegis
• Ellaroo Chinese Embroided Mei Tai
• Moby Wrap
• Storchenwiege Wraps
• Slingling Pouches
• Maya Wrap Lightly Padded Slings
• Maya Ties

This week only (September 21-28, 2009), you can get 10% off any order that contains a baby carrier!  Just use promo code IBW2009 at checkout!  *Your order must contain at least one baby carrier for discount to apply.*  

Please be sure you are following us on twitter, facebook, and here at the blog.  There will be some giveaways coming up, some great deals, and great information about babywearing!  Please join us!