Baby carriers are an essential addition to your life, especially if your child is less than a year old. Although there are various styles and types to choose from, there are three main categories to consider - slings, backpacks, and front packs.
1) Slings
Slings are carriers that are made of fabric and are slung across the shoulder so that you can carry your baby in front of you. For newborn babies, slings offer many benefits that you should consider when choosing a baby carrier.
One advantage of slings is the fact that they allow you to hold your baby in your arms. This is perfect for newborns because it is recommended that newborns be held in the arms of the parent to encourage intimacy and emotional attachment. A sling also frees up the parent's hands so he or she can work with them while the baby is slung fast to the parent's body. Parents can then go about their daily chores even with their baby.
Sling carriers are very versatile and flexible. They can be used to carry babies, and even provide the perfect cover-up if you want to breastfeed. Some even have cloth tails that serve as a blanket or cover for your baby. Also, using the sling is pretty straightforward - getting your baby in and out of a sling is very easy. There are no difficult steps to follow. Just sling him or her up and you are ready to go. The good thing about this is that you can even do this without disturbing your baby. They are lightweight and easy to carry and will not cause much hindrance or affect your mobility. It is also perfect in cases where a stroller is inconvenient.
2) Front packs
Front packs and slings are alike. However, front packs are a little more complicated - therefore a little more useful. Instead of being just made of fabric, front packs have a seat that is held to your body by construction similar to a sling. The carrier is further secured by straps and locks.
That being said, front packs share similar benefits with slings - they are easy to use, light, versatile (although not as versatile as slings), and portable.
One advantage of front packs is the fact that they allow you to hold your baby out in front. It is particularly fun for older infants since it allows your baby to face in front of you. Like a sling, it also allows the parent's hands to be free so he or she can work with them while the baby is with them. Parents can then go about their daily chores even with their baby.
It is a little more cumbersome to set up. You will have to set the baby on the seat and buckle him or her up, and then you will have to fix all the straps so that he or she is firmly attached to your body.
3) Backpacks
A back carrier is like a front pack - except that it attaches to the parent's back. This makes it very similar to your normal backpack. Usual designs of backpacks have the baby's chest right next to your back. This is perfect for kids who like to look around while nesting high up on your shoulders. Also the design of such carriers allows more space to hold your equipment and supplies. You will also have your front free so that you can work with less hindrance. It is best when you have a pretty hectic schedule ahead for you and baby - for example, shopping or trips through parks. The big disadvantage here is that your baby is behind you, so you can't always keep track of how he or she is doing. It is not recommended for parents to use backpacks if they are going into cramped spaces or places where you could easily bump a child's head. It is best however, if you plan to go to crowded areas since your baby will be perched on higher and safer ground.
