Stopped By Police For Having Baby In A Sling

When I first read this news, I thought it was quite ridiculous.

A father in Frankston, Australia was stopped by police and questioned about carrying his 12 month old daughter in a baby sling. Apparently, the police had received a complaint from someone saying this father was suffocating his baby. They checked and the baby was alright. In fact, she was comfortably asleep. The police proceeded to lecture the father and told him to take the baby out. The father of course refused because the baby was asleep and that was why he was taking that walk in the first place, to put the baby to sleep. They then removed a toy the baby was holding. They also told the father to use a pram in the future.

If you are wondering, what kind of sling was the father using? It was a Olives and Applesauce baby carrier. He was carrying the baby on his back. You can go over to this site to see the picture of him carrying the baby in this sling and also an interview done with him.

Why I find this news ridiculous? Well, when I think of the police, I think of them fighting crime and solving murders, not so much giving parenting advice. However, I do understand the situation in  Australia where  people are highly concerned about the safety of these baby slings after a recent death of a baby who died in a sling. (I wrote a little about it in this post of mine a while back). BUT that does not mean all baby slings are bad. The danger, I believe, is when you use a  pouch sling. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission have also sounded the warning for parents to be careful when using such slings. Always make sure baby has room to breath.

Anyway, some parents in Frankston, tired of being called "bad parents" for carrying the children in slings, staged a "demonstration". The headed down to Wells St. with their children strapped to their backs, hoping to send the message that baby carriers are safe when you use it properly.

So, do you use a baby sling? And if you do, how would you react if a police officer pulled you over and lectured you about it?

Cute Dad Shows You How To Use A Baby Sling

This video has caused many mommy's hearts to flutter a bit. When it comes to babywearing, it is usually the mom who does it. You don't see many videos of dads demonstrating how to use a baby sling. Plus, almost everyone is agreeing that he is a hottie. Are you thinking the same?

Anyway, I posted this video here coz' I think this is a great inspiration to all dads. I've tried using the long baby sling wrap similar to what this dad is using. It has its good and bad points.

Good:

• Feels nice and snug. It holds baby very well.
• The weight distributes evenly on both shoulders. You won't feel any stress on the shoulders or back.
• You can hold baby several ways: cradle, on the hip, on the back.

Bad:

• The cloth is very long. It is a problem if you need to put it on in the parking lot or at the store as it hits the floor and might get dirty.
• Not so suitable anymore when baby is bigger and heavier. The baby's weight will stretch the cloth a bit. You have to tie the cloth extra snug then.
• If you are carrying your newborn in a cradle position, make sure his head doesn't get buried and the baby's airway is always clear. There is the danger of suffocation.

Some dads may think this kind of sling is a little troublesome to put on and take off. If you want to encourage your hubby to use a baby sling, it might help to get a sling that is simple to use and doesn't look to "girly". The Ergo Baby Carrier has many designs that are suitable for dads. Click on the link for my detailed review.

So, is your hubby open to using a baby sling? What kind of baby sling works best for you and hubby?

Don't Risk Your Child's Safety With A Counterfeit Baby Carrier

Despite a campaign to raise awareness of fake baby carriers over the past two years, an illegal and dangerous trade in counterfeit products continues in Australia via online auction sites.

Counterfeit copies of the popular ERGObaby carrier have been offered for sale on online auction sites and authorised Australian and New Zealand distributor Babes in Arms is trying to stop these products reaching unsuspecting consumers and endangering babies.

Babes in Arms director and mother of four, Anita Lincolne-Lomax, sources the best baby slings and carriers from around the globe to build an expansive babywearing range that promotes a baby’s natural desire for closeness, but solves a parent’s need to be hands-free.

“Safety is a paramount consideration for parents when they’re buying baby products. These baby carrier copies are very convincing, and even the most discerning buyer could be fooled,” Anita explained.

Parents are being deceived by the counterfeits, buying the products at a price only marginally lower than the genuine product.

• The counterfeit carriers possess a few qualities that customers should look out for:
• The carriers are not covered by product warranty or insurance
• They will not have been tested for safety standards and are not likely to comply with US lead-free criteria

Most importantly, they are made with inferior materials and parts – particularly the buckles, which can lead to breakages and drops.

“The people responsible for making the counterfeit ERGObaby carriers are preying on parents who want to nurture and care for their children and who are trying to save money by buying discounted or second hand goods through auction sites’, Anita said.

“Babes in Arms has given many parents across Australia the opportunity to hold their babies close within their loving embrace and be able to balance their needs and that of their babies with our wonderful range of babywearing products,” she added.

This is the season where baby carrier sales go up as people buy the products as Christmas gifts. Parents often research baby carriers and are very selective about which products they buy, but caring family members who aren’t as educated about such issues sometimes buy them as a gift. Raising awareness about legitimate and genuine products is important for the safety of babies.

“It’s distressing that people are, in good faith, buying what they think is a wonderful and safe product, but find they have been duped into buying these terrible copies,” Anita said.

Anita offers a message to all parents and families looking to purchase baby carriers: “We strongly suggest that people only purchase ERGObaby products through authorised ERGObaby stores and distributors, and not through any auction sites.”

In a pram-dominated culture, Babes in Arms has successfully raised awareness about the ancient wisdom and benefits of babywearing that promotes a peaceful start to life for new parents and their babies.

As an industry expert, Babes in Arms is both a national product gateway and an educational resource for parents, retailers and health professionals alike.

For local authorised ERGObaby stockists in Australia and NZ, go to www.babesinarms.com.au or call 1300 725 276.

Be Careful When Using Baby Slings

If you haven't heard yet, warnings have been issued on the use of baby slings. The warnings were sparked by the death of a 2 day old baby in South Australia. The mother was carrying the baby in a sling underneath her shirt and jumper. Although the autopsy report doesn't conclusively say the sling was the cause of the baby's death, but it was considered a risk factor.

So now, professors and specialists are sounding the warning for mothers to be careful when using baby slings.The US Consumer Product Safety Commission would like parents to be aware that soft fabric slings have the potential to suffocate a baby, especially those that are 4 months old and below.

Pouch slings, especially, can pose a health hazard if baby is held in a position that blocks the airways. So, the call is for parents to constantly check on the baby when using the sling. Make sure their nose and mouth are not covered.
 
If you are looking for the best baby carrier, check these out. They come highly recommended:

• ErgoBaby Baby Carrier
• Beco Carrier
• Baby Hawk Oh Snap

One Way To Become A Millionaire

A mom didn't like all the baby carriers she tried. So, she designed one herself and guess what? Now she is a millionaire. Karin Frost invented the famous Ergo Baby carrier and last year, she sold her business for USD91 million. You can read all about it here: Baby Carrier Makes Maui Mom Multimillionaire

I wanted to share her story here because it is an inspiration. You want a successful business, you have to come up with a workable solution that solves people's problem. Know what people want, what frustrates them and what will change their life for the better. Not an easy task I would say. But you never know when you might hit the jackpot like Karin Frost.

Another good lesson to learn here is... DON'T underestimate the talents and potential of ordinary mothers.

If you are looking for a good baby carrier, do check out the Ergo. You can read my review here: ERGOBABY BABY CARRIER

Baby Hawk Carrier: Oh Snap Review

When it comes to comfortable soft structured carriers, the Baby Hawk Oh Snap is a popular choice. Initially, the Baby Hawk was a Mei Tai type of sling. But now, they have it with snaps and buckles too (which is the Oh Snap).

Wondering if the Baby Hawk Oh Snap is right for you? Here's a quick review to help you decide.

Price Range
$140

Baby's age/weight
15 to 45 pounds.
Ideal for older babies and toddlers.

Back Support
You won't feel your back hurting because the weight distribution is fantastic. Many mothers say they can barely feel their baby's weight. You can wear baby for a long time and feel no pain.

Crotch Dangler?
No. Babywearing experts will give it a thumbs up as baby sits in a correct position. You can tell because your baby's knees are higher than the butt. They are not dangling.

Carry Positions
Front carry, back carry

Ease of Use
You can quickly put baby in and out. It is easy to use.

Nursing
Yes. Convenient for nursing.

Head Support
It has a headrest that can be folded down.

Hands Free
Yes. Baby is well supported and is not flopping around.

Accessories
None.

Plus Points

• Top and bottom straps are very well padded. You will feel comfortable wearing it.
• Beautiful designs. You can expect many compliments to come your way.
• The length of the carrier is higher than most other carriers. Therefore it gives excellent back support, especially for older and taller babies.You don't have to worry about them leaning out of the carrier.
• Adjustable to fit you and your spouse. 
• If you are petite, you can adjust both the waist belt and top strap to help fit you better.

Bad Points

• Pricey
• No pockets
• When you carry baby in front, you have to take off the chest strap. If you don't keep it properly, you might lose it. 
• Not suitable for newborns and small babies. Best used for babies about 6 months and up.
• Does not have a hood to hold babies head when sleeping, but some mothers say you don't need a hood. The carrier's high back and head rest is good enough.

Videos
Putting baby in the front carry position (video is a bit blurr though):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqRYKwVqpjk

If you appreciate my review and would like to get a Baby Hawk Oh Snap, please do so through my affiliate link. Thanks.
I LOVE THE BABY HAWK.

Beco Carrier Review

The Beco carrier is a very stylish baby carrier. You will love the beautiful prints. It is one of the best soft structured carriers and many mothers give it a thumbs up.

Click this affiliate link to view the different kinds of Beco Carriers.
I WANT TO SEE SOME BECO CARRIERS.

Here is a quick review on the Beco carrier.

Price Range
$119- $139

Baby's age/weight
From newborns till toddlers.
Suitable for 7-45 lbs.

Back Support
It is ergonomical design provides excellent lumbar support. The shoulder straps and adjustable belt are wide and padded. You won't strain your back or shoulders with this carrier.

Crotch Dangler?
No. Baby sits rather than dangle. Good support for spine and hips.
With the Beco Gemini, you can fold the bottom part of the body to make it narrower. This is ideal for very young babies who can't straddle yet. This way baby can sit in a correct position which is the knees above the butt. When baby gets older, you can unfold the body to make it wider. 

Carry Positions
Depends which type of Beco you choose:
Beco Butterfly II: Front front facing in and back carry.
Beco Gemini: Frong facing in, facing out, hip carry and back carry.

Ease of Use
Very easy to use whether carrying baby in the front or back.
Adjustable to fit someone who is 5'1" or 5'10".

Nursing
Can be done but not easy for some. It depends on the build of your body. Some mothers find it easier than others. One tip is to loosen the straps to get baby down lower to a level where you can feed. The extra piece of fabric (inside panel) between you and baby may get in your way.
It is easy to feed with the Beco Gemini because it doesn't have that extra panel.

Head Support
Good head and neck support for baby. The Beco Gemini has a foldable headrest. The Beco Butterfly 2 has a hoody that you can snap on to the carrier to protect babe's head while sleeping.

Hands Free
Yes, baby is well secured.

Accessories
Drooling pads to attach to the straps so baby can drool away.

Plus Points

• The inside panel is a unique feature of the Beco. You can secure baby in the carrier before putting it on yourself. It also allows you to pass the baby to your spouse or another person without having to take baby out. You can also feel safe when you unbuckle the straps knowing baby will not fall out.
• During warm weather, the fabric between baby and you helps to separate your sweaty body from baby and vice versa.
• The Beco butterfly comes with a removable infant insert. The Gemini doesn't but you can fold the bottom to make it narrower to support your small baby better. So you don't have to buy extra accessories for a newborn.
• The leg openings are padded so baby's legs won't get chaffed.
• You can cross the straps if you want.
• Can be folded down to a small size for easy storage and portability.
• Very stylish.
• Slim fitting. Not bulky.

Bad Points
No pocket.

Videos
How to put a newborn into the Beco:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVEyiSCcCiQ

How To Nurse with the Beco: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LjVxRxiYVc

BECO BUTTERFLY II VS BECO GEMINI
There are 2 types of Beco: Beco Butterfly II and Beco Gemini
There are a few differences between the two.

Choose Beco Butterfly II if:

• you want to transfer the baby carrier to another person without having to unbuckle the baby. You can't do that with the Gemini. 
• you like the idea of strapping baby into the carrier before putting it on. This may feel more secure to you.
• you prefer the detachable sleeping hood.

Choose the Beco Gemini if:

• you want the extra option of carrying baby front facing out and on the hips.
• you would rather a simple buckle carrier (don't really fancy the safety harness feature of Beco Butterfly II), then Gemini is your choice. 
• you like to cross the straps. 
• you prefer a headrest that can snap up or down as oppose to a sleeping hood.

If you appreciate my review and would like to get your hands on a Beco Carrier, please use my affiliate link below.
I LOVE THE BECO.

Baby Sling For Free

This yellow baby sling is up for grabs. Who wants? Who wants? No, it is not just for teddy bears. It really is for babies. I don't know what's the brand (it's not written anywhere). It was passed down to me by a friend. I used it when I had my #2. I don't need it anymore. It's kinda small so more suitable for newborn - 6 months. All you need to do is be the first to tell me you want and pay for the postage.

I have another used baby sling but this one comes with a price - RM30 (excluding postage). Cheap isn't it? Brand is Infantino EuroRider. Click the link for more info and instructions on how to use it. Lazy to read, I've made 2 videos for your convenience. My daughter shot the video so once in a while, you might see part of my head chopped off :)

How To Put On The Infantino Baby Sling

How To Put Baby Into The Sling

Again, if you want this sling, please be the first to confirm that you want it. Postage will depend on how you want me to send it e.g. normal post or courier. I'll give you my bank account number to bank in the payment. So... who wants? who wants?

HugaMonkey Baby Sling Review

Do you practice baby wearing? Then you'll want to know about HugaMonkey baby sling. It's a sling that looks like a tube that conforms to your body. It is easy to put on when you want to carry your baby around. It requires no folding and doesn't use rings, buckles or tons of fabric. You won't have to worry about slipping too.

The fabric is made from 100% Kona cotton. It is a breathable, durable and soft natural fabric. In other words, it's very lightweight and comfortable. They also have baby slings made from natural organic cotton (60% organic cotton and 40% organic bamboo).
The designs are simple and the colors easy to match with your wardrobe. You can use these slings on your newborns up until they are 3 years old or 30 pounds.

How To Use It?
You can wear baby several ways with the Hugamonkey baby sling:

• Tummy to tummy carry. Baby is sitting and facing you.
• Back hip sit carry.
• Hip sit carry
• Kangaroo carry. Baby is sitting and facing outwards.
• Traditional lying down carry. Great for newborns.

Watch these videos for a better idea on how simple it is to use it:

How to put on the sling


Traditional lying down carry


How Well Does It Work?
Looking around the web, I found some testimonials by users of HugaMonkey baby slings. These people are not being compensated for their views. You can be sure they are being honest in what they are saying.

I have a hugaMonkey sling and it works great. Mine is the lightweight version for hot weather. It is a basic pouch, the fabric I have does not have stretch. Make sure you get it in the right size or it won't be secure for your newborn. Mine is a bit big, but it will work better when my LO is heavier.
(Excerpt from a comment at community.babycenter.com)


What I was looking for! I can wear it without spending hours trying to fold it. No loops or buckles to mess with. Very prompt courteous service when I had an ordering question. Recommended highly!
(Excerpt from a comment at www.affordablebabyorganics.com)


Love the sling, it was just a little too big. I worked with Carrie to determine if it was too big or not. My sling has been washed and tried on and she still said its no problem to exchange. Wonderful company. I would recommend you to any of my friends that is considering buying a sling. Thanks!
(Review submitted at hugamonkey.com)


I own a traditional sling and a Maclaren carrier. The Hugamonkey is much more comfortable. You almost feel pregnant again because the baby is so close to you. My daughter loves to be in it and almost instantly goes to sleep. I really wish I had this for my first child so I could have used it for all of them, especially my colicky son. The crazy thing is it cost me less than what I had, was shipped free to my door, is much cuter and so much better. I'm loving the Hugamonkey!!
(Review submitted at hugamonkey.com)

I was looking to find a negative review and came across only one at amazon.com. Her complain was she didn't get the right size. But from other users feedback, there is no problem if you order the wrong size. You can send it back for an exchange and the customer service is very prompt and good.

MY VERDICT
This is one baby sling I would like to get. Some of the things I look for when it comes to baby slings are:

• Easy to use.
• Doesn't hurt my shoulder or back
• Easy to pack in a bag
• Not bulky
• Baby is comfortable
• Affordable

Looks like HugaMonkey baby sling meets all those criterias.

PRODUCT OPTIONS:
The sling comes in 5 sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
They have a size chart, so do check that out to get the right size.

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR HUGAMONKEY BABY SLING TODAY!